Was it worth continuing education for nurses to get their BSN vs the ADN/ASN?

Simply put, NO! The requirement for BSN is money driven for Hospital! What most people don’t know is that Hospitals get Magnet status for having BSN Nurses which in turn gives the hospitals more money, not the Nurses. Their fake rationale is that patients respond better to BSN Nurses. What they didn’t include in their study is how many people were already Nurses before going back to school to obtain a BSN. It’s just a way of them to move the finish line every time you get close. Next it will be doctorates decree only. Experience matters most

The BSN programs typically address management and supervisor positions. Not everyone cares to be in management. I have been an RN for almost 40 years and NO amount of book knowledge can teach me what I have learned on the job caring for my patients. There are something’s you just can’t teach. You need to see it, do it and teach it. That old cliche still applies. Advancing my practice came from taking critical care classes etc etc..
I have also found that an ADN RN are much better skilled coming out of school then a BSN RN.

To answer the question most accurately I will say not for me however, Nursing as a profession needs to decide what degree it considers an entry level and start there. As long as you have 2, 3, and 4 year programs and each take the same boards to be licensed i think that says it all.

Yes Please go for BSN. You will not be sorry!

I graduated with a diploma and went back for my BSN. I've had several jobs that I would not have been qualified for if I didn't have the BSN. As far as my nursing practice, experience was my best teacher but then when I got my BSN and started working on MSN, the learning is more evidence-based than it was years ago when I first became an RN. I would not have been eligible to work as a nurse manager if I did not have a BSN; I also worked at Kent State University as administration staff and would not have been qualified without the BSN. Also worked for a technical school as instructor for LPN's which also required a BSN. So I absolutely feel that the BSN was worth it. My income increased along with my promotions and nursing education positions, but the experience I received in those settings have made me grow as an RN and as a person.

After 40+ years in nursing with my diploma, I can honestly say some of the education was interesting, but the reality is that it did nothing to change what I did at the bedside for my patients.

I have unique perspective to say absolutely NOT. I have been an nurse for 30 years now. I and my husband were in the military while I was in nursing school which caused us to move and me to have to restart/retake many nursing classes over a TEN year period. I was in multiple BSN programs in multiple states and no less than 10 different universities. I finally received my ADN degree from Regents College in NY to get done rather than work through yet another delay in finishing my BSN. I have been working as a nurse ever since in hospital, community, clinic and sales settings and never looked back.
I have heard the discussion since I was in High School in the 80's that only a BSN will count in the near future. Because of this, I have been somewhat self conscious about only having my ADN (while knowing I completed more course work than most BSN nurses). I have also found that many excellent nurses I have worked alongside over the years are ADN graduates as well. Some of them have even been my supervisors. The only barrier I have encountered is in the US military. I was only able to commission as an RN in the ARMY Reserve vs a full commission in the Regular Army due to my not having a BSN degree behind my name.
If nursing schools were more flexible and not so limited in student acceptance numbers, we would have more nurses out there both BSN and ADNs.

Anyone who thinks they MUST get a BSN is being fooled into also believing they MUST work for a Magnet hospital to be recognized as a decent nurse. I have my Associates and I've been a nurse for about 2 years. I started in a small hospital, which I still work for per diem, but decided to work as a traveler now instead. I am working on a specialized unit in a major NYC hospital and NO ONE CARES WHAT DEGREE I HAVE.

Keep pushing, you'll get the job you want even without the BSN.

I might be cynical, but I think all the online BSN programs are in cahoots with the national nursing associations and they share the millions they get from us new nurses who they've convinced need the BSN.

Full disclosure: I'm in a RN to MSN program now because I want to specialize in Nursing Education, but I think that's a different decision than pursuing the BSN.

As someone who saved a ton of money doing the ASN, I say do that and THEN get your BSN. It was cheaper and I got time in the field (experience is huge in our field) while getting my BSN 🙌🏼

I've been a nurse for 26 years (ADN) and have not seen the need for a BSN title for job positions or salary increase.

Worth it, no. Mandatory, yes. I feel like I have learned so much more on the floor than I did in the classroom.

I am in management without a BSN. I know many nurses with advanced degrees that are not getting paid what they deserve. financially it is not worth it. Also you could not pay me enough to work in a hospital where they are demanding BSN's.

I am retired after 45 years of nursing.. I was a 3 yr grad and never pursued a BSN. I LOVED every aspect of my career. I started in SICU and was one of the initial nurses sent to learn care of Open Heart patients fresh out of surgery. After 15 years I took position of head of hospital IV team, later started Home Infusion program, and was in that position until retirement. In other words, you don't need a BSN to pursue your dream!!!

Although it was a good experience, it did not seem to provide more skills nor contribute to increasing my salary as expected. The BSN did give me a better understanding of researching correct information versus false information the is available online.

It has changed nothing for me.

Considering the knowledge acquired, I will say it’s worth it. However, going by the pay rate it’s not worth it.

