A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and an Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN) can both lead to careers as a registered nurse (RN); however, there are several differences between the academic programs and ultimately one’s job responsibilities.

A BSN is a 4-year college degree program requiring more academic credits than an ADN. Keep in mind that there are accelerated BSN programs, 18 to 24 months long, for students who are changing their career path and have previously earned a Bachelor’s degree in another subject.

An ADN is a 2-year degree program that accelerates the process for becoming an RN. An ADN program also costs less in tuition than a 4-year program. Some RNs choose to earn an ADN, work as an RN for a while and then return to school to earn their BSN through an accelerated RN-to-BSN program.

The major differences between BSN and ADN programs are the depth of the curriculum with regard to:

• nursing theory,
• nursing research,
• nursing informatics/technology,
• leadership,
• community health promotion,
• public health, and
• case management (offered in BSN programs).

The critical thinking component is a key factor of the BSN program when preparing to make decisions about patient care and the course of nursing treatment.

Who is better prepared to deliver hands-on bedside care–an RN with a BSN or an ADN? It has been argued by both sides that the ADN has more direct clinical preparation, while the BSN offers more academic theory and management preparation.

The BSN potentially does lead to greater earning power because advanced nursing positions often require a Bachelor’s degree. Faculty teaching positions are normally offered to BSN graduates. Having completed a 4-year program, an RN is prepared to enter advanced degree programs such as a nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist program. According to a recent survey, the difference in mean income between a BSN and an ADN is about $5,800. However, an ADN graduate can advance their nursing career into management and leadership positions with demonstrated talent and experience, despite the fact that they do not have a 4-year degree.

What is the current trend? The survey also reported that 46.6% of RNs were educated through an ADN program, 37.7% through a BSN and the remainder through a very limited number of hospital-based diploma programs. Regardless of the educational path, all successful graduates take the same licensing exam, NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for RN), to become a registered nurse. One caveat…keep in mind that some states have passed legislation requiring all new hire nurses to possess a BSN degree. North Dakota has enforced this law since 1987 and New York has the law pending. The Department of Veteran’s Affairs has had the requirement since 2005.

Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each degree and make the choice that is right for your career goals.