Wow, I was surprised to see so many people dissing the accelerated/direct-entry MSN path. Interestingly enough, I actually chose to go the direct-entry MSN route because of cost. In my area, the only accelerated BSN programs are offered by private/catholic schools which cost almost twice as much as the accelerated direct-entry MSN program offered at the large public university. I also know that I don't want to do bedside nursing for the rest of my life. So having the option to go on and get a post-masters certificate to become an FNP in just 1-1.5 years is also quite appealing.

This video came at the perfect time for me! I'm loving all your videos Liz!

Hey Liz! I am currently in an ELMSN, with an MSN emphasis for PMHNP and make content related to that! I typically tell those who ask me about it, but are unsure about what APRN role they want to go into to opt for an ABSN because this track is expensive! There are a lot of misconceptions that fall on programs like mine and for the price, I think you should only apply to one if you for sure know what your end goal is going in. I like the security of knowing I'm already accepted into an MSN program, I receive a BSN in the program, I'll get to work as an RN (*added benefit* we can pay for our education out of pocket, instead of loans), and go back when to finish my MSN when I choose to. Also, before we start our MSN portion we also have the option to change specialties. For example, I'm all in for PMHNP but if I wanted to since my school offers FNP, I can switch to that instead. I really don't want people to be turned away from the idea of my kind of program but if money is an issue an ABSN is great!

Yay!!! I've been waiting for this one! Thanks!

Good morning Liz. I hope you and the family are doing well on this lovely morning. I start my BSN program in the fall. So glad to have found you to help me through this journey.

Thank you so much! I’m a 7th grader who wants to be a nurse/doctor!

Thank you so much! This was really helpful.

VERY HELPFUL!!! THANKS NURSE LIZ!!

We love you Liz!! ✌️✌️✌️

Thank you! This is super helpful.

I feel like you were talking to me directly. Thank you so much!

Thank you for the advice.🤗❤

Thank you for all of this good advice, much appreciated!!!

Thank you for another great video! ❤️Nursing education is so complex and there is so much one has to research before starting this journey to become an Ran. Getting such a comprehensive guidance is awesome! I was educated in foreign country and had to repeat nursing school because my nursing diploma wasn’t valid here. My head was spinning when I started my journey towards ADN. 2 y/ago I got my BSN, and recently I started my own channel because I had so many questions from Russian speaking people interested in pursuing nursing career. You videos such a great help! Thank you!!!❤️👏👏👏

Hey Liz! I found you here on KZfaq a few weeks ago and wanted to say thank you for all the amazing content. After working in chemistry with my 1st degree I decided to make a career change and I am now in the process of applying to an ABSN program. Making the decision to go back to school for a 2nd Bachelors is nerve racking, not to mention a decision that can be filled with doubt and uncertainty. Hearing about your nursing journey has been encouraging and reassuring and I just wanted the say THANK YOU!!

Another thing to consider is how long it has been since you did your bachelor's degree. I found that my 10yr+ old classes were expiring and I would have to retake them if I went for a Bachelors in Nursing. However, if i went for a direct entry masters program, they were totally valid and I would not have to retake them.

I completely agree with you! This is why I am in an ABSN program right now (I already obtained a previous bachelors) and then I look forward to applying for my MSN so I can become an NP

Hi Liz, I am currently finishing up my MSN, CNL program & I plan to apply to a FNP DNP with the same institution so i can hopefully go right into the next program next year. I think your points are valid! I went into this knowing my end goal was a DNP. I am also at a really well known university and medical system that I have heard from graduates will help you get a job anywhere because our program is so well known. Our school has a CRNA program that accepts our MSN credits as well. Another reason I didn’t do an aBSN was due to financial aid and not being eligible since I already had a bachelors degree. In the end it comes down to what your goals are! :)

This video is soo helpful!! Thanks 😊

This video couldn't come in a better time. My last final of undergrad is this Friday. I was doing research on what route to go ABSN or MEPN. Thank you for sharing. You've helped me make my decision.

Thanks for another great 👍🏽 video. I’m currently studying for my FNP certification exam. Hoping to take it in the next 3 week. I think I will start out in retail health before venturing into a primary care practice or specialty clinic. Thanks my friend. Btw I did live Picmonics.

Hey Liz! Thank you for your video :) I have a bachelors in Exercise science and I have an end game goal of NP in orthopedics. Im not sure how to go about this.

Hey Liz! this a great video and very informative! I actually was applying to an MEN program in Maryland, but some further research it wasn't the best choice at all.I was so fixated on the title of "Masters", that I thought it would be great since I already have BS. I actually talked to department nurse who interviews new nurse on there unit, and they to also explained that " An RN is an RN, yes you have a MEN dergree but that does not make you any more qualify than an BSN" in addition to that "MEN are not cheap you are essentially going into nursing school for 2-3 years just to get your RN, were as you can get your RN is 12-18 months and start working! and she was right.My end goal is to become a FNP-DNP. I am attending an ABSN that is 18 months long and after the program I want to work for a year or two and apply to a BSN-DNP FNP program.