No. I have been a nurse for 50 years. Educated in the old school diploma RN program. I had more clinical, on-hands-patient centered care than any nurse today. I was told that a RN Diploma was not good enough, So I earned a BSN and it became harder to get a job. Then I was told a Master's Degree was the answer. Still more difficult to get a job. Then my graduate program begged me to enter the Doctorate Program. What for? The Doctorate of Nursing nurses are teaching continuing education programs; cannot develop successful private practices and get reimbursed. If you want to spend all that time in higher education, go to medical school. At least you will earn a living and demand some respect.
As far as the nursing shortage; there are thousands of American trained nurses who are not hired and have no way to re-enter nursing after raising their children. Hospital administrators hire foreign trained nurses for less pay. I researched this problem 40 years ago and the problem remains the same. Who came up with the idea that a new graduate RN cannot be hired full time because he/she has no experience? Who came up with the idea that a mature-experienced RN cannot be hired full time because he/she does not have recent clinical experience. The nursing profession screws itself as always; women back stabbing women. When I was a young nursing student nurses entered the sisterhood of nursing and were mentored by more experienced nurses. Not anymore. Where are the dedicated nurses of the past? Gone forever? I would say I am the experiment that failed. Nurses over educated with no compensation value for what we are worth an can contribute to the healthcare system. The average person on the street has no idea what a nurse practitioner can do for them.

No. There was no appreciation from my job for getting my bachelor. No tuition help. No pay raise. I based this answer on what my job done to me for getting BSN

RNs with a BSN still are assigned the same as an ASN, and very few get recognition financially for it. Several years ago the Board was discussing requiring all nurses nave their BSN. The ASN or diploma grads would be grandfathered in after a certain number of years of experience. I guess they decided it wouldn’t work very well.

No

No. It did not open better opportunities. With the shortage we do not make any more money.

I cannot stress enough that a BSN is VITAL....I graduated from an ADN program when I was 46 years old, and I didn't pursue a BSN because I figured that (at my age), the cash and time outlay wasn't worth it. I got my first job just one month after graduating (in an area with TWO nursing schools that graduate over 120 nurses per year) but nurses are always in short supply in Long Term Care. BUT, now that I cannot work the floor any longer (or even do interim supervisory work as a travel nurse) I am finding it extremely difficult to find even a work from home job because I don't have a BSN.....over half of the applicants for jobs that I am trying for have their BSN, so my chances are greatly reduced. So now I am going to take billing and coding certification classes in order to be eligible for Utilization Management/documentation review jobs. Short of pursuing a BSN it s the only way for me to improve my hire-ability in todays job market. I'm 63 now and every day I regret not getting my BSN.

Absolutely NOT! I’ve been a nurse 10 years. Going back for my BSN did not teach me anything different about being a nurse. It taught me APA format, how to research articles and how to write papers.Thats it, that’s all! It’s a money game at best. Unfortunately, in order to advance to different roles such as management or education, a BSN or even a MSN is mandatory.

Yes. It allowed me to think more globally, critically and to understand evidence.
As a ADN I did not believe it would make a difference in my practice but it did. I consider myself an ADN that happens to have a BSN and MSN. I am frequently asked why my degrees are all in nursing-“because I’m a Nurse.”

Hi there,

What was it that led you to become an RN? Have you reached the pinnacle of your nursing career, or do you aspire to climb higher? Do you feel fulfilled in your current role?

Pursuing your BSn can be a life-changing experience, opening up a world of opportunities that may currently seem out of reach.

Many of us have been exactly where you are now. I can share my experience advancing my education was a pivotal decision.

I became an RN after graduating from a diploma program. I wanted a program that provided the extensive clinical hands-on exposure. That’s exactly what I needed and it was invaluable when I transitioned into critical care. My dream to become a CRNA, required a BSn degree.

My bridge program at the University of Texas at Arlington was intense but I highly recommend it.
Yes, it was tough working full-time night shifts, going to class for eight hours once a week and writing a minimum of three papers due the next week. However, it was all worth it!

I walked across the stage to receive my degree knowing I was another step closer to achieving my career goal. BONUS…without increasing my student loans!! 🥳 I felt like a lottery winner, but the prize was my degree
.
Tuition concerns should not deter you. There are many avenues for tuition assistance, scholarships and grants if none are offered by your hospital.

You have already proven that you have incredible strength and dedication when you become an RN. The demands of nursing are vast, both physically and emotionally. It’s a career that requires resilience and compassion around the clock.

I encourage you to remember your initial motivations and aspirations for becoming a nurse.

Ultimately, your choice, should bring you happiness and enthusiasm in your career.

Wishing you all the best on your journey,

A Fellow Nurse and Peer

It really depends on what your goals are. I never discourage anyone from pursuing more education. That being said: our ADN nurses hit the ground running much easier than some of the BSN’s. It really depends on the person and the amount of clinical provided during the program.

It depends what you want to do with your career. It’s can be done in less than a year and It has definitely opened career doors that would have otherwise been closed.

Depends upon your goals. If you think it'll bring more money up front, it wont. If you're looking to round out your education and perhaps move into management, or go on to grad school, then yes, its worth it. If you want to stay at the bedside doing direct patient care, then a BSN is generally a waste of both time and money.

I started as an LPN, then ADN, then BSN AND MSN
It all helped as I moved up the ladder in my nursing field. Working in Medical Surgical, ICU, ER, NICU, Hospital Administration, and nursing professor teaching at two colleges. I loved every moment in each step. Best decision I ever made in my career.

Yes, worth it. But also a requirement in several places.

Yes!

Yes it definitely is worth it. Gives the profession a much needed feather in it’s cap. It also teaches much needed critical thinking skills. Critically thinking comes from experience but it also comes from evidence based practice. This skill is much needed by nurses to help themselves, their patients and their interdisciplinary teams.

