Should I wait for the BSN program?

[Springflower]

I'm currently accepted to a ADN program at my local community college for Spring 2016 semester. Everywhere I look, I see "BSN preferred" on job postings. Also a lot of the nurse extern/associate positions in the area want you to be in a BSN program as well. I was thinking about applying to some BSN programs but I wouldn't be able to start any(if accepted) until next fall.

Do you think it would be worth it to wait for the BSN program? I do like that the BSN programs have a practicing/preceptorship component that ADN programs in the area don't. But at the same time, I am already accepted and guaranteed admission in the ADN program and what if I'm not accepted to the BSN program?

I will add that I'm in Ohio and ADN graduates are still being hired. The ADN program would be two years and the BSN would only be 3 because of the classes I already have completed.

I know this is a decision only I can make based on my circumstances, but I was wondering if any other nursing students have been in the same position?

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

More education is never a bad thing, especially if job postings are stating "BSN preferred". Look into the number of grads from the ADN program you are accepted to who are working in the nursing field within 1 year of graduation (not just working, but working in an RN job)- that may help you make some decisions.

Should you choose the ADN program, start now to look into RN-to-BSN programs to give yourself the extra edge of having a BSN for further jobs.

[Sizzline]

I am in a similar situation, where BSN nurses are preferred in the area. Unfortunately, the only BSN program around here is extremely expensive, and moving is not an option for my family. I'm entering my 2nd semester of an ADN program now, and plan on moving directly into an online RN-to-BSN program after passing the NCLEX. There are still jobs in the area that are hiring new grad ADNs, but there will definitely be more opportunities after I finish my BSN.

For me, personally, taking on the debt of the BSN wasn't practical. This way will take me a little longer, but I should be able to graduate with minimal loans and my community college has a phenomenal reputation and NCLEX pass rate.

[Miss Infermiera2b, BSN, RN]

I would probably stick with the ADN program for now if you've already been accepted. BSN grads are usually preferred but a lot of places will take ADN grads who commit to finishing their BSN within a certain timeframe. I applied to an ADN program and will probably do an RN-BSN program as soon as I can after licensure.

[Golfer87]

A bird in hand is worth two in the bush.