Finishing my Bsn this semester! Trying to figure out what to do next after taking a bit of a break, but I just started travel nursing so it’s hard to decide . Thanks for an informative video!

Hi Liz! I love your videos and they’ve been so helpful! I’m torn between two entry level schools one gives me my MSN RN (18 months) and the other is my MSN FNP (3.5 years). I’m not 100% sure if I want to be an FNP but all my current clinicians recommend to get it all done in one go... what would you suggest?

Nurse Liz, just wanted to say that I’ve been watching your vids for some time and have learned a lot! This particular video almost discouraged me from accepting an offer to an entry level MSN/CNL program because ultimately I’d like to become a CRNA. I called about 15 schools in four states (I’m in the DMV area and called around to NC, VA, MD and D.C. programs) and all of them said that they accept MSN degrees and the ones that required the GRE also said that they would waive the exam if an applicant has a MSN. Just wanted to make sure to comment on this video, maybe they don’t accept MSN credits in another region. Also, my cohort will be finishing up in 23’ and I believe that all CRNA programs will switch to Doctorate in Nurse Anesthesia degrees, maybe that change would cause whatever programs that don’t accept MSN credits now to accept them afterwards. Again, it all depends on the specific program that folks are interested in so if you’re reading this I’d encourage to call or email the admissions dept at the school you’re trying to get into.

Good video! I ended up doing an associates largely due to the cost and time. I have a masters in education and so many of my classes counted towards the associations that I only have clinicals for 4 semesters starting in August. That way I can work and contribute to pay for school (no loans yay). I looked into a leadership masters but it was SO expensive and there are no accelerated bachelors programs within 2ish hours of me.

Hey Liz! I love this video !! I just want to drop some info about my experience in case anyone has questions. I’m actually finishing my 1st semester in the MEN program in Maryland. Deciding which program to apply to was challenging because there are so many options. My MEN program doesn’t have any concentrations or focuses, it’s just general nursing with some leadership and advanced courses that can be transferred towards my DNP. Specifically if I do my DNP at Hopkins 16 credits would transfer. My program is 5 semesters long and 22 months. It is VERY fast and super full time, they don’t recommend that you work because the first two semester are intense. I decided on a MEN program because know eventually I want to get my DNP, I also worked in Health policy for several years and could see myself going back to that world and felt the leadership courses would benefit me. It is VERY expensive and I’m not rich by any means. My school is pretty generous with scholorships, but if you’re afraid of loan debt, these programs aren’t for you. I have heard from some alumni that after graduating they had trouble explaining to employers what the program was and what a nurse generalist is. This was mainly out on the west coast. Some folks in NYC and Baltimore had no problems since there are several programs like these established here. I knew this was the right decision for myself, especially since I’m a bit older and wanted to get in and out ASAP and to have the leg up on the DNP credits and leadership courses. But, my recommendation to someone who is younger, straight out of undergrad and more interested in bedside nursing, look at all of your options first, especially an ADN or ABSN program. Best of luck!!!

Liz, I love your content and learned so much! However, I have my MSN in a non-clinical specialty and my employer paid me extra money just for having an MSN degree. I guess it all depends on the institution one works for.

Lol I have a degree in education going back for my MSN Entry in January and it’s only 18 months! Also, it is $3,000+ cheaper a semester than the postbacc program at my university and you can actually get federal loans for a masters since I’ve maxed loans in undergrad!

Thank you for all the information you provided. I would love your input on my situation. I have my doctorate in ministry (B.A. and Masters in theology as well), and I am thinking about becoming a nurse. I have met with the nursing chair and nursing program coordinator at the university I currently work at, and I was told to go the ELM route. I am trying to find out where to start for my first step. I need to keep working full-time to support my family, so what would you say would be my first step to get my Masters in Nursing? Also, looks like I need to take my pre-reqs since I have not taken those classes yet. Thank you!

I'm gathering from the comments that you're distinguishing Entry Level Masters Programs from Direct Entry Programs. Is that right? Because I've seen the programs (usually 3 years full time at expensive schools) that will allow you to go from a non-nursing bachelor's degree to a licensed advanced practice nurse - usually NPs and sometimes nurse midwives. Those are distinct programs in my eyes, because they prepare you for a specific license. It's not one of the fuzzier/broader ones like nursing leadership, or education that you focused the videos on.

I’ll be applying for UCLAs MECN program and cal state la accelerated BSN this year! Considering trying to become a FNP too! So thank you thank you for the info Edit: also, Azusa state as a 4 year BSN to NP program- just WILD expensive

I went through this same debate last year when I was deciding where to apply. As you stated, the entry level masters programs are very expensive. I really wanted to get back to work ASAP so I made the decision to go with an ABSN and I’m starting my first semester in less than 3 weeks!! As always, thank you for the helpful advice!

