How can I become a nurse?

Question

I am going to be getting my degree in Anthropology next year, but my GPA will be at the most, a 3.1. I would really like to pursue nursing, but I have heard that BSN programs are really tough to get into with my GPA.

Are there any BSN programs that are more lenient with their requirements? I have heard that private schools are generally easier to get into the nursing program. Also, as an alternative, could I go to a community college to get my RN and then transfer to a RN-to-BSN program?

Answer 1

Jill has, as usual, given excellent advice, I would just add, that the admission committees for RN programs at the BSN levels look at several factors when evaluating students for admission. A significant factor, given an overal GPA over 3.0 is what is you GPA for the sciences. These are the courses that will significantly affect your abilities as a nurse. I have seen people accepted on probation with a 2.8 if their sciences were good, but they just had problems in history or english. I would apply to both BSN and ADN programs, and then see where you are accepted. Leave all your options open. If you can get the BSN...go for it, it gives you more options in the long run. IF not get the ADN and become an RN, you can always do an RN to MSN or an RN to BSN bridge program later.

Answer 2

If you are graduating with a bachelors degree in another field (anthropology), there are programs called "accelerated BSN", designed specifically for those who hold an undergrad degree. You just take the BSN nursing courses. These programs are not in as high demand as the regular BSN or ADN programs, so admission might be easier.

With a 3.1, I really wouldn't worry too much. GPA isn't everything. They also look at how many gen ed courses you have completed, your ACT or SAT scores, etc. It all factors in.

I strongly suggest looking into several programs at several schools and applying to more than one to better your odds at getting in. And don't get discouraged if you don't get in the first year you apply.

Good luck.

Answer 3

Community College is a good idea. Another to explore is an accelerated BSN program. These programs take students with exisiting Bachelors degrees and transfer/apply all previous coursework towards a BSN. All you will need to take are the nursing courses/clinicals and a few related classes. This assumes that you have the prerequisites completed.
Check out www.desales.edu and look at their program.

Answer 4

Nursing school in general is very competitive, but usually with community college the requirements are less (GPA, prerequisites, etc). The best way (and probably the least amount of time) would be to go to a community college, get your ADN (associates) and then you can do a RN - BSN bridge online or go to a university. At my community college there were GPA's as low as 2.6 that got into my nursing class. 360 people applied for 120 seats in my nursing class. Good luck with your journey.

Chris
Emergency Room Nurse

Answer 5

Going to a community college would be a good idea. Often, their programs are better than the larger colleges because their classes are smaller, there is more interaction between the instructor and student.