RN-MSN Bridge Program - Continuing and Professional Education (2024)

FAQs

How long does it take to bridge from RN to MSN? ›

How long does it take to go from RN to MSN? Completing an ADN-to-MSN bridge program can take 24-36 months of full-time study. However, graduation timelines may vary according to your enrollment status and the program's structure.

IS RN-TO-MSN PROGRAM HARD? Most nursing faculty and nursing students will tell you that RN-to-MSN programs are hard to complete. In these programs, you will take undergraduate and graduate-level nursing courses, learn advanced clinical nursing and leadership skills, and complete in-depth clinical practic*ms.

The short answer- yes! MSN programs are hard, especially Nurse Practitioner (NP) programs. These programs focus on advanced health assessment, pathophysiology, and pharmacology. Most MSN degrees require a minimum of two years of relevant experience before applying to a program.

Pros and Cons of RN-to-MSN vs Direct Entry

Allows nurses with associate degrees or diplomas to pursue an MSN without earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) first. Accelerated programs are available, saving time and money compared to earning a BSN and then an MSN separately.

Another reason MSN is harder than a BSN is that the programs are designed to prepare you for advanced nursing practice and increased levels of responsibility. You will not only learn about advanced nursing topics and skills, but you will also learn about the management and financial side of nursing.

The choice an RN makes as to whether to pursue a BSN or an MSN comes down to where they want to take their career. For example, if they want to be in clinical work long term, a BSN may be ideal. But if they aspire to grow into leadership and managerial roles, an MSN may be ideal.

Ask A Nurse: MSN Nurse Practitioner Programs Are Changing To DNP Programs By 2025.

One perk of earning your MSN as a BSN-prepared nurse is that you won't have to retake the NCLEX after graduating with your master's degree. However, you might decide to earn additional nursing certifications if you would like to enhance your nursing knowledge and career qualifications.

Is MSN the same as NP? ›

MSN degree holders are not necessarily NPs. Many MSN graduates may wish to sit for a certified nurse practitioner exam. However, other MSN earners may wish to pursue the administrative angle of a nursing career.

To enroll in a DNP program, you must have completed a BSN or MSN degree. If you don't have a BSN degree, you can't take a direct path from RN to DNP. However, unlike many other advanced degrees, Franklin's BSN to DNP program allows those holding a BSN to advance directly to a DNP without completing a master's degree.

However, pursuing a BSN to MSN will usually take you about two years to complete. In order to earn your MSN, you will probably need to complete around 43 units of coursework.

Getting in to an ASN-to-MSN Degree Program

Students must be able to showcase their dedication and passion for the field of nursing. There are a variety of interesting and flexible degree options for ASN-to-MSN degree seekers.

RN to MSN bridge programs are designed to help registered nurses (RNs) achieve their master's degree in Nursing, and qualify for a more advanced nursing career. Essentially, they are bridge programs that fill a gap in nursing knowledge, and equip RNs with skills needed for higher-level positions in the field.

The 4+1 program allows School of Nursing and Health Professions students to simultaneously start work on their MSN degree while earning their BSN. The requirements for the BSN remain the same as for non-dual degree students.