Best Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs | 2025

Find the top 10 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs in 2025, comparing tuition, accreditation, curriculum, and career outcomes to choose the best path for your future.

BSN What is the best BSN program?
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A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the foundation for a rewarding and high-demand career in healthcare. Registered nurses are essential to patient care, providing critical support in hospitals, clinics, and community settings.

With multiple pathways into nursing, a BSN stands out for its ability to open doors to higher salaries, leadership roles, and specialized practice areas. But with so many programs to choose from, finding the right one can be a challenge.

To make your search easier, we've identified the 10 best BSN programs in 2025, comparing tuition, accreditation, curriculum, and career outcomes to help you find the best fit for your nursing future.

Best Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Programs 2025

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools, with the addition of NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Emory University 

Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing offers a traditional BSN program as well as an accelerated BSN for students with a prior bachelor's degree. With a low clinical faculty-to-student ratio of 8:1, students receive personalized instruction and hands-on experience from the start.

  • Location: Atlanta, Georgia
  • Cost: $57,948.00
  • Duration: 12-48 months
  • Accreditation: CCNE 

Traditional BSN Program Highlights: 

  • Seamless Transfer Pathway: Students from Emory College or Oxford College can transition into the BSN program in their junior year.
  • Clinical Experience: Partnerships with top healthcare institutions provide students with diverse and high-quality clinical rotations.
  • Advanced Learning Resources: Access to state-of-the-art simulation labs and research opportunities to enhance hands-on training.

Emory's BSN program provides a rigorous nursing education with strong clinical partnerships and personalized faculty support, preparing students for successful nursing careers.

2. University of Pennsylvania 

The University of Pennsylvania offers a traditional BSN track and an accelerated program. Students can work in a state-of-the-art simulation lab to get hands-on experience before entering the workforce.

  • Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylavnia
  • Cost: $63,452.00
  • Duration: 18-48 months 
  • Accreditation: CCNE

3. Duke University  

Duke University has been recognized as the best nursing school for men in the country by the American Association for Men in Nursing. They offer a full-time, campus-based accelerated BSN program that is one of the best in the nation.

  • Location: Durham, North Carolina
  • Cost: $63,054.00
  • Duration: 16 months 
  • Accreditation: CCNE

4. The Ohio State University 

The Ohio State University offers a traditional BSN program and a PATH2BSN program that works with local community colleges to help students earn an associate degree and move onto an online RN to BSN program.

  • Location: Columbus, Ohio
  • Cost: $35,019.00
  • Duration: 48 months 
  • Accreditation: CCNE

5. University of Illinois 

The University of Illinois offers a traditional BSN program that is two years in length. This full-time, hybrid program combines face-to-face instruction with hands-on training from the first day.

  • Location: Urbana-Champaign, Illinois
  • Cost: $32,099.00
  • Duration: 24 months 

6. University of Michigan 

The University of Michigan offers a traditional, four-year BSN program, beginning as a first- or second-year student. Sophomore students will begin their nursing program during the Summer term in late June or early July.

  • Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
  • Cost: $57,273.00
  • Duration: 48 months 
  • Accreditation: CCNE

7. Case Western Reserve University 

Case Western Reserve University offers a four-year program that leads to a BSN degree in which clinicals begin during the first semester. They also allow students to start MSN coursework during their fourth year as BSN students.

  • Location: Cleveland, Ohio
  • Cost: $62,234.00
  • Duration: 48 months 
  • Accreditation: CCNE

8. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers three BSN programs, a traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, and BSN Miliarty Pathway. All of these programs are on-campus.

  • Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
  • Cost (In-State): $32,255.00, $25,039 accelerated
  • Duration: Varies per program type 
  • Accreditation: CCNE

9. University of Washington 

The University of Washington offers a traditional BSN program, Accelerated BSN, and an ABSN with early DNP admission. The Accelerated BSN program takes half the time of the standard, two-year program. The ABSN with early DNP admission offers accelerated BSN students the opportunity to apply for admission to the DNP Nurse Midwifery track.

  • Location: Seattle, Washington
  • Cost: $40,740.00
  • Duration: 12-24 months  
  • Accreditation: CCNE

10. New York University

New York University has multiple BSN programs for prospective students to choose from. They offer a traditional 4-year, accelerated 15-month, second-degree transfer, and a global public health/nursing dual degree program.

