Help!!! Can you obtain a bachelors degree if you do not have an associates degree?

Editorial Team / Admin · Feb 8, 2016

Welcome to AN! There are many options for obtaining a prelicensure nursing degree: diploma program, associates degree, bachelors degree, and direct-entry masters degree. The best way to find out which program is best for you is to evaluate the job market in your area. While there is no legislation requiring a BSN, many employers are moving to requiring it for hire or an agreement that it will be earned within a set time period. Look at job postings and see if the majority state BSN preferred or BSN required- that can help influence your decision.

Finding programs can be made easier by checking with your state BON's website for a list of approved programs while also checking the ACEN and CCNE websites for accreditation status. Attending an approved program ensure you are eligible to sit for NCLEX and attending an accredited program can make it easier to further your education in the future.

jengarcia87 · Feb 8, 2016

Thank you, that should help :)

Also, can I obtain my bachelors degree in nursing without having an associates degree or do I have to get my ASN (2yrs) first & then persuade my BSN (4yrs)?

rpowers29 · Feb 8, 2016

Welcome! I also just started my nursing journey but in a slightly different position. I second a lot of what Rose_Queen says. A good idea might be to do an ASN program to get your feet wet and be able to start working sooner. This will not only get you experience, but there are employers who will reimburse at least some tuition costs to do an RN to BSN completion program! While not all employers offer this, it is an enticing option to consider.

Additionally, some programs require or recommend that you become a Nursing Assistant. This is also a good way to get experience in the field before becoming a nurse!

rpowers29 · Feb 8, 2016

You can do either route separately. ASN in 2 years (there are generally pre-req courses you need too so more realistically 3 years), or BSN in 4. You do not need the ASN to take a BSN program. Keep in mind that some BSN programs are awfully competitive and it might take longer than 4 years based on how you apply and are admitted to the programs and clinicals. Some programs have waitlists for their clinical portion.

pmabraham, BSN, RN · Feb 8, 2016

In our geographic area, a number of hospitals will hire a A.D. and diploma-based RN as long as you will get your BSN within 5 years of being hired. This makes getting an A.D. before a BSN extremely economical, and once an R.N. the RN to BSN programs are cheaper (at least in our area) than if one went straight BSN. Check out your area for hiring requirements, and if there are any exceptions.

Zyprexa_Ho · Feb 9, 2016

APRN., DNP, RN, APRN, NP · Feb 9, 2016

Hello! I have been out of school since high school and now going back to school. I had my mind set on getting my ASN but now I hear that most places will require a BSN. Do you have to get your Associate degree in nursing first and then get your Bachelors or can you go straight for your BSN?? Any comments or suggestions would really help! Thanks!!!

No. You do not need to get a 2 year (ASN) degree before a 4 year BSN degree.

You can go straight into a BSN program out of high school and finish in 4 years with your BSN.

verene, MSN · Feb 9, 2016

You do not need to get an ASN in order to apply to BSN programs, you can directly enter a 4 year university and work towards getting your BSN. You could also take pre-reqs at a community college and then transfer to a 4 year school for BSN.

Also depending on your area the requirement for BSN may not be a "hard" requirement. The hospital I work for requires "BSN within 5 years of hire" but does still hire ASN grads who sign a contract to work towards their BSN.