Associate degree in Nursing

Racer15, BSN, RN · Nov 4, 2017

I got my first and only job in the ED with my ADN. I'm working on my BSN now, but where I live, there isn't any difference aside from pay. It's a few bucks an hour, hence my enrollment in a BSN program. Same responsibilities and expectations.

BBP42 · Nov 4, 2017

Most hospitals have a website where you can search their current job postings, including the requirements for degree and experience. In my area some hospitals require BSN, or require that you obtain it within 3 years of hire, some hire ADNs. Your ADN school staff may know which hospitals are ADN friendly. It seems to vary a lot depending where you are in the country. If they hire ADNs, there is no difference in the jobs at entry level. It may be hard to advance later without a higher degree. If you can get hired with the ADN, many hospitals offer tuition reimbursement as you work on your BSN.

Sour Lemon · Nov 4, 2017

That depends on your location, your desired specialty, and your willingness to move if necessary.

Everline · Nov 4, 2017

I read and people told me that I would have a hard time getting a job in a hospital with "just" an ASN. The reality was that I had no trouble getting a job at all. None. Neither did any of my classmates.

People also told me (even my school told me) that I would not be able to get hired in the specialty of my choice (public health) without a BSN. In fact, my school refused to give me a preceptorship in my choice because they told me "that's for BSN students". However, despite that, I am now working in my chosen specialty.

A couple of things, though. The hospital where I had my first job did want the nurses to get a BSN within 5 years of hire. Also, I do have a BA in another field. Everyone says that doesn't count in nursing, so I don't really know if that made a difference or not. I really believe your location matters a lot, as well as your interviewing skills and other factors.

All that being said, I encourage people to get their BSN because it does matter to some employers (I just haven't encountered them personally) and you want as many options open as possible. I will go back for my BSN soon because my employer has great tuition assistance and I also happen to think it's important to continue learning and growing as a nurse.

I definitely think you should check what's going on in your area as far as employment for ASN/ADN nurses and make your decision from there. At any rate, plan to continue on to BSN after you graduate. It will be great if your future employer will help you do so.

Crush · Nov 4, 2017

Hi, I am currently in my first semester of college. I am going for an ADN. My question is...can you get a job in a hospital with that?
What is the difference between associate rns and bachelor rns. I know the difference in the schooling but what is the difference in the job? I just want to make sure I don't waste any time. I want to get a BSN eventually but just want to make sure I am going to be able to get hired.

I worked on med-surg for 4 yrs with a ADN and worked alongside those with BSN and no difference.I even did 3 yrs in case management with my ADN doing home health. I have my BSN now and am working towards my MSN and where I am I can do different things ( I work float pool but also write hospital policies and sometimes do some QA ). Where I am I could not do the policies or QA without my BSN. Of course, it all really depends on your area, facility and what your goals are too.

CreoleRN · Nov 4, 2017

There isn't. The difference is where you want to go in the future (administration or ANP or higher). I work alongside several nurses with BSN's and we do the same work. LPN/LVN's that I work with are getting their ADN's first. The hospitals that you apply to will tell you their requirements once you finish your program. Good luck!