associate degree vs BSN degree

klone, MSN, RN · Jan 19, 2004

Here's a current thread we're having on this subject right now

manna, BSN, RN · Jan 19, 2004

Lots of threads on this subject. I'd say it depends on your goals (grad school? management? etc) and your circumstances (time you have to spend in school, finances, etc).

New Castle Ken · Jan 20, 2004

Originally posted by blondie020184
I'm hoping to start my nursing classes by fall of 2004. I'm working towards an associate degree. I've heard associate degree and BSN degree nurses get paid the same amount. Is it more beneficial to try and work for a BSN degree or not?

What a can of worms you are reopening :eek:

ASNs and BSNs make approximately the same salary. It is great to start out as an ASN with the goal of completing at least a BSN especially if you are young and have a long career ahead of you. Most higher level jobs require at least a BSN and more and more an MSN. Good luck.

manna, BSN, RN · Jan 20, 2004

Originally posted by New Castle Ken
What a can of worms you are reopening

I think a lot of new posters who haven't browsed the site aren't really aware that it's such a heavily debated/sensitive issue.

klone, MSN, RN · Jan 20, 2004

Originally posted by manna
I think a lot of new posters who haven't browsed the site aren't really aware that it's such a heavily debated/sensitive issue.

That's why I love the search feature! There is such a wealth of information here. Many times if I have a question, I do a search first, and I get a ton of threads that more than answer the question I was thinking of asking. :)

manna, BSN, RN · Jan 20, 2004

Originally posted by klone
That's why I love the search feature! There is such a wealth of information here. Many times if I have a question, I do a search first, and I get a ton of threads that more than answer the question I was thinking of asking. :)

Yeah, but I'm all for giving the newbies a break. Not everyone who visits here for the first time is aware of all the features available, as well as most every topic has been covered before! LOL :)

teeituptom, BSN, RN · Jan 20, 2004

I dont know all the features here either and I have been here for a long long long time

cina23 · Apr 4, 2008

Hello everyone,

I have just become a member and am very excited! So this is my situation.

I am currently taking the science prerequisites at Lehman College in NYC. I already have a bachelor's in Psychology and am debating whether i should apply to an Associates program or BSN. Financially, i can't really afford the BSN program and would also love to start working in the nursing field. I was hoping to get my associates and have my employer assist with the tuition.

Currently, i work full time, and am a single mother of a three year old boy.

So basically what I am asking is if i should get the BSN or Associates or simply apply for both. I have looked into accelerated programs, but the work load is very heavy and since i hold a 2.5 GPA from my first Bachelor's they are holding that against me.

Please advise.

Thanks.