BSN vs ADN with current BS

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Apr 9, 2017

I also wonder if having an ADN along with a BS in another field might qualify me for the jobs that require the bachelor's, or if it is only the BSN that matters.

ADN + non-nursing BS = ADN

In other words, it is the BSN that matters.

dishes, BSN, RN · Apr 10, 2017

The BSN will open more career paths and the state university BSN is your best option.

WCSU1987 · Apr 10, 2017

Kind of in the same boat. The prerequisites for the BSN vary at the Public 4 year universities. The ADN program had less prerequites and more uniformity with prerequisites. So I applied to the ADN program, but waitlisted.

On the choice of apply again to the ADN or BSN or ABSN program.

I am hoping with completion of some additional prerequisites can apply to all those program's. If you dont have to pay or that much to apply go ahead and apply. I look at more programs apply to increase chances of getting into a program.

LuckyMoon · Apr 10, 2017

Thank you TheCommuter and dishes. I appreciate the responses. I am leaning towards the BSN route anyway, but hearing the opinions of people working in the field is reassuring that spending the extra money will be worth it.

WCSU1987, for the most part the community college requirements and the university requirements are pretty similar around here. Occasionally I see programs that require child development over human development across a lifespan, or public speaking only versus public speaking or group communication etc. I have already applied to a few community colleges and to a couple BSN programs at the state level. Waiting to get final word on acceptance.

domino vitali · Apr 10, 2017

I'm currently struggling with the same dilemma. I have a Bachelors in Business but am debating between several different programs - ADN, BSN, ABSN and MENP.

I've been getting frustrated because there are so many factors when trying to decide what school to apply - between tuition, TEAS v. HESI v GRE and the prerequisites required to apply - which can vary greatly.

At first I was leaning towards an ADN since it seemed to be the "smartest" based on cost and prerequisites required, but after talking to several nursing friends here in California they ALL recommend getting a Bachelors or higher. They said most hospitals in this area require BSNs.

LuckyMoon · Apr 11, 2017

I'm currently struggling with the same dilemma. I have a Bachelors in Business but am debating between several different programs - ADN, BSN, ABSN and MENP.
I've been getting frustrated because there are so many factors when trying to decide what school to apply - between tuition, TEAS v. HESI v GRE and the prerequisites required to apply - which can vary greatly.
At first I was leaning towards an ADN since it seemed to be the "smartest" based on cost and prerequisites required, but after talking to several nursing friends here in California they ALL recommend getting a Bachelors or higher. They said most hospitals in this area require BSNs.

After taking the TEAS, I started to take the steps to sign up for the HESI, but then decided for the time being, it wasn't worth it to me. There was only one program I was planning on applying to that required the HESI, and after trying to contact the school multiple times for over a year with no help or response, and considering their tuition fees, I decided to forgo applying there for now.

There are a few BSN/ABSN programs I would still like to apply to, that do require the GRE. So if I do not get into any nursing programs this fall, I will likely spend a month or two in preparation and then take the GRE later this summer. After reviewing the TEAS exam material, I wasn't too concerned about it and ended up doing well after a couple weeks of preparation. To me, the GRE is a bit more intimidating than the TEAS though, and I feel like it would probably take a couple months of regular review to come close to being prepared for it.

I understand your frustration in regards to all of the factors one needs to consider though. I had planned on applying to so many programs, and in reality, thus far I have only applied to a handful, in part because of inconsistent admissions requirements across programs, but mainly due to tuition costs of private and out-of-state schools. Fortunately the community colleges and state BSN programs in my general area (also California) have similar admissions requirements. I'm hoping for good news in a couple of weeks. If it doesn't come I'll have to re-evaluate. Best of luck with your decision and future journey.

justwanttohelp12 · Apr 11, 2017

I'm in a similar situation. I'll break it down from my perspective:

Option 1 - ADN program

Pros:

- Nearly free (I qualify for BOGOFW).

- I can work as a CNA during school and this would allow me to network with other health professionals (very important to me).

- No relocation. There are multiple programs around me that is within a 10 mile radius.

- I can continue my education through an RN-BSN/MSN. Some hospitals offer tuition assistance.

A majority of hospitals in LA county are requiring a BSN within 3 years of being hired so if you show that you're enrolled in a BSN/MSN program it's the same as already having a BSN.

Cons:

- Takes twice as long to complete BSN (3 years vs 15 months).

Option 2 - ABSN program

Pros:

- Finish BSN in 15 months (less time to waste).

- Find a job quicker.

Cons:

- Cost. Most ABSN programs are 50-60k and I would have to relocate which would add 15-20k so let's just say 80k after factoring in all the costs.

- Very intensive; not for everyone.

It just depends on what you value the most. Taking out so much in loans really scare me because I finished my undergrad with little to no debt. I would suggest you to go with the program that can get you the right connections so you can get your first job as a Registered Nurse. The market in California is saturated and competitive. I honestly believe it's more important to build the right relationships.

Story: A friend of mine attended a 2 year program, networked with professors/nurses, graduated in December, enrolled into a RN-BSN program, and was licensed by March. He just started a new grad program this month. Long story short, he became really close to one of his professors who was very close to the hiring manager at the hospital...the rest is history! I'm still waiting for decisions from schools so who knows, I might not even have options lol.

RN_Pro · Apr 11, 2017

...
At first I was leaning towards an ADN since it seemed to be the "smartest" based on cost and prerequisites required, but after talking to several nursing friends here in California they ALL recommend getting a Bachelors or higher. They said most hospitals in this area require BSNs.

At some point in the not-so-distant future, BSN will be required in the US as it currently is in Canada and many other countries. Working in the US, I notice a difference between the way that ADN and BSN's are treated on the job. It is unfortunate but true. A few extra dollars and a bit more time will go a long way over your lifecourse.

RN_Pro · Apr 11, 2017

Hi everyone,
...
In my area, some hospitals are only hiring nurses with BSN degrees while other hospitals hire ADN's or BSN's. I also wonder if having an ADN along with a BS in another field might qualify me for the jobs that require the bachelor's, or if it is only the BSN that matters. Just curious what people's current thoughts on this subject are. Thanks in advance.

Most definitely BSN.