ASN vs BSN

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This may have been discussed to death elsewhere, but I couldn't find anything recent, and it seems like things are changing this year.

I applied to GPC's nursing program for Fall 2012, and am eagerly waiting to hear if I got in. I had read here and elsewhere that entry level positions/salaries/opportunities were the same for BSN and ASN nurses, and that the difference came when you wanted to move into management or advanced practice. Which was fine with me - I just wanted the quickest way to start working, and planned to worry about the rest later.

But someone in Micro Lab the other day (a working nurse doing pre-reqs for her masters) gave me the disturbing news that Emory no longer hires ASN/RNs, they require the bachelor's. And someone else who works at Northside chimed in that they are making that change this summer. So now I'm wondering if there will be any jobs open to me when I graduate in two years, or if I need to scramble to get into a BSN program instead.

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From what I've heard (and, granted, I'm a lowly pre-nursing student), it's hard enough for new grads with BSNs to find jobs. Apparently, it can be even more difficult without the bachelor's. You haven't started yet, so I recommend you scramble and apply to a couple of BSN programs. The date for GSU just passed (3/1), but they accept apps for spring as well. I'm not sure about any other schools.

Best of luck to you! Maybe consider a university with an ACE track if you want to finish early? GSU has a 16-month program if you meet all the requirements! :)

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I'm curious to find out which school and degree you chose to go with? I'm trying to make the same decisions now....

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I went with Perimeter's ASN program. Mainly for convenience. This is my daughter's last year at home and I want to enjoy it. The GSU ACE program looked like it would be just too intense for me this year, and I did not want to commute as far as Kennesaw or Clayton State. I will see how things go. So far, GPC grads are still finding jobs.

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I went with Perimeter's ASN program. Mainly for convenience. This is my daughter's last year at home and I want to enjoy it. The GSU ACE program looked like it would be just too intense for me this year, and I did not want to commute as far as Kennesaw or Clayton State. I will see how things go. So far, GPC grads are still finding jobs.

Thanks for the tip, I am applying for this school as well and will be taking a tour this week. From the research I have done it seems like the core classes are included in the program (somewhat). That's awesome!

I am also trying to get certified as a CNA, for the experience, before spring semester starts. Hopefully I can work as much as possible until classes get heavy. A lot of people on this site have encouraged that training, both for the edge received while in school and also when applying for RN positions afterwards.

Realistically speaking, I have a 2 yr old son, and I am a single mother so this is a big mountain I am about to climb. Recently, I have been thrusted into the world of unemployment, and I figure now is the time to seize the opportunity! Becoming an OB Nurse has been my dream since high school (12 years ago) and the bottom line is - there is never the perfect time to go back to school other than the present. I am hopeful and excited for this new change in the course of my life and my goal is to be a working RN by the time my son hits the K/1st grade. Wish me luck..and I will do the same for you!

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I chose an ASN program - two days a week the first year, and three days a week the second year. I just started, but love it - I would not have been able to attend school five days a week. I need the time home to study, and be with my family.

I will continue with a BSN program

Once I graduate, but it's mostly online - so I'll be able to work as an RN while working towards my BSN. Or I might go straight from ASN to MSN, not sure yet. GA State offers a bridge program.

I'm very happy with my decision, my family is my number 1 priority, and so this works for me.

I plan to work as a PCT after my first year in nursing school - this will help me get my foot in the door, and hopefully get a job fast.

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I chose an ASN program - two days a week the first year, and three days a week the second year. I just started, but love it - I would not have been able to attend school five days a week. I need the time home to study, and be with my family.

I will continue with a BSN program

Once I graduate, but it's mostly online - so I'll be able to work as an RN while working towards my BSN. Or I might go straight from ASN to MSN, not sure yet. GA State offers a bridge program.

I'm very happy with my decision, my family is my number 1 priority, and so this works for me.

I plan to work as a PCT after my first year in nursing school - this will help me get my foot in the door, and hopefully get a job fast.

Yes..we are on the same page "hunny". Which ASN program did you choose? How are classes going so far?

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This is a good post, & I know something all of us have considered or are considering! I'm nervous about employment as well when it comes to ASN vs BSN.. The BSN's I've talked to that are working in atl area hospitals told me that the BSN makes you more 'desirable' for employment.. Then I know a couple nurses that have their ASN and they're employed and making good money!

I wish I could just sit down with a hospital representative and ask them what to do lol..

Anyhow, I'm applying to both BSN and ASN programs. A couple things happened and I was unable to meet my application deadline last year, so in the meantime I just took the extra core requirements towards a BSN.. So we'll see if im accepted and where! Might just end up going ASN and finishing BSN online

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Specializes in Medical-Surgical, Pediatrics.

I am still going back and forth between what program to apply to! I would like to go for ASN first then do BSN. However, its that little part in me that's wants to make sure I can secure a job

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I chose NGCSU's program,

And I've just started so I can't say a lot about it yet. I have talked to several former and current students who have nothing but good things to say about their program. It has been my

School of choice since I started my pre-req's.

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I'd encourage you guys to look into doing PCT work PRN if you are able to while in school at the hospital you want to work at. Also, work your butt off in your preceptorship and show them that you are dedicated, reliable, and hard-working. These two things helped with a "foot in the door" for many of us ADN/ASN grads with job opportunities after we finished our programs.

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