A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is an advanced nursing degree designed to advance your nursing career. It comes with many benefits, granting you the ability to apply for more jobs, earn a higher salary, and expand your knowledge or skills in patient care. However, for most nurses (both prospective and seasoned RNs), a BSN degree is entirely optional. It is seen as an alternative, or an add-on, to the traditional associate degree in Nursing (ADN).

As such, you might find yourself asking: “Do I really need a BSN degree?” and “Why should I get a BSN in nursing?” The thought of committing to years of nursing school can be a hard pill to swallow—especially for those who have already earned their title as an RN. At the same time, the reasons to get a BSN degree are escalating, especially as the Institute of Medicine and other organizations push for a BSN-educated workforce.

Let’s explore the increasing requirements and expectations of registered nurses today, as well as the reasons why you might get your BSN degree.

Do I need a BSN degree?

As of this writing, most registered nurses are not required to have a Bachelor’s in Nursing. In the majority of states today, you can pursue your RN license (to begin practicing as a nurse) once you’ve completed an associate degree in Nursing from an accredited nursing school.

However, it’s important to note that some states, employers, and job titles do require a BSN degree. Additionally, a growing number of healthcare employers have expressed a preference to hire nurses with a bachelor’s education—even when it’s not required. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), roughly 80% of employers express a strong preference for BSN graduates, while over 40% actually require new nurses to hold a BSN degree.

This growing expectation stems from several reports showing the value of a BSN degree. With a BSN, nurses are reported to have better patient outcomes, including fewer fatalities and shorter stays among their patients. Because of this, a BSN degree has become an expectation in the field—even though it’s not always required.

In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics marks a bachelor’s degree as the standard, entry-level education for registered nurses today. However, nurses still have options, including shorter-term programs. The BLS explains:

“Registered nurses usually take one of three education paths: a bachelor’s degree in nursing, an associate degree in nursing, or a diploma from an approved nursing program…”

“Generally, licensed graduates of any of the three types of education programs qualify for entry-level positions as a staff nurse. However, employers—particularly those in hospitals—may require a bachelor’s degree.”

“Registered nurses with an ADN, ASN, or diploma may go back to school to earn a bachelor’s degree through an RN-to-BSN program.”

Ultimately, the answer to whether you need a BSN degree or an ADN degree will depend on your career goals and where you will be practicing. In some cases, the answer is both.

You see, many registered nurses begin their careers with an associate degree, taking about two years to complete. This enables them to get experience, make connections, and start earning in the field without a large investment in nursing school. Later on, after kicking off a career, they go back to school for their BSN degree. This is possible through a flexible RN-to-BSN program, which offers a part-time, online path for nurses seeking their bachelor’s degree. Through this route, nurses can explore their interests, earn a salary upfront, and consider if a BSN is worth it afterward. Not to mention, some employers will cover or assist with tuition costs for employed nurses going back to school for their BSN—a major benefit.

Why should you get a BSN degree? 7 Reasons to consider

1. You can provide a higher quality of patient care.

Studies show that nurses’ quality of care—as well as patient outcomes—improves with a higher level of education. A study by the Journal of Nursing Administration, for example, found that BSN-educated nurses experienced:

• Higher patient survival rates,
• Fewer patient complications, and
• Significantly reduced inpatient stays

Another resource from the AACN cites that hospitals with a larger proportion of BSN-prepared nurses have:

• 24% greater odds of patients surviving cardiac arrest
• 25% lower odds of patient mortality
• 8% decrease in the length of patient stays

To quote the AACN, “Having higher rates of BSN-prepared nurses in hospitals is associated with lower rates of heart failure, decubitus ulcers, failure to rescue, medication errors, and procedural errors.” Nurses with a BSN also reported less difficulty when managing complex patients and incorporating critical thinking into their daily practices.

Learn more about the benefits of a BSN (for nurses and their patients) here.

2. You can qualify for more job opportunities.

Years ago, the Institute of Medicine released a call for BSN degree holders, asking that 80 percent of the nursing workforce be prepared at the baccalaureate level by 2020. And since then, several states have implemented laws to encourage RNs to pursue their bachelor’s degree. For example, in 2022, New York State passed legislation requiring nurses to earn their BSN degree within 10 years of their RN license.

Although the entire U.S. doesn’t require a BSN degree at this time, standards are rapidly changing. In addition to requirements issued in states like New York, Rhode Island, and New Jersey, several organizations now exclusively hire nurses with a BSN degree. These include the:

• The Veteran’s Administration (VA)
• U.S. Air Force
• U.S. Army
• U.S. Navy
• U.S. Public Health Service

On top of this, many organizations not listed are working towards a higher percentage of BSN-prepared workers, including minority nursing organizations like the National Black Nurses Association, as well as the Pew Health Professions Commission.

In magnet hospitals across the U.S., which are recognized for their nursing excellence, all nurse leaders and nurse managers are required to have a Bachelor’s in Nursing. So, if your long-term goal is to earn a supervisory position and become a leading force in nursing, a bachelor’s degree is always worth the reach.

To learn more about job titles and specializations that require a BSN degree, click here.

3. You can increase your salary potential with a BSN.

Most nurses are caring individuals who join the healthcare field for altruistic reasons like making a real difference in the lives of their patients. But on the practical side, higher compensation can mean a more comfortable future for themselves and their families. While earning a BSN degree requires more of an investment in school, nurses who pursue an advanced degree can obtain a higher salary over the course of their career (more than they would with an associate degree or diploma alone).

