What is the difference between a bn and a rn

For every type of specialty in medicine, there is a nurse that works specifically with those patients. Registered nurses also work in a variety of environments other than hospitals and doctors offices. Some RN's choose to work in home-care, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and outpatient centers.

A BSN program typically takes 4 years to complete and is the standard for entry-level jobs in the nursing field.

Those who obtain a bachelor's degree of science in nursing are more likely to be hired for many nursing occupations over those who only have an associates degree, especially those who work in hospitals. Nurses with a BSN degree can choose to further their education with master's or doctoral degree in order to become a nurse educator or a nurse practitioner.

Despite the two different categories of education level for a registered nurse, both are required to pass the NCLEX exam in order to become a licensed nurse. In order to become a registered nurse, you must obtain an associates degree ADN and be working within the medical field, usually under a specific specialty. A BSN is another classification of registered nurse that is defined by their higher education status.

A BSN degree is favored over just an associates degree for many entry-level nursing jobs, therefore a BSN has more opportunities to make more money.

Also, in order to grow within the nursing field you may need to further your education to qualify for certain positions. Having a BSN degree allows for an easier and faster transition to obtaining a master's or doctoral degree and will benefit you later in your career. A registered nurse is able to practice within their field with only an associates degree, but a BSN is the preferred level of education for many nurse specialties throughout the medical career landscape.

There are many paths one can take to become a registered nurse. One of the highlights of becoming a registered nurse with an associates degree in nursing ADN is that you are able to obtain a degree that qualifies you to take the NCLEX in a shorter amount of time than if they were to go for a BSN degree.

Along with the shorter amount of time to obtain an ADN, this also allows RNs to get practical experience by entering the workforce sooner than if they were to go for their BSN degree from the start of their undergraduate education. Beginning a career in any nursing field will allow you to get hands-on experience and will allow you to begin making more money that can aid in future schooling expenses, if you decide to pursue your BSN. A downside to only completing an RN associates degree in nursing is that many employers are looking for nurses who have their BSN degree since it is a higher level of education.

A BSN degree allows individuals to have more training within the specialty field they are looking to work in, as well as gives employers the peace of mind that their employee fully understands what is required of them to give optimal care to their patients. Less time in School. Less available jobs. More work experience. Make less money. Make money sooner. Regardless of which pathway you choose, there is financial support available — including scholarships to apply for.

Even though they both lead to a nursing career, the truth is, the two differ quite a lot. BSN registered nurses.

But the nurse with the BSN has an advantage; they are higher in demand, can leverage their four-year education to get a higher salary, and can work in specialty areas with higher pay. This difference equates to a lot per year. For a thorough, in-depth education in nursing, a higher salary, an easier time finding a job, and the possibility of working in specialized areas, a BSN degree is essential.

See all programs Apply now. Boston Healthcare Needs Us - check out our visibility campaign! Subscribe to our Blog. Blog Topics. RN vs. BSN: What's the Difference? What is an RN? According to the American Nurses Association ANA , the key responsibilities of an RN are: Performing physical exams and health histories before making critical decisions Providing health promotion, counseling, and education Administering medications and other personalized interventions Coordinating care, in collaboration with a wide array of healthcare professionals The above responsibilities will always be a part of a registered nurse's day at any level.

A BSN program also focuses on developing skills above and beyond nursing practice, including: Research Social Sciences Management Leadership Essentially, it equips nurses with all of the professional skills needed as well as a better understanding of the cultural issues involved in joining this well-respected vocation. Expanded job opportunities But there are many others too. Preparedness — as a higher education graduate, you are ready to deal with patients more effectively in many areas. This has a positive impact on patients, too.

Studies have shown that BSNs have lower patient mortality rates and lower failure to rescue rates. Nurses can be educators, consultants, writers, and more , and having a BSN can be the edge you need to get those jobs. Regardless of the path you choose, job opportunities for both RNs and nurses with BSN degrees are good. Current projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics cover a year period between —, and nursing jobs are expected to increase by 16 percent during that period.

That rate is much higher than the national average for other industries. The pay range for nurses varies greatly. To learn more, get in touch with us today. And to keep up with the latest from Ameritech, follow us on Facebook. Get news and tips from the Ameritech Blog direct to your inbox.