Some hospitals are requiring or encouraging ADNs to get their BSN .I recommend getting ADN first , that way you have taken state boards already. Then transfer to a BSN program and get your last two years. But you won’t take state boards again,

No. It only matters if you go for your MS/NP/FNP or further. Having a BSN makes no difference on what jobs you get how much you get paid respect or really knowledge. Its a waste of money time and effort

I'd go back for my BSN , but I've been a RN for 32 years. I'm too old and tired to go back.I wish I had got a BSN. So many employers want a BSN now. Experience doesn't seem to matter. Magnet hospitals, some travel nurse companies, better paying jobs seem to all want a BSN. Even with no, or limited experience. It didn't matter years ago. I was paid and treated the same as diploma, BSN and even some MSN, nurses. Different world today. Go for it.

I got my ADN and now am getting my BSN, which is expensive and time consuming, but I want to get my masters in nurse midwifery so I need a BSN.

From a financial perspective:

Some people will argue a BSN results in higher pay but that's not the case so long as someone has working experience. Around here, pay is more directly correlated to employer desperation.

From employability perspective:

A major employer of nurses which is associated with the university of wisconsin (UW, Madison offers BSN, NP and DNP programs) just partnered with Madison Area Technical College to address their nursing shortage issues. MATC trains nurses to receive their ADN. I think this shows that while a BSN is often "preferred" it isn't necessary in the face of a nursing shortage.

From an advancement perspective:

There are limitations on managerial advancement if someone does not have higher degrees. All managerial jobs at SSM require at least a BSN. Most managers have a masters around here though.

Yes!

Just go and get the Bsn. If you look at job vacancies, most all of the institutions put some kind additional information that stated” to get BSN after a couple or a few years being on the job” or others said “preferred BSN “.....you won’t regret it. It opens the wider doors.
I hope it helps

CNA-LPN-RN/BSN, Working on MSN

Yes
After all I truly believe Knowledge is power but don’t negate the fact that experience Is the mother of all teachers, that being said all the degrees has there place.
ADN answers the how in nursing ( helps build practical experience).
BSN. answers the the why( why do we do things the way we do. BSN grows your knowledge in building evidence to show the intervention we use is the best for our patients.
MSN says you have Mastered the Art and Science of nursing and have the knowledge to prepare the next generation of Nurses.

None. If you want to become management, NP, or CRNA then you will need the BSN. I have never been turned down for a job.

I started as a 2 ADN, worked for 25 yesars, got my BSN, worked for 2 years, back to school to get a masters in nursing and now I am a nurse practitioner. What I love are the choices they afford me. There are advantages to each

BSN vs ADN

Yes, just get your BSN because some hospitals require it or say you will need to get it after working for a certain amount of years. Also it’s just easier to go straight through and get it!

Not for me… in the 48 years I’ve been a nurse I have worked in many areas. I started in a Chemo /sex change unit, pulmonary care, float nurse (all areas but OB and Psych), Recovery, ICU/CCU, Telemetry, DON Long Term Care, Quality Control/Risk Management, Program Director Adolescent Chemical Dependency, Head Nurse Orthopedics, Special Coordinator Endoscopy, Emergency Room Manager, Special Care Unit, Nursing Supervisor, Flight Nurse, Day Supervisor Long Term Care, Critical Care Stepdown Unit, and currently Home Care Nursing. My Management Skills were developed while in critical care…and applied in every other position. I would advise any ADN nurse to gain experience in critical care rather than advancing to a BSN/MSN… the career path is solid, the need is great so opportunities are many. The only education that I would pursue would be if you are wanting a Nurse Anesthetist or other APRN position.

I got my BSN after working 32 years with my ADN. My driving force was if I decided to move to a different state, a four-year degree is the standard for most hospitals. I work in the OR and frankly I don’t see difference in the way of functioning. However, some of the leadership concepts are more understandable with my degree. I am making plans to transition to a more health and wellness focused.

It is worth continuing for your BSN only because hospitals are now requiring it. Despite experience, references and awful shortages and dangerous ratios, You will not be hired because they want those 3 letters behind your name. Hospitals would rather keep unsafe ratios than hire ADNs. Your pay will not increase, your knowledge will not expand. The transition to BSN is all busy work and papers that do not apply to actual real world nursing. But the degree is necessary to advance. It can be done in as little as 8 weeks through online classes.
Hope this helps.

More and more hospital systems are opting for nurses with BSN over ADN. It would benefit you to obtain a BSN so you are more marketable

I was an ADN nurse for 16 years before I received my BSN. For 16 years I didn't believe a BSN was important. I am so glad that I did go back for more education! In looking for work it makes a big difference. The BSN doesn't teach on disease processes or skills. The BSN program takes you full circle in your education and focus is on community, public health, and leadership.

You will need at least a BSN to get a job in a Magnet Hospital. They require more continuing education, more accountability, but you get paid more.

Yes - most hospitals require a BSN for management. I missed out on jobs for no other reason than I didn’t have a bachelor. I completed my bachelor got a ton oh nurses offers and left the field. I’m in project management now

On a side note - a lot people don’t know- part of the Obamacare was a push to do away with ADN. They were trying to tie BSN to hospital credentialing.