I’m a second career nursing student in an MEPN program. Just started my channel to share my journey, especially since I’m older and I don’t know anyone else with a PhD and MPH who went back to school for nursing!

You’re videos are so helpful! I’m currently in undergrad for psych and wanted to change my major into nursing (amazing study abroad experience with nurses) but my school doesn’t allow changes of major into nursing :/. I’m attracted to the masters bc I don’t want another bachelors but they’re expensive. I initially wanted to do a direct entry psych np program but I realized that I don’t see myself in a provider role (yet).

I was just accepted to an ABSN and ELMSN-FNP program and accepted the ELMSN-FNP due to the fact that my main goal is to be a midwife. The great thing about my ELMSN, I can take the NCLEX after my 5th semester and I can start working after that and can do my masters part time is needed! Any advice???

Great video. I’m hoping to start a MSN program this fall. I chose this route because I’m a career changer with a masters & I know I don’t want to do bedside nursing for long. My program offers MSN leading to become a generalist & post masters certificates for NP. I will opt to do one of those to become a NP. There are MANY programs that offer post-masters certificates that are usually 1 year long or less and can be done online. With this masters I also have the option of doing a post-masters DNP as u mentioned. I just wanted to throw out that there are certificate programs for MSN and you do not have to get another masters for NP (unless you want to). Hope this helps n makes sense.

Hey, so I wanted some tips hopefully you or a fellow viewer can give some insight. I have a goal to be an aesthetic nurse and do injectables OR be a midwife. I used to want to be an OBGYN when I was on the premed track in undergrad and worked at an OBGYN which is where my midwife career goal comes from and I would love doing that. However, my career goals over the last few months have been more focused on looking into aesthetic /cosmetic nursing so at a plastics office or a medical spa. I live in GA and here you can be just an RN so I applied and got into Emory's D-ABSN program. BUT in some states, you have to be a more advanced nurse, like in florida for example, to do botox and other treatments. My question is would you recommend I go the DABSN route or the Direct Entry MSP route. I like Emory's DABSN route because it is a distance program so it is all online besides clinicals and can be completed in 12 months. If I could find a Entry-level MSN program that was mainly online I 'swould love to do that because I think for my career goals that will get me on a better path. Just because I have heard with this type of nursing it can be really competitive so I figured having an advanced nursing degree would be better. Also in the end the advanced degree would also allow me to move towards the midwife goal as well. What do you think if you were in my position? Here is the link for Emory's DABSN program: www.nursing.emory.edu/admission-and-aid/accelerated-program/distance-bsn.html Here is the link for their MN+ MSN program (which I am assuming is similar to an EL-MSN program?) : www.nursing.emory.edu/admission-and-aid/accelerated-program/accelerated-bsn-msn.html Could you recommend any online MSN programs? thank you for taking the time to read this! Love your videos:) regards, Shelby

Hello Liz! I'm graduating from my Prespecialty entry MSN as an AGPCNP this fall. My school considers entry into their program without a BSN to be "Prespecialty" rather than Direct Entry. Confusing, I know. I have not encountered any of the issues you talked about with the MSN certification being only in leadership. I was accepted to my Adult- Gero Primary Care specialty from the beginning due to the limited clinical placements the school has available. Also we sit for the NCLEX as soon as our "Generalist Nursing" content is finished, at the end of the first year. At the end of the second year we sit for our board certification exams for the specialty we completed. I absolutely believe it is the best decision I ever made. My school is tremendous and amazing! I cannot praise it enough. My entire cohort is full of A-type personality individuals with degrees (sometimes Masters and PhDs) in other fields. They are incredibly intelligent, and we work very very VERY hard to get our clinicals in from the first week of the program. I know that this is not the norm out there. So I would caution anyone that is considering an MSN (accelerated or not) to only consider programs that are academically excellent and will put you on the path to fulfill your goals as an NP. Don't become an NP if you only want to be an RN. Provider thinking and training is completely different. Thank you for your content. I've enjoyed it ever since I found out that I was accepted to NP school. You were one of the first NPs on KZfaq that I followed. Have a good day!

Hi Liz, Thanks for this super helpful video! I am currently applying to a number of ABSN programs but have toyed with the idea of direct-entry MSN programs a lot, as I already know that my ultimate goal is to get my DNP. The main reason why I am leaning towards ABSN programs is because I believe health care facilities don't know what to make of direct-entry MSN graduates yet and may (I could definitely be wrong) view them as "over-educated but under-experienced" when it comes to real-world clinical work. As such, these graduates are less likely to be hired than nurses with a BSN and practiced as an RN for a few years. Personally, I think this makes total sense and I agree with health care facilities if they do think that. Do you know if this is true, though? Thanks so much and so happy I stumbled upon your page!

