If you’re interested in becoming a registered nurse, you might have already heard of the term “BSN.” What is a BSN, and is it necessary to obtain a BSN to become an RN? If you’re a registered nurse, you might be interested to know you can quickly get your BSN with an RN to BSN bridge program. Below are some of the many benefits of earning a BSN for new graduates and registered nurses in the field.
What is a BSN?
A BSN is also known as a bachelor’s of science in nursing. There are various bachelor of science degrees to choose from, such as a bachelor of science in chemistry or physics. However, students that complete a BSN program will also need to complete clinical hours with patients, providing hands-on care and learning the skills necessary to practice real medicine in a hospital setting.
BSN programs are four-year degrees, meaning you must obtain a BSN from an accredited college or university. BSN programs are highly competitive since earning a BSN can lead to a higher salary of around $80,000 a year. Fortunately, many colleges offer flexible programs where students can attend classes during the day or evening. Clinical rotations can also be flexible, which can help working students complete their patient contact hours.
Is a BSN Required to be a Nurse?
Until recently, many RNs did not have a BSN since they were not required to practice as a nurse. However, new state laws are coming into effect that require RNs to obtain their BSNs, such as New York’s BSN in 10 law. This law requires nurses to obtain their BSN degree 10 years after becoming an RN. While ten years might seem like a long time, it’s not long for nurses that juggle family and education in addition to their careers.
Are BSN Degrees Expensive?
BSN degrees can be costly, totaling around $40,000 to $100,000. However, financial aid, the GI bill for military veterans, or scholarships can offset these costs. BSN degrees are also worth the cost, since students that obtain a BSN degree have higher salaries than nurses without BSN degrees. BSN degrees are also a great stepping stone toward higher-paying careers, such as health administration, nursing managers, nursing supervisors, and other administrative positions.
Obtaining a BSN can help someone obtain their MSN later on and improve their career in the healthcare field.
How Do I Obtain My BSN?
If you’re a nurse living in a state that requires a BSN, it’s best to obtain your degree sooner rather than later. If you’re already an RN, bridge programs can help you obtain your BSN in as little as two years! A BSN degree can also help boost your pay by making you more competitive, helping you hone your skills, and helping you provide better patient care.
Many health care clinics and hospitals might also want to help you achieve your goal of obtaining a BSN. Ask about funding for your BSN degree, so you can go to school without worrying about tuition. Many hospitals are willing to pay for a BSN education for their nurses to provide better care and improve the hospital’s functionality.
You must finish a four-year program at an accredited college if you are not an RN. You must also complete nursing classes, clinicals, and other patient care competency courses. LVN to BSN programs and other related programs can help you achieve your BSN in little time. Once you obtain your BSN, you can then apply to take the NCLEX and become a registered nurse in your state.
Find the Best BSN Program For You Today
Start researching the best RN to BSN programs or four-year BSN programs in your area today! These programs can help you stand out among the crowd and help you be highly competitive in a saturated nursing market. Your employer might also pay for BSN programs so that you can enjoy the benefits of higher education without the added cost.
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