ADN or BSN in West TN

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I have read several posts from other parts of the country about the ADN Vs BSN degree. Can a new grad with a ADN compete with a BSN in today's enviroment? I am confused as for every post I read that says a RN is a RN reguardless of the degree I read that hospitals are more and more favoring BSN over ADN in the hiring selection. I understand the points about one needing a BSN to move into management and other research positions but I am just concerned about getting a staff nurse postion after I qraduate and pass my RN test.

My delima is that I can spend 2 years getting my ADN at a local Community College which will be a low cost route or spend 3 years and get a BSN through a private nursing school at considerable expense. I would rather do the CC route but if the degree will not get me hired I would rather spend the money and time to get to BSN with a better chance of getting hired.

Please let me know your thoughts especillay from nurses that are out in the work force.

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Well yeah, we do all take the same NCLEx regardless of wheather or not you have a BSN or ADN, but its not the same. Having a ADN can be a barrier to employment b/c there are some employers that have changed their ads from "BSN prefered" to "BSN desired". You have to decide what is best for you, but keep a few thing in mind.

1.With the economy the way it is you may want to spend that extra two years

in school.

2. Employment oppurtunites increase with higher degree

3. Intern/Extrern programs are more willing to accept BSN nurse and that experience can not only enhance your clinical skills, nut it looks good a resume.

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That was I was thinking but need some advice from nurses that are working in the real world.

Thanks!

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Specializes in ICU, CVICU, Surgical, LTAC.

Hello,

If I were you I would go for the ADN first then go back for an RN to BSN program. This is considerably cheaper and less time consuming. I graduated in May of 09 and have had no problems getting job offers. Also if you get your ADN and start working most hospitals with pay for you to go back and get your BSN which will save you money. The RN to BSN programs are usually accelerated and many of them are offered in evening/weekend format or online, again saving you time. Whatever route you decide to go, the most important thing you can do to stay competetive in the workforce is get as much experience as you can while you are in school. Work as a tech, or an extern, or even volunteer or shadow if you can. These are the types of things employers value much more than wheather or not you have your BSN verses your ADN. At least that has been my experience.

Also remember to get letters of reccomendation from your clinical instructors and/or previous employers if you can. Hopefully by the time you finish school the economy will be better. Nursing jobs are pretty tight now for all new grads, BSN or not.

Good luck!

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Thanks for the advice!!!

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