Hi Liz! Could you by any chance discuss if grades matter in looking for a job? as in will the employer ask for your transcripts, how much do grades really matter, etc? I just did my first written assignment in nursing school and I thought I'd at least get a high credit, and I got barely a pass - a grand total of 58.9/100... oh to my terror. its so discouraging and since I know nursing employment can be really competitive especially to new grads.. can you provide some advice or discuss about this topic, please? thank you.

Somehow you hit the nail right on the head with what I need to learn about! I do have a question for you. You say you and some of your friends did total 180s you with regards to what you thought you'd like versus what you actually like/end up doing. Could you elaborate on your experience and the trend you see there?

Thank you! My goal is to become an Anesthetist… will getting my MSN be a start? (I do have a bachelors non nursing degree)

Welp, here I am again lol. Thanks Liz, as always. I am about to start my nursing program in Sept at a community college, I wish I could to an accelerated BSN but the schedules they have is for people who don’t work or work part time, and I can’t afford to do either of those. 2 /3 years go by quick but if you’re financially struggling I doubt it will be manageable to focus in school.... on top of being a mom and everything else, what do you think?

I have a question- from 5:40-5:54 Liz mentions additional schooling to become an NP after getting an MSN. Does that mean you can't be a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner as an MSN? I thought I would delve into a specialty during my MSN schooling. I appreciate if somebody could clarify!

Hi! I love your videos and watch them all the time.I'm just adding in my 2 cents for those who really feel this is the best path for them and as someone said before, not get discouraged while also acknowledging great points you and other people have made. 1.Know what you want to do. It's common for people in the nursing profession to have many interests and what's so great about nursing is that you can accomplish all those things. So I agree with the opinion that if you haven't had any experience to know for sure or if you're just someone who is not totally sure what they wanna do, don't do this. I've worked in healthcare all throughout college and know I want to be a nurse practitioner, eventually opening up my own practice. This requires a lot of responsibilities which is one reason I know this is the best path for me. While I do have other interests, psych is ultimately something that I always come back to, so I know I want to be in this particular area. There's so many layers within psych that I can still move around in a way that I want. Finally, schools who are serious about producing quality practitioners emphasize knowing this is the path you want throughout the entire application process and can smell someone who is not sure from a mile away. Many of them mentioned the number one reason an application is thrown out is being able to tell you don't understand the role of a nurse practitioner or that you are unsure of your specialty. 2. RESEARCH I did a whole whole lot of research before ultimately deciding to do this and also reached out to schools/ people who have actually gone down the path I want to do. I think some schools just advertise this without informing potential students about the pros and cons I am lucky because I have family members and others I've met who I was able to ask in depth questions. So I suggest researching the path heavily especially if you do not have those resources. Try to get in touch with people currently in programs and who graduated. That is ultimately what helped seal the deal for me. I'm happy to point people in the right direction because this path is not as popular. Research the faculty, the actual city it's in( you will be living there if you have to move for at least 2-3 years and cost of living/qualities you need in a place you're living are a factor), the cost of the program overall, the program schedule because it is very rigorous even for nursing, and most importantly what credentials you will end with. If you do the proper research and you still want to do it, I say go for it. 3.Credentials: I know I want to be a nurse practitioner, so that eliminated many programs that only led to being a generalist or a CNL. Like Liz said, on the floor honestly it doesn't matter. So unless you want to be an advanced practitioner, in a leadership role in some way , or both, this is a waste of time and money. Look into how your credentials will be treated in the region you are in or would want to be in. Make sure the programs you select allow you to sit for the np exam after graduating. Some places I was interested in failed to mention I would have do a whole other program after in order to become a nurse practitioner or to sit for the exam until I directly asked. However, there are programs that are a one stop shop. You will probably just have to narrow it down based on what specialty you want. Finally, make sure your program has the 3 Ps: Advanced pathophysiology, pharmacology, and physical assessment. These are the most important classes related to grad school nursing. There are definitely programs out there that will give the credentials you want, it just comes down to personal preference of what you want and how you want that to translate into responsibilities you want in day to day work. Many programs also provide ppreceptors and require you do a certain amount of hours while in the program so you actually get your feet wet in the field. UT austin(for psych only) and Vanderbilt are two examples of places that you will be a nurse practitioner once you graduate. 4.Cost: you have to be prepared to be in debt, which is why looking into the credentials you get are so important. Also think about if you are prepared for other costs of the program, like missing events with family/friends,cost of living esp since you can't normally work the first years of these programs, using most of your free time to study, getting stressed a whole lot. It's all worth it in the end, just mentioning because some people underestimate how it can go. There are things to help with costs so look into financial aid packages of schools. If they don't provide in house scholarships( a number of them do), do they at least point you in the direction of where you can get them? There is also Nursecorp(for loan forgiveness and scholarships ). You can also try to research jobs that will help pay your loans off if you work there for x amount of years. Some people also starting working after the first year and are able to manage their time just fine. I know I provided a lot of potential negatives but this is path is for some people! If you decide it's not for you, that's fine. Nursing is great in that there are many paths to it. For those who it is for, trust me when I say it will be worth it for you even if others don't agree. If anyone has questions about the application process, feel free to ask, we are in this together 😅.

