ASN RN's vs. BSN RN's what's the dif?

Tweety, BSN, RN · Apr 20, 2005

ASN RNs and BSN RNs both take the same NCLEX when they graduate and both have the same duties on the floor as Regisitered Nurses. The pay is generally the same, or near the same (here BSN nurses get 1.00/hr. more)

Use the search to find some interesting discussions on this topic.

Quite a bit of RNs go the ASN route, and later advance to the BSN level, myself included. The BSN comes in handy down the road, with experience and advancement. There are certain jobs that require BSN or are BSN-preferred such as in management, research, teaching, pharmaceuticals, etc.

But there are plenty of jobs the ASN will get you.

There is a huge debate that whether as a new grad the BSN is a better nurse than a new grad ADN. Some people claim they can see a difference, but I can't and don't even want to go there.

SarasotaRN2b · Apr 20, 2005

I think that the only difference is that once you have your BSN you can go to graduate school or go into management (although I think that if you have many years of experience with your ADN and due to the shortage of nurses, ADN might be enough).

I am starting a BSN program in the fall because going further into graduate school is my goal. The difference in education is that while (at least in the community college close to me) ADN students will attend a Fundamentals class that includes pharmacology and pathophysiology, while in the BSN, there are separate classes. Also, BSN are more research driven while ADN seems to be more practical. Both have their pluses.

Kris

suzanne4, RN · Apr 20, 2005

I have a BS in Biology, a Diploma in Nursing, and an MBA...and it has never held me back, only given me more. It also depends alot on the nurse.....

Fun2, BSN, RN · Apr 20, 2005

I have a BS in Biology, a Diploma in Nursing, and an MBA...and it has never held me back, only given me more. It also depends alot on the nurse.....

I think you're a well-rounded student for sure! :chuckle (not sarcasm, just amazed....good job!) :)