According to PayScale, those with a BSN degree earn an average of $96,000 annually in the United States. Meanwhile, those with an associate degree in Nursing (ADN) typically average about $79,000 per year (January 2025 data).

While the BSN salary is significantly higher due to the broader scope of leadership careers available, even registered nurses with a BSN can earn slightly more upfront, with more room for growth down the road. Registered nurses with a BSN, according to the same PayScale data, earn between $54k and $104k per year. Those with an ADN earn between $52k and $99k annually.

4. A BSN can offer good job security.

Strong pay potential isn’t the only promise of stability in the nursing field. When it comes to a BSN degree, statistics show that nurses with a BSN have very high employment rates and job security in the industry. With 70% of employers expressing a strong preference for BSN-educated nurses, and at least 25% of hospitals now requiring a BSN degree in some capacity, employment rates for these degree holders are high.

According to a 2023 report from the AACN, 84% of BSN program graduates received a job offer at graduation, and 96% landed a job within four to six months of completing their degree. Meanwhile, across other occupations, 55% of graduates with a bachelor’s degree (in a non-nursing field) report securing a full-time job within six months of graduation.

Plus, the demand for healthcare never stops. As research evolves, technologies advance, and patient needs grow, so will the search for nurses with a BSN education.

5. A BSN degree will help you stay competitive.

As the value of a BSN degree becomes more recognized, so does the number of nurses pursuing these types of programs. Today, more than two-thirds (69%) of registered nurses have a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in hand. This means just 30% of nurses working in the field have an associate degree. A large proportion of seasoned RNs have gone back to school to earn their bachelor’s in Nursing, while some might have started their college career with a BSN.

In any case, this means that the job market is becoming more competitive. In order to keep pace with, or stand out against, other candidates, a BSN degree is worth considering. If you and another RN are fighting for the same promotion, a BSN degree can give you the edge you need.

6. A BSN is needed to pursue a graduate degree.

A BSN degree will qualify you for upper-level titles in nursing, including nurse manager, but this isn’t all. A bachelor’s degree is also needed to qualify for higher-level degrees, for those who want to explore advanced roles within the healthcare field. For example, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in Nursing to qualify for an APRN degree to become a nurse practitioner. Further, a bachelor’s degree is needed to pursue other opportune degree paths, including a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) or Master’s in Nursing (MSN).

7. BSN programs are more flexible than ever.

The beauty of the BSN degree is that you do not need to complete it right away. You do not need to invest four-plus years in nursing school right after high school graduation. You can earn your associate degree in Nursing in about two years, gain some experience in the field, and later go back to school for your BSN degree. This is possible through an RN-to-BSN program.

RN-to-BSN programs are designed with registered nurses in mind. They are offered in convenient formats so that RNs can continue working while going to school. Classes are often offered entirely online, and on part-time schedules. At Goodwin University, the RN-to-BSN program can be completed part-time in as few as 12 months. This means you can earn your BSN degree in just one year.

Alternatively, you can plan your classes around your scheduling needs and develop a timeline that works for you. No matter your path, you can leave prepared to level up your current nursing role.

The main requirement to enroll in an RN-to-BSN program is an RN license. With that, you can apply to this type of program and begin taking courses toward your BSN degree.

FAQ: Getting a BSN degree

What is a BSN degree?

BSN stands for Bachelor of Science in Nursing, which is an advanced nursing degree that prepares students to become registered nurses (RNs). A BSN degree typically takes four years to complete, offering courses in leadership, research, policy, advocacy, theory, and more.

Learn more about the BSN degree here.

What’s the difference between a BSN degree and RN degree?

An RN degree is synonymous with ADN degree, which is an associate degree in Nursing. RN degrees typically take two years to complete and prepare students (without any prior experience) to become registered nurses.

A BSN degree, on the other hand, is a longer course of study that covers a larger breadth of topics in nursing. BSN degree programs can be tailored to aspiring nurses without experience, or seasoned nurses with training under their belts, depending on the program type.

An associate degree in Nursing, or RN degree, is the minimum requirement to become a nurse today. However, some students have their sights set high, and choose a BSN program to prepare for future career growth and a competitive job market.

Explore the difference between RN and BSN programs here.

What can you do with a BSN degree?

Because BSN programs are more in-depth than the fundamental RN programs, they can position nurses for more job opportunities and growth potential. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), a sweeping number of hospitals now require or prefer to hire BSN graduates. The U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with the Veteran’s Administration (VA) all require nursing candidates to hold a BSN degree. Other examples of careers you can pursue with a BSN degree (and not an ADN) include nursing research, nursing informatics, nursing education, and managerial careers. Learn more about the options here.

Do BSN nurses get paid more than other RNs?

The salary potential for nurses holding a BSN degree is higher than those with an associate degree in Nursing. However, the salary averages are influenced by different job titles. With BSN degree holders qualifying for advanced, managerial roles, they can expect to see larger salary figures over the course of their career. For RNs with a BSN degree, though, the salary potential is only slightly higher than that of an RN with an associate degree. Learn more here.

Why should you get a BSN at Goodwin?

Goodwin University is a leader in healthcare education, with a variety of nursing programs recognized by employers throughout the state of Connecticut. For nurses seeking a BSN degree, we offer an RN-to-BSN program (available entirely online). We also offer an Accelerated BSN program for aspiring nurses looking to change career paths.

Call Goodwin University at 800-889-3282 to learn more, or request more information online.