Advantages of Having a BSN Over An ADN

[kspeed13]

Hi everyone. I'm in my last year of undergraduate study with a major in communication management and a minor in business management. I've really been considering going back to school for nursing when I finish my degree. I've already been accepted into an ADN program but have been reading more about the advantages of having a BSN over an ADN. Even though both have the end result of being an RN, from what I've read one major advantage of being a BSN is increased likelihood being promoting to management positions. If I'm already going to have my Bachelor's in a management type degree, is it worth it to do the extra schooling and get my BSN or will I be ok with an ADN? I guess I'm wondering if a degree in a management type field will carry any weight or be relevant in the field of nursing. Also is it possible to practice in a more specialized area like dermatology or aesthetic nursing with just an ADN? I'd really like to work with burn victims or with a reconstructive plastic surgeon. Thanks for any advice!

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

Generally speaking, non-nursing degrees carry no weight or relevance in the nursing profession, although I have had managers with the BSN/MBA combination.

In most job markets, the major advantage to having the BSN degree is the ability to find a job at all. In many cities, lack of a BSN degree is used as a weed-out tool. Without this degree, some hospitals and employers will not hire you.

[windsurfer8, BSN, RN]

You need the BSN. And it isn't just about management....many hospitals will not hire you unless you have a BSN. Investigate this with HR at the hospital where you want to work BEFORE spending money on an ADN.

[mrsjonesRN]

Might as well go ahead and get the bsn, especially if you are wanting to potentially go to grad school one day.

In my area a bsn does not matter, but like other posters have said, a bsn is mandatory in many parts of the country. You may want to relocate one day and need the bsn to do so.