Where to begin education as RN <Tech Vs. university> <<ADN vs BSN>>

ERNurse752, RN · Aug 3, 2005

In a nutshell...

I thought about doing a 2 yr program, but ultimately decided to go straight for the 4 yr. I figured I might not have the motivation to finish the BS if I already was working as a nurse. I was right out of high school with no other obligations, so I didn't have any pressing need to get out of school ASAP.

ADN and BSN nurses will all get jobs just the same...hospitals need them, regardless of their degree. BSN still gets plenty of hands on training in addition to the theory stuff. But, like you said, for "higher up" jobs, the BSN will probably be required. Some schools do have ADN to MSN programs now.

I think it's helpful for everyone to get a job as a tech or student nurse while in school to get additional experience.

In my state, there is no difference in salary.

Hope that helps somewhat...starting to fall asleep, so I didn't get too detailed, hehe.

Tweety, BSN, RN · Aug 3, 2005

There are a lot of myths out there. There may be isolated cases where a recruiter hires ADNs over BSNs because there is more "hands on" but for the most part that's not true. That BSN schools have less hands on clinicals and ADNs schools is largerly now a myth.

Both ADN nurses and BSN nurses are in high demand and start out on equal footing in the workforce and came make a decent living. Both are very tough programs, don't let the GPA requirements fool you.

It is confusing the options. I would say if you have the time, finances and grades to go for the BSN now, get it out of the way. Even though it will start you out the same as an ADN graduate, at the bedside, you'll have options for the future.

sunnyjohn · Aug 3, 2005

I just graduated from high school this past spring and i have a great passion of becoming an RN but i have had a difficult time trying to figure out where to start. Either 2 year school> graduate> work while i go back to school to get my bsn and maybe get my BSN tuition paid by my employer.
OR either start a 4 year school to get my BSN.

The program you choose should be based on your personal situation. Costs, time, waiting lists, educational goals, future plans and reputation will all help you decide which school is right for you. You can get the ADN/ASN and use tuition reimbursement to get the BSN or at 21 you can go through a 4-year BSN. Either way you will become a nurse.

I notice that the 4 year shool requires a 2.8 GPA in all core nursing courses
and teh 2 year school only requires a 2.0. Which one is actually the most difficult?

The schools are quoting you their MINIMUM GPA. There are many more applicants than clinical positions nationwide. The chances of you getting accepted into either the 2 year or 4 year with their minimum is slim- to- none. Aim for the highest GPA possible. Above a 3.4 would be best.

Also most people say that nurses can only advance to a higher position if they have ther BSN.

There are many ADN/ASN and hospital diploma nurses who have advanced to managment positions. Experience counts for a great deal. Yes the BSN would be most helpful if you do paln on a nurse managment career.

i also heard that a nurse that graduated froma 2 year institution will have a better chance of being hired that a nurse from a 4 year university because the 2 year institution focuses more on hands on training where the 4 year institution focuses more on theory, therefore ruling out a big percintage of the hands on training...

Times are tough and good nurses are scarce. Many nurses will tell you all most HR hospitals want is "a warm body." ADN or BSN you'll find a good job. Talk to nurses and nursing students in your area. Call your state BON. Check NCLEX pass rates. You can get a good idea this way of the best nursing program in your area. Although nursing curriculum varies from school to school, all programs will include theory as well as clinical hands on training. In order to obtain accredidation all programs must include a minimum number of clinical hours. Some programs have more clinical than others, but 2-year v. 4-year will not tell you that.

Is there much of a salary difference for ADN vs BSN?

At most facilities ADN's and BSN's receive the same wage. There are some facilities that pay BSN's a differential. Call your local hospital or speak with local nurses to get the info in your local area.

Thanx for your replies..

If you plan on going to graduate school for a MSN, DNsc., DNP or PHd to become a nurse educator, NP, CRNA or nurse researcher the BSN may be your best option as you get the BSN you will need for admission into the progams. Of course you can still pursue these career options if you start with the ASN/ADN and continue the momentum.

There are many, many threads here about this subject. Allnurses.com is a valuable resource. Do a seach. Speak with advisors at your local community college and 4-year university. Speak with nurses in your community. Seek out nursing students. Call your local BON. Do a search for state and national student nurse organizations for information.

Good luck with your future. You have picked a wonderful, exciting and wide open career.