What's the Difference Between RN vs. BSN?

Nursing is an exciting and fulfilling career that appeals to many due to the variety of career choices and the potential for professional growth in the nursing industry. There are a few pathways for getting started in a nursing career.

If you are interested in a career in nursing, you've likely seen programs for becoming a registered nurse (RN) or earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Here, we will break down the differences between an RN vs. BSN and help you decide what program is right for you.

What Is an RN?

Becoming an RN involves completing a nursing certification program, most often an associate degree in nursing or a nursing diploma program.

An RN is a certification, not a degree program, though it can be earned through an associate degree in nursing (ADN).

As part of the certification process, all aspiring nurses must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) in order to start their nursing practice. After passing the exam, there is a licensure and registration process.

Career Options for RNs

RNs can work in many healthcare industries, including but not limited to:

• private practices
• hospitals
• nursing homes
• medical spas
• clinics
• outpatient centers
• rehabilitiation centers
• home-care

What is a BSN?

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing, commonly referred to as a BSN, is a full 120 credit hour bachelor's degree program that typically takes four years to complete.

During a BSN program, students with no prior nursing experience will earn their RN certification and additional credentials and skills than someone with an associate degree.

There are some added benefits to getting a BSN, such as being qualified for senior level leadership roles, having a greater chance of being hired, and having the right qualifications to pursue graduate programs.

There are many RN-to-BSN programs where students who have an RN certification can enroll and earn their BSN in one to two years. Many of these programs are available online.

Career Options for BSNs

Nurses with a BSN degree can work in senior nursing roles such as:

• nurse manager
• clinical nurse
• case management nurse
• clinical research nurse
• public health nurse

Education Requirements for RN vs. BSN

Becoming a certified RN requires completing an associate degree in nursing (ADN) and passing the NCLEX exam. This typically takes around two years.

Earning a BSN requires completing a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) and passing the NCLEX exam. This takes around four years.

Some of the classes required for a nursing degree might focus on:

• microbiology
• anatomy and physiology
• nursing ethics
• emergency care
• pharmacology
• statistics
• psychology

Salary Differences Between an RN and BSN

One of the biggest advantages of earning a BSN is having a higher salary. Having a BSN as opposed to just being an RN can account for an extra $3,000 to $8,000 a year.

While most entry level nursing positions will start out with the same salary, BSN degree holders start to see a greater income gap within one to four years compared to those who do not hold a bachelor's degree.

FAQs About RN vs. BSN

Here are the answers to come of the most frequently asked questions about RN vs. BSN degrees.

What Degree Is Better, RN or BSN?

There are benefits and drawbacks to either option, so the best choice for you will depend on your career goals and time commitment.

Earning a BSN will help you get a higher salary, increase your chances of being hired, and be promoted to leadership positions. However, this degree will cost more and take more time to earn.

If you are unsure of what degree to earn, you can always work toward your RN certification and then enroll in an RN-to-BSN program after completion if you decide a BSN is worth the investment.

Can I Work While Earning a BSN Degree?

Yes, it is very possible to continue to work while earning a BSN. There are many hybrid or fully online RN-to-BSN programs that support working students. There are also options to study full time or part time to accommodate a busy schedule.

Can You Become an RN Without a BSN?

Yes, you can become an RN without earning a BSN. An RN is a certification while a BSN is a degree, so it is possible to become an RN without completing a bachelor's degree.

However, the demand for nurses with a BSN is growing and many hospitals are showing greater preference to applicants with a BSN, so it is advantageous to also complete a BSN.

RN vs. BSN: Choose the Right Program for You

Choose the right program for your nursing career goals and aspirations. Deciding between an RN vs BSN can be a tough choice to make, but knowing the differences between the qualifications can help you decide.