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I want to become an RN, I have a few questions about how to get into the career path.?

So, I currently attend Western Career College to become a pharmacy tech. I graduate in 4 weeks with my Associates in Science, as well as certificate in pharmacy. I really want to get into becoming an RN, and would like to take classes online, as I work in a pharmacy. I live in California, does anyone know what school I should go to and what degree I should go for? I was a little confused on the part. For example, University of Phoenix, what degree path would I take? Can someone please give guidance or advice? Thanks. How would I get a BSN? Where do I start first? I also wouldn't mind taking on campus classes, but would perfer online. I want to work with children, babies. A pediatric nurse.

Public Comments

1. Don't do University of Phoenix if you want to be a nurse. Check with community colleges in your area.
2. You can't become a nurse online ... you need to do hospital rotations ... Talk to an advisor at a local college.
3. Please don't do online RN programs. They are looked down upon, it's somewhat acceptable if you are an RN with an Associates in Nursing or an LVN with experience, but otherwise, from experience we nurses look down and try not to hire nurses with online degrees. It's just not the same education. What I do recommend is for you to get your ADN by going through a community college. ------------------- Most ADN/BSN programs require the same pre-requisites. You can go to your state's nursing licensing agency and they can give you a list of schools approved by the test. Go to their website and see what are the pre-requisites and you can start taking those classes. If you live in Cali here are the schools: http://www.rn.ca.gov/schools/rnprograms.shtml ----------------- I did Peds nursing for 3+ years. When you are an RN there are a lot hospitals that have new grad programs, you will also need to take Pediatric Advance Life Support. Good luck!
4. To get a BSN, you would have to apply to a college that offers it. You need to take the pre-requisites and apply for the program. Most colleges also require you to take an entrance exam (NLN). I would not suggest doing it online because nursing is tough. You're gonna need the clinical experience and it's more helpful when you have an instructor and classmates that can help you along the way. On the other hand, you can apply to an associate's degree program (2 years). When you graduate, you are eligible to take the license exam (NCLEX) and if you pass, you're an RN. You can start looking for a job and continue to get a bachelor's after. Good luck!