[dprUsh83]

Hello all,

I have been struggling with the decision for a couple months now. I am currently a graduate student in a business-oriented field. I have been considering the Nursing field because of the ability to make more of a difference as well as the job demand of nurses (Is this being naive or are these opportunities really present?). I am wondering, if I decide to enter a program for nursing, is it worth it to complete the Master's program in my current field? Does anybody know any good databases to get salary information, promotability, et cetera?

I have been considering the profession for a while now, but I have virtually no technical knowlege, any information will be of tremendous help!

Thanks!!

[dprUsh83]

12 views, any opinions?

[EvaRN]

You are the only one who can decide if you want to finish the Master's program in your current field and then go into a Nursing program or not. I can tell you that if nothing changes regarding enrollment in Nursing programs there will be a shortage of nurses until 2020 according to some government sources. There is great demand for nurses and it is a job that offers great benefits and flexibility, with different areas you can choose from (peds, OR, ER, ICU, etc.). It is not an easy profession but you do make a difference in the lives of many people.
I have completed an accelerated BSN degree in nursing -- took me 1 year to finish, not counting the prereq. courses. I would go that way if I was you, since you already have a Bachelor's degree. There are a many schools out there offering accelerated programs in nursing, and the shortest one is 1 year. I went to Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. The prerequisite courses vary from school to school and you can find out what they require by either going to the school website and looking up the program or by calling and requesting the information. It also takes time to get accepted into the program so in your case I would start right now with the application. You can finish the prereq. courses in about a year, a year and a half the most but you must be committed. Also, the accelerated programs are tough because everything is so condensed...
Good luck with your decision and hope my answer helped you a little bit!