How far will a BSN take me?

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Specializes in ICU.

I know this is a broad question but I'm wondering how I could maximize my BSN? I like being a staff nurse but what might be next? Is management, clinical or administrative, the natural career evolution for BSN's? Or are there other directions?

Thanks,

Dave

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it is an open door for further education or many jobs for manager etc

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Specializes in ER.
I know this is a broad question but I'm wondering how I could maximize my BSN? I like being a staff nurse but what might be next? Is management, clinical or administrative, the natural career evolution for BSN's? Or are there other directions?

Thanks,

Dave

There is no natural progression, a BSN can take you anywhere you like. If you want to get into mgt. that is certainly something you might aspire to. Education is something you could try, either as ACLS, BLS instructor, or clinical educator for a department speciality.

If you go either route, it is likely you would be required to obtain a MSN within a period of time determined by your employer. You could teach clinicals in many associate programs, LPN schools or CNA classes.

Many case management positions require a BSN.

I have sampled many of the above, and after many years of nursing, find I am happiest working 2-3 shifts per week as an ER staff nurse. Don't ask me to take charge, don't ask me to be a preceptor. I don't care if I can get points on my eval for the above. The difference in 3% and 4% pay raise is a matter of pennies anyway, and not worth the hassle. Let the young ones do it, and leave us contented ones alone, besides, my feet hurt! :lol2:

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A BSN can get you a job as nurse educator for a hospital. Also, a BSN can allow you to teach clinicals for nursing schools, although you may not be able to teach nursing lectures. I am sure that there are other avenues.

Good Luck, maximize your potential!

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Specializes in Executive, DON, CM, Utilization.

I have a BS in nursing which is more science background then

a straight BSN. I went directly into Administrative nursing; and

yet I did loads of clinical for when I was in school I got down and

dirty working as a NA, and was encouraged to do LVN or LPN

duties with supervision. I did most of my clinical nursing pre

RN licensure and am and have been able in managing large groups

of nurses to perform, work stepdown ICU and also was published

in medical legal scholarly journals prior to sitting for my NCLEX.

It's all in who you are and where you want to go. Our

profession needs dedicated humans who are leaders within

their own decisive ranks; that means follow your talents not

your pocketbook, you will find your growth unreal.

Karen G.

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having a BSN opens all kinds of doors. you can let it take you anywhere you want from quality management, bedside nursing, clinical instructor for ADN program, to pharmeceutical sales. its all up to what you want to make out of it.

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Specializes in OB/GYN, Med/Surg, Family Practice.
I have a BS in nursing which is more science background then

a straight BSN. I went directly into Administrative nursing; and

yet I did loads of clinical for when I was in school I got down and

dirty working as a NA, and was encouraged to do LVN or LPN

duties with supervision. I did most of my clinical nursing pre

RN licensure and am and have been able in managing large groups

of nurses to perform, work stepdown ICU and also was published

in medical legal scholarly journals prior to sitting for my NCLEX.

It's all in who you are and where you want to go. Our

profession needs dedicated humans who are leaders within

their own decisive ranks; that means follow your talents not

your pocketbook, you will find your growth unreal.

Karen G.

I'm curious... What's the difference between the degree you say you've earned (BS in nursing) and a BSN? I have a BSN and according to Penn State (where I earned my degree), a BSN is a "bachelor's of science degree in nursing"...I would think that it's the same as a BS in nursing. It seems that way when it's read. I'm just looking for clarification.

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Specializes in Home Care, Hospice, OB.

a bsn is anything you'd like it to be--management, sales, teaching (lpn level) staff development, community health---or, staying in a hospital you love. it doesn't mandate you leave the bedside, but gives a ton more options should you choose to.:twocents:

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I'm curious... What's the difference between the degree you say you've earned (BS in nursing) and a BSN? I have a BSN and according to Penn State (where I earned my degree), a BSN is a "bachelor's of science degree in nursing"...I would think that it's the same as a BS in nursing. It seems that way when it's read. I'm just looking for clarification.

I'm not 100% sure, but I think it's like this: if you go to a school that has an individual school of nursing you get a BSN, and if your school has a department in nursing (but no school of nursing) you get a BS with an "emphasis" in nursing. I think they are both the same, and prepare students in simialr methods.

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Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.
I'm not 100% sure, but I think it's like this: if you go to a school that has an individual school of nursing you get a BSN, and if your school has a department in nursing (but no school of nursing) you get a BS with an "emphasis" in nursing. I think they are both the same, and prepare students in simialr methods.

You're right. It's an administrative thing that deals with what groups within the school/college/university have to approve of courses, policies, etc. If the school offers a BS with a major in nursing, then the larger academic community probably has a greater say in approving its policies etc. An administratively separate program has more independence in its decision-making. Within either type of program, it's up to the decision-makers to decide what the specific requirements are, etc. So, there is no consistency as to how a BS (Nursing) and a BSN might differ. That's up to the individual policy makers to decide and varies across the country.

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Specializes in ICU.

Thanks, everyone. When I started my BSN program, my long term goal was to be a nurse practitioner. Now that I'm out in the real world I'm thinking more in terms of what can I do with what I already have. It doesn't seem, from what I've learned, a MSN isn't necessarily helpful in management or many other areas.

Dave

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Specializes in Executive, DON, CM, Utilization.

Good Morning!

In short a BS in Nursing equates to more "science" background in the nursing course load for any university so offering. More science courses.

Outcomes for candidates with a 4 year degree will be totally contingent on their goals; their strengths and weaknesses. Also most are aware of the push and reality that a "professional nurse" is one with a 4 year degree; nothing less. I find this interesting in that so many "diploma" nurses are truly impressive, however, they have not far to go to attain that extra education!

For example becoming a nurse is a second or even third career for many; your talents prior to and your strengths will stand out in your choice of specialty and your focus.

Have a great day!

Karen G.

Sorry to reply so late but I do not check in daily!!

I'm curious... What's the difference between the degree you say you've earned (BS in nursing) and a BSN? I have a BSN and according to Penn State (where I earned my degree), a BSN is a "bachelor's of science degree in nursing"...I would think that it's the same as a BS in nursing. It seems that way when it's read. I'm just looking for clarification.
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