R.N. debating to pursue BSN

Martinezrn84, ADN, RN · Oct 31, 2019

Thank you all very much. It has actually helped me a lot in my decision. I just hate writing....love math....

if anybody reads this:

Do employers look for a BSN? Or just a bachelors of any kind? Ex: Informatiom Technology or computer science?

Ella26, BSN, RN · Oct 31, 2019

For a nursing position, they’re going to want a BSN.

Hoosier_RN, MSN · Oct 31, 2019

1 hour ago, Martinezrn84 said:
Do employers look for a BSN? Or just a bachelors of any kind? Ex: Informatiom Technology or computer science?

Depends on the employer and job. Generally, if in the nursing chain, or acute care, will need to be BSN. In some management, healthcare related, or other, not necessarily. Look at where you want to be goal wise, and see what is needed for that. In some cases, especially Magnet facilities, or for NP, it would have to be a BSN. It would be a shame to go get any bachelors, and find out its worthless after spending the money

kbrn2002, ADN, RN · Oct 31, 2019

That can be a difficult decision as there are many factors at play. First is your local job market. Will a BSN be beneficial for future job mobility or do you think you might someday move to an area where a BSN is virtually required to land a job? Do your career goals point you in a direction where the higher degree will be necessary?

Another factor is your age and experience. Do a quick cost analysis. Will your earning potential increase enough to pay for the degree and profit from it enough to make the debt a good investment.

If you do decide the BSN is the way to go please research your schooling options. Some schools like the online based program at WGU are reasonably priced and seem to be well respected in the nursing community. Some schools will you will end up with a 6 figure student loan debt to get that degree.

OUxPhys, BSN, RN · Oct 31, 2019

If you want to work at a magnet facility then yes, you should get your BSN. Hospitals in my area still hire ADN's but they use to give you 5 years to get your BSN.....now the rumor is they will give you 3 years (they will pay of course) and if you don't get it you risk being terminated.

If the facility offers some form of reimbursement or pays for the whole thing then go ahead and get it.

bugya90, ASN, BSN, LVN, RN · Oct 31, 2019

You are still young and hopefully will have a long career ahead of you. the current trend is pushing for more BSNs (rather it is warranted or not). With that said, it may be mandatory for you in 10 years to get your BSN for your employer.

I am 30 and just finished my BSN a few months ago. I'm still in my same job (that I love) although I did get a small raise for the BSN. I don't want to go back into management at this point. However, I know I still have 30+ years of working ahead of me. I got my BSN now so I wouldn't have to do it later basically. I'd rather suffer through school now than when I'm in my 50's/60's when it could be come mandatory if the current trends hold up. If you were older and closer to retirement I would say the BSN is not worth it. However, like me, you probably have 20-30+ years ahead of you.

Yes it is a lot of research papers and can be mentally exhausting. However, most online programs can be completed in 1 year or less if you go full time. Many employers offer tuition assistance and some schools offer discounted rates if you work for an a partnered institution. Check with your employer and see if you get an education assistance and also apply for FASFA. Being a single mom you may qualify for aid.

mmc51264, BSN, MSN, RN · Nov 1, 2019

I did my BSN online at a school that is in the NC state university system. It was not very expensive, I did it in one calendar year and it was not a lot of writing. More discussion boards, a group project and a few short papers. Nothing horrible.

Try to get some idea of programs where you live. I was with my organization long enough that they paid for most of it too.

There are ways to do it that are not difficult and worth it in the long run. I went back in my late 40s. You can do it ?

Martinezrn84, ADN, RN · Nov 1, 2019

Thank you.....I really like technology and computers and my ultimate goal is to merge the two, but I notice that all the informatics degrees are MSN. So I think I will pursue my Bachelors, I’m just trying to find the degree that will get me to that goal...If anyone has any suggestions I am all ears! Thanks to everyone.

Ella26, BSN, RN · Nov 1, 2019

Can you look for RN-MSN tracks?....

Jedrnurse, BSN, RN · Nov 1, 2019

5 hours ago, Ella26 said:
Can you look for RN-MSN tracks?....

Good idea! Especially with today's "credential inflation"...

Hoosier_RN, MSN · Nov 1, 2019

I dont know where you are, but informatics...unless you are on one of the coast or in Chicago, it's almost worthless unless you already have experience or know someone. I almost did it until I figured it out. I have a Bachelors in computer science-programming, as well as my MSN, and in middle America, there isn't a lot of call for informatics specialists. I got the low down from my advisor as I was looking for jobs, and nada. Just putting it out there. Not saying it's not possible, just highly unlikely

Golden_RN, MSN · Nov 1, 2019

If you're thinking about public health, look at job postings for your county & state to see what they require. Most likely they require a BSN. You're only 35 and probably have decades left to work. A BSN will open a lot of doors. I have never regretted it, and found SO MUCH easier than the ADN.