  • Location: New York, New York
  • Cost: $58,168.00
  • Duration: 15-48 months
  • Accreditation: CCNE

What Is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program?

If you're considering a career in nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is your gateway to becoming a Registered Nurse (RN). This degree equips you with the clinical expertise, hands-on skills, and critical thinking abilities needed to provide quality patient care in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings.

A BSN goes beyond basic nursing skills, preparing you to assess complex health conditions, coordinate care across healthcare teams, and make informed clinical decisions. It also opens doors to specialized roles in public health, case management, mental health, informatics, among many others—giving you more career flexibility from the start.

Many healthcare employers now prefer or require a BSN because it emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, research, and evidence-based practice and has been proven to improve patient outcomes. Earning your BSN also positions you for future opportunities in advanced nursing roles, such as a nurse practitioner (NP), nurse anesthetist (CRNA), or nurse leader.

With a BSN, you'll gain greater job security, career growth, and access to leadership opportunities—making it one of the best investments in your future as a nurse.

Where Do BSN-Prepared Nurses Work?

Nurses with a BSN have a wide array of career opportunities beyond traditional bedside roles. While many work in hospitals and acute care settings, BSN-prepared nurses are also found in public health, home care, case management, and specialized clinical areas like labor and delivery, critical care, ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), and trauma nursing.

In addition to direct patient care, BSN nurses play key roles in care coordination, policy development, healthcare administration, and education. Many also pursue independent career paths, starting their own businesses in areas such as legal nurse consulting, nurse coaching, health education, and wellness consulting.

With a BSN, you can work in diverse healthcare environments, including:

  • Hospitals
  • Nursing Homes
  • Home Care Agencies
  • Physician Offices
  • Educational Services
  • Government Agencies
  • Schools
  • Community Centers
  • Hospices
  • Dialysis Centers
  • Telephonic and Virtual Care Settings
  • Independent business owners

BSN Coursework & Curriculum

BSN programs build on core nursing education, preparing students with advanced clinical skills, leadership training, and evidence-based practice. While many foundational nursing courses overlap with ADN programs, a BSN curriculum typically includes expanded coursework in research, public health, and healthcare leadership, offering a broader perspective on nursing practice.

  • Advanced Health Assessment: Comprehensive patient evaluations.
  • Pharmacology and Nursing Math: Medication administration, pharmacological principles, and dosing calculations.
  • Advanced Nursing Practices: Complex nursing interventions and patient care techniques.
  • Adult Health Nursing: Care for adult patients with various health conditions.
  • Pediatric Nursing: Specialized care for infants, children, and adolescents.
  • Maternal and Neonatal Nursing: Care for mothers and newborns.
  • Mental Health Nursing: Study of psychiatric and mental health conditions.
  • Community and Public Health Nursing: Nursing practice in community settings and health promotion.
  • Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Research methods and evidence-based practices.
  • Leadership and Management in Nursing: Leadership skills and healthcare management.
  • Nursing Ethics and Legal Aspects: Ethical and legal issues in nursing practice.

While BSN programs cover the clinical foundations of nursing, they also provide a strong emphasis on research, leadership, and public health, preparing graduates for a wider range of roles in healthcare settings.

BSN Clinical Training 

Clinical training in BSN programs is essential for developing the comprehensive nursing skills needed for entry-level RN roles. Through direct and indirect care experiences, students gain the practical competencies required for professional nursing practice.

Key Components of Entry-Level BSN Clinical Training

  • Specialized Nursing Rotations – Exposure to various specialty areas, which may include:
    • Medical-Surgical Nursing – Broad foundational experience in hospital settings
    • Women's Health – Focused care for maternal and reproductive health
    • Pediatrics – Caring for infants, children, and adolescents
    • Geriatrics – Managing age-related health conditions
  • Acute/Critical Care Clinicals – Hands-on experience managing patients with complex health conditions, applying advanced nursing interventions in hospital settings.
  • Community & Public Health Clinicals – Practical experience in public health settings, working on health promotion, disease prevention, and population health initiatives.
  • Leadership & Management Clinicals – Opportunities to shadow nurse leaders, participate in healthcare administration projects, and develop decision-making skills for supervisory roles.
  • Simulation Labs – Controlled environment training that allows students to practice high-risk scenarios, clinical decision-making, and hands-on skills before working with real patients.

