Associates in Nursing vs. Bachelors in Nursing: Which Is Right for You?

For those interested in the field of nursing, there are a few degree options. Within undergraduate studies, two popular options are the Associate's in Nursing, or ADN, and the Bachelor's in Nursing, or BSN.

But what are the main differences between these two programs? Which one is right for you? Here we will break down the specifics of these nursing degrees and help you decide which is the best option for you.

What Is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)?

An associate degree in nursing, or ADN, is two-year undergraduate degree program. ADN programs allow students to get a general education in the clinical skills and knowledge needed to work as a nurse.

ADN programs are a popular choice for becoming a registered nurse. These associate degrees allow graduates to pursue entry-level nursing positions. The coursework in these degrees typically covers general education liberal arts courses in addition to degree-specific courses covering nursing knowledge and practice.

Some examples of ADN program nursing classes include:

• Nursing Fundamentals
• Pediatric Nursing
• Psychiatric Nursing
• Nursing Advanced Skills

Students get the chance to develop their clinical skills in on-the-job training. Most associate degree nursing students complete several hundred hours of clinical training. This could take the form of simulation lab work, rotations at a hospital, and more.

All of the coursework of ADN programs will help students prepare for the NCLEX-RN exam. The NCLEX-RN is the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. In the United States, this is the examination that graduates of nursing programs must pass to become registered nurses.

Advantages of Pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing

Here are some of the benefits of completing an ADN program.

Enter the Nursing Job Market Faster

An associate degree in nursing typically takes about two years to complete. This is roughly half the time that a BSN program would usually take. Graduates of ADN programs can become registered nurses by taking the NCLEX-RN examination and will be able to take on entry-level nursing positions.

Graduates will also be able to apply their completed degree towards achieving a bachelor's degree in the future. Instead of the typical four years, they could finish a BSN program in much less time. They could also qualify for an RN-to-BSN program, which is a degree designed for people working as registered nurses full-time.

Affordability

ADN programs can often be completed at institutions like technical schools and community colleges, which often have much more affordable tuition and fees than universities. This will allow students to complete a degree, become a registered nurse, and enter the job market for a much lower overall cost than starting with a BSN program.

What Is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)?

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or BSN program, is an undergraduate degree that is the next level above an ADN program. Typically, these degrees take four years to complete, although, it is possible to find accelerated BSN programs. Additionally, if a student has already completed an ADN degree, they can complete a BSN more quickly.

The curriculum of BSN programs is more comprehensive than ADN programs and prepares future nurses to take on much more responsibility in the field. Some of the courses students will complete in a bachelor's nursing program include:

• Holistic Assessment in Nursing
• Quality Improvements in Healthcare
• Concepts of Professional Nursing Practice
• Understanding Research to Guide Nursing Practice

ADN to BSN: Career Advancement and Opportunities

There are many benefits to completing a BSN degree even if you have already achieved an ADN degree. Learn more about them below.

Career Advancement and Higher Nursing Positions

Nurses who have completed a bachelor's degree will be more qualified in the workplace, which makes them eligible for higher nursing positions. Whether it be advancing from a current position or entering the field at a higher position, nurses who hold a BSN degree can take on more responsibility and more challenging tasks. They will also be able to operate as a nurse with less supervision from others.

Earning Potential

Along with access to better jobs in the nursing field, graduates of BSN programs will have increased earning potential. Jobs that require a higher level of education typically have higher salaries, and in nursing, the increased responsibility of jobs that need a bachelor's degree means a better level of pay.

RN-to-BSN Programs

An RN-to-BSN program is a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. These are degrees that are designed for working nurses. They are a great option for students because it allows them to complete their bachelor's degree while working.

After completing an ADN program and becoming a registered nurse, students can continue their nursing education with an RN-to-BSN, and their nursing work will count towards completing their degree.

Is an ADN or BSN Better for Your Nursing Career?

Many factors could help determine if an ADN program or BSN program is better for you. Your ultimate career goals are important to consider, as well as how quickly you would like to enter the nursing job market, salary expectations, and more.

Career Goals

Each of these degrees will leave graduates qualified for various job opportunities at healthcare facilities. Students should consider their future career goals carefully when deciding which degree to pursue.

Some of the positions you could get with an ADN degree include:

• Staff nurse
• Clinical associate
• Home care nurse
• Clinical nurse liaison
• Emergency room nurse
• Nurse administrator
• Travel nurse

Nurses who hold a BSN degree can get positions that require less supervision, as well as more specialized positions like working as a psychiatric nurse, oncology nurse, etc.

Time Commitment

A BSN degree typically takes four years, and an ADN degree typically takes two. There is some variation within those time frames, but ultimately, if you are interested in entering the nursing job market more quickly, completing an associate degree is a good idea. You will still have the option of completing a bachelor's degree while working as a registered nurse.

Pay Differences: ADN Nurses vs. BSN Nurses

There is a salary difference between ADN nurses and BSN nurses. On average, nurses with an associate degree typically make about $77,000 annually. Nurses with a bachelor's degree make about $94,000 annually.

FAQs About Choosing an ADN or BSN Program

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about ADN and BSN programs.

How Does the NCLEX Exam Work?

The NCLEX exam is designed to test a student's ability to apply their nursing knowledge in practice. The exam consists of several different kinds of questions, and completing the exam is essential for becoming a registered nurse. Both ADN and BSN programs prepare nursing students for this critical step toward becoming an RN.

Is ADN or BSN Harder?

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree could be considered harder for a few reasons. Most notable is the time commitment in nursing school. It takes twice as long as an associate degree, so while the material itself may not be more difficult, the time input required will be more strenuous.

Additionally, BSN programs are more comprehensive and cover more material concerning patient care, which could make them more challenging to complete. An MSN (Master of Science in Nursing) is also more difficult but creates a pathway toward a career as a nurse practitioner. The more education a nurse has, the more their average salary will be.

Can I Work as a Nurse With an Associate Degree, or Do I Need a Bachelor's Degree?

Yes, you can work as a nurse with an associate degree. As an ADN program prepares you for the NCLEX-RN, the examination to become a registered nurse, you will be prepared to take the exam and work as a nurse. Make sure to choose a degree program from an accredited institution to open yourself up to better career opportunities.