The more we know the better we will practice our profession.

yes

Yes! Most facilities now mandate a BSN, so the sooner you start, the sooner you finish. It also opens many doors for you. I became a case manager, and a BSN was required for that. If your facility/employer has a clinical ladder, it's likely required for that too!

Absolutely YES

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs often prepare graduates for managerial positions and leadership roles within healthcare settings. On the other hand, Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs typically focus on providing students with the skills and knowledge needed for bedside nursing care. Consider your career goals and aspirations when choosing between these programs.

If you want to change jobs, it will be. If you are an ADN, you can get the BSN in a year at the average cost of $10K from several schools. Some employers are willing to help you with the costs.

I have had my BSN for 42 years. The only thing it got me was 0.25 cents more an hour going into home care . Lol

I agree I was an LPN and went back to school because of my colleagues who felt I was ready for responsibility I enjoyed working and seeing the progress of a patient at first I didn’t see the need for an advanced degree in the end I continued and had more to in put to the doctors but in the long run I think it’s your passion for people that makes you

Was it a lot of theory and writing — yes. Did it teach me to be a better nurse, highly doubt much of what I took away from my BSN contributed to my nursing. Am I glad I got it out the way before getting deep into my career? 1000% yes. 100% employment rate so far and no rejections. Many hospitals now are requiring it or that you start working on it, so I’m just glad I’m done and over with it. Also, there is a pay difference at some hospitals for ADN vs BSN nurse. So in that regards, I do think it was worth continuing my education for since it definitely opens a few more doors.

I’m a Diploma Nurse and proud of it. But I knew I needed my BSN before I started Louise Obici School-of Nursing. I’m glad I got my degree because you don’t know what your future holds for you and what may come your way. I too am a long time bedside nurse with a 5 year attempt at management. I was not cutout for it. I don’t regret it but glad I am on this side of the patient. Yes BSN teaches you to think differently. But I learned to use those skills at my bedside level. Which group is better, all of them. We are Nurses who do a fine job helping our patients through a difficult time in their life. We should not be force to be divided by a college or university. The reality is the elite want us to be equal to the providers. But I say that’s impossible. I don’t want to be equal. I want to be better.

I got my ADN in 1992. BSN in 2014!!! It has done nothing much as far as more $$. I got the BSN just for me. Most nurses I know are happy with their ADN.

If you think you will remain as a bedside nurse in a hospital for your entire career, then a BSN may not be necessary. It's possible even to be a charge nurse or clinical lead without a BSN. However, if you think you will want to do something else - RN case manager, admissions, school nurse, flight nurse, for example, you will likely need a BSN.

It really comes down to what you plan to do with it and whether furthering/continuing your education is important to you. I was an LPN for over 20 years and gained a lot of experience that way but I always knew I wanted to become an RN one day. I honestly just lucked into getting my BSN instead of the ADN I thought I would get. I also know that I will more than likely continue on to get my MSN and/or doctorate in nursing at some point. The BSN has afforded me the opportunity to land in more management/administrative positions but I think that I probably could have also gotten some of those positions with my ADN as well. The BSN may have given me an edge over other applicants without it considering that I have chosen the managerial roles over bedside nursing over the last few years. At this point, for me it’s more about that drive to continue to achieve higher education. I actually really enjoy the learning process. I feel that I gain so much knowledge each time I choose to further my nursing education. That personal growth really excites me, even if it doesn’t really further my professional growth as much past a certain point.

I would definitely say nooooooo!

I thought it was. I had been an RN for over 20 years when I went back to school for my BSN. I had been encouraged by several nurses to do so. The facility that I worked at, at time had tuition assistance which I took advantage of. I am so glad I did.

I think it did help me TBH. I understand some of what management is thinking with some of the bonehead decisions they make and it helped me understand change theory, communication and community health. I think investing in yourself is invaluable. I wholeheartedly recommend ADN nurses get their bsn. That being said most ADN nurses are hands down superior skill wise than nurses who attend BSN programs.

It depends on what your ultimate goal is. In my case, I knew at some point I wanted to get my MSN-FNP so I got my BSN two years after graduating from my ASN program. Also my employer did provide tuition reimbursement and a .50 cent raise which is absolutely offensive for the amount of work you put in to that degree.

I received my ADN 23 years ago and still being told by prospective employers that they require a BSN. It's been frustrating as I would like to obtain a position in physician office or outpatient oncology, wound care. I just really prefer not to do bedside care as the long hours are just too long.

It depends on what your goal is. Yes, there are hospitals that really push for the BSN (magnet ect). But if you are happy at the bedside, then it comes down to how important the letters are to you. I didn't get mine for 10+ years when a decided I wanted to go into leadership. The BSN looked pretty next to my name, but I didn't get anything functional out of it.
Good thing about an ADN, is most hospitals will help you pay to finish BSN.

No

It was worth it as a personal decision to get a BSN. It has not benefited me in my job unless it was a requirement for that particular job. I don’t know about the whole country. I just know that a lot of places are requiring that nurses have a BSN or are working on their BSN to get hired. I’m also certified in my field and that has never benefit me at all in my job monetarily. I have more knowledge about things and keep current which is more for my benefit.

Most places want u to have it. I went on for my MSN and don't regret it. It doesn't necessarily make me better, but I can see the difference in the way I think.

