RN to BSN vs. BSN Programs: What's the Difference?

There are multiple routes to becoming a nurse in the United States. In order to become a registered nurse, students must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) after completing an approved nursing program.

Some nurses first become registered nurses (RN) by completing an associate degree in nursing, and then enroll in a bachelor's degree completion program called an RN to BSN program.

Other nurses opt to enroll directly in a BSN program and stay in one program from enrollment through graduation, becoming an RN and earning a BSN from one institution.

Differences Between BSN and RN to BSN Programs

Here we will cover the differences between RN to BSN vs BSN, the benefits of each, and how to choose the right program for you.

Duration of Study

One of the main differences between an RN to BSN vs BSN is the duration of study. Nurses can earn their RN license in two years and then complete an RN to BSN program in one additional year for a total of three years of study.

A BSN takes four years to complete, typically consisting of eight semesters and a total of 120 credits. Completing a BSN program takes approximately one year more to complete than the RN to BSN route.

Topics Covered

Required classes for becoming an RN include nursing fundamentals, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, ethics, and clinical theory. All nurses will have some exposure to these topics while preparing to take the NCLEX and before becoming licensed.

BSN programs provide nurses with additional topics to study and allow nurses to earn a specialization in different subject areas. These topics include pediatric care, psychiatric nursing, trauma, dialysis, and public health.

BSN programs offer training in leadership, healthcare management, and strategic planning which can all be helpful when pursuing leadership roles.

Salary Differences

While there are many differences between an RN to BSN vs. BSN, the salary outcomes are quite similar. Nurses with a BSN will have higher salaries than nurses with just an RN, regardless of the route they took to earn their bachelor's degree.

Nurses with a BSN earn approximately 6% more than nurses with just an RN. The average nursing salary for nurses with a BSN is $82,300 a year.

Benefits of RN to BSN

One of the main benefits of an RN to BSN program is that you can finish your degree faster and be eligible for higher salary and better positions a year earlier than BSN students.

RN to BSN programs are also usually more affordable than BSN programs. Students can enroll in RN programs at community colleges and complete an associate degree in nursing. Community college tuition is typically more affordable than attending a four-year college.

After completing the RN program, students also save money by shortening the amount of time to earn a BSN by up to a year, cutting tuition costs in half. There are also many transfer scholarships for RN to BSN programs.

Some RN to BSN programs are available in flexible online formats that can benefit students with busy schedules.

RN to BSN programs are designed with the needs of working nurses in mind and many nurses are able to continue working full-time while they complete their degrees.

Earning an ADN degree at a local two-year program and then transferring to an RN to BSN program can be a flexible option that balances affordability and new experiences.

Benefits of BSN

Enrolling in a BSN program can be an easier choice, as it does not require switching schools and applying to a bachelor's degree program halfway through the process.

BSN programs typically last four years, so students in a BSN program will have an additional year of training and knowledge to apply in their careers. BSN programs also offer additional training in specialized subject areas such as oncology, pediatrics, or school nursing.

There may also be advantages to earning the entire nursing degree at one institution. Nursing students in BSN programs will be able to develop a rapport with instructors and receive more personalized instruction.

Earning a BSN degree at a four-year college with strong ties to local healthcare facilities can allow students to go from clinical experience hours to employment seamlessly.

How to Choose the Right Program for You

The right program for you will depend on your budget and desired timeline as well as long-term goals. It is important to choose a program that is accredited and will provide you with mentorship and career support.

Students should consider location and whether they prefer to study in their hometown or relocate.

Public nursing programs in a student's home state are typically the most affordable but there are also cost-effective private programs.

Nurses with a specific area of interest should make sure that any nursing program they select has classes or concentrations in this area.

Speaking to current students and program graduates can give you information about student satisfaction, quality of education, and campus atmosphere.

Visiting the campus and asking for a tour of the nursing department and related facilities can also help students decide between different programs.

Completing any accredited nursing program will give students a strong qualification and position them for career success.

Find an RN to BSN or BSN Degree Today

Nursing students comparing RN to BSN vs BSN degree programs will have different needs but both can be excellent choices. Find a nursing program that will support your career goals and begin learning today.