Hey Liz, your videos have been very helpful for me but I’m stuck between an ABSN or a Entry level MSN because my end goal is to be a CRNA. I am about to be a senior in college so that’s why I’m looking into these programs. I know that the programs for CRNA are all changing by 2025 to only doctoral programs for CRNA. With that in mind would an ABSN be better to do ? Also this comment is open to anyone that has advice

If I were to have a master's already, and my end-goal would be to become a CRNA, would it be better to do an accelerated BSN, a master's in nursing and (since it changes next year) the doctorate in nursing anesthesia? Or could I go directly for this type of MSN and then do the doctorate?

I had the option between the ABSN and the entry level Master's. I chose the latter for the main reason that I could finish sooner (16 months versus 24 months). I also want to say the 16 month option is no longer offered because so many people dropped back to the normal 24 months. Probably eventually, maybe, I'll go back for my DNP (no Master-level NP program's close to me) in psychiatric nursing. Many of my classmates have already attained their NP, be it a DNP or an MSN. I'm just content where I am currently. As Liz was talking about certifications and whatnot, my program was a Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) program. I think it's a horrible name as it doesn't say anything about what it is or how the role is to function. The parts that most interest me are the quality and process improvement aspects. Looking at various data, trying to figure out what went wrong, what we're doing right, what the research says works better, etc. I love it. I'm on my hospital's quality and safety committee and hope to eventually take on more responsibilities in that role. I'm sure there's more to be said. I don't regret my decision at all. If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask!

Hi LIz! Love your channel and your IG! I am currently in the MEPN (Master's Entry to the Profession of Nursing) in Arizona. Our program is not an MSN but an MS and who is an RN. It will allow me to sit for the NCLEX and is only a 15 month program. I chose this because I wanted to be able to become an RN and also be able to get some financial aid since it is graduate school rather than a 2nd bachelor's. Eventually I want to get my pediatric DNP. I have gotten a lot of good feedback from the hospitals in my area about our program and I am (almost) guaranteed a job after graduation in August.

Hi Liz! Your video was is so great! This fall I will be a freshman and I plan to major in biology. My school offers MEPN but not a nursing degree. Would it be reasonable to pursue biology? Also would my credits be easy to transfer with this major? Thanks!

Wow...very informative. Thank you very much for this😊😊😊. I am an international student with a Bsc in physiology. Unfortunately, I was unable to take some of the prerequisite courses for the ABSN program in my country, for example- psychology. Would that hinder my application into the program?

I’m currently a surgical tech. Finishing my bachelors degree which I didn’t have much to finish to begin with. I’m applying to the General-Entry MSN program at my hospitals university system next year. It’s emphasis is in clinical leadership. Now for one, the hospital pays 100% of it. Second, I know that after I receive it, I’d like to be a circulating nurse in the OR and hopefully, become a Nurse educator in the OR which requires a MSN. It’s only a 2 year program and I’ve known a ton of people who have made it really high up with this degree.

Thank you so much for making this video! I'm applying to nursing programs this fall and have been asking myself this very question of ABSN or entry-level masters. On one hand it feels a bit redundant to get a second bachelors (my parents feel strongly I shouldn't do this) but also if I plan to work as a bedside RN it might make the most sense. It's been my long term goal to become an NP after working as an RN for a while, but whether I go that route is going to depend on how satisfied I am with working as an RN and if I feel like I want to do "more." I like that a masters might give me more opportunities to move up to leadership roles if I want step away from the bedside as an RN down the road (if I don't become an NP). I'm still a bit unsure which type of program will be best for me. My current plan is to apply to a mix of programs that I'm interested in and then decide based off where I get accepted. I'm really interested in Columbia's masters program which is only 15 months (seems almost like a ABSN disguised as a masters lol) which I feel like is a great compromise for my specific goals. I would love any feedback!

Hi Liz, this was super helpful in determining what I should do! 🌞🙏🏻💗 What do you think about aesthetic nurse? Is BS enough? Based on what you said sounds like it:) and I already have BS in another field. So I’m hoping to be able to do an accelerated version of BS program in my case. Also, wondering if anyone here could recommend a good, legitimate, online, BS program that is approved by California. I already know that you have to do clinical hours onsite so it’s really partly online but it would be nice to try and complete most of it at home for more flexibility.

Love the video topic...finally something for me! I’m in a Direct Entry program . It’s not THAT much longer than the ABSN here in this area. The ABSN is on average here 16-18 months, the MSN program is 20 months Definitely fast paced-it is not for the faint of heart. I am enjoying it because I’m used to working with heavy deadlines-

What would be the best entry into tactical medical field. So like work with police department or the military.

