Registered nurses (RNs) can earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from universities with traditional or online RN to BSN programs. If you want to move beyond your current position, a BSN could be your ticket to a new and exciting career.
Nursing schools require you to complete around 120 credit hours to graduate with a traditional bachelor’s degree. However, RN to BSN programs require fewer credit hours since the schools generally accept transfer credits from previous bachelor’s degree, associate degree or diploma programs. Moreover, with programs like Lamar University’s online RN to BSN, you can complete the coursework wherever and whenever fits in your schedule.
Why Should You Consider a BSN?
Why obtain a BSN? Like most healthcare professions, nursing is a growing career field. As a licensed RN, you can go straight into the job market with an Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN). However, a bachelor’s degree can expand your opportunities and put you on the career path that is right for you.
If you already work directly with patients on a daily basis, your job may be rewarding. But, often, your career options are limited. An online RN to BSN can help you pursue an array of specialties and work in the field of your choice.
In addition, earning a BSN can help increase your earning potential. According to ZipRecruiter, BSNs make an average annual salary of $98,818 as of March 2023. In comparison, ZipRecruiter reports that the average salary for RNs is only