If you have always dreamed of becoming a nurse, you may be wondering which is the best path to get there. If you are already working as a Registered Nurse (RN), you may be thinking about advancing your career. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree may be just the ticket. Perhaps you have already earned your bachelor’s degree in another field, and are looking to change careers to nursing by pursuing a BSN. The good news is that, when it comes to BSN programs, you have options. There are several different types of BSN programs out there.
As a prospective student, it is important to do your research and find the right BSN pathway for you, so that you don’t waste time in trying to achieve your goals.
Why Should You Earn a BSN Degree?
You may already know about the many different paths you can take towards a successful nursing career. The fastest way to become an RN for those without any prior experience or education is to pursue an associate degree in Nursing. This degree qualifies you to sit for the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX), which one must pass to become a licensed Registered Nurse. With this in mind, why spend the extra time and money to earn a bachelor’s degree?
Simply put, the opportunity and the salary are often greater for those who earn a Bachelor’s in Nursing. In fact, Connecticut has been shifting toward an 80% BSN workforce in the nursing field for years. This is because BSN-educated nurses often showcase high quality of care and comprehension in the field. In turn, this translates to greater pay potential.
Whether you want to advance your RN career, or you are just starting out in this field, you may consider investing the time now for a brighter future tomorrow. Read on, as we share three types of BSN programs you can explore.
Types of BSN Degree Programs
- Traditional BSN
If you are brand new to nursing, and you have not yet earned a college degree, you may consider pursuing a traditional program for you Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This type of degree typically takes four years to complete and is a good option for students fresh out of high school, or for those who can fully commit their time to a period of on-campus training. While some students in this type of BSN program can maintain a job, many find that they need to devote most of their time to their studies.
For this reason, many aspiring nurses will begin their studies through an associate degree program. An associate degree in Nursing allows them to get into the field fast, earn licensure, and then consider going back for a BSN education. RNs often return to school for their BSN degree to advance their skillsets and pursue leadership roles. This can be done through a fast-paced RN-to-BSN program.
- RN-to-BSN
As suggested above, this type of BSN program is one for those who have already started working as a nurse. If you have already passed the NCLEX-RN exam and earned licensure, then you are eligible for an RN-to-BSN program. Right now, you may be working as a nurse at a hospital, physician’s office, or other facility, but seeking to expand your role. An RN-to-BSN program is a flexible and fast-track option that will enable you to do so, while maintaining your current career.
An RN-to-BSN program can be completed part-time in 16 months, or it can be uniquely designed to fit your needs. For that much-needed flexibility for nurses, the RN-to-BSN curriculum is offered completely online, allowing RNs to complete the program while working and continuing to juggle life’s other responsibilities.
- Accelerated BSN
If you have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another field, but would like to change careers to nursing, you may be thinking that you have to “start over” with your education. The good news here is: You don’t! An Accelerated Bachelor’s in Nursing (ABSN) program is made for students like you.
An ABSN program will allow you to get licensed as an RN and working in the field much faster than starting from the beginning. The 60-credit ABSN program at Goodwin University, for example, can be completed in as few as 16 months full time, so you can be on your way to an exciting, challenging career in nursing in less than two years’ time.
The accelerated BSN degree prepares non-nursing majors for their important work in the nursing field. You will gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a well-qualified caregiver for your patients and community. In order to qualify for an ABSN program, you simply need to prove you have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, and completed it with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
Whether you are brand new to healthcare, or an experienced RN who is looking to advance your career – a BSN is a great way to get far in the field of nursing. There are many different paths to take when it comes to earning a BSN degree. Learn about the many programs available at Goodwin University and how you can get your career on track today! Call us at 800-889-3282 or visit us online to request more information.
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.