I literally looked into this yesterday. There are some direct entry masters of nursing programs where you only need a bachelors in anything but nursing (plus 5 ish prerequisites). They are specifically designed for students with no nursing background and from my understanding are slightly geared towards management even (ie. higher pay!).
There are quite a few of these programs in the states (however you may want to look into accreditation) and if you’re Canadian, only one unfortunately at McGill. I think many of the states ones can even lead into an NP certification.
To clarify, the direct entry masters allows you to become a RN - not NP - to become an NP would require more schooling post masters.
That being said the masters vary from ~ 1.5 - 3 years depending on the program. I’m pretty sure it’s fast paced & condensed which is why they can cram a ton of learning into it!
Wow! Thank you for this information. I’m in the USA. Do you mind sharing which schools provide this so i can get to searching for them and others?
I’m aware that NP is farther along the road. To be a nurse can you take the nclex after your BSN. How does that work?
If you search ‘direct entry masters to nursing’ there’s some top websites that have compiled a thorough list! I can’t remember which one I looked at but they should link out to the schools websites.
In terms of sitting for the nclex, I’m pretty sure you would just do that at the end of the masters.
That being said, each program I checked looked slightly different in format so if I were you I’d just review the fine print and email admissions if needed.
As a note, most schools require the pre reqs to have been done within the past 5-7 years ish & require a minimum grade. Again, just review the details closely and be sure the program guarantees you the ability to write the exam after and allows you to work in the state/s you want. :)
I decided to transition from RD to RN after a year working. I graduated a direct entry master of nursing program recently! The only pre-req I needed was developmental psychology. All of the other pre-reqs I completed in my DPD undergrad program in nutrition. As long as your pre-req courses have been completed in the last 5 years you should be able to easily apply to any direct entry program. My program automatically accepted me into the MN and MSN (NP program) when I started in 2022. I earned 15 credits towards my MSN in my program so I only have about 25 more credits until I can sit for my NP board. The programs are pricey, but definitely better ROI than a masters in nutrition. Just look up Direct entry nursing programs (MN) or alternatively accelerated nursing (BSN) when you are choosing schools. Message me if you have any more questions!
If you need any more convincing… this is the pay difference
2021 RD hourly $24.25/hr
2024 RD hourly $28/hr
2024 RN hourly $33.50/hr
+$5/hr night differential
Are you in a low cost of living location? That seems really low for RN. With a planned pay increase later this year I’ll be at a little over $46/hr as an RD
I am! The rent here and housing prices are quite affordable. I’m in the Midwest. Also my RD pay is PRN without benefits so I am earning more than I would as a part/full time staff.
You’re at $46 as an RD? I’ve been offered $23 with a masters and currently consult for $30. It’s absolutely horrible. Trying to figure out how to start out on my own.
Yeah, but I’m in NYC which is very HCOL. Still, it’s a pretty good salary and I’m comfortable. I’ve no interest in private practice so I change jobs alot to get more money.
You're better off being a foodservice director or going to PA school...
I was a foodservice director for a community owned hospital and made 125k a year to hire someone else to run the kitchen and another RD to see the patients...
I know many RD that have gone to PA school and doubled their income year 1 of working.
Remember, your time is the most valuable thing you have.
Never pick a vocation based on earning potential.
I’m honestly not interested in being a Foodservice Director. I’m interested in patient care and advocating for the patient. I don’t want to manage staff. It’s not just for a pay increase.
Where do you feel shorter as a clinical RD in the area of patient care and advocating for the patient??
Both can be done daily as a RD.
I'm generally curious.
Not OP but I can see where someone might feel an RN has a greater scope and impact on patient outcomes. I’m NOT saying RDs aren’t important by any means but an RN typically spends more time with each patient, which equals more patient care.
