ADN to MSN Degree

An ADN degree is nursing is required to get into the MSN program. ADN nurses are allowed to work independently in hospitals under the supervision of another head nurse. But if you already have several years of experience as an ADN then its time to think of taking up another qualification in the form of an MSN. This upgrade allows you to skip a few of the basic foundation courses that you would otherwise have to take as your ADN experience allows you to skip basic foundation courses. The MSN program also allows trained and experienced nurses to work part time in their hospital while still continuing their education.

But before an ADN candidate can be allowed into the MSN, they have to complete a whole list of prerequisites like:

• An ADN is two years in length and offers a rounded curriculum in nursing that offers a great rounded nursing experience. ADN nurses will also have a NCLEX-RN license that ensures that they are accepted into a MSN degree.
• Please remember that course requirements may vary from college to college. A few colleges require ADN students to take up a bridge course of 20 credits to ensure that their knowledge is up-to-date. They are then allowed admission into the MSN course.
• Once you are allowed entry into the MSN course you have to attend clinical rotations, carry out independent research and even run clinical protocols under the supervision of a post graduate nursing guide.
• A few colleges insist you finish your BSN before you can take up a MSN course. But there’s no need to worry as you can sign up for an accelerated BSN course which is combined with an MSN degree to let you pass out in half the time.
• A few colleges automatically build the BSN degree into their MSN course of three years. When you finish the first year you are granted a BSN degree and when you complete two more years you are granted a MSN degree.
• Another point you have to remember is that almost all hospitals pay be experience. With a basic ADN degree under your belt, you will get paid more than the MSN degree graduates who pass out without any clinical training under their belt. You also have to remember that finishing your ADN degree also gets you ahead in the admission process of the MSN degree, as you are more likely to be able to study the course and pass out faster.
• You can also try to ask your hospital to sponsor your courses for you. But this will be possible only if you have worked at your hospital for a certain period of time. Most hospitals will pay for your MSN course but will require a binding contract of a few years to recover their investment. Either way is good for you as you get a post graduate degree for almost free while still working.
• Entry requirements are the same as in any other nursing college with the following prerequisites:
  • A respectable GPA and SAT score
  • General proficiency in English
  • Application and the application fee
  • Resume with experience certificates
  • Recommendation letters from two professional guides
  • Official transcripts