What is needed to get a nursing degree with Bachelors?

[Greg2230]

First of all, hi to everyone as this is my first post. I recently graduated with a bachelors in criminal justice and have landed a job as a firefighter (go figure). I am also an EMT and during my required hospital time, I realized I really like being in the E.R. I have a lot of off time with my job now so I was thinkig about going back to school and getting my R.N. so I can work per diem in the E.R. on my days off. Does anyone know if this is something that can be done primarily online? And does the fact that I have my bachelors degree help me at all in cutting down on some of the electives or anything like that? Lastly, does anyone have any ideas as to how long something like that could take or how much it would cost (ballpark)? I would probably stick with one or two classes at a time.

Thanks

Greg

[FamiliesProsper]

What is your ultimate goal with your education and experience?

[Greg2230]

I am a full-time firefighter and have a lot of days off. I would like to get a per-diem job in an E.R., as a nice second job. I am an E.M.T. so I have a little background and understanding of the medical field.

[maire]

No way to do nursing school totally online. The nursing portion includes clinical classes that must be done in person at clinical sites. Prerequisite and corequisite courses can be completed online and a few schools are now offering some of the lecture portions of nursing classes online, but the entire program can not be done online. You probably have a significant number of credits that will transfer toward a BSN. Best to investigate the nearby programs and see what the requirements are and how your previous record will fit in. Then you will most likely end up applying to all of the programs in hopes of getting accepted. That is what most people do. Hopefully, you will be accepted at the program that you would prefer to attend. Good luck.

[NURSEDETROIT]

You need to sit down with an academic advisor to determine what it is you will require in addition to your prior education/training as acquired thus far. Requirements vary by program/university. It might behoove you to visit several universities; present your transcripts along with CV. Then, based on what they will allow/grant you (prior education/training/life experience); can determine what you will require in addition. This will provide you the necessary information. Calculate the cost based on the # of credit hours needed/determined.

[Greg2230]

Thanks for the replies. I will look into it further.

[hkieffer]

Greg,
You should know about a program that is designed for EMT's (as well as LPN's etc) to become RN's. This might be perfect for you. Have you heard of Achieve Test Prep? They have a program, and I have heard lots of good things about them, where you can go to school on their campuses if you live close, or you can attend class virtually online. It isn't an online study program. As a nurse myself for 20 years, I can't imagine how those work! With Achieve Test Prep, you are being taught by RN's. They help you to test out of the classes. With your EMT background, you can apply that knowledge and what you've learned to your schooling. And I believe this program is cheaper than traditional schooling. It's worth a few minutes to check it out. You can google Achieve Test Prep and easily find them. I wish I had this kind of fast-track program when I was going to school. Best of luck to you!