Hey Liz, thank you thank you for your videos. I have a question I hope you can point me in the right direction. I am an RN and have BA in buisness. I am wondering if I am able to get my MSN without a BA in nursing. Thanks in advance!

Thank Liz. My dream is become ENP and I was not sure which route should take BSN or Entry Level Nursing

Hey Liz!! I am currently finishing up my second semester in nursing school. It’s been so crazy with having to do clinical online, but we are making it work. I am interested to become a NP eventually. I am not sure if this is true. But I am hearing that to become an NP it will require a PHD eventually? Is that true? I just started the video so you may answer this! Also love your videos!!!

Hi Liz! Thank you for this video! Super helpful. For those with an end goal of NP and considering the current discussion that all NPs have to be DNPs by 2025 (I think), does this make MEPNs obsolete ? Again for the purposes of becoming an NP, not a nurse leader.. any insight would be awesome!

Hi Liz! I am currently a freshman at a small liberal arts college that does not have a nursing program. My long term goal is to be a nurse midwife, but there are a number of paths I am considering to get there. I could complete my degree here and then go into an accelerated BSN program, or into a direct entry MSN program. Which would you recommend for the area I want to go into? I could also transfer into a BSN program at a different school since I am only a freshman, but it would cost a lot more than I am paying now. Is this worth it? I love your videos and thank you for your help!

I'm in california and I looked at the entry level masters, but they are way too expensive for "clinical nurse leadership". Since I want FNP or health policy later on I would have to get another masters/certificate on top so I feel like it doesn't make sense. If I get a regular RN or BSN I would apply for the masters the exact same way. I would do an aBSN but looking at all the programs in california my stats of 3.3-3.4 gpa in microbiology is literally too low for all of them lol. So my plan is getting an RN and just finish the BSN while working then applying for the masters with my 2 years of work experience. Hopefully I can get into a BSN program too of course. I thought there might be a benefit in a post masters NP certificate, but when I checked the price was almost the same as a normal NP masters.

I love this so much. I am a starting my Direct Entry MSN program. I agree with so many points in Liz’ video. Here is my situation and hopefully it helps people in the comments. First off cost. DEMSN programs in Chicago are upwards of 80-100 k just got tuition and are 2.5 years long. I just could not wrap my head around going into that much debt along with interest accrued when I could do my ADN for about 10k max. The program I chose has a lot of pro’s to it. I also already have my MPH. I want to go into Global Health, Infectious Disease, Policy, and Pharmaceuticals (I am insane) I could do most with my MPH but also I want clinical experience that is valuable to the process and nurses are the most trusted profession in the US. I love research I love patient care, I love it all. That being said I want my floor nursing experience very badly. But after I want to pursue research, policy, and education, therefore making my DEMSN worth it. But also!!! There is a large research and capstone compartment in my program that is funded through the program. I get to specialize my research and work with surrounding medical centers. Okay that’s why I am doing it here are the specifics. My program is costing my 50k and is an 18 months program where you take the nclex at month 9. This is insane, and I would not recommend it for most people, hell im not sure if I recommend it for me. We shall see what happens. They are also highly ranked, high nclex pass rate at 94%, and have high retention rates at 98%. So you really have to ask yourself why you are doing it and to the costs justify the means. This program also allows you to directly move on to CNS, NP, DNP, or PhD. I would recommend getting two years of experience but I’m one of the weirdos that may do a PhD Route.

hey nurse liz i have been following you for years and have your nurse binders. i have slight experience with one of these programs at an ivy school. so i was all set and ready to go but the one thing people need to keep in mind is that these programs are more geared i think for people that want to end as an np/dnp. i say this bc if you do one of these programs you cant do CRNA so pretty much ur only option after ur MSN is NP, since MOST CRNA programs require you to have a BSN. now i ended up not going to this direct entry program bc at the end of the day I could get a job as a BSN and then have the rest of my nursing education paid for...so i agree with you on that point to get a BSN first. however, the way it was put to me, if you know 100% that you want to end up as an NP and you are older or short on time then the direct entry programs are the way to go!

Can someone talk on the GEM CNL at RUSH University in Chicago Illinois

Good morning Nurse Liz! Thank you so much for this video. Just finished having the worst time with Bellarmine's accelerated BSN program and I've just been severely depressed and frustrated as basically all my hard work went down the drain all thanks to their third party messing up my transcripts multiple times. I've been trying to wade my way through programs to find another program but now I have to take additional classes which is another vein of money that I don't have much of. I'm so frustrated haha but still trying to be determined. Thank you for this video as I was thinking of just taking the bullet to get an MSN but thanks ton your informative and clear information, I think I might steer clear of that for now. I'm praying that I can find a program soon and get started. Thank you so much for all that you do and I hope that you, your family and friends stay safe. You're such a sweet person and thank you for taking the time to educate us and involve us in your life.

