Traditional vs. Accelerated Nursing Degrees

Hello All,I am debating whether to participate in a traditional BSN program or enter an accelerated MSN program. I was accepted into both and, must say, I have many questions about the short and long-term career differences. I would love to eventually obtain a leadership position and fashion financially-sustainable programs for under-served communities, but that, I know, will take more than a day. How does the nursing community at large feel about accelerated MSN programs? What is the recommended path to realizing a leadership position in healthcare?A little about my background: I have an unrelated BA, and minor. I was a combat medic for four years and have been a medical assistant for a little over a year.Thank you much
You are coming from a background that often works well with an MSN-entry program. For people with no background in health care, sometimes those programs can cover material too quickly and can sometimes include too little actual "hands on" patient experience. However, since you have some of that experience already, you should be able to absorb the new material of an accelerated MSN-entry adequately. If that program appeals to you, I see no reason why not to go that route.For some other people, particularly those with no health care experience, I would recommend a slower route.Good luck!
I appreciate the promptness of your reply. Despite the apparent rigors, I do feel that I would do well in either scenario. The highly-ambitious part of me wants to go after the accelerated MSN. The practical part of me looks at the estimated $88,000 price tag, which over a 10-year period breaks down to approx. $30,000 in interest, at 6% due to the current credit situation, for a staggering total of $118,000. From a financial standpoint, the differences are clear. Both schools are reputable. With career in mind, are there any major advantages between an accelerated MSN and a traditional BSN? In either case, it will feel great to get back to helping people. Thank you kindly.
The only advantage is that you get through your education quicker. If you take the slower route, it will be just as good, just a litle longer journey to get to advanced roles.