I do not have my BSN. I only have 2 Associate Degrees. I couldn't afford the time or the money when I was younger. Now it's almost retirement. I wish I had gone back, only because a lot of local hospitals want BSN's. I worked with diploma, ASN's and BSN's. Ecen a few MSN's. We were all treated the same and paid the same. I will never regret getting my RN. I really wish I'd have gone back for my
BSN. It doesn't make a difference in my pay, but would have liked to have one just in case. I'm getting older and there are tons of jobs. The really good jobs want a BSN with some experience.

I see some answers in the affirmative stating you will not regret it. The truth is you may regret it. The extra time it takes to jump from your ADN to MSN compared to ADN to BSN is negligible, but the cost savings are tremendous. If you have even the slightest inkling that you may want your MSN, then save yourself a boat load of money and jump right to your MSN. There really is no really awesome reason for not doing so. If you are in a BSN program right from the get go that's one thing, but if you are planing on going back to school, or are compelled to go back because your facility has a two year requirement that you obtain your BSN, then why not get your MSN? I do not see the benefit of having a BSN personally. There is no real salary jump compared to the cost of the degree. You want to have more open doors with a nice salary boost? Your MSN will do that for you far more than a BSN.

It depends on what your career goals are. As an ADN, I was able to work bedside and as a supervisor at a home health agency. However, my passion and my goal was to teach nursing. I returned to school for my BSN, MSN, and finally my Doctorate in order to teach the next generation of nurses.

I agree with the comment about the skills of an ADN vs BSN nurse even though the State requires the same amount of training I find that these nurses have less hands-on experience. I have a BSN and more and I have found it to be valuable in other ways, The hospitals in my area require a BSN or to obtain it within one year or higher. Some hospitals in my area pay scale based on your degree.

In addition to the above one major hospital makes the nurse who goes from LPN to RN lose seniority with the job change. After a nurse worked 10 years as an LPN for the company they become an RN and stay in the same department but start back at zero in seniority.

While the BSN role does have a lot to supervisor and management it also adds many things regarding documentation, safety, and teaching. This will help you with the jobs turning over and having to precept on a frequent basis. They focus on a problem-solving, fair assessment, and changing your teaching to each learner. With online classes now available you can learn at your pace and not all schools make you run through the courses.

I agree that monetarily there was not a real advantage (if I stayed where I was, I could have continued to increase my salary because of seniority), but I learned a lot and gained confidence using what I knew from a career that had already been over 30 years (at 53 years old and gal in my classes was already 63 years old).

I had wanted to go back after I finished my ADN and Associates degrees at the local community college but needed to work full time. At the time the BSN programs did not acknowledge an ADN as an RN status. You had to go back to school full time for 3 years and I had no way to do that on top of working full time 3pm to 11pm, after 9 months of 11pm to 7am.

Before online classes, I tried to do challenges to courses to reduce the number of classes to be done a class at time in some time slot before or after work when the schools realized the experienced RN was an asset to the system.

No

In the world today s world the focus should have been on new types areas and dimensions, not the same old same old roles in nursing.

Not really. I am seeing a large amount of responsibility being given to LPN's. I am seeing how it correlates to my pay and my student debt.

No

When I decided to go to nursing school many many moons ago, I made an executive decision to go for my 4 year degree as opposed to getting a 2 year degree. There was a waiting list at a local college, so I decided to just go to a university instead of waiting the 2 years. I used those 2 years to get my pre-requisites and general education courses done then I merged into their nursing program. When I graduated with my BSN, I found that my transition from nursing school to "real nursing" was not as smooth as some of my colleges that had their ADN seem to be. I agree with the way that BSN students and ADN students are taught, are very different. BSN students seem to be more "book" taught than "hands on" taught. Making the transition into the "real world" a little more difficult, at least it was from my personal experience. I also remember that when I entered as a new nurse there really wasn't any more pay benefits or perks when it came to having a BSN vs. having an ADN. But 26 years later, it seems like more and more hospitals and nursing opportunities are requiring a BSN as their entry level. I am currently a school nurse and our school district is one that requires the nurse to be a RN with a minimum of a BSN degree. So, if you work somewhere that does not require a BSN and you love your job. I wouldn't pursue a BSN. I just feel that a BSN increases the opportunity to open more doors and will help widen the availability of nursing opportunities available to you. Hope this helps answer your question. Good luck in any decision that you decide to make.

Getting a BSN is imperative. It should be the standard for entry into nursing; diplomas and associate degrees need to be phased out. You don’t see doctors with different degrees. They have the standard of going to med school. Before I knew that there were different educational avenues to becoming an RN, I went to a diploma school. I transferred to a BSN program that gave me a broad depth of knowledge. My first nursing job was in a hospital with its own diploma school of nursing. I was bullied and harassed by all the diploma grads who thought they were better. They degraded me daily for having a BSN because they said they got more clinical emphasis. That may be, but clinical experience can be obtained on the job. The breadth of a BSN education is far greater and is valuable in nursing. I know because I’ve been in both. This has been an issue in nursing for well over 30 years.

It was definitely worth it . Now that I have my BSN as of January 2023, ( took me twenty years to go back to school) the doors to more prestigious hospitals have opened for me. If you are looking to get into hospitals who provide a higher standard of care and who treat their employees well, step up and get it. 90% of new nurses coming into the field will graduate with their BSN. These new nurses are your competition and they will be picked over your ADN regardless of your experience. The majority of hospitals will pay for you to go back to school. If not Western Governors University is cheap and done on your own time.

