Dance major undergrad --> Performance in company --> Nurse Practitioner

Charliesch
Wed, 15 Oct 2014 17:21:31 +0000

I would seriously consider a bio major with a dance minor.

In any case, yes, take a look at the pre-requisites of multiple accelerated BSN programs where she might want to apply. The goal is to be able to apply to multiple different programs. I would try to get as much of the BSN curriculum out of the way in the first 4 years as is practical, in addition to the mandatory prerequisites. For example, they may mandate 2 semesters of bio, but you could take a 3rd class that will be needed. Particularly if you will be paying per credit hour for the accelerated BSN, it would be helpful to get those classes out of the way during the first 4 years.

I had read some comments that financial aid is rare for accelerated BSN programs. In comparison, merit and/or need based aid is commonly available at most colleges for regular BSN programs. Also, any federal or state aid will likely be used up in the process of getting the initial bachelors degree, as well as most of the ability to take out federally subsidized undergrad loans. Therefore, that accelerated BSN program may have a very very high net out of pocket expense. Many accelerated BSN programs are at private colleges.

Every nursing student now says they intend to become a NP, but few will actually do it. It is not only a matter of time and expense, but also the programs are highly competitive. In many cases, family obligations will get in the way. It is hard to go without a reliable source of income, and hard to give up your own standard of living to go back to Kraft macaroni and cheese and thrift shop furniture. There are other nursing post-bachelors certification programs that may be more realistic for most people, particularly if employers will fund them while you work full time as a nurse.

It would also be interesting to see how many years of experience most NP programs expect a person to have as a RN before they will typically accept you into their program.