Consistent with the 2008 Baccalaureate Essentials from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), entry-level nursing programs do not have a universal clinical hour requirement. Graduates must complete sufficient direct and indirect practice experiences to meet end-of-program learning outcomes, including all Level 1 sub-competencies.

However, state boards of nursing may set specific expectations for hours and types of experiences. Nursing program accreditation, as outlined below, ensures programs meet state and national licensure requirements.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program Pathways

While all BSN programs have the same end goal, there are different avenues students can take to get there.

  1. Traditional BSN: A standard four-year bachelor's degree program.
  2. Accelerated BSN: Condenses the same educational content into a shorter period, typically 12-24 months.
  3. RN to BSN: Bridge programs designed for those with an associate degree in nursing, allowing them to advance their education without completing a full traditional BSN program.
  4. LPN to BSN: A pathway for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to advance their careers by earning a BSN degree, bridging their practical nursing education with a comprehensive BSN curriculum, and expanding their scope of practice and career opportunities.
  5. BSN RN Programs for Non-Nursing Graduates: Tailored for individuals holding a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field, offering a streamlined curriculum that focuses on essential nursing courses for a swift transition into the nursing profession.

Traditional BSN Admission Requirements

Traditional BSN program requirements are rigorous to ensure students can meet the academic and clinical demands of nursing school. Admission prerequisites courses and minimal requirements are similar across most programs, but looking at specific program requirements before application is necessary. BSN admission requirements typically include:

  • Verification of a high school diploma or GED. BSN programs typically prefer a cumulative high school GPA of at least 2.75 or associate program work.
  • Prerequisite Courses: Specific coursework requirements vary by program, so consult your chosen program for precise prerequisites. Many programs will have a higher GPA expectation for their required healthcare-related courses.
  • Pre-Entrance Examination: Tests such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI (Health Education Systems, Inc.).
  • Criminal Background Check: Ensures patient safety and complies with healthcare regulations.
  • Drug Screening: Ensures a drug-free environment and adherence to healthcare standards.
  • Health Assessment: Validates that students meet the physical requirements essential for performing nursing duties.
  • Immunization Requirements: Ensures the safety of students and patients by preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
  • Additional Criteria: Some programs may also require volunteer work, submission of resumes, and provision of references to support the application.

The requirements vary depending on your starting point and chosen pathway. For instance, RN to BSN programs typically necessitate an associate degree in nursing, an RN license, and occasionally bedside experience as a registered nurse. It's essential to verify the specific requirements of the schools you intend to apply to.

BSN Program Prerequisite Courses 

Though prerequisite courses can vary on the institutional nursing program, most require the same general courses to complete before applying. The standard prerequisite courses may include, but are not limited to:

  • Biology + Lab
  • Chemistry + Lab
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology + Lab
  • Microbiology + Lab
  • Nutrition
  • Pathophysiology 
  • Sociology 
  • General Psychology
  • Math; some programs require statistics, while others only need an algebra course or higher 

Traditional BSN Program Costs 

The financial commitment associated with BSN programs is subject to variability based on multiple factors. It is imperative to carefully assess the following elements when gauging the financial aspects of enrolling in a BSN RN program:

  • Tuition: Varied across institution types and residency statuses, with private institutions and non-residents typically facing higher costs.
  • Books and Supplies: Ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, covering essentials such as textbooks, medical supplies, and materials like school uniform scrubs.
  • Technology: Additional charges may apply for technology, software, or online resources, particularly in the context of hybrid programs.
  • Lab Fees: Specific courses like Nursing Health Assessment may mandate fees to offset expenses related to materials or equipment usage, contributing to the overall program costs.
  • Clinical Fees: Traditional BSN programs include clinical learning components, which come with expenses beyond tuition. These costs typically cover nursing uniforms, clinical equipment, background checks, immunizations, and travel to and from clinical sites. Fees may vary based on each nursing specialty course, as different rotations may require additional supplies or specific clinical site fees.
  • Miscellaneous Fees: Encompasses application and graduation fees, travel expenses for clinicals, and various administrative costs that can collectively accumulate significantly.
  • Living Expenses: Particularly relevant for individuals not employed during the program or those undergoing relocation for their BSN RN pursuit. This factor introduces an additional layer to the comprehensive financial planning required for prospective students.