The BSN is STILL more valuable than a ADN. As a ADN graduate, I realized years ago that the ADN degree was being looked down upon. I decided to take the RN - MSN route because if I was going to put forth that much effort, I wanted it to be worth it. The END result was better than I ever imagined! Do not let ANYONE tell you different...DEFINITELY go for the BSN as a minimum!

There is more useful educational theory that is good. There are more courses and clinicals that improve the quality of care as you may see the results after the BSN program starts where you work. Experience changes a lot for the better.
The recent NCLEX pass rates are reflective of a COVID mandated change. The NCLEX rates went down with COVID mandates, virtual learning and setbacks.
-The BSN is good as there is good ADN/ASN charge leadership with good experience. It is good to have the medical degree best for you; you know how the system works and you are safer on and off the floor. BSN👍

Simply put, YES! So glad I went back and got mine. It inspired me to try different things and go on to become an NP. It may depend on what state you practice in, but the BSN can open doors for you to areas of nursing and positions that are not available to a non-BSN nurse. Go for it!

Hi. Generally speaking, a BSN nurse has more choice of good jobs and makes more money. In my opinion, obtaining a BSN is so worth it.

After 30 years of practicing nursing which included advanced roles as charge nurse, putting PICC lines, acute medical transports, being an ECMO specialist, precepting new grads/ nursing students, and being part of an evidence-based practice change committee as an ADN-prepared RN. Yes, one can do all that by applying themselves. I decided to return to college and complete a BSN degree when I only had less than ten years before retirement. The journey was the best I've ever taken. It made me appreciate the nursing profession even more and made clear concepts and decisions in healthcare.
I support completing a BSN at an entry level because healthcare is transforming requiring knowledge beyond ADN level preparation and access to nursing jobs is getting harder when having an ADN.

Some studies have been done that link nurses with BSN and improved patient safety. I think of it more I terms of Maya Angelou; " Do the best you can until you know better, then when you know better, do better." Clearly, no nurse in their right mind will set out to deliberately harm a patient, period. That said, what you learn in a BSN are the foundations of professional practice that build on the technical skills learned in the Associates Degree preparation. The nursing process - assess, diagnose, plan, intervention, evaluate - does not stop at the bedside, it cannot.
Nursing care is a continuum from prevention to wellness to illness to end of life. Florence Nightingale was a statistician who studied the interventions she implemented with the collaboration of colleagues who were better prepared. She used the tool of statistics to evaluate her interventions. The results were undeniable and despite the fact that practice change is hard, the surgeons listened and many patients avoided preventable infection. The BSN prepares nurses to do just that! To evaluate interventions, with tools that our colleagues in physical therapy, respiratory therapy and medicine all have and then some. Masters is the entry level practice level for many of the non-nursing professionals with whom we work.
As such, the pursuit of life-long learning whether BSN, or attending a conference or certification in your specialty - from Med-Surg to Oncology to Critical Care to Vascular Access - helps us connect with colleagues outside of our silos, to compare experiences, review evidence, to discuss how evidence may be applied and evaluate the outcomes.
https://www.registerednursing.org/articles/do-bsn-educated-nu...

As you progress in career BSN will become mandatory. Not having it will limit. Your marketing ability
Flip side of coin is a major nursing shortage is forecasted as the bulk of the work force is at retirement.

If you want to stay at the bedside the BSN may help you get a charge nurse role but won't teach you anything of value towards nursing care, it is geared towards management style thinking. If you plan on leaving the bedside for a management role or other growth opportunities, it is well worth your time. Those three letters seem to open some doors that would be closed otherwise in careers away from the bedside.

Obtaining your BSN or Maters Degree certainly opens the field for a variety of jobs. As we age in the profession, it allows us to choose career paths that will keep us in the workforce through retirement while affording us the opportunity to explore many more specialties/interests.

It took me forever before I decided to go back and get my BSN and l shouldn't have waited that long. Go to an online school like WGU .

Absolutely- just your start up the clinical ladder learning how to achieve best patient outcomes. Each step opens new doors - practicing at the top of nursing

Some hospitals do not hire unless you are in the progress of obtaining BSN. You just limit yourself without one.

There is no simple answer for this.
AA RN is the bare minimum; today, BSN programs can be flexible & give 3–5 year plans to AA RNs. Unlike some RNs responding, I’m not convinced BSN- RN should be the minimum; I’ve seen many AA RNs with strong language skills & CNA experience do very well.
I applied to AA & BSN schools with 7 years CNA & EKG Tech experience. The field was “impacted” & I applied for 2 years. My ultimate goal was Clinical Nurse Specialist/ Nurse Practitioner after RN experience. Now the hospitals and states are requiring doctorate for Nurse Practitioner and I’ve stopped attempting it.

No. I am an RN with an Associates degree and I worked side by side with RNs who had a Master's Degree and we got the same pay. It was not advantageous for me to get a BSN.

Yes, I think it was worth it. I went back online and got mines at 43 years of age. It open doors for me in management and it will continue to open doors down the road. I got an increase in pay and became a supervisor. I wanted my BSN for myself anyway, but it gives you more options.