I am trying to finish my bs in healthcare compliance and I was thinking either try to get into a msn program or absn program. I want the least amount of time but also spend money wisely. I don’t have a&p done or microbio so I would have to take those prerequisites. Hopefully people here can comment on their thoughts about my future plans.

Hey Liz, I am trying to figure out what's best for me. I have 2 bachelor's degrees. One health science minor in psychology and one health management minor in the supply chain. My how is want to go back to be a nurse. I have no financial aid. I live in Georgia. I am everywhere. I do know in the past my science and math weren't good averages. I has to retake and made an A in courses. So it was hard for me to apply to the program. I am looking at what would be a cheaper and easy way to start my nursing journey

I want to travel nurse than later teach in the medical field should I get my accelerated BSN than go back when I’m ready to start teaching for my MSN?

The ABSN programs I researched were more $$ by about $20K here . It’s really a research thing... I think it’s all changing with the state of things today. Having to switch to all online recently....

Hello, I was hoping to know about Which MSN to choose, for example, education, leadership, FNp...

Hi! I have a bachelor in healthcare management and going for LPN. Will that help boost my pay?

Thank you so much for this video! I have been watching your videos for months. I already have a social science bachelors and am thinking about doing an AAS in nursing and then a university in my state has a bridge program for people with an RN license and a bachelors in something to get an MSN -FNP in a mostly online option. Do you have any opinions about this? Is it possible to find a job while working on that FNP MSN? Or will no one take me because I have a bachelors in something else even if I am an RN? This whole journey from associates to masters will cost less than 30,000 which is what an accelerated BSN starts out as in my area and seems less stressful? Love your channel!

So some Entry level MSNs are specialized (PNP, FNP are the most common I believe). However, an alternative method is going through an ABSN program and then MSN. I will say, having gone through an accelerated BSN program, I nearly went and became a Women's Health NP. I LOVED L&D and surgery so much while in my program, I was honestly shocked because these were the two I thought I'd hate from previous shadowing experiences. I loved L&D B/c of all the C Sections and education I get to do with families, the mom, and of course all the babies that I took care of. Alas, I went into my MSN to become an FNP and I have no regrets because I found how I can combine both education and procedures into practice (i.e. I think I found my specialty). I think going through the ABSN route does give you a lot of options and opportunities to really see what you like as a nursing student rather than shadowing. I'd say unless you REALLY REALLY know what you're going to do, take the ELMSN route. But if you don't know and are open to exploring...ABSN route. Even then, the world is your oyster for nursing; there's so many career paths, it's amazing.

if i already have RN and working in the bed side. I'am planning to join the air force nurse. Bachelor is required but Master is better along the way. My question is, the school im attending offers RN TO MSN straight, should I do that instead of doing the RN TO BSN TO MSN?

Hello, I’m a an international student and I have a BSN but I’m not licensed, I want to enroll into a nursing program but most entry programs are mostly for graduates with non nursing degrees.😭 What entry program would you advise me to take? Considering the fact I have my BSN already

Hi Liz thanks for your information ,can you please make videos on how Newzealand and other nation Nurses can move to USA.

You are fun to watch. I am looking for info on self-employed CRNA. Can a CRNA be a partner in an anesthetist private practice group?

I really want to be an OR nurse...and know most require a bachelors. But I don’t know if I then might wanna be a CRNA later down the line...do I go for the RN to BSN. Or RN to MSN ? Cause I don’t know which track I’d choose ? Cause I do not think I want to be a NP. I’m torn...cause I applied originally for RN to BSN ...to start later next month...but should I tell them to change it to RN to MSN? I have no idea what to do. BSN or MSN?

If I am pursuing CRNA long term (DNP) would a BSN or MSN be better? I hold a bachelors degree in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences

Hello there! I know this video was a year old but I have a question. I want to major in psychology and not nursing just in case I want to change career paths to let's say pre-pa or pre-med. I am leaning on becoming a psychiatric np, however, do nursing schools allow psych majors to apply? I saw UPenn has a direct entry but I'm trying to research more to see if Yale and Columbia Nursing School will accept that.

Hi Liz, upon completing ELMSN and passing the NCLEX, are you able to work as a RN?

Hi liz should i need to have nursing license to start the accelerated nursing program

I was wondering if someone can help me in this, I have a bachelors unrelated to health and was told finding programs that offer pre licensing transition to RN into a MSN. It does terrify me because I heard that the MSN is not worth it and you will not acquire work experience/ will not be prepared or hired. This msn program is also full time as well and 18 month accelerated . A bsn holds more value I'm told because of the fact the person had work experience. but I am far into this point where I have the pre recs ready to go. I'm thinking of just going for it even if I have no medical experience. The other thing I'm super afraid of is will Nursing school prepare me to be organized and juggle information + deliver the best possible care to a patient. IS that something the classes or the clinicals teach you? I don't want to come off as incompetent or not prepared :/ Im 29 SO i feel like I messed up somewhere along the way.

