Accelerated Programs in Nursing

Pre-Med & Medical School Multiple Degree Programs
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<p>Hello all. I'm not sure if this is the best forum to post this in, but i thought that it would get the most exposure here so I hope you all can contribute.</p>

<p>I am a recent college graduate (2 years out) from a lac. I had wanted to go to law school so most of my UG studies were geared towards that end (very little science background). After graduation, I decided to work as a paralegal in a large firm to really get an idea of what practicing would be like. Im glad I did as I realized that the legal profession is horribly dysfunctional, ungratifying, and miserable. I decided that law school was not for me. But i did learn what I found to be important in a career. I know that I want to do something where i can help people directly by improving their quality of life and naturally i thought of nursing. This has been in the back of my head for some time but now I think I will make a real effort towards this goal.</p>

<p>Now my question is whether I should go for the few accelerated BSN programs or a CNL (Clinical Nurse Leader) masters program that a few universities are offering. The difference seems that the CNL would be a BS/BA who do not want another BS. However, I'm not quite sure what the everyday differences would be b/w a BSN and a CNL in terms of their interaction with patients and ability to specialize. I saw that although a CNL is a graduate level degree, it is considered a generalist nursing education.</p>

<p>So I was hoping some people could shed some light on this and help differentiate the two programs. Also, if anyone has any recommendations as to good accelerated BSN programs in the MD/DC/PA area, (namely, Maryland, Towson, Salisbury, etc) id appreciate it. Thanks.</p>

<p>*Note to moderators - if this belongs in a different forum, please feel free to move it. Thanks.</p>

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<p>I really don't know much about nursing, but from the little I do know, it doesn't matter whether you have a BSN or not for patient contact or clinical responsibility. I do believe a BSN could get you higher in the nursing hierarchy (clinical coordinator if you want that), but what really matters is if you are a RN, LPN, or Nurse Practitioner. Sorry I don't know more, and good luck!</p>

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<p>I must respectfully disagree. A BSN is almost a requirement to be considered for most top notch nursing positions. In my hospital we will not hire any RN without at least a BSN.</p>

<p>As someone who earned a BA and then went onto nursing school I think you might be a nice match for programs such as the ones at Case Western and Mass General Hospital. As I understand it you can earn your BSN within a year or so and then go on to get your MSN or clinical doctorate in another couple of years. These options prepare you for bedside care as well as leadership positions and some even have the option of sitting for the NP exams</p>