I was originally going to school for teaching almost done with my associates and decided that I am really interested in becoming a nurse. My problem is I have no actual science courses. I have been really discouraged because I have been looking into schools and wondering if I could just take the science courses that I need. I am 47 and do not want to be in school forever. Would I need to start all over again and get my associates in nursing then apply to a 4 year school for my bachelors? What do I need to do? Help. thank you in advance
-Jane
This question was asked in the nursing forum section.
S.L. Page says
Hey Jane! Welcome to the site and this is a great question!
While I was getting my nursing degree in school I was with some students who had completed some classes to become teachers but decided to switch to nursing. Many people do what you are wanting to do. One reason is because nursing is a very versatile career and you tend to make more money. Plus if you like teaching you can teach as a nurse so it is the best of both worlds.
I am not for sure what the nursing program you are wanting to go to requires, but usually how it would work is that you would have to take the classes they require you to take for the associates program. Generally, you should already taken math, English, history etc for your teaching degree but just lack the science courses. The nursing program will probably require you to take A & P, Pathophysiology etc, so, yes, you would have to go back and take them. Plus you may have to take any entrance exams they may require. I would ask an advisor for the details.
Since you don’t want to be in school forever, I would complete your ADN and work as a nurse for awhile. Then after you have worked and you want your BSN, you could complete this online.
Because you are switching your major and having to take some extra classes it may take an extra semester or two. You may want to look into classes over the summer which could help speed up the process.
If you decide to go straight into the BSN program it may take you about 2.5-3 years (given you have already taken some pre-requisites). The BSN program is about 4 years long.
If you are confused on the difference between the ADN and BSN here are some great resources:
https://www.registerednursern.com/changing-careers-adn-or-bsn/
https://www.registerednursern.com/adn-or-bsn-nursing-degree-what-is-the-difference-between-adn-bsn-programs/
Jane, I hope I was able to help you. Thanks again for your question!
-Sarah
Jane says
thank you so much for your prompt response. I was really discouraged yesterday this really made my day. thank you again.
S.L. Page says
You’re very welcome! Glad I could help you out. Please keep in touch and let me know how everything goes 🙂
-Sarah
Lyndsey says
You could skip the associates program all together and go straight to a bachelors program. You will probably be able to use some of your core classes that you done with your teaching degree. My guess it would take you 3 to 3 1/2 years.
Jane says
thank you lyndsey.
Chuck says
First you will need to think about whether you want a BSN or ADN. Personally a ADN is just as fine as a BSN but if you are wanting to go into management go with the BSN to be safe. I agree with the others it will take about 3 years to get the BSN and a few more semester for the ADN.
Jane says
thank you so much for response. its most appreciated and puts things into a better perspective.
S.L. Page says
You’re very welcome! Glad I could help you out. Please keep in touch and let me know how everything goes 🙂
-Sarah