RN to BSN - is it as hard as the RN was?

dishes, BSN, RN · Nov 6, 2009

I completed a post-diploma BScN years after completing the diploma program. Both programs were challenging in different ways, the diploma program was a matter of being able to absorb a lot of information and be prepared to use it for tests and clinicals. The BScN was a matter of researching literature and using it to support a point of view. The homework for the BScN took me longer than the homework for the diploma program, I found memorizing volumes of information for the diploma program less time consuming than reading tons of articles and writing papers for the degree program. Aside from the increased hours of homework, I preferred the degree program.

SuesquatchRN, BSN, RN · Nov 6, 2009

Not even close.

stripec30 · Nov 8, 2009

^^^ Yeah, this.

amjowens · Nov 12, 2009

I'm also wondering this, as I want to continue on asap for my BSN. I'm in my second semester RN and do find it challenging (I work full-time though). All the nurses I've talked to who've done the ADN-BSN give this great expression like "OH yeah.." BSN is MUCH easier, much less time consuming. Everyone I know has done the online ADN-BSN, which pretty much seems to be the only option at universities in my area. I love online, so I'm happy!

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Nov 12, 2009

It's less memorization but more research.

And with a RN-BSN program, by being an RN you should place out of a lot of the basic how-to clinical classes, and instead focus more on advanced stuff as well as management and research.

kristak · Nov 12, 2009

Glad to hear it, 'cause I don't think I could do this again. Research sounds sort of relaxing in comparison!

Editorial Team / Moderator · Nov 12, 2009

The program I'm in (Chamberlain's online RN-BSN) is a lot of research, reading, and writing (papers as well as discussion posts), but hey, I'm getting my education in my my pajamas! Yes, I'm still in my jammies at 11:20 a.m.!

Seriously, this is much more relaxed than the original RN. I've been doing one class at a time, for the most part, while also working three 12's each week, and it's not too bad. (Remind me of that next semester, when I'm taking 2 classes at a time. Haha.)

Multicollinearity, BSN, RN · Nov 12, 2009

My ADN program was about figuring out how to answer difficult multiple choice NCLEX-style exam questions and clinical skills. (My program has a 99% NCLEX pass rate.)

My RN-BSN program is about university-level liberal arts classes, refinement, and nursing skills outside of the hospital environment. The RN-BSN is a lot of reading, paper writing, and professional dialogue (in my experience).

WickedRedRN, BSN, RN · Nov 12, 2009

I finish my RN to BSN program in ine more semester. It has been SO much easier than the RN from the standpoint of not comsuming my life! My program is mostly online, so I have the option of working on my classwork at any time. I work full time and have a family, so this is a huge plus.

Have to agree with multicollinearity...it has not been NCLEX and clinical skill focused. I have learned alot and grown in my practice during this program.

Multicollinearity, BSN, RN · Nov 12, 2009

A couple more thoughts. I think the ADN is considered to be so much harder because of the stress many feel about reaching RN status, whereas with the RN-BSN you are already there...just continuing an optional degree. Also, most did their ADNs full-time and are doing the RN-BSNs part-time, so of course the RN-BSN will seem so much easier because the workload is lower (fewer credits at a time).

However, if I look at the workload of the programs separated from my emotions and stress level, I'd say credit-for-credit, each program is about the same amount of work. It's that the stress level of RN-BSN programs is nil compared to ADN programs because you already have RN behind your name.

Editorial Team / Moderator · Nov 12, 2009

It's that the stress level of RN-BSN programs is nil compared to ADN programs because you already have RN behind your name.

:yeahthat: