RN to BSN?

[ThatJessyChick]

Is it a requirement to complete a RN program before you get your BSN? Is it possible to just go straight for your BSN? This has been an area of confusion for me. Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Sour Lemon]

It is certainly possible to go straight to BSN. That type of BSN program would be called a "pre-licensure" one as opposed to an RN to BSN.

[forevernursem]

No, you don't need to be a RN before BSN. For nursing there are two routes: ADN nurses or BSN nurses. ADN are associate degree nurses, this is usually obtained through a community college. This route is cheaper. Most ADN nurses now have to get there bachelors in nursing, so there are RN to BSN programs that are online, that take 1-2 years to complete.

To get your BSN this is done at an university, and is more expensive. All nursing programs are very competitive, but BSN programs are more competitive than ADN programs.

Both routes are great and each have their advantages and disadvantages. If you take the ADN route, you will be able to practicing nursing faster, but in the long run getting your BSN will take longer than it would have been just going for a BSN degree first. Also, one last thing to keep in mind is that ADN and BSN nurses make about the same exact pay.

I hope this makes sense and helped you out :)