Additional Cost Considerations

  • Opportunity Costs: Working professionals may need to reduce their work hours, resulting in lower earnings—an important indirect cost to factor in.
  • Long-term Return on Investment: Consider the potential long-term benefits of different programs, such as enhanced networking opportunities, superior educational quality, and improved job placement rates.
  • Personal Situations: Factors like childcare responsibilities or maintaining employment during studies can influence the financial planning required for a program.
  • Accreditation and Reputation: Verify that the program is properly accredited and assess its reputation for future job prospects and earning potential.
  • Financial Aid and Scholarships: Investigate available financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and employer-sponsored tuition reimbursement programs.

Effective financial planning is crucial for managing educational expenses. When evaluating BSN programs, it is essential to thoroughly research and understand the complete cost of each program, as fees can vary significantly between nursing schools. To identify potential cost-saving opportunities, consider reviewing the Most Affordable BSN Programs of 2025 and the Best Ways to Pay for Nursing School.

2025 BSN RN Salary Expectations

If you're thinking about pursuing a BSN, it's important to know that salaries in this field are influenced by several key factors. Your specialty, experience level, and the employer you choose can significantly impact your potential earnings. While some employers offer higher salaries to nurses with BSN degrees, many also provide substantial tuition reimbursement programs to support further education. Additionally, your salary can vary widely depending on your location, the type of healthcare facility where you work, and your level of experience. Keep these considerations in mind as you plan your educational and career journey in nursing.

To assist in your decision-making, we have detailed the variations in RN salaries as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Statistics (BLS).

RN Wage

  • Mean Hourly Wage: $45.42
  • Mean Annual Wage: $94,480.00

Top Paying States for RNs

  • California: $137,690.00
  • Hawaii: $119,710.00
  • Oregon: $113,440.00
  • Washington: $111,030.00
  • Alaska: $109,210.00

In addition to bedside nursing, other nursing fields that can vary in salary include nursing informatics, public health nursing, nursing research, insurance industry jobs, working with pharmaceutical and medical supply companies, and more.

The top industries where nurses have the highest employment rates are as follows:

  • General Medical & Surgcal Hospitals (1,749,320) $96,830.00
  • Offices of Physcians (220,070) $83,110.00
  • Home Health Care (179,530) $87,430.00
  • Outpatient Care Centers (163,630) $102,640.00

The top three highest-paying industries for registered nurses are:

  • Government (97,940) $114,860.00
  • Employment Services (130,890) $110,230.00
  • Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing (80) $108,640.00

Typically, there is a noticeable income gap between ADN-prepared and BSN-prepared RNs, with BSN RNs generally earning higher salaries. However, the BLS does not differentiate between these educational levels in its salary reports. Using data from ZipRecruiter, we can identify the salary differences between ADN RNs and BSN RNs.

Average ADN RN Salary

  • Hourly Wage: $39.00
  • Annual Wage: $80,321.00

Average BSN RN Salary

  • Hourly Wage: $49.00
  • Annual Wage: $102,263.00

U.S states with the highest BSN RN salaries are: 

  • Washington: $115,823.00
  • Washington D.C.: $115,560.00
  • New York: $111,879.00
  • Massachusetts: $111,684.00
  • Alaska: $110,132.00

By understanding these factors and differences in nursing salaries, you can make informed decisions about your nursing education and career to maximize your earning potential. To further analyze the differences in nursing salaries, check out the allnurses Nursing Salary Guide.

BSN RN Job Projection 

In 2023, the U.S. nursing workforce numbered 3,300,100 professionals. The BLS forecasts a faster than average, 6% employment growth in the nursing sector by 2033, adding about 197,200 new nursing positions. Additionally, there will be around 194,500 job openings for registered nurses each year over the next decade.

This growth presents significant opportunities for aspiring nurses. Contributing factors include a current nurse shortage, declining nursing program enrollments, and the expected retirement of many nurses over the next twenty years. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for skilled nurses remains high, driven by the healthcare needs of an aging population.

