What Is the Difference Between an Associate's Degree & a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing?
Nursing is a demanding but rewarding occupation. An RN (registered nurse) degree prepares you not only to provide care under the direction of a physician, but also to manage certain aspects of that care and the facility it is delivered in. There are two primary academic paths to becoming an RN and some slight differences in the outcome.
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Education Requirements
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The BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) requires a four-year university degree in which the first two years focus on general science and the second two years focus on a more specific nursing curriculum. The ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) requires two years of formal course work but typically also requires a year of prerequisite classes, making the overall difference just one year. Either program qualifies the student to become licensed as an RN (registered nurse).
Clinical Responsibilities
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There is no difference in "on the floor" nursing care provided by BSN and ADN graduates, since both are fully qualified to deliver hands-on patient care. BSN graduates tend to fill more of the mid-level clinical administrative and management positions, as there is a greater administrative component to the BSN training programs.
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Continuing Education
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ADN graduates often elect that training path because it enables them to get into the work force and begin earning income sooner. Many of them then continue with course work leading to completion of a BSN degree, particularly if they plan to move on to administrative positions. The BSN is also a requirement for enrollment in master's and doctoral-level programs and for some areas of highly specialized advanced clinical training.
Career Path
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While both ADN and BSN graduates start at the same level in clinical practice, ADN-trained nurses tend to work in hands-on nursing positions as a general registered nurse, sometimes moving on to positions as nurse case manager or charge nurse. BSN-trained nurses may have more opportunities for advancement to positions such as nurse case manager or nursing director. Many of the latter also continue on into other advanced clinical programs such as nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, or nurse anesthetist.
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