There are many students unsure of what college to attend, what kind of education to obtain, or which degree or skills to pursue. For students interested in the medical field, one popular option is to earn a degree in nursing to become a registered nurse, or RN.
Many people who become nurses find the job both monetarily and emotionally rewarding. In fact, a recent Gallop poll showed that the general public loves nurses too. Nursing was the most trusted profession for 18 years in a row!
But as gratifying as being a registered nurse may be, due to personal reasons, financial reasons or simply wanting to further their career prospects in the nursing field, some registered nurses may want to consider continuing their education by getting their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
If you hold a degree in nursing and are considering getting your BSN, this guide prepared by School Match Pro highlights how you can make the transition.
Better yet, School Match Pro can connect you directly with schools or programs that can assist your journey from RN to BSN. Whether it be a school in your area, or an online school with courses you can take at your own pace, we’re here to help.
What Is the Difference Between RN and BSN?
An RN, in the simplest form, is a licensed registered nurse who has completed an accredited nursing program. A BSN is a registered nurse who has completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an accredited institution.
While the duties of an RN and BSN are very similar, there are some key differences. A BSN has a more comprehensive and deeper understanding of the nursing field as they have completed additional coursework in areas such as leadership, public health, and research.
With a BSN education, you are likely to receive more job opportunities and options, as well as a higher salary.
How to Go From RN to BSN?
There are many paths that you can take to go from RN to BSN. You can choose to attend a traditional four-year university, a two-year community college, or take online courses.
RN to BSN programs work as a bridge for licensed registered nurses who have an associate degree or diploma in nursing to complete their BSN. Trade school, technical school, and online courses are all viable options for someone who wants to complete their BSN. It typically takes two years to go from RN to BSN, but depending on your previous credits earned, it could go faster.
See RN to BSN schools and programs by clicking HERE
Is Going From RN to BSN Worth It?
Considering the additional cost, time investment, and effort, you may be wondering if going from RN to BSN is even worth it. This really depends on your own personal situation. RN jobs are highly sought-after and are projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.
In fact, as the Bureau of Labor Statistics notes, 194,500 annual job openings for RNs are expected through 2030, with employment projected to grow at 9%.
However, if you are looking to advance your career or earn a higher salary, going from RN to BSN may be worth it. It’s believed that there are healthcare systems that are incentivized to hire BSN nurses over RNs. That means that with a BSN degree, you could be more likely to be hired, have more choices in employers and may be able to negotiate a higher salary.
The Difference Between RN and BSN Pay
According to Shiftmed.com “The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average RN in the United States earns $77,600 annually… If you have a BSN, your starting salary could be significantly higher than someone with an ASN {associate degree}.
“In addition, because BSN nurses have more education, they are often considered better equipped to handle more complicated tasks.”
Choosing the Right Program for You
Consider what type of program will work best for you based on your lifestyle, commitments, timeframe and learning style. If you see online programs will work best for your current situation, then consider going for it!
But if earning your BSN in a physical classroom better suits you, consider that too!
Either way, at School Match Pro, we aim to help students like you connect to the school that best matches your needs. We’re here to help you decide whether online or on-campus learning is best for you, and how to connect directly to those programs!
Simply visit SchoolMatchPro.com to get started.
See RN to BSN schools and programs by clicking HERE
Sources:
https://academicpartnerships.uta.edu/explore/rn-to-bsn-programs.aspx
https://www.laboure.edu/blog/rn-vs-bsn
https://www.shiftmed.com/blog/how-much-do-bsn-nurses-make-in-the-usa/
School Match Pro is an educational consumer information source connecting students with programs, we do not provide direct educational services. School Match Pro is not responsible for education program content or for third party referral sources directed to School Match Pro or related pages. Educational program options vary. Programs may not be accelerated, available in all locations, or available both online and at on-campus locations. Financial aid may be available to those who qualify including grants, scholarships, and other programs. Financial aid and grants are provided directly to educational programs, not to students, unless otherwise noted. To receive financial aid and grants students must submit applications and be accepted to educational programs for which aid will be used. Employment is not implied nor guaranteed, and each program length and curriculum will vary based on the institution you select. School Match Pro offers information, ratings, and recommendations of colleges and universities at no cost to the consumer. School Match Pro receives referral, promotional, and/or advertising revenue from some of the schools that we review.
