How different is ASN vs. BSN?

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I know this may depend on the school, but generally, how different is the education level between an associates degree in nursing from a community college vs. a bachelor's in nursing from a university? Is the CC's education more easier and laid-back compared to a university's? Are their programs run differently?

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Oh goodness, so many threads on this. A debate may start comparing ASN & BSN programs. I highly recommend you use the allnurses search bar at the top right hand corner of your page--to the left of search-- & find your answers. Something like ASN compared to BSN, or difference between ADN & BSN. You will get so many lovely answers (and not so lovely answers). This is a topic that has been beaten to death.

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I know this may depend on the school but generally, how different is the education level between an associates degree in nursing from a community college vs. a bachelor's in nursing from a university? [b']Is the CC's education more easier and laid-back compared to a university's?[/b] Are their programs run differently?

I can't speak for others and where they live, but where I live, I've heard that it's actually the opposite (although both types of programs are still rigorous). Just what I've heard, though.

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I dunno..I have and ADN and our program was pretty rigorous! From what I know (where I went to school) we had a lot more clinical time than the BSN schools did. As stated, this topic has been run over the coals a few times!

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I really think its ultimately a program by program type of thing. In my area we have a community college and a University that both offer degrees in nursing and in this particular case, the CC has a more prestigious program and higher pass rates for the NCLEX than the university does. I don't think it would be fair to say that as a whole one is more relaxed or easier than the other because every program has different standards and different experience levels of faculty that are doing the teaching. The best thing to do is just research the programs you are interested in and make a decision based on the best fit for your individual situation.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

This subject is always showing up on AN and inspiring lots of debate/discussion.

As a nurse, we are taught that the basis of critical thinking is obtaining a sufficient amount of accurate information about the issue. AN users can offer opinions on the issue, but you should go to the 'original source' for information as well. Here is a well-designed (very readable) guide on this issue that was developed by my BON. It may provide some clarity. http://www.bon.texas.gov/about/pdfs/delc-2010.pdf

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Specializes in Hospice.

Judging from the first two weeks of my ADN program, there is nothing easier about it! The education of the nursing process will not differ that much from ADN to BSN. The difference comes with the additional courses in the BSN which will prepare you more for management and community health. I will be bridging to my BSN, but not because I feel like it will make me a "better" nurse. I think there is way more to being a nurse than how many letters you can put behind your signature. I want to do trauma, so I will probably need my BSN. It's all a matter of where you want to work in a profession that has many sub-fields.

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Specializes in Forensic Psych.

I don't know anyone that's done both a traditional BSN and an ADN, although I'm sure they're out there due to failing or moving or something like that. So anyway, I can't really speak to both.

My guess is anyone's experience with laid-backness and ease is probably more linked to the culture of the particular program, not the degree type. My ADN program is pretty laid back and has a high graduation rate, but one of our sister programs (ADN) is known for being ultra strict ad only retaining 50% of the cohort...tops. So it really just depends. Both should require the same knowledge since both are pre-licensure. BSN would prepare you for leadership and research.

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I say go with what everyone else has said! Everywhere is different. My ADN program is really tough and strict, but known around the community as the best program around the county. So, I think it just depends where you go.

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Are you looking for easy?

If so nursing is not for you.

Every nursing program is intense .

LPN,ADN,BSN

If you are on fence about which path.

Talk to nurses in your area, talk to students in your area.

I think BSN at least should be your goal.

You just need to pick your path.

Good luck

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There is a fairly large difference between the ASN and the BSN at my school at Goodwin College in Connecticut. Firstly, I believe that going for your BSN would be the best option for you even though it will take much longer than the ASN. However, there will be far more job opportunities and a much larger salary. I just started my first semester working toward my ASN this fall. At Goodwin, the ASN prepares you with plenty of classwork and science related classes as well as other classes that aid to the nursing career. Also, clinical practice is involved. The ASN requires a minimum of 71 credits which includes: 25 General Education Core Requirements, 11 Non-nursing Core Requirements, and 35 Nursing Core Requirements. Before taking any nursing courses, it is required to become admitted into the nursing program through an application process. By obtaining an ASN you are able to work in environments such as, doctor offices, clinics, and many hospital positions. On the other hand, the BSN allows for practice, knowledge, and skills for various settings a nurse could be placed in. It is required that you have a total of 120 credits and 20 hours of community service in order to graduate. The 120 hours includes: 40 General Education Core Requirements, six Programmatic General Education Requirements, eight Non-nursing Requirements, 35 Nursing Lower Division Major Core Requirements, 18 Nursing Upper Division Core Requirements, and 13 Electives. The BSN program can be completed in only 16 months if you are a full-time, hard-working student. Again, a BSN would be far more beneficial even though it may be somewhat difficult. However, I have heard good things from nurses of both degrees! Nursing - Goodwin College

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.
Are you looking for easy?

If so nursing is not for you.

Every nursing program is intense .

LPN,ADN,BSN

If you are on fence about which path.

Talk to nurses in your area, talk to students in your area.

I think BSN at least should be your goal.

You just need to pick your path.

Good luck

Best quote on this thread. :yes:

Been through PN (passed!!!), ADN (did not pass) and BSN programs (passed!!) both were rigorous and intense, TONs of clinical hours and practicum, writing, projects, and preparation.

ASN program was rigorous as well; at least the first semester I attended; was just as rigorous as my first semester of BSN and my first block of PN school...I'm sure it would've been the same way. :yes:

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