Big Difference between RNs with a Diploma vs an Associates Degree?

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Hi,

As a prospective nursing student, I feel like the 2 year Diploma program to obtain my RN will work better for me, but I am wondering how RNs who have a diploma instead of an AA are viewed generally by hospitals. Specifically in California, but a general idea for anywhere would be appreciated. Thanks much.

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Specializes in Cardiac Critical Care, Trauma, Neuro..
Hi,

As a prospective nursing student, I feel like the 2 year Diploma program to obtain my RN will work better for me, but I am wondering how RNs who have a diploma instead of an AA are viewed generally by hospitals. Specifically in California, but a general idea for anywhere would be appreciated. Thanks much.

To tell you the truth, I never know the difference unless someone tells me. I never really know the difference between a BSN and a ADN either except maybe the BSN's charting looks better. I have worked with exceptional nurses with diploma's and scatter brained and scary nurses who were pursuing a masters degree.

I do believe that the more education you receive the better for you and better for the patients of course. If a diploma works for you then by all means do it. If you some day want to pursue a management position or an advanced pratice position, then you will need to continue your education.

Sherwood R.N, (ADN)

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"For RNs there are more choices to be made in regards to levels of education. In the past, hospitals offered three year diploma courses where students lived and worked in the hospital and earned a nursing diploma, and then sat for their boards to become RNs. As nursing roles expanded far beyond the realm of hospital nursing, these programs closed. Today, very few remain, and most of those are affiliated with 2 year (Associate Degree) programs."

I found an article about it. Are you sure you will be able to find a diploma program at a hospital?

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Browsing - I think I have read that article as well. I have found a couple schools on the East Coast that offer diploma programs, although I know they are diminishing.

I guess I'm wondering when it comes to being hired by a hospital, especially in California (although, I know I'd have to become licensed in that particular state if I want to practice there) do they frown upon nurses with diplomas?

I just don't want to get to the end of that road and realize it was all for nothing, basically.

But, thank you for your input, both of you. If anyone else has any answers, I'm open and grateful.

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Specializes in Telemetry/Med Surg.

I'm in year 3 of my 3-year diploma program on the east coast. I'm not sure about California but here you will have no problem getting a job. Hospitals actively seek out diploma-RN's. I already have one major hospital wanting me to join them upon graduation in May 06. You'll be well prepared.

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When I worked in the midwest and the south everyone thought that diploma programs were extinct because in those areas, they pretty much were. But I remember a lot of diploma programs still running on the east coast/middle atlantic areas when I lived out there not so long ago.

They are still there, just not in every part of the country so people tend to think that they don't exist anymore just because they are not in their own immediate area.

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I am a Diploma grad and I would not trade that training for anything. :Melody:

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sweet, thanks so much. I've decided to go for it and if I realize I would want more education, then I'll go for that as well.

Thanks!

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Do you get paid at all throughout your diploma program?

Good luck to you! :)

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