Can an LPN get a BSN?

[larien37]

Hi, I was just wondering if it is possible for an LPN to get her BSN (I live in the State of PA, if that matters)? I already have my BS in Criminal Justice, a Minor in Psychology and my Master's in Health Promotion/Injury Prevention and after not being able to find a job in any related field to what I went to school for I have decided to become an LPN. I know that my Master's will come in handy but I just wasnt sure about my undergrad. I know lots of RN's that have their BSNs but no LPNs so I wasnt even sure if it was possible and if so if it was worth it. Could me having my BS already save me when it comes to taking some classes (like I already have sociology, psychology etc). I'm just trying to get a feel for things. I never thought that after all my years of school that my degrees were worthless but after not being able to find a job and with the bad economy its hard not to feel that way sometimes.

[missjennmb]

The reason that you never see an LPN with their bachelors is that by virtue of the degree itself, it makes you an RN. So you could see people who WERE LPNs becoming BSNs but they would then be able to take the NCLEX for their RN and with the extra money you get for it, why wouldn't you?

I have seen schools that let you go right from LPN to BSN, but in my area, after your LPN, you need to sit through 3 more semesters for your ADN (plus pre-reqs if you have any missing) and then move on to your BSN. I do know of schools that have an accelerated bachelors for those who already have a bachelors in another field, but I dont know enough about the details. Really, you will need to scout out local schools that have nursing programs and see what they are willing to do.

[caliotter3]

Once an LPN gets a BSN s/he is eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN. That is the whole idea behind getting a BSN.

[elkpark]

Lots of LPNs return to school and get BSNs, but, as the others have noted, the degree prepares you for RN licensure. If you are seriously interested, I would encourage you to talk to folks at the BSN programs near you and see what they require for admission, which of your existing credits would transfer in, what courses you'd need to complete the degree (probably only the actual nursing courses), etc.

Can't hurt to ask!!! :) Best wishes --

[NamasteNurse, BSN, RN]

My understanding is that BSN earns more than RN. Is that wrong? Do you need to have both an RN and BSN to work? Or is the BSN with an LPN enough?

[RossayRN]

BSN is an RN with a baccalaureate degree in Nursing. LPN is the most basic entry level of nursing, then comes ADN which is an RN with an associates in applied science or science degree. BSN is the highest entry level into nursing. You don't get paid that much more as a BSN than an ADN (associate's degree) but it also depends on where you work. Then bach degree will allow you to move up the ladder and advance. You can't do that with an Assoc degree. If you don't plan on going into research, advanced practice, management, or some kind of RN specialist then there isn't much difference in the ADN vs BSN beyond a dollar or two an hour in pay.