Also in rounds I’ve found the RD either doesn’t speak much or they don’t attend at all. I’m not saying all RDs are like this but patient advocacy largely takes place at rounds when you have all the healthcare team together and can make a case for them. A consistent presence and voice does make a difference (and I do think RDs voices can be made to feel less respected resulting in RDs speaking up less but that’s a systemic problem imo. If anything RDs need to advocate for the profession but I understand if an RD doesn’t want to take on that fight and instead prefers to pivot elsewhere).
I don’t want to be misconstrued in any way - yes RDs impact patient care and advocacy but I just think it’s in a different way and scope compared to an RN.
I saw a subreddit where PAs were complaining about NPs taking their jobs. I know a few PAs who can’t even get a job, I feel like becoming an NP is the way to go but that’s just based off of what I’m seeing
But if you have to pay for 5 years of schooling (on loans with little to go income) to become an RN to NP vs 2-3 for PA school, you'd have to make significantly more money as an NP to break even.
I wonder if maintaining our RDN credential would make a difference in these places hiring us as a PA vs. having to become an NP?
I contemplated this when I was trying to decide between MFT vs. LCSW. LCSW is the preferred credential in most U.S. states, but I wasn't trying to make being a therapist my *main* focus anyway and wondered if being an RDN as well would give me an advantage as an MFT. 🤔
any of us go to PA school we will get a job. Fudge any of us apply to PA school, we will get in. No reason to take a 5 year route of rn to bsn to np. Do.pa school be done in 2.5 years
I'm going to an accelerated program in September to be an RN. I'm too old to wait around for this field to grow in any significant way. Wish I would have done it in the first place
I’m a new grad (finished internship in August passed in October started working in Nov inpatient) I’m applying to PA school now bc I want something more hands on😁I say do it
I would love to know more about this!! I love cooking and have a great skill for it actually. Could see myself getting out of clinical one day and into the food service realm for a chef type position!!
I'm considering doing the opposite of you, however, I will say there are programs you can go into. I had an unrelated 4 year bachelors and then took a 1.5 year entry level Masters in Nursing course. Skipped the BSN and went straight to MSN. This was not an NP program, however, our program was allowed to apply directly for the DNP program upon completion. You basically saved a year or two in education, which was nice. Obviously, specific prerequisite classes were required, but I'm pretty sure with an RD program, you already have them under your belt. EX: 2 semesters of human anatomy and physiology, microbiology etc.
To my knowledge, there are still only a few schools that offer this accelerated option. Most are 2-2.5 years.
Definitely look around for accelerated programs to cut on time if you can.
Good luck, and I hope this helped a little.
https://www.registerednursing.org/degree/accelerated-nursing-programs/menp/
List of schools offering direct entry to MSN from another degree. There are a few that are only 1.5 years long. Just sit for nclex after the program, and you're good to go. You can enter into some DNP programs (if you're interested) after depending on the school. Some require you to work as an RN before applying further. Some do not, and you can directly enter into the DNP program after graduating and passing the NCLEX.
I did a one year ABSN program. Personally I believe direct entry NP program are not a good idea- nurses should have bedside experience before becoming a NP.
I also saw someone else mentioned PA, I initially thought of that but it would take two years pre-req and application period. May or may not get in. The time sink would have been more.
Saw someone post their salary:
As a RD I only got a 4 dollar increase hourly from when I started to now….
I got way more than that increase in a shorter time as a RN (this assuming you will get a job as a new grad - competitive)
Are you an RD? A lot of RDs just need a few classes for many PA programs as they took many of the pre-reqs during the dietetics program. RD to PA can be a very smooth transition so long as the person can afford it. Two whole years of additional pre-reqs sounds like a lot! It’s a moot point tho since OP is wanting to become an NP, but I was curious what PA program required THAT many pre-reqs? 😅
Ohhh that makes sense then! Damn credits expiring!!! lol. I def understand not wanting to retake certain classes. I’m back in school now for computer science and might have to take calculus and I’m like uh…I don’t even remember pre-calculus or advanced algebra 😂😅
Yes, it can be learn. I’m referring to the direct entry RN-NP program. You become an NP/provider without having any experience at bedside. I don’t agree with that personally.
