Bsn?

A BSN is a bachelors of science in nursing. It is a 4-5 year program, and generally those with a bachelor's can be in management, education, etc. It is more research, and more specific than a general RN program where you receive your associate's degree in nursing (ADN). Both programs give you the RN title. In my experience, a BSN doesn't pay any more than somene with an ADN. Some places do pay an small additional amount, but in central Texas it's not much. :)

A tiny clarification to add to the above: one does not graduate from any school with an RN license. One does not "get an RN" upon receiving any degree.

The degree you receive will be in nursing: Associates or Bachelor's levels. Completion of an accredited program is what allows you to sit for the national licensing exam (formerly called the boards); successful passing of that exam is what gets you that license.

I make that distinction now, because it is becoming more commonplace it seems for nursing schools to require students to pass a HESI exam just prior to graduation. The results of this exam will determine whether or not you get that degree, which determines whether or not you can sit for the licensing exam.

Whatever route you take, be VERY SURE you know the graduation requirements of that school, and whether receiving your degree rests on that one exam. Worth paying attention to. There are people on this website who wished they had!

I just graduated from an ADN program (2yr. nursing school), which was difficult. Now that I am job-searching, some hospitals specify the requirement for the BSN nurse, so they may get hired more quickly and have more opportunities than the ADN nurse. This is what I have noticed in the past few weeks.

I just graduated in May 2008 with my BSN and I have my license as well. From my understanding sometimes the program also differs in school for example we studied public health nursing which I was told is not taught in ADN schools, but I'm not 100% sure about that. We were also told that most management positions require a BSN and in my school at least, it was encouraged that your BSN was mearly a stepping stone toward your Masters and PhD in nursing. Everyone says the pay is no different or slightly different, however I think that a BSN leads to more opportunities in the vast world of nursing. Oh and in my school we had to pass a test called the ERI before are names were released to the BRN. We were allowed up to three chances to pass. Everyone did pass so I'm not sure what would happen if you did not pass after three tries.

If you are planning on going to a University then most likely you will earn a BSN. Most ADN degrees are from community college. Either is fine it is up to you which path to take. You will most likely earn the same amount of money AT FIRST with either degree. With a BSN you may have better oppurtunities to advance or go to Masters program. I am doing BSN because it is my personal choice. I plan to go on to masters. The schooling is somehwat longer for BSN because you will have your liberal arts incorporated into it. Good luck in whatever you choose.

Also let me add with a BSN you could always minor is psychology.

Thank you everyone! That was VERY VERY helpful! :-)