BSN in Nursing: Go Straight to BSN Or Find a Bridge BSN Program

picture of a nurse who earned her BSN
Written by
Jeremy Booher
September 27, 2022

Obtaining a BSN in nursing is a topic of much thought and discussion among nurses. While many are in the camp that goes straight to getting a Bachelor of Science in Nursing first, there is also about an equal number of nurses who first obtain an Associate's Degree of Science in Nursing and later pursue a BSN bridge program. Keep reading to learn more about a BSN in nursing and whether that is the right choice for you.

What Is A BSN In Nursing?

A BSN is a degree earned by an RN who has completed four years of education and has acquired a Bachelor's Degree in Science and has completed the required nursing classes.

What Is A BSN Bridge Program?

A bridge program is made for all levels of people wanting to further their education, such as associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral. The bridge program takes ADN nurses and completes their education, allowing them to receive their BSN. An ADN nurse already possesses much of the same knowledge as a BSN nurse, so with the Bridge program, this can be acquired in one to two years. Some programs will allow you to use your work experience for credits earned towards your BSN.

Where To Find A Bridge and RN BSN Bridge Program?

How can I get my BSN licensing In nursing? There are colleges and online bridge programs where you receive continued education.

How Can I Get My BSN Licensing In Nursing?

After receiving A BSN and nursing classes, you have many options in nursing. A BSN stands for Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The time to obtain your BSN typically takes four years, like most other Bachelor's degrees.

While most hospitals and healthcare facilities are short on nurses and will accept a registered nurse with either type of license, some facilities only hire nurses who have completed BSN training. An individual can also become an RN by completing an associate's degree in nursing which would only take two years.

There are advantages to having a BSN, such as how much you earn, more knowledge, specialties in certain areas, oncology or geriatrics, or nurse managers position. Having your BSN gives you a better chance of being employed because there are many more job positions you can qualify for.

Nursing Continuing Education:

Starting as a nurse with an ADN and wanting to advance is a common career path taken by nurses. They can continue their education with a significant advantage. Having experience and knowledge, you can receive your BSN in less than two years with a BSN bridge program. If you hold a Bachelor's degree in another subject and decide to go into nursing, you can receive a BSN in about 11 -18 months. In choosing this path to nursing, you'll have to do the required coursework and pass the NCLEX licensing exam for nurses.

Going Straight for Your BSN:

Some people choose to take a four-year course to receive their BSN first. There's a better chance of being hired with a Bachelor's degree in nursing and making more money, but having your associates first allows you to be employed after having only two years invested, where you can make money to afford to pay for the rest of your education. Having your associate's in nursing will allow you to work gaining experience until you can bridge over, receiving a BSN later. With obtaining your BSN, there are different jobs you can branch off into, including the following jobs you can apply for with a BSN in nursing:

1. Insurance Salesman

A medical insurance salesman is a healthcare specialist who assists people with their insurance claims. They help find the right health care plans for their health status and close watch on clients' accounts to watch for fraud. They may be employed at medical firms or work as freelancers.

2. Health Educators

A health educator helps with people's nutrition, ensuring they live a healthy lifestyle. They research a person's diet and behavior to evaluate what may be causing a person's problems, such as fatigue, stress, or depression. These health professionals may write a plan to improve a person's mental and physical health.

3. Medical Researcher

Collect medical data and medical research data. These medical professionals may work independently or for a medical facility, creating new medications while researching their effects. They keep a record of critical information while performing fieldwork.

4. Nurse

A Nurse is in charge of the care of patients in a hospital or home setting. After checking a patient's history, the nurse and other medical staff will put together a care plan, aiding in the patient's treatments.

These are only three of many jobs a BSN can allow you to work. The employment advantages are enormous in performing different particular skilled jobs you might want to choose from. 

Blog published on:
September 27, 2022

Meet Jeremy, a contributing copywriter and editor at Nursa who specializes in topics around licensing, clinician salaries, and per diem job locations.

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