While some hospitals and clinics require their RNs to hold a bachelor of science in nursing, you will find others that only require holding a state license as an RN. There are several advantages to furthering your education and the next logical step is to get that BSN. If you are still on the fence, here are five reasons to you may want to consider.
1. More Doors Are Open to You
With a bachelor of science in nursing from leading schools like Duquesne University, you will find that you have greater job opportunities. Some job postings are only open to candidates with that four-year degree and as luck would often have it, that would be the job you really want. If you are looking for the widest range of RN positions, you will need to pursue a BSN.
2. Higher Pay Grade
As of May 2017, RNs with a BSN earned an average salary of $69,697 while RNs with an ADN earned approximately $8,337 less. Understand that this is the average difference, but in many cases, the difference in salary is much greater. Remember, job options are far greater when you hold a BSN, so you can qualify for much better-paying jobs of your choice.
3. A Step up Toward an MSN
Many RNs are motivated to work up the ladder within their field. Some want to move on to a master’s degree in nursing while others want to move even higher up to eventually be licensed as a Nurse Practitioner. If you take that next step to a BSN, you are in a perfect position to increase your earnings and job opportunities exponentially.
4. Studies Beyond Clinical Applications
As a nurse who holds only a diploma or an associate degree, you will find that you are taught the basics of nursing. Yes, you will move beyond what an LPN can do and earn, but you will not have been taught other skills necessary to a position of leadership. With a BSN, you can be a team leader, a charge nurse, and are trained in critical thinking. Bear in mind that those extra two years can prepare you to carry responsibilities beyond clinical applications.
5. You Can Study 100% from Home
There was a time when it was extremely difficult for working nurses to advance their degrees. Now you can move from RN to BSN online without stepping foot into a classroom. This is why so many nurses now begin with a diploma or an ADN. They can begin earning an income so that they are self-sufficient while furthering their education.
After all, not only will you have greater earning potential and job opportunities, but you will be in a position to work towards even higher levels within the field of nursing. Whether or not you see that BSN as a stepping stone towards the autonomy of a nurse practitioner, you will find your chosen career that much more rewarding with the benefits derived from a higher level of education.