Why Should I Get a BSN in Nursing: What Difference Does a BSN Make?

You've already paid your dues by going to school to earn your degree to become an RN. You may be thinking of going back to school to further your education, but wondering whether you should take this big step when you're already getting settled in your nursing career. Here are some reasons why earning your BSN can be worthwhile even when working in a stable and robust medical environment. Is the time right for you?

What Are the Differences Between ADN and BSN?

An ADN is an Associate Degree in Nursing while a BSN is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. An ADN typically takes about two years to earn while a BSN will take about four years. Some programs allow you to speed up the time it takes to finish their program. Most RNs will start their career by earning their ADN, but some will obtain their BSN right away.

There are some similarities to the core curriculum that each of these degree programs offers. They both have the same necessary nursing courses that train you for your job to become a competent nurse. Where they differ is that a BSN will go beyond the required skills for an RN and include subjects such as management, leadership, public health, and social science. It's often intended to prepare the nurse for a role that goes beyond nursing.

What Kind of Responsibilities and Critical Care Knowledge Do BSNs Traditionally Get?

Both nurses who have earned an ADN and a BSN can work with patients in the many of the same capacities. They are both trained to handle much of the same type of work. However, there are some tasks that nurses with BSNs can achieve that are beyond nurses with an ADN. For instance, a nurse with a BSN may work with doctors more closely when it comes to more complex procedures.

Also, a nurse with a BSN often can be given greater responsibilities, which could include management or administration tasks inside of their department. Often, these opportunities come with an increase in a paycheck.

Why Should an RN Consider Earning a BSN?

As a current RN, you may wonder why you should spend the time and energy that it takes to earn your BSN. The truth is that it can be worth it if you're in a situation where you'd like to do more with your career or are looking to increase your paycheck. A BSN typically allows an RN to expand the responsibilities that they have while earning more money.

For someone who is unhappy in their current position, a degree could open doors. It could make it possible to be eligible for promotions inside the organization you're at now or opportunities for your resume to outshine the competition when looking elsewhere. The key takeaway when considering if you should go back to school is if you're looking to take your career further.

What Can You Expect From A BSN Degree?

During your time earning a BSN degree, much of the coursework should be familiar to you from your time becoming an RN. However, you generally go more in-depth with many of the topics than previously as it's more advanced. You can expect to have classes on communication, statistics, sociology, and composition, in addition to the nursing subject matter.

How Can I Get Started Today?

Think it may be time to move forward with your education to change your career outlook? Contact our friendly admissions staff at ECPI University today to learn more about our Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program. We can answer any questions you have about the courses, admissions process, or the university and help you get started.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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