It depends on an individual. I would go for BSN
Some opt to start at community college ADN then BSN

ADN gets paid the same as a BSN. There is no difference when it comes to hospital pay my daughter has a BSN and I have ADN there was no difference in pay it's up to you ADN gets paid the same as a BSN. There is no difference when it comes to hospital pay my daughter has a BSN and I have a there was no difference in pay a field of nursing , unless you plan Do to do administrative duties or something of that nature move up then you might need the BSN

I have my ADN and had earned my BA years earlier. I didn’t think I would need my BSN. I thought I would be able to step to a Master’s no problem. Boy was I wrong!! But to start a Master’s, you need your BSN, non negotiable.

Some of this may be regional. I live in the Northeast. Here, you need your BSN if you are looking for an educator role or higher. Masters / DNP if thinking of management.

If you are looking to stay bedside, my advice is to get your various certifications. I never knew there were so many you can get.

Good luck in finding YOUR future!

ADN to FNP is better investment (time/money)

My first degree was a diploma and I think I learned the most there that I ever did. After that I got my BSN, only because I wanted to go and get my MSN to be an NP. I don't remember anything I learned when I went to get my BSN ( those 2 extra years too me 6 going part time) but I still use things I learned in my diploma program every day. The fact is, you need to have your BSN to get ahead or to go back to school. It doesn't matter what you learn, it's that piece of paper. Sad but true. I love being an NP and I have been one now for 32 years but those 10 years of working as a nurse and that experience that prepared me to get my NP, not what I learned in my BSN program.

Depends on what you want to do. May not be worth it if you are a staff nurse but if you want to branch out if the hospital, it can be an advantage. I worked as a school nurse when my kids were in school and our school district wanted BSN, I am also an adjunct at a college and they want BSN. A lot of management positions want BSNs, so it really depends on what your goals are. Those education places I work also PREFER a MSN which was not financially beneficial for me. It is all about what you want.

I’ve been ADN nurse over 25 years. Then in 2017 , I graduated with my BSN degree . One of the main reasons I decided to pursue a BSN completion program was even though my hospital “grandfathered” the nurse with a ADN, my husband and I talk about the possibility of moving to a different state and for most hospital systems BSN is the entry point for most nurses. However, I continue expand my knowledge an education in other areas as a supplement for my future choices.

It was for me, but that's because I wanted to go on to an advanced practice nurse position. I was a RN, ADN, for many years, picking up training and experience as I changed different positions over the years.
I agree with the other responses otherwise. It depends on what you want to do and where you want to work...whatever the education requirements are for those places.

Naaalwaya

yes...disagree that BSNs are more management positions, depends on where you are. I got an ADN with the intention always of getting a BSN but worked as an RN while I got the BSN.

It is good if you wish to be in management I tookma management course at UNLV and ran the or

I had a Bachelors of Arts prior to getting ADN. Just recently finished BSN program.. I found the program to be straightforward and manageable. Whether it will change my practice is unclear at this time. 🤷🏻‍♀️

Firstfirst bsn then adn/asn

First

Only if they would get more pay than regular RN

BSN vs ADN

I graduated from Chamberlain University RN-BSN program last month. The BSN is a requirement for a leadership position. So in that regard, it was worthwhile. Don’t see an increase in my pay though. .

My Associate degree helped to give me the RN title that allowed me to interview for Nurse jobs. I then worked as a Nurse thru my 2 years of Bachelors classes, building my skills while I studied. With my BSN, I was then able to-write care plans & admit patients to Homecare services as a Clinical Manager. I will always appreciate any nurse willing to work but the BSN does expose you to more public health and statistics training than Associates.

I think so! Many more jobs & management positions are open to BSNs. I tested out of a lot of the courses & got my BSN in 2 years part-time While I worked FT as an RN. Work smart!

If you want to advance your career and opportunities, YES!!

I completed my BSN in 2017 after being a two year ADN For about 20 years. The reason that I decided to go back for my degree, was I thought about moving out of state and knew that in most hospitals, the standard of care for nursing has become a four-year degree education however, I’ve always been proud of my two-year education as I pass the nursing exam the first time sitting among many four year RN graduates, and some that I work with did not pass. However, I admit, there are some things that I feel am more equipped to handle with having a more advanced degree. It is also springboard me into looking into other avenues of nursing education and financial advancement. Best wishes to you!

Absolutely. It shows that you're serious about your profession and many more opportunities are available to BSN prepared nurses.It also Somewhat depends upon what your career goal is.

100% yes. ADN is entry level. Understand that in the healthcare team if professionals, you are the least educated. You may not think it shows, but it does show in how you speak, how you construct sentences, how you critically think. After you get the BSN, you’ll look at the ADN differently. When the ADN level of education was initiated, the goal was to create a technical level of nurse. the ADN is very skills oriented. The BSN adds a theory orientation. What should I do in this situation, and why, based upon research. The MS focuses on populations, understanding and managing them with independent and dependent functions based upon nurse practice laws. If there was no difference between the level of nursing, ADN, BSM, MSN, NP, then the state legislatures would not have legislated them.

Yes for me but maybe not for all!
Think about moving up if you would like as it is work but for me and Friends, why not as It is a positive direction. Choice‽
The BSN is good as you may still run the floor and not become trapped as supervisor. There are a couple BSN courses not usual in ADN/ASN program (maybe OB/GYN, Micro...)
My friend/mentor FNP is providing course books and material as all the stuff is interesting like the BSN. Staying with the core: Assess, Patho, Pharma, Apps ...

