Published
Um, I'm not sure but I wouldn't think it would be accepted as an alternative to a BSN. I will be in the same boat as you though. I have a bachelors in biology and will start an ASN program in the fall. My school has an all online RN to BSN program in a 3,4, or 5 semester option. After I graduate from the ASN program, I plan in applying to the RN to BSN program. It's more work, but will be worth it in the long run. Maybe you can look into some program options like that. I've heard some hospitals will hire you and give you X amount of time to get your BSN. Good luck with whatever you do, and congrats on your upcoming graduation!
There is no substitute for a BSN, unfortunately. Employers aren't just gung-ho over bachelors degrees in general - they want that specific degree. Unfortunate for the large number of career changers in nursing.
But your degree definitely won't be wasted! You'll have moments in your education (and probably your practice) where you'll use all that knowledge and be really excited :)
A BSN is different from any other science baccalaureate degree since it focuses specifically on the nursing profession (nursing leadership, community nursing etc). It may give you a leg up against other ADNs applying for the same job, but most if not all hospitals strongly prefer BSNs due to the high number of new grad applicants (making it easy to be picky!)
Thank you to everyone that replied. That was basically what I was expecting to hear, I just NEEDED to hear it because nobody ever seemed to know for sure. It makes sense though to need the bachelors in nursing...so that you can learn what it takes to manage others in nursing specifically. Anyway, I think more than anything at this point I would like some on the job experience so that I can decide what route to take my education. I think it wise to be a little more clear about the direction of my education before I jump in the deep end! Thanks again for helping me see my way through that! Can't wait to be a licensed RN!
m20forshee
5 Posts
I am a soon to be graduate from an associate degree program in nursing (RN). I received my bachelor degree in Exercise Science prior to starting the nursing program. I have always wanted to use my other degree along with my associates degree in nursing. Are there jobs out there that allow for this? I know that in Idaho a lot of the hospitals are talking about requiring a bachelor degree in nursing to be able to work in them. Does anyone know if having a bachelors in a health-related field would be an acceptable alternative? Thank you!