Is an ADN worth it in CT?

[CTGuy]

I don't want to get into the whole ADN vs. BSN debate, but I am questioning how hospitals and other health employers look at nurses with an ADN. I know that CT has several good ADN programs, and I have been accepted into one of them. I am just worried that if I seek to obtain an ADN, I won't find a job and only find that they want you to have a BSN.

For those of you with an ADN, was it hard to find a job when you graduated? For the RN's out there, have you seen any favor toward a BSN? Thanks.

[NurseKeiKei]

I'm not a nurse yet, I'm merely a nursing student but I have worked in the hospital environment for over 10 years. When I chose to accept admission to an ADN program, I too had to wrestle with the ADN/BSN debate. What I have found is that, for the most part, the ADN programs are really respected and viewed as a great way to start your career. The difficulty in finding a position, especially in this economy, does not stem from the type of degree you have but the number of years experience. Many hospitals/health facilities are naturally trying to deal effectively with budget demands and realize that the cost to hire a new grad (ADN or BSN) is more taxing to their bottom line than hiring an experience nurse; (the experienced nurse will be able to hit the "ground running" where as the new grad will not, new grad will require preceptorship etc.). As a new grad, despite the program level you choose, you may need to accept a job that was not on the top of your list, until you gain experience. But that is not to say that you WON'T get hired at your "ideal" job. There are plenty of hospitals/LTC/doctor's offices that hire new grads of all levels. The important thing is to pick the program that best suits your needs. Perform your best and a job will definitely come. If you do decide to choose the ADN program then the potential for growth and advancement will definitely give you the motivation you need to pursue additional education. Good luck!

[Thornbird]

Definitely! Congratulations on your acceptance. :yeah:CT ADN programs are very competetive to get into. You may someday want a BSN for advancement into more admin type positions, but will not be discriminated against at the entry level for not having a BSN. Right now jobs are not as plentiful as in the past due to the economy. Hopefully, by the time you graduate it will be better. At the moment highest demand is in LTC/subacute. Don't sell that short, pay is generally good & there is a lot to learn. The LPN's are the ones having trouble finding work. An RN is still in demand no matter what level of schooling completed.

[achapman]

For those of you with an ADN, was it hard to find a job when you graduated? For the RN's out there, have you seen any favor toward a BSN? >>

When I was interviewing they honestly didnt even ask ADN or BSN, as long as you had your RN thats all they cared about.

[SoxfanRN]

One of the few barriers you will face as an ADN grad is with Magnet institutions that require a certain percentage of BSNs+ to retain their Magnet status. In CT, Middlesex is magnet; I'm not sure if Hartford still has Magnet status.

Other institutions may look at BSNs first but will hire an ADN without problem based on the interview, resume, experience, and references. First impressions make a big difference, including your e-mail address on your resume, so be prepared.

BTW, congratulations on your acceptance.