RN-to-BSN Program Degrees
Becoming a registered nurse (RN) is one of the first steps to take in your nursing career. The most common path to becoming a RN is to obtain a bachelor's of science degree in nursing (BSN).According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 678 BSN programs offered by colleges and universities across the country in 2002.
In order to receive your nursing license to be a RN, you must graduate from an approved nursing program and pass a national licensing examination. Besides a BSN program, there are two other main nursing programs to become a RN. Community and junior colleges offer associate degrees in nursing (ADN), which take up to three years. Hospitals also provide nursing diplomas, but these programs are disappearing.
The coursework in nursing programs consists of classroom instruction and clinical experience. You will receive training in anatomy, physiology, biology, chemistry, nutrition, psychology, and nursing.
Once you have your RN license, you qualify for entry-level positions as a staff nurse.
A BSN program, which takes four years, can broaden your choices and chances of advancement in your nursing career. Some positions are open only to RNs with a bachelor's or an advanced degree. For instance, a BSN degree is often required for administrative positions. A BSN is also required if you want to be admitted to graduate nursing programs and be eligible for teaching, consulting, research and other specialized positions.
Once you have obtained your nursing degree, your chances of finding a job in nursing are very good. Employment of registered nurses is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