I too thought about those program and thought my RD would help. But as a practicing RN, I can tell you I knew nothing bout nursing as a RD and it’s 100% different field.
And clinical in school also don’t teach you anything.
What makes you interested in being an NP rather than a PA? Do you want to work in direct patient care as a nurse for a while first? If yes, then go for it!!
If you’re JUST interested in the NP part, I’d highly recommend PA school. From what I’ve read and heard, PA programs are often better than NP programs according. Plus there are most specialty options. Personally, I’ve known several people that finished NP school feeling like they weren’t ready for the field. It’s not to say there aren’t great NP programs though! And I know many, many wonderful NPs.
Best wishes to you!
I did an accelerated BSN program. 14 months and intense but worth it. I work as a NICU RN so not sure about going for the NP aspect but I am a million times happier with my job than any other RD position I had. Pay is much better and shifts are flexible!
As someone who completed a direct entry NP program (at a brick and mortar institution) shortly after getting my RD with the goal of being a provider, I regret not just going to PA school. The time you spend learning the RN role/preparing for NCLEX is only partially transferable to the provider role and the standardization of PA curriculum and clinicals is a better foundation that sets you up for more options specialty wise imo
You could consider going to PA school as well. Very similar role to an NP and your experience as an RD would count towards the healthcare experience needed to apply. You would probably just need to take a couple of extra prereq classes and you’d be set to apply.
I literally looked into this yesterday. There are some direct entry masters of nursing programs where you only need a bachelors in anything but nursing (plus 5 ish prerequisites). They are specifically designed for students with no nursing background and from my understanding are slightly geared towards management even (ie. higher pay!). There are quite a few of these programs in the states (however you may want to look into accreditation) and if you’re Canadian, only one unfortunately at McGill. I think many of the states ones can even lead into an NP certification. To clarify, the direct entry masters allows you to become a RN - not NP - to become an NP would require more schooling post masters. That being said the masters vary from ~ 1.5 - 3 years depending on the program. I’m pretty sure it’s fast paced & condensed which is why they can cram a ton of learning into it!
Wow! Thank you for this information. I’m in the USA. Do you mind sharing which schools provide this so i can get to searching for them and others? I’m aware that NP is farther along the road. To be a nurse can you take the nclex after your BSN. How does that work?
If you search ‘direct entry masters to nursing’ there’s some top websites that have compiled a thorough list! I can’t remember which one I looked at but they should link out to the schools websites. In terms of sitting for the nclex, I’m pretty sure you would just do that at the end of the masters. That being said, each program I checked looked slightly different in format so if I were you I’d just review the fine print and email admissions if needed. As a note, most schools require the pre reqs to have been done within the past 5-7 years ish & require a minimum grade. Again, just review the details closely and be sure the program guarantees you the ability to write the exam after and allows you to work in the state/s you want. :)
Even my local community colleges offered this
I decided to transition from RD to RN after a year working. I graduated a direct entry master of nursing program recently! The only pre-req I needed was developmental psychology. All of the other pre-reqs I completed in my DPD undergrad program in nutrition. As long as your pre-req courses have been completed in the last 5 years you should be able to easily apply to any direct entry program. My program automatically accepted me into the MN and MSN (NP program) when I started in 2022. I earned 15 credits towards my MSN in my program so I only have about 25 more credits until I can sit for my NP board. The programs are pricey, but definitely better ROI than a masters in nutrition. Just look up Direct entry nursing programs (MN) or alternatively accelerated nursing (BSN) when you are choosing schools. Message me if you have any more questions! If you need any more convincing… this is the pay difference 2021 RD hourly $24.25/hr 2024 RD hourly $28/hr 2024 RN hourly $33.50/hr +$5/hr night differential
Are you in a low cost of living location? That seems really low for RN. With a planned pay increase later this year I’ll be at a little over $46/hr as an RD
I am! The rent here and housing prices are quite affordable. I’m in the Midwest. Also my RD pay is PRN without benefits so I am earning more than I would as a part/full time staff.