Regional job competition varies, with some areas having a higher concentration of nurses. For instance, certain regions may experience greater demand for nurses than others. Each state has unique healthcare needs, so it's essential to research local healthcare demands when planning your nursing career.

Is Pursuing a Bachelor's in Nursing Worth It?

Pursuing a BSN is a strategic move. While an associate in nursing provides a good foundation, a bachelor's degree offers more specialized career paths. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), 28% of employers now require a BSN, and 72% prefer BSN-educated nurses. This underscores the importance of a BSN for those looking to meet the growing demand for highly skilled nurses and enhance their career prospects.

Choosing the right path for your nursing education can significantly impact your career trajectory. Understanding the pros and cons of pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is essential. Here's a look at the advantages and disadvantages to help you make an informed decision:

Pros of Pursuing a BSN

  1. High Educational Standards: BSN programs provide a comprehensive range of nursing education, establishing a strong foundation in both clinical skills and theoretical knowledge.
  2. Career Advancement Opportunities: Many healthcare institutions prefer or require BSN-educated nurses, offering the chance to pursue specialized fields such as pediatrics, oncology, leadership, and research.
  3. Higher Salary Potential: BSN-trained nurses often qualify for higher-paying positions and have more leverage in salary negotiations compared to those with an ADN.
  4. Improved Patient Outcomes: Research indicates that BSN-prepared nurses are associated with better patient outcomes due to their training in critical thinking, leadership, and management.
  5. Professional Recognition: Leading nursing organizations endorse the BSN as the standard for nursing education, ensuring compliance with industry benchmarks.

Cons of Pursuing a BSN

  1. Higher Education Costs: Pursuing a BSN requires a significant financial investment of both time and money, including potential student loans and a longer period without full-time income.
  2. Demanding Curriculum: BSN programs cover a broad and challenging curriculum, including clinical skills, research, leadership, and public health, which can be academically demanding.
  3. Adjustments to Student Life: You might encounter unique lifestyle adjustments that may require some adaptation.
  4. Competitive Job Market: In areas with a high concentration of BSN graduates, job competition can be intense, similar to the challenges faced by those with an ADN.
  5. Longer Time to Graduate: Completing a BSN takes longer than an ADN, potentially delaying your entry into the workforce, which could be a significant consideration for those eager to start their careers quickly.

By evaluating these factors in relation to your career goals and personal circumstances, you can make a well-informed decision about your nursing education path.

How to Choose a Nursing School

Reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.

Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

  1. Cost
  2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
  3. Location
  4. Academic Reputation
  5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
  6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
  7. Flexibility of Schedule
  8. Curriculum
  9. Campus and Surroundings
  10. Nursing Clinicals Location
  11. Availability of Online Courses

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that are the best fit for them.

Related...
Fastest BSN Programs 2025
Best, Fastest, Cheapest & Top Online RN to BSN Programs 2025

Does Nursing Program Accreditation Matter?

In addition to the factors mentioned earlier, accreditation is one of the most significant considerations when choosing a nursing school and should be deemed non-negotiable. Here are some of the reasons why the accreditation of your BSN program is crucial:

  • National Standards: 
    • Accredited programs uphold national standards in nursing education curriculum, faculty qualifications, resources, and clinical training.
    • Subject to regular evaluations, ensuring continual alignment with the latest educational benchmarks.
  • Prerequisite for Licensing: 
    • Graduating from an accredited program is often a mandatory requirement for state licensure in many states.
    •  A crucial step for practicing as a registered nurse, emphasizing the program's recognition and compliance with professional standards.
  • Career Opportunities:
    • Employers frequently prioritize graduates from accredited programs, signifying a top-tier education in line with national standards.
    • Expands career options and provides flexibility for roles like travel nursing or relocation, particularly in states mandating nursing school accreditation.
  • Credit Transfer:
    • Credits earned in an accredited ADN or BSN RN program are more likely to be accepted by other nursing institutions.
    • Facilitates seamless transitions for transfer students or those pursuing advanced nursing degrees like an MSN or DNP.
  • Professional Recognition:
    • Completion of an accredited nursing program enhances professional credibility.
    • Showcases education and training in alignment with national standards for nursing practice, contributing to a robust and comprehensive learning experience.

