What is the Difference?

jemommyRN · Mar 26, 2004

There are already many topics on this particular subject. I'm not an expert but from my understanding some hospitals prefer you to have a BSN for management positions. Also some schools require the BSN for graduate admission. (Depends on the school and the program). Starting salary for an RN with an AD and BSN are the same. You have to determine what you want your ultimate goal to be and also what would be convenient for you at this time.

Tweety, BSN, RN · Mar 26, 2004

Yes, this topic has been covered many times.

Basically the ADN and the BSN both come out of nursing school to an entry level position making about the same money. They take the same test to become an RN. Where the advantage of a BSN comes in is later on down the line if you want to advance to other areas outside of the bedside, such as management, supervision, directorship, adminstration, etc. I was offered the position of house supervisor once, and had to turn it down using the excuse I didn't have a BSN. When I said that they no longer considered me a candidate. (Thank goodness because I don't want to do that.) Also there are more opporutnities in teaching, drug companies, clincial nurse etc.

But on the other hand, ADNs make good money at the bedside, and are in high demand. Good luck.

I always recommend going for the BSN because who knows what you are going to want to do 20 years from now. Also nursing schools are cram packed with students, and the market may become more competetive in the furture. Good luck.

NewEngland-RN · Mar 27, 2004

As the other members have stated,the ADRN or BSN dilemma is a pretty common topic on the boards.

My own experience. I started at ADRN and then worked,went to school for my BSN(part time). I found at the time I could make some money,get some experience and the institution I worked at offered Tuition assistance.

I would suggest if you go this route continue to work on getting your BSN.

As one member stated who knows what the criteria may be years from now and I have talked to a number of nurses over the years who were going back to school for the BSN and found it difficult to get back into the swing of acadamia after years of practice.

So. if you go ADRN keep the momentum and continue on for the BSN you wont regret it. That Said, I never Saw much differance in Pay,skills base,or management level between the two-But I can sure as hell quote some serious Nursing theory!

Good luck.

Fast Eddie...