RN vs BSN

[jtboog2003]

Is it true that most hospitals now want you to have at least a bachelor's degree? And that with having an associate you would more likely end up I'm a nursing home or elsewhere? Not that it matters right now because I know trying to get into a hospital right away isn't really realistic and that I would end up in another setting more than likely to get needed experience. But I was just wondering?

[caliotter3]

BSN is the preferred education for entry level professional nursing, but that does not mean you can't get hired with an associate's degree. Employers are primarily concerned with the fact that you have a clear license and they are interested in your nursing experience. However, many hospitals are moving toward preferring employees with a minimum of a BSN, so it is to your advantage to start with a BSN. BTW, RN is the term for the license. BSN, etc. are the terms for the education level obtained to be able to take the licensing exam. You have an RN license when you pass the exam whether you were educated at the diploma level or the MSN level.

[AccelCNL, MSN, RN]

Many hopsitals are requiring new grads to have a BSN minimum in order to even be eligible to apply...or at least this is the trend in the NY metropolitan area. This really depends one where you want to work, whether the hospital has a magnet status or not, and a host of other things. A BSN does make you more versatile. I plan on attending an ABSN program after I graduate with my BA in May 2011. This is mainly due to the fact that I plan on going back to grad school with 1-2 years after I pass my NCLEX and I plan in getting my DNP within the next decade. However, look at the job outlook in your area. If ASN-prepared nurses are just as sought after as their BSN counterparts and if it will be easier on your pocketbook then head for the ASN. However, it the long run it might be better to just get the BSN.

[AprilRNurse]

Depends on the area. For floor nurses in my hospital, we are mostly associate degree nurses. IMO, this works out well as the local colleges- ADN nurses have more clincial hours than BSN's.