LPN or ABSN?

Please feel free to move this if it's in the wrong category. I'm looking for some advice and/or opinions. I have a bachelors degree and two semesters to complete pre-reqs before applying to these programs. There is an accelerated BSN program at a private university very close to me; 12 months. Then there is a LPN program, a bit further away - also one year. I'm sure a lot of people would think, for the same amount of time, why not do the ABSN? I am very fortunate that my husbands career provides an income we can live off of so I don't have to work now, or during either of these programs.

Obviously, the BSN is going to give me just that, and if start with the LPN eventually, I will need to go back to school again...and I don't know how long I want to keep going back to school. But, I'm not sure I want to be a BSN. I'm very interested in nursing, but I think starting as a LPN might be better for me to see if it's something I am really interested in. I'm intimidated by the accelerated program and afraid I will get swallowed up in the clinical portion. If I get through LPN school and actually really enjoy the majority of my work, I "think" I would be more interested in becoming a PA than a BSN/MSN/NP. And, if not, then I could do a bridge program. But all of those options will take more time.

ABSN program is much more expensive than the LPN program, but I would likely make more money after graduating (and I still have loans from my first bachelors). Anyone else have a degree and choose to start LPN instead of a second bachelors? I can't be the only one considering this..?! Part of the appeal for me with the accelerated program is that it's mainly all mid-career changers and I would feel similar to that, but if I'm honest with myself the accelerated program makes me feel extremely nervous and the LPN program a bit more doable. Would greatly appreciate any advice.
You have to consider where you see yourself working as a nurse. Although I am sure there are exceptions, for the most part, in order to work in most hospital settings you will need an RN (ED, OR, ICU, etc.). If you are interested in LTC, home health, etc., there are opportunities for LPN nurses in these fields. So, where do you see yourself?

Thanks for the reply. I see myself working in an outpatient clinic or physician's office, ideally. Pediatrics possibly. We are also a military family and I often see positions for LPNs at the military hospitals and VA medical centers. Of course there are RN jobs as well but I don't think as an LPN, I wouldn't be able to find a job. I don't see myself in the ER and I don't desire LTC.

Well, in that case you could be well suited to LPN. RN does offer more flexibility generally, but as long as you will be in the military system it won't have so big of an impact on you as it might in the "outside world".

Hello,We moved your thread to the Pre-Nursing forum. Good luck with your decision(s).