I am an international nurse but I want to do MSN program in usa ...but I don't have registration...what would be the better option for me?

Hi I am a registered nurse in Ghana and hold a BSN. I want to work in US or Canada. Should I do an accelerated BSN before writing NCLEX RN? Or do you have any idea

Hey Liz I have a bachelor's degree in computers but can I choose nursing for Masters in US or any other country please let me know yes or no?please please I need to know.

What about bsn-msn in leadership, informatics, etc?

Hi Liz, you probably don't remember but in a previous video I had said that I did not pass pharmacology (level 1) of spring 2019. I reapplied and got in for Spring 2020 and got it. I wanted to let you know that I passed and I am moving on to level 2.🥳🤓🤓🤓. Oh and this time I got a A in pharmacology 😁

Hi Liz, love your videos! I'm currently in an entry level masters program and have some thoughts for your viewers who are trying to decide. The only two reasons I chose the entry level masters: 1. I would not have been able to get federal student loans with a second BSN (since I already had them from my previous bachelors) 2. My program is accelerated and allows you to take the NCLEX in 12 months and start working. For your future nursing education make sure you look at what loan options are available to you. Past that think about what your ultimate goal in nursing, I think Liz's video does a great job of highlighting the pros and cons. Liz is correct that if your goal is to be a bedside RN the pay isn't much different, but don't let that scare you away from an entry level masters, especially if it is accelerated you'll be done and working quick! Also do not be scared about making a career change, my bachelors is in business. Nursing school is really hard but you can do it!

my school has an entry msn for clinical leadership. The school is affiliated with a hospital system and their plan for you is to spend 3 yrs getting the entry msn. You take the NCLEX and then work a new grad RN position for 2 years making RN money. Then you are eligible to be promoted into clinical leadership/nurse manager and can put the MSN to work and make money. I chose to stick with a BSN because I if I want to further my education it will be more likely a DNP and a leadership MSN would be wasted money.

Hi Liz,am applying for psych/mental health NP and a KZfaq video application/essay was required.Can u give me a few tips ?

I just finished an entry MSN. I had friends I did prerequisites with at a community college start at the BSN program at the big school with me and it took the same amount of time for me to get an MSN, which was one reason I went with the MSN. Additionally, cost was the same because I used veterans benefits. I also wanted to go back into the military and wanted to have my masters out of the way so I didn't have to go back to school for a masters in order to get field grade promotions. My situation was not typical, but you have to look at your particular situation, but basically, I wanted to get as much as I could, as fast as I could since the GI Bill more or less incentivized that.

What job opportunities do you have after the DEMSN?

I'm in an ADN program now Wanting to get my BSN once complete and my dream is to be on a cardiac or medsurg floor

Do you have videos on where to get started? Or advice? I'm active duty and Im planning on transitioning out in the next couple years. I've been working towards an associates in general science for the last couple semesters and I want to start the nursing path but theres just so much information out there and alot of it is contradicting. And I cant reach out to a local school because we're overseas right now.

Just want to share a positive experience! I am finishing up semester two of five in a direct entry master’s program that will enable me to sit for NCLEX and the CNL certification exam (as others have discussed). My undergraduate degree is in English and I chose the DEMSN over an ABSN for a few reasons. 1) While it is expensive, I was able to fund my masters with student loans. Because I couldn’t receive the Parent PLUS loan as an undergrad, my undergrad loans are essentially maxed out and I would have had to pay for an ABSN mostly out of pocket. 2) It is actually taking me less time than an ABSN would, at least in my area-because my undergrad had little focus on math and science, I would’ve needed several semesters of prereqs for an ABSN program. The only prereq I was missing was A&P I and II, which I was able to complete while still working full time before starting my program. 3) The CNL certification is appealing to me because (when appropriately implemented) it is a very interesting role. I like that I will have the option to fill that role. 4) If I end up wanting to move to a post-grad certificate or DNP in order to become an APRN, my school accepts several of the credits in my current program. It’s expensive and it’s very difficult, but ultimately it ended up being the best decision for me and my family. Liz has done a good job of explaining the pros and cons-there is a lot of negativity out there that simply isn’t warranted in my opinion. It’s a good option for people who need or want that particular route.

Hi Liz! I am really in a bind, I will be graduating next semester with my bachelor's degree in Kinesiology - my original plan was to become a physical therapist but I have changed my mind last minute and decided I wanted to pursue nursing instead. I have applied for a DEMSN program, which allows me to earn my Bachelor's and Master's degree all in 18 months, and I can sit for the NCLEX after the first three semesters, then finish my Master's the last two semesters. My end goal is to become a nurse practitioner, but all I am concerned about is how much debt I will be in once I have finished with school. Is it worth pursuing? Or would an ABSN be a better route for me?