Confused about BSN

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My daughter is graduating this year with a Bachelors in Natural Science. She was going to do a PA program but changed her mind and wants to be an RN. What is the difference between her Bachelors in Natural Science and a BSN? And how many employers will give her a hard time if she has a BS as opposed to a BSN?

I have read many times that people have had problems succeeding in the intense ABSN programs. Many were able to complete nursing school by transferring to traditional programs. Would recommend she seek a traditional BSN program unless she really knows that she is together academically, schedule-wise (no job), and health-wise, to have a chance in the ABSN program. JMO

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Specializes in Nurse Scientist-Research.
Sorry, I wasn't clear, she has been accepted into a accelerated BSN program, but is unsure if she should do that or just the diploma program. In regards to getting hired, will she have a hard time without the BSN, even though she has her BS? Sorry for the confusion

Depends on your particular area's job market. First of all, most anyone will tell you that diploma program graduates are best prepared to be quickly functional after graduation.

The big problem is that some employers are very set on their nurses having the Bachelors in Nursing. They will not acknowledge degrees in other fields, even science degrees.

Depending on your local job market, she will be far more employable as a BSN graduate than a diploma graduate. Also, unless the diploma program in your area is far different than the ones I know about, she will be 3 years out. If she is in an ABSN program, she may only have 2 more years. I wouldn't normally quibble over a year of education but the thing is, she is likely to be pressured to go right back to school and get her BSN even if she has the diploma.

I saw the writing on the wall and got my BSN a few years ago. Now my employer has told all nurses that they want 100% BSNs by the year 2018. They keep insisting no one will lose their jobs, but. . . would you want to take that chance? And not losing one's job doesn't mean you would stay in your current position.

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Specializes in HH, Peds, Rehab, Clinical.

Is your daughter 12? Why isn't she doing this research herself?

Sorry, I wasn't clear, she has been accepted into a accelerated BSN program, but is unsure if she should do that or just the diploma program. In regards to getting hired, will she have a hard time without the BSN, even though she has her BS? Sorry for the confusion
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Specializes in HH, Peds, Rehab, Clinical.

Right? Helicopter parents are something else

I hope my mom doesn't do this.:unsure:
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I'd go for the ASN (Associate's Degree in Nursing) and then bridge once she's passed her NCLEX and/or found a job. I have a previous BA in Arts, so Nursing was INCREDIBLY different for me. I first attempted an ABSN and struggled, just barely passing and then failing by a very low margin. But, I still failed.

I'm in a traditional ASN hospital program now and flourishing. Have your daughter find out what is necessary for each program (Choose 3-5, even with a bachelors, it's not always guaranteed she'll be accepted) and take the necessary exams for their application process. If you have any questions, feel free to PM me, I will help you if you need it.

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Right? Helicopter parents are something else

it sounds like she is just trying to understand it all herself! No. Shame in that.

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