I’m going to say yes. I’m glad I went back later as it taught me new tech, what’s happening Ian’s projections for health care futures in jobs and care itself.
Listen patient care is very important and the more you know the better you are able to handle problems and see the big picture.
Plus if you want to advance to management then you are prepared to do so. It’s not for everyone to be a manager however, don’t relegate the nursing profession to being a doctor’s tasked. Hospitals are going cooperate. They are creating money machines. Ok great but they are actively creating an environment of one size fits all.
Healthcare is not one size fits all. It should be very personal and the fit should be tailored to each patient.
Nurses are losing the ability to teach and train patients to care for themselves. Nurses must stand up thru unions and committees and let the corporations know that this is not acceptable for healthcare in the USA. Ask yourself if this is what you want.. conveyer healthcare , take or leave it.

I get paid an additional $3/hr for having a BSN. This adds up, so yes.

There’s not a single hospital within a couple hours of me that will hire without BSN or higher OR make you sign a contract that you’ll have it within 2 years of higher.

In certain states, such as New York, associate degrees are no longer entry level. You must have a BSN even for the first job. In a cancer hospital, the nurse case managers were allowed to be RN A few years ago, they were told they had to get their BSN within a year if they wanted to remain employed. They all early retired (about 3/4 of the rn case managers). That is now a job requirement.

Yes....get your BSN...BSN will one day very soon be the basic entry and degree for the RN especially as salaries rise.
To move into management or education,you WILL need your Masters degree.
There was a time that there were 3 entry levels into nursing,,,diploma,Associate degree and Bachelor's.
There is one path to become a lawyer,doctor,engineer.
Get your Associate degree first, then get a job with a hospital that will pay for your other degrees(BSN and Masters).
Good Luck!

PER NEVADA STATE COLLEGE:
“Progress Toward the IOM Goal
Published On: July 24, 2019
In 2010, the Institute of Medicine (IOM), now known as the National Academy of Medicine, recommended increasing the proportion of BSN-prepared nurses to 80 percent of the nursing workforce by 2020. While the number of registered nurses (RN) with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is rising, it is unlikely to hit the 80 percent mark for another five to nine years. Meanwhile, healthcare employers and organizations continue to emphasize the link between BSN preparation and improved patient care.”

PER MEDPAGE TODAY:
“Magnet Status: Superior Care or Marketing Gimmick?
— Some nurses charge the program has strayed from its original mission
by Alexandria Bachert MPH, Staff Writer, MedPage Today
October 13, 2017
Last Updated October 14, 2017…..
On average, Magnet hospitals received an adjusted net increase in inpatient income of about $104 to $127 per discharge after earning Magnet status, amounting to about $1.2 million in revenue each year.Oct 14, 2017…”

It is my understanding that MAGNET STATUS HOSPITALS require or demonstrate utilization of BSN, RN.
So if working in a hospital with the Prestige of having a SUSTAINED MAGNET STATUS is a professional goal, seek the BSN DEGEEE as a Minimum.

I believe initially a large component of the claim to fame for the magnet facilities were impeccable patient outcomes.

MY PERSONAL SUMMATION:
Need verses Desire for BSN Degree is impacted by many things, including your Individual Desired type of work, type of facility, facility rating, & or your present & future desired responsibility level.
Are in mind the latter of which includes not only Management, Leadership, but also independent provision of a higher level of care, i.e. what do you want to be when you later grow up (educator, FNP, DNP).
I say if those are even a fleeting and or suppressed desire, go BSN-MINIMUM-START 🤓. Only you know your heart, desires, goals, and what is presently in play in your world. So, need the aforementioned advise, recommendation, suggestion, ONLY if it is presently a feasible fiscal responsible action plan for you my future colleague, leader, educator, or primary care provider!😉🤓

FYI, the VA is one facility that does have pay incentives for higher degree levels. They also have different types of scholarship incentives for employees seeking higher education programs.
AND YOU HAVE THE BLESSED OPPORTUNITY TO TAKE CARE OF OUR NATION’S HEROES!
AND NOOOO I am not biased because I am an active VA Employee 😜🤓!!

P.S. Many yrs ago, I was a Blessed recipient of a VA scholarship to advance my 22-year ASN Degree
to a BSN RN Degree.

Thanks

I agree with others that a BSN does not necessarily improve your patient care skills, but in my area, employers are requiring all nurses to have a BSN or to be actively enrolled in a program. I say, go for it now and that requirement won't keep you from getting a position you want in the future.

Absolutely. You develop critical thinking skills as well as able to perform research projects. It will also help if you would like to advance your licensure to practice as a Nurse Practitioner or in management positions. Good luck! It was worth it for me.

Definitely

Most definitely! It will open up many doors that may have not before

Yes.

Yes go for your BSN if possible. It took me a long time to complete my BSN AFTER I GRADUATED due to family obligations. If possible go for the highest degree available. A Nurse Practitioner is independent, have a practice, get the best jobs and best pay. I would advise all who want to be RN’s to get best education possible.

yes

Yes

Yes!

Yes, it's worth it, in the long run. If you want to work right away, an ADN is the best bet. But if you want to work in upper management, a BSN is necessary. Also having a BSN adds more credibility.

Yes. I found that I learned a lot more with my BSN. I was shocked at how little pharmacology I new even as a practitioner has RN when I went for my BSN.

YES!!! Do it. You will enjoy nursing more.

First go for bsn then do adn/asn beause bsn very necessary for other degree.