Why does BSN take longer than an ADN?

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If both BSN and ADN lead to becoming an RN, then why does the BSN program take longer than the ADN program. The pre-reqs for the BSN pogram i am enrolled in will take me two years alone. But the ADN program takes a total of two years to become an RN. Why is that? Do students in the ADN program not have to GE or Pre-reqs or something?

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There are more classes to take for the BSN and that adds time to the process.

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Specializes in Med-Surg/urology.

An ADN is about 60-72 credits (and I'm estimating on that, someone feel free to correct me). A BSN is about 120+ credits. More credits=more time.

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Specializes in School Nursing.

They are two different degrees. The "2" year ADN (is really three with the prerequisites) is an associate's degree. The BSN is the more advanced bachelor's degree and requires quite a bit more general education classes as well as some advanced nursing classes.

They both require similar prereqs and the BSN may also take a year or so longer than the traditional "4 years".

They both do lead to the same RN license but it the BSN is thought to open more doors than the ADN.

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Ok thanx, well i wanted to know because the state school i am enrolled in for BSN wait list students for nursing at the start of the third year. so i was hoping that if i get wait listed there, i can transfer my GE, Prenursing, and pre-reqs, to another college and get my ADN. do you think that is possible?

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Ok thanx, well i wanted to know because the state school i am enrolled in for BSN wait list students for nursing at the start of the third year. so i was hoping that if i get wait listed there, i can transfer my GE, Prenursing, and pre-reqs, to another college and get my ADN. do you think that is possible?

Yes, this is possible if another ADN school accepts you. That is why most people apply to all nursing programs, BSN, ASN, etc., within their geographical area.

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Specializes in Med-Surg/urology.
Yes, this is possible if another ADN school accepts you. That is why most people apply to all nursing programs, BSN, ASN, etc., within their geographical area.

And maybe if the schools in your geographical area have wait lists, is it possible for you to relocate to surrounding states for a nursing school? That's what I'm having to do :(

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