How to turn from an ADN to BSN Programs

An ADN degree is pretty comprehensive. The ADN or the Associated Degree in Nursing is a vocational program in nursing that is slight lesser than a BSN degree. You have to remember that most hospitals require a BSN degree before you can be promoted in to managerial positions. The main difference between the two courses is that the ADN degree is slightly shorter in time but the practical experience in the course is as comprehensive as a BSN program. The number of credits required to finish an ADN course is also much lesser than a BSN course. An ADN course can be completed in about 2 years while a BSN course will take 4 years to complete. If you have already registered in a RN progrma or have a large number of credits in any degree program then you are more likely to be able to opt for an accelerated BSN programs which completes in about 18 to 21 months. But these accelerated programs are highly competitive and require GPA of 3.0 or more.

Both programs have almost the same curriculum and both offer on site clinical training which works out really well for the students. But a BSN program is slightly superior as it offers more clinical and non-clinical training with a lot more focus on theory, research and methodology.

Cost-wise both programs may cost the same. But most hospitals would prefer students who have a BSN degree over an ADN. A BSN prepared nurse, is eligible for higher positions in the same profession and they will get higher salaries too. And this is proved in a survey carried out in 2006, the consensus was that BSN certified nurses were at higher managerial positions and earned a mean salary of $75,017 while ADN certified nurses had an income of $70,804. It’s not much of a difference but it does count!

So what are the advantages of taking an ADN program?

1. ADN programs are cheaper and you get to pass out as a certified nurse in half the time and half the price as compared to a BSN degree.
2. ADN degrees offer the same experience and clinical training and it takes half the time period for completion.

Why take a BSN degree then?

1. Hospitals prefer nurses who are BSN certified as it offers a more rounded training of clinical and non-clinical experience. The theoretical knowledge imparted is more and the degree is well recognized all over the country.
2. The course may be expensive and time consuming but the salary after completion of the course is at par with the cost of studying the degree.
3. A BSN degree makes you eligible for management positions in universities and large hospitals to manage staff underneath you.
4. A BSN degree also makes it possible to study further which is not possible in an ADN degree.