RN and BSN- difference???

Nursing Students General Students

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Hello all. I have decided to change my career and will be applying to a 2 year Rn program for an associates. I already have a B.A in Liberal Arts. So I have alot of the credits already. My question is what is the difference between a RN and a BSN?

Thank you!

Specializes in Trauma,ER,CCU/OHU/Nsg Ed/Nsg Research.

A BSN is a bachelor's-prepared RN. Both ASNs (associate's) and BSNs are RNs. Since you already have a BA, you may want to consider doing an accelerated BSN program, depending on how many science credits you have under your belt.

Will move thread to general student nursing discussion forum to encourage more responses.

Specializes in Nursing Professional Development.

"RN" means "Registered Nurse" and it is a license granted by the state. After graduating from an approved nursing program, the person takes a test (NCLEX-RN) and, if they pass, they are granted the "RN" license.

Several different types of academic programs have been approved to qualify their graduates to take the NCLEX-RN and be granted the RN license by the state. They include Associate Degree programs, Diploma Programs (usually run by hospitals), Bachelor's Degree progrms, and Master's Degree programs. Regardless of the type of program you graduate from, you take the same test and receive the same license to practice as a Registered Nurse.

However ... the different academic levels of the nursing programs qualify nurses for different types of jobs. All levels legally qualify RN's for basic entry-level "staff nurse" positions -- though some individual employers might set their own standards for these positions. The higher levels of education open up additional possibilities for advanced practice roles, educational roles, management roles, etc. So, as you are considering your long-term career options, you should keep that in mind.

Some people start their career by getting a Bachelor's or Master's Degree. Others start with a Diploma or Associate's Degree, planning to return to school for additional education IF (and only if) they decide to seek more advanced roles later in their careers. Each route has its advantages and disadvantages. Which route is best for you depends on your particular career plans and your current situation.

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