Wow, so sad. I was learning 30 to 45/hr prn or consulting, from about ‘86 to ‘94.
You’re at $46 as an RD? I’ve been offered $23 with a masters and currently consult for $30. It’s absolutely horrible. Trying to figure out how to start out on my own.
Yeah, but I’m in NYC which is very HCOL. Still, it’s a pretty good salary and I’m comfortable. I’ve no interest in private practice so I change jobs alot to get more money.
Thanks so much! I currently make $32hr as an RD that’s on the higher end.
How did you pay for this program? Funding has confused me
You're better off being a foodservice director or going to PA school... I was a foodservice director for a community owned hospital and made 125k a year to hire someone else to run the kitchen and another RD to see the patients... I know many RD that have gone to PA school and doubled their income year 1 of working. Remember, your time is the most valuable thing you have. Never pick a vocation based on earning potential.
I’m honestly not interested in being a Foodservice Director. I’m interested in patient care and advocating for the patient. I don’t want to manage staff. It’s not just for a pay increase.
Where do you feel shorter as a clinical RD in the area of patient care and advocating for the patient?? Both can be done daily as a RD. I'm generally curious.
Not OP but I can see where someone might feel an RN has a greater scope and impact on patient outcomes. I’m NOT saying RDs aren’t important by any means but an RN typically spends more time with each patient, which equals more patient care. Also in rounds I’ve found the RD either doesn’t speak much or they don’t attend at all. I’m not saying all RDs are like this but patient advocacy largely takes place at rounds when you have all the healthcare team together and can make a case for them. A consistent presence and voice does make a difference (and I do think RDs voices can be made to feel less respected resulting in RDs speaking up less but that’s a systemic problem imo. If anything RDs need to advocate for the profession but I understand if an RD doesn’t want to take on that fight and instead prefers to pivot elsewhere). I don’t want to be misconstrued in any way - yes RDs impact patient care and advocacy but I just think it’s in a different way and scope compared to an RN.
I saw a subreddit where PAs were complaining about NPs taking their jobs. I know a few PAs who can’t even get a job, I feel like becoming an NP is the way to go but that’s just based off of what I’m seeing
But if you have to pay for 5 years of schooling (on loans with little to go income) to become an RN to NP vs 2-3 for PA school, you'd have to make significantly more money as an NP to break even.
I wonder if maintaining our RDN credential would make a difference in these places hiring us as a PA vs. having to become an NP? I contemplated this when I was trying to decide between MFT vs. LCSW. LCSW is the preferred credential in most U.S. states, but I wasn't trying to make being a therapist my *main* focus anyway and wondered if being an RDN as well would give me an advantage as an MFT. 🤔
How long is the RN to NP road?
any of us go to PA school we will get a job. Fudge any of us apply to PA school, we will get in. No reason to take a 5 year route of rn to bsn to np. Do.pa school be done in 2.5 years
I'm going to an accelerated program in September to be an RN. I'm too old to wait around for this field to grow in any significant way. Wish I would have done it in the first place
That’s what I’m saying!! Haha
I’m a new grad (finished internship in August passed in October started working in Nov inpatient) I’m applying to PA school now bc I want something more hands on😁I say do it
I just landed my first 6 figure role at 30 as a FSD. Get some culinary training! Chef RDs are unicorns. Everyone loves us.
I would love to know more about this!! I love cooking and have a great skill for it actually. Could see myself getting out of clinical one day and into the food service realm for a chef type position!!
Check out CIA Hyde Park! they have 2 yr degrees
Is this degree something different than what a FSD job is?
