whats the difference between Rn and BSN? or is it the same

deboraclark82 · Jun 3, 2011

RN is an assocites degree (2 year). BSN is a bachlors degree (4 years). In the field they peform the same clinical duties however BSN's get in administrative positions easier then RN's because of their advanced education. Also RN can not teach nursing, BSN can go on to teach. Hope that helps. P.S. If you don't want to teach nursing then stick with the RN, after a few years and proof that you are capable you can apply and get into administrative positions if that is the route you want to go, so save your money and time if that is your goal. If you are just going to be working clinically then stay with an RN because you wont need your bsn.

latricehill · Jun 3, 2011

thankssss alot! that really helped me alot will either one be better for the future of the economy?

turnforthenurse, MSN, NP · Jun 3, 2011

an RN *IS* a BSN, it is just a different degree. Whether you have your ADN, BSN or MSN, you're still an RN, once you pass your boards. deboraclark82 explained it pretty well. RN's with their ADN can go into management positions, though, as well as being charge nurse.

I would also keep in mind that a lot of hospitals are now switching over to having a BSN as a minimum requirement to get hired. That doesn't mean that nurses with their ADN can't get hired, I've just noticed this more. All of the hospitals in my area are pushing for BSNs, especially Magnet hospitals, who always push for higher education.

Educationally, the ADN and BSN are essentially the same; only with the BSN you are exposed to nursing theory and perhaps research? I honestly do not know if ADN programs make you taking a nursing research class. MSN programs focus A LOT on research and nursing theory. In order to become a CNS (clinical nurse specialist) or NP (nurse practitioner), you must have your MSN.

Hope that helps!

shaas, ASN, RN · Jun 3, 2011

More specifically:

RN-ADN = associate's degree in nursing; passed NCLEX and got RN licensure

RN-BSN = bachelor's degree in nursing; passed NCLEX and got RN licensure.

The essential difference is not in RN v. BSN, but in ADN and BSN. Both routes can lead to RN licensure if you pass your NCLEX. Hierarchically, the degrees conferred are ranked as follows: Associates, Baccalaureates/bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate.

caliotter3 · Jun 3, 2011

The RN license allows one to practice as a registered nurse. The BSN, bachelor of science in nursing, is a level of education in nursing. Award of a BSN degree upon graduation from an accredited school of nursing allows one to apply to take the NCLEX. Passing the licensing exam results in the RN license and the ability to get a nursing job. The BSN is one of four levels of nursing education. The other levels are: diploma, ASN, and entry level MSN.

latricehill · Jun 3, 2011

ohhhh ok thanks to everyone and their help!!

deboraclark82 · Jun 4, 2011

thankssss alot! that really helped me alot will either one be better for the future of the economy?

LOL Thats a great question. But unfortunatly the only way to answer it is to let time tell for its self. While its true that more hospitals are requiring a BSN there are many different areas nurses can work in. Physician offices, nursing homes, in home care facilities etc.

Knowing what the economy will do is a prediction of the future. Some years graduates find jobs before they finish school, while other years jobs are far and few between. Wheather or not the economy is on the up or down nursing is still competive.

So which is better for finding employment upon graduation? There's no real way to tell. It all depends on when you're graduating, how the economy is doing at the time in your area and what the facility you are applying to requires.

I hope that helps you. I don't think it'll help you choose a level of nursing unless you are looking into working in a hospital then depending on the requirements you may or maynot need the BSN in your area.

For financial reasons, if you are just wanting to work as a RN and not teach or be an administrator then save your money and time and get the ADN. You'll still be just as successful and you wont have as much invested to be paid back.

suanna · Jun 4, 2011

Let us not forget there are still a good number of non-degree holding RNs still in practice. Diploma programs based in hospital settings were still very popular not that many years ago. I don't know if many still exist, but the nurses (RNs)they produced are still around.

The bottom line- a degree in Nursing science is just that- a degree. All states require a passing grade on a practical skills exam called NCLEX before you can use the title and be employed as a nurse. LPNs also take a state licence exam before they are entitled to practice nursing. No educational program entitles you to be a "nurse", it just prepares/entitles you to take the examination for nursing. The diference is RN programs, for the most part are degree based, where LPN programs are more practical/clinical oriented with no related degree. By itself, a BSN(or ADN for that matter) is largely valueless without the state licensure exam to grant the privelage of practice and the title of nurse.