BSN programs that have been accredited by organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) adhere to strict national standards for nursing education. This ensures that nursing students receive comprehensive training and are well-prepared to enter the nursing workforce upon graduation.

BSN Programs Near Me

Discover the best RN to BSN programs in the following states:

If you're not interested in a nursing program in these states, explore options near or far from home here: Nursing Programs Near Me. 

More Entry-Level Nursing Program Options

Undergraduate Entry-Level Nursing Programs

Graduate Entry-Level Nursing Programs (must hold non-nursing bachelors)

FAQ and Additional Reading

Is pursuing a BSN degree worth it?

Yes, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is highly worthwhile. While Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) RNs can secure employment, many healthcare employers prioritize or require BSN-prepared nurses. A BSN can lead to higher salaries, greater job opportunities, and career advancement in leadership or specialized nursing roles. Additionally, many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs to support RNs in obtaining their BSN, making it a valuable long-term investment.

How hard is nursing school? 

Nursing school is challenging but achievable. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the complexities of patient care and the professionalism required in the field. Students must manage demanding coursework, exams, and hands-on clinical training, all while developing critical thinking and technical skills for real-world nursing scenarios.

Success in nursing school requires strong time management, dedication, and resilience, but with the right mindset and support, students can rise to the challenge and build a rewarding career in nursing.

Is it possible to work while in school for my BSN? 

There are many different options when it comes to BSN programs. While many require you to be a full-time student, there are options for part-time programs and some online and distance learning. Again, this will vary significantly from program to program, so looking at all options before selecting a nursing program is essential.

What is the average cost of a BSN program?

Nursing school costs vary greatly depending on where you attend. Average prices can range from $40,000 to $100,000 at a private university and anywhere from $13,000 to $17,000 at a public school.

Can I obtain my BSN online?

For students just entering the nursing field or those with an license in practical nursing, in-person clinical training is essential to developing hands-on nursing skills. Traditional BSN programs typically require students to complete on-campus coursework and in-person clinical rotations to gain real-world patient care experience.

However, some BSN programs are offered in a hybrid format and combine online coursework with in-person clinical requirements, allowing students to complete theoretical components remotely while attending scheduled hands-on training at healthcare facilities. These programs offer flexibility while still ensuring students meet the essential clinical competencies required for RN licensure.

Alternatively, students can complete an ADN program first and then enroll in a fully online RN to BSN program with little to no clinical requirements. Since ADN-prepared RNs already have licensure and hands-on patient care experience, these programs typically focus on theory, leadership, and advanced nursing concepts rather than additional clinical training.

Related...
Best Fastest BSN Programs | 2025

Can I join a BSN program without a nursing background?

Yes, you can enroll in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program without prior RN experience or nursing education. Many traditional BSN programs are designed for students with no nursing background, providing the foundational coursework and clinical training needed to become a registered nurse (RN).

For those who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree, accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs offer a fast-track pathway by focusing only on nursing-specific courses and skipping general education requirements. These programs build on previous academic experience, allowing students to transition into nursing more efficiently while gaining the hands-on skills and clinical experience required for licensure.

What is the difference between an ADN and a BSN?

Both an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) qualify graduates for RN licensure, but a BSN offers more job flexibility and career opportunities. While ADN programs focus on core clinical skills, BSN programs include broader coursework in research, evidence-based practice, and public health, expanding where and how nurses can work.

Many healthcare employers prefer or require a BSN, and research links higher percentages of BSN-prepared nurses to better patient outcomes and lower mortality rates. A BSN also provides a foundation for career advancement, including specialized nursing roles, education, and advanced practice degrees.

Do BSN RNs make more than ADN RNs?

The variation in salary between BSN and ADN RNs is influenced by factors like regional location and the type of facility where they work. According to ZipRecruiter, ADN nurses have a national average annual salary of $80,321, with the majority earning between $61,500 and $90,000. In contrast, BSN RNs earn an average of $102,263 annually, with most falling within the $72,00 to $123,000 range. 

Is financial aid available for nursing students?

Almost all nursing degree programs offer some financial aid. You can contact the financial assistance office of the program or university you plan to attend to learn about your options.

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Lauren Thayer

About Lauren Thayer, RN

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Kou Vang

Kou Vang

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Can you make an article or list of ABSN programs in the US that does not have a wait list? Please and thank you. 

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