Nursing Degree & Career - BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
Those entering the nursing field with a BSN can expect to do much of the same work as their ASN counterparts. Taking care of patient needs, assisting other medical professionals and administering basic medical assistance are just some of the duties BSN level nurses can expect to do. The difference for many BSN nurses as opposed to ASN or diploma nurses is that BSN programs provide not only classes on patient care but also coursework on management, leadership and administration in the medical field, making it easier for some BSN graduates to advance in their field.
While BSN nurses may be better poised for career advancement, on the whole they do not make much more than ASN nurses. In many cases salary bumps will be only a dollar or so more an hour and sometimes there will be no difference at all in pay scale. The average pay for BSN nurses in the United States usually falls between $14 and $30 an hour but will vary largely depending on location and the level of experience.
Most BSN programs take 3-4 years to complete and encompass a wide range of healthcare related topics. This can include coursework in chemistry, microbiology, calculus, leadership and management and more. Upon graduation, BSN students will need to take an additional exam in order to get their licensure to practice nursing within their state. Many students in BSN programs are entering from their current careers as registered nurses and course requirements will vary for these students as opposed to those entering the program with no previous experience in nursing.
One of the advantages of a BSN degree is that it can set up nurses for career advancement. Those within the nursing field will find that there is a great demand for their services and that career opportunities, at least in the time being, are plentiful. Those with a BSN degree may be able to take advantage of their training to move into positions that require leadership and management skills, especially as they gain more experience and knowledge through practice. Graduates of a BSN program will also be primed to enter an MSN program should they choose to do so, and gain additional experience and education to put towards their careers.
