BSN OR STOP NOW

Nurses New Nurse

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Should I get my BSN in nursing? I just got my ASN and I am finally licensed as an RN, but I am just not sure if I should go ahead and continue school or take a break. I am trying to weigh the pros and cons of either decision. On one hand it may be very expensive to continue and after not working for 2 years it would be hard. Then I think if I go now I won't be getting out of study habits like I would if I wait. Do I even need a BSN? I have heard the argument my whole life from family members who are nurses saying that a BSN being a requirement would never come to pass. My professors say it is happening. In a way I think becoming certified in certain fields would be more beneficial, but I am really not sure.

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Specializes in Psych, LTC, Acute Care.

I am kinda in the same boat. I have a BS in another degree and just got licensened as a RN in March. I really don't want to waste time on my BSN but would rather try RN-MSN. I am too new to know what speciality I like so I plan to sit back for a while and learn to get better with nursing. I would say find out what options your employer has as far as reinbursment for school. I think you should get it if its not gonna cause more financial burden on you. My job has a satelite BSN college that comes to the hospital and you go for 4 hrs once a week for 1 yr and get your BSN. I will probably do it next may because they pay for it.

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Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

I teach in a BSN completion program. Most of my students have at least a few years of experience as an RN. Those who don't have any experience, struggle much more with the course requirements. That's because the courses are designed to build upon the students' existing knowledge and skills as professional nurses. The courses are taught differently as they are targeted toward that experienced student.

What are the local programs for BSN completion like where you live? Are they designed for students who have no experience in nursing? (They might be.) Or are they designed for students with some experience? (Like the one I teach in is.) Find out and use that information to help you decide.

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Specializes in Acute Care of the Elderly.

I just graduated with my AAS on May 13th, I am already taking my first class towards my BSN. I start the BSN program full time in August through ODU:yeah:Personally I know if I take a break it will never happen so I am just going to keep trudging on!

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

I also started right away. I'm hoping to eventually get my MSN and wanted to get another degree quickly. My BSN will be done in 1 year and 1 semester, knock wood. If you are fairly old and sure that you won't even want to teach etc. I don't see much value in a BSN over a ADN pay wise although it could effect hiring preferences and promotions. Good luck with whatever you decide.

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Specializes in ED, ICU, MS/MT, PCU, CM, House Sup, Frontline mgr.

take a break... i know people who graduated in december, and will start pre-reqs for the rn-bsn program in the fall. you do not have to get started right after you graduate... on the other hand, as some more experienced nurses pointed out to me, it is a good idea to get started fairly soon after school so you are in the study mode.

i started right away because i was already enrolled in a program. i started before i graduated from my adn program... thus the transition for me was not a transition but rather continued schooling. however, if this was not the case i would have taken a semester off.... in any case, i am taking the summer off!!! it will be my first time in years since starting my nursing education and i am looking forward to the break!!! :smokin:

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