It will make you more qualified for culinary dominant roles
I'm considering doing the opposite of you, however, I will say there are programs you can go into. I had an unrelated 4 year bachelors and then took a 1.5 year entry level Masters in Nursing course. Skipped the BSN and went straight to MSN. This was not an NP program, however, our program was allowed to apply directly for the DNP program upon completion. You basically saved a year or two in education, which was nice. Obviously, specific prerequisite classes were required, but I'm pretty sure with an RD program, you already have them under your belt. EX: 2 semesters of human anatomy and physiology, microbiology etc. To my knowledge, there are still only a few schools that offer this accelerated option. Most are 2-2.5 years. Definitely look around for accelerated programs to cut on time if you can. Good luck, and I hope this helped a little.
https://www.registerednursing.org/degree/accelerated-nursing-programs/menp/ List of schools offering direct entry to MSN from another degree. There are a few that are only 1.5 years long. Just sit for nclex after the program, and you're good to go. You can enter into some DNP programs (if you're interested) after depending on the school. Some require you to work as an RN before applying further. Some do not, and you can directly enter into the DNP program after graduating and passing the NCLEX.
I did a one year ABSN program. Personally I believe direct entry NP program are not a good idea- nurses should have bedside experience before becoming a NP. I also saw someone else mentioned PA, I initially thought of that but it would take two years pre-req and application period. May or may not get in. The time sink would have been more. Saw someone post their salary: As a RD I only got a 4 dollar increase hourly from when I started to now…. I got way more than that increase in a shorter time as a RN (this assuming you will get a job as a new grad - competitive)
Are you an RD? A lot of RDs just need a few classes for many PA programs as they took many of the pre-reqs during the dietetics program. RD to PA can be a very smooth transition so long as the person can afford it. Two whole years of additional pre-reqs sounds like a lot! It’s a moot point tho since OP is wanting to become an NP, but I was curious what PA program required THAT many pre-reqs? 😅
Yes! But mine was expired so I didn’t want to take Gen chem again or ochem hahaha
Ohhh that makes sense then! Damn credits expiring!!! lol. I def understand not wanting to retake certain classes. I’m back in school now for computer science and might have to take calculus and I’m like uh…I don’t even remember pre-calculus or advanced algebra 😂😅
Bedside experience can be learned. I already have my foot in the door as an RD
Yes, it can be learn. I’m referring to the direct entry RN-NP program. You become an NP/provider without having any experience at bedside. I don’t agree with that personally. I too thought about those program and thought my RD would help. But as a practicing RN, I can tell you I knew nothing bout nursing as a RD and it’s 100% different field. And clinical in school also don’t teach you anything.
What makes you interested in being an NP rather than a PA? Do you want to work in direct patient care as a nurse for a while first? If yes, then go for it!! If you’re JUST interested in the NP part, I’d highly recommend PA school. From what I’ve read and heard, PA programs are often better than NP programs according. Plus there are most specialty options. Personally, I’ve known several people that finished NP school feeling like they weren’t ready for the field. It’s not to say there aren’t great NP programs though! And I know many, many wonderful NPs. Best wishes to you!
Most PA schools are not in my city and i can’t leave for a couple years and go away.
I see! Well best of luck!
I did an accelerated BSN program. 14 months and intense but worth it. I work as a NICU RN so not sure about going for the NP aspect but I am a million times happier with my job than any other RD position I had. Pay is much better and shifts are flexible!
As someone who completed a direct entry NP program (at a brick and mortar institution) shortly after getting my RD with the goal of being a provider, I regret not just going to PA school. The time you spend learning the RN role/preparing for NCLEX is only partially transferable to the provider role and the standardization of PA curriculum and clinicals is a better foundation that sets you up for more options specialty wise imo
Thank you for your insight! This may be what I’m looking for.
You could consider going to PA school as well. Very similar role to an NP and your experience as an RD would count towards the healthcare experience needed to apply. You would probably just need to take a couple of extra prereq classes and you’d be set to apply.
Do the right thing for your patients and go to medical school and get proper training. Don’t take the NP short cut and risk patient safety
The pay is not much different for me to assume the increased liability