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Discussion

RN -ASN vs BSN -

Hello,

I've heard that finding an RN position within the hospital setting is nearly impossible without obtaining your BSN. Can somebody tell me if this is common practice nationwide? I live in Southern California and have heard that across the board around here. HOPING it is just an urban myth but it seems not to be. I am finishing up my Pre-req's under the UC guidelines for transfer purposes but ideally, I would like to complete my ASN, obtain my RN license and work right away while completing my BSN on the side. I am a single mother and the prospect of living off of student loans without being able to suplement my income is frightening if not an impossibility. Can somebody tell me more about what the best avenues are? I have an appointment to see my counselor next month but would love feedback from those on the front lines as well as any suggestions on questions I should pose to my counselor.

Many Thanks,

J

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    • Featured Replies

    I am researching the answer to this exact same question. I am in N CA, but probably not much difference. Looking forward to seeing the responses. Good luck with your degree as well!

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    • Author

    So we're in the same boat? Have you heard the same thing, too? About hospitals passing over applicants with ASN RN licenses? I wish you all the best on your journey as well! :-)

    J

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    Here in the Houston, Tx area, all hospitals in the medical center will only hire BSN new grads; likewise in most of the larger hospitals throughout the city. Everyone is moving toward the "80% BSN" goal in 2020.

    I understand the OP's concern about incurring student loans. However, I would like to encourage her to explore the loan repayment options associated with working in Federally underserved areas. The nursing school admissions/financial counselor should be able to provide this info.

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    • Expert

    Jobs stink everywhere there is NO shortage. Search the site there are many reason to pursue either degree at first ie:money. But If you are looking at the beginning of a lengthy career you will need to get your BSN eventually.

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    I too wanted to get an ASN first, work a few years, and hope my employer would pay for my BSN. Well, before taking the plunge, I did some research and found out all the hospitals in my area are either Magnet or trying to become Magnet status, which means all new hires must be BSNs and any current ASN nurses must go back to school for the BSN or be fired. So, I'm paying a little more (I'm in an ABSN program) to be competitive in the market.

    Also, I know there is a bit of frustration for the new grad RNs who are finding it tough to gain employment (whether ASN or BSN), but in my area about 4 hospitals are hiring new grads (with no experience). Really depends on the area.

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    Go for the BSN! This is ultimately what you'll have to do anyways. Good luck to you.

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    BSN is the way to go, especially out in CA (from what I've read). Its extremely competitive. Jobs are few, the economy sucks, and every hospital wants a BSN. Save yourself the self-grief and get the BSN. Make connections and network with hospital employees/family/friends while you're in school and before you graduate.

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