Associates VS Bachelors

RN403, BSN, RN · Sep 12, 2014

First, if that is your real first and last name I would change it ASAP. You want to remain anonymous on this site, especially, if you are going to be a nurse. Just some friendly advice.

Now, there are many threads on this topic that you might find of assistance, but, I will get you started. Research the facilities in your area and see what they require. Some areas will still hire ADN nurses and some highly prefer BSN prepared nurses. Once you figure out what is required in your area you can make your decision.

If I were you, I would probably just go for my Bachelor's. You will probably need it eventually anyway, so, if you can I would just do it now while you're young.

Again, there are many threads on the ADN vs BSN subject. If you refer to them I can assure you that you will find the answers you need and more. But, most importantly let your own research guide your decision as it will be most specific to your situation.

I would also consider shadowing a nurse prior to making your decision on nursing school. I know you said you have family that has been in the healthcare field for a long while, but, there is nothing like experiencing something for yourself. Plus, it is quite fun to follow a nurse around all day and see them in action!

Best wishes.

dorkypanda · Sep 12, 2014

I agree with the previous poster, BSN is the desired degree. Volunteering in a hospital may be something you might want to do.have you started on any nursing prereqs yet? If not you should or if you could, take them at a cc. do well in those courses and apply to state schools and universities. Depending on your GPA and possible test scores you may choose doing associates first and then the RN to BSN program later on. Or if your GPA and test scores are great you can go onto the bsn program straight but it's probably more competitive that way. I'm just about to apply and it's quite competitive for the traditional BSN program.

akulahawkRN, ADN, RN, EMT-P · Sep 12, 2014

I'll say this: regardless of which degree path you take, it'll still end up being at least 4 years to complete the degree. It is going to take about 2 years to get through all the prerequisite courses and general education. Then when you've completed the prerequisite courses, you can then apply to the formal program which typically lasts 2 years. Total time: 4 years for a "2 year" degree. The BSN runs about the same. Figure 2 years for the LDGE and prerequisite courses and 2-2.5 years for the UDGE and RN program.

The overall length of time is about the same. Even the core coursework will be largely identical!

The cost per unit at a 4 year school will be a bit higher, but your "employability" will be higher as well, in most cases because of the BSN you will have earned.

manderrrae · Sep 12, 2014

I would do your research on programs in your area. I am currently working on my ASN (started fall of 2013). If all goes according to plan I will graduate in Dec of 2015, meaning I will have gotten my ASN in only 5 semesters, and my bachelor's will be another 2. Like you said, I didn't really want to spend four years going to school, so I found the most fast paced program in my area. The only downside to this, is that it is a TON of information in about half the time of a BSN. I would personally get your ASN, then do an RN to BSN program. That way, you can still get your BSN, but can be working as an RN while doing so.

Spangle Brown · Sep 12, 2014

If your wanting an RN why are you doing CNA? Is it so you can work while in school? Nothing wrong with a CNA, but if your wanting to hurry to get your RN, it's a slow down.

I agree with what has all ready been said. It takes awhile to get your pre's done, before entering Nursing for your ASN?ADN. So an ADN can talk almost as long as a BSN. Coming straight out of HS, I would go for the BSN.

Alot will depend on your area. It is cheeper here to go to community college for year 1-2 and transfer to the university. Ours has a direct connect agreement. So our courses transfers nicely. Always check to see if the classes are transferable. Most of the classes at this level will be the same for the ADN and the BSN. The only difference is the ADN will be entering the ADN Nursing school for 5 terms. And the BSN will be entering the University to complete the last 2 years which will include what the ADN will be getting. The ADN will be finished 1-2 terms sooner, but will still need 30 credits from a University to complete their BSN.

I will be starting ADN in the Summer and when I am done, I will be doing an ASN to BSN bridge. Doing my BSN part time while I work as an RN. I have friends who are going straight for their BSN. The community college saves money for the first 2 years.

KelRN215, BSN, RN · Sep 13, 2014

Go for the BSN. It will be college for you. You're going to be in school for at least 4 years no matter what route you take.