ADN Or BSN?

KelRN215, BSN, RN · May 17, 2014

If your ultimate goal is BSN, just do it. In my area of the country there is basically no job market for new grad ADNs so it doesn't make sense to me to do that and prolong the overall experience.

KnottyNurse17 · May 17, 2014

I was thinking the samething. Thanks!

mp86 · May 17, 2014

Hi KnottyNurse17,

I had to face the same decision a few month ago when I started applying for nursing school. There are a number of factors that you want to consider, such as money, time commitment, traffic and so on.

In my area there are only two universities within acceptable driving distance that offer a BSN program. However, these two universities are very expensive 90+K for the program. So that was a no go for me. All the other universities that were affordable BSN program (30-40k) are 40 minutes away and that is without traffic. So I would have spend a lot of time on the road and a lot of money for gas. So I decided that is a no go as well.

In the end a chose the CC, which is only a 10 minute drive and they have an outstanding NCLEX pass rate. But they also have a partnership with a Cal State where I can start the RN to BSN while I am in my ADN program. After I will graduate from my ADN program I can start the RN to BSN program right away and I would be able to finish it in one year if I would attend full time.

So in the end it doesn't save me any time going straight towards a BSN; however, I will save between 10-20k getting my ADN first and then bridge to a RN to BSN program. I think saving 10+k just for sending some transcripts and fill out a new application is well worth that little bit of trouble.

I would recommend to check all your options and chose the option that works for you best.

Good luck

MrsICURN14 · May 17, 2014

Hands down, BSN. In my area it's almost impossible as well to get a job with an ADN as a new nurse. Some major hospitals are even saying they will not hire new grads without BSNs.

Plus, if they do hire ADNs, they will require you to go back within a few years and get your BSN to stay employed.

Why not just get it all done at once and not have to go back, that's how I looked at it.

dt70 · May 17, 2014

Look at the requirements for the BSN program of your choice. Take minimum pre-reqs required to apply there that more closely match the ADN requirements. Look at what entrance exams are needed for each program, obtain the books and start studying for them now.

Apply to both programs and go to the one you get accepted to, and if both, go the BSN route.

RunBabyRN · May 17, 2014

Depends on the job market and your ultimate goals. If you plan to go for your higher degree, just go for the BSN. Both ADN and BSN programs around the country are competitive and impacted. Some markets have equal opportunities for ADNs and BSNs, some don't. It's a good idea to talk to HR departments if you haven't made up your mind to get a sense of what they look for and tend to hire.

emde · May 17, 2014

In my area, many schools are phasing out the ADNs. It looks like some places are asking for a BSN as a minimum requirement to hire nurses. Check with your advisor.

Sizzline · May 17, 2014

There is only one BSN program within a reasonable driving distance from me, and it is an astronomically expensive private school. I am planning on getting my ADN from the local community college (with an excellent NCLEX pass rate), then doing an online RN-to-BSN program. It's not ideal, but it will have the same result within a slightly longer time-frame.

giraffe4 · May 17, 2014

Go for your BSN. I think in the future they will only accept that. ADN Id my goal right now but right after im going for My bsn afterwards. Plus companies admire more education.

ixchel · May 17, 2014

A few things to consider:

ADN doesn't actually take only 2 years, even though it is generally called a 2 year degree. It has prerequisites, so it can take closer to 3 years.

ADN gives you the opportunity to work as an LPN midway through (if you find a program that is LPN then RN), and then RN, as you make your way through step by step. Some people really need this. If you are one of those people, you seriously need to consider this option. Also, even though this is the longest route to BSN, it usually ends up being the least expensive.

Look at your local market. Do the BSNs that graduate local to you all move back home? If so, you are a hot item if you have a BSN. I'm in an area like this. All the ADNs are clamoring for employment, but the few of us BSNs who stay are sought after. We all have job offers before graduating.

Look at the programs themselves. Look at what it takes to get in. Do you have a shot at either one? Be honest with yourself. If you have a shot at getting in, will you have a shot at actually getting hired? Ask HR the hospitals which programs they prefer. How are their NCLEX pass rates? Look at the BON website for this. How is their accreditation? Are credits transferrable?

It goes deeper than just time! But it's good you're asking these questions now, rather than being surprised after you've been through a program that you chose the wrong path.

NurseGirl525, ASN, RN · May 17, 2014

It honestly depends on where you live. In my area, I can get a job as a new grad ADN. Some areas are different. I want to work while getting my BSN so that is the route I am going. Check and see what the hospitals in your area are hiring.