Resume writing (RN,BA or just RN??)

Nurses Career Support

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Specializes in Rehab/Post Acute.

I have a bachelors degree (used to be a teacher), and went back for my ADN in nursing. Just passed NCLEX, and applying for first job out of nursing school. On my resume I just had "My Name, RN" but noticed sample resumes with "name, rn, bsn". Then I saw one that had "RN, BA". Would it look odd to put that on my resume , or should I put "my name, RN"?? I had one instructor who told me to put both (RN, BA) she said put as many initials as I can LOL--- but you get different answers from different people.

I have a BSN and I do use that credential on my resume. However, from an employer's standpoint, I would not use the degree designation next to my name unless the degree was related to nursing. Generally, the degree designation is used to differentiate the level of preparation since nursing has different levels of entry points. You would want to list your BA in education on the resume under education history, after your nursing education. Sometimes, candidates will use a non-nursing BA or MA credential if it is related to the job that they are applying for (say you are applying for an administrative position and you have a BA or MA in business, accounting, management, etc.).

Specializes in Rehab/Post Acute.

Gotcha! Thanks! I was confused! Whatever works to get a job haha!!!

Specializes in Hematology/Oncology.

I am in a similar situation -- I already had a BA, just graduated with an ADN, passed the NCLEX and became an RN. I just put My Name, RN on my resume. I listed my BA and its details under Education. I do think the BA is a "good thing" -- it suggests that you are well-rounded, and generally educated, which are good qualities in any employee, nurse or otherwise. But, since it wasn't relevant/contributory to the job I was seeking (as a nurse), it seemed silly to tack in onto my name. And I did get a job, FWIW! Good luck!

I would certainly include the "other" degree on a resumé -- it's a significant and meaningful accomplishment -- but I wouldn't use "BA" in combination with my nursing credentials, either in signing records in clinical settings, or with my name on the top of a resumé. In healthcare, it's customary to only list (after your name) credentials/degrees directly connected to your healthcare role/position.

Specializes in Rehab/Post Acute.

Thanks! I didn't include the BA in my name-- just applied for a few jobs. Just saw it somewhere on someone's credentials, and didn't know if I should. WAnted to double check. Thanks!!!!!!!

What if the BA was in biological premed sciences and they provided the necessary prerequisites to getting your RN?

What if the BA was in biological premed sciences and they provided the necessary prerequisites to getting your RN?

Regarding the above post, I was initially premed, then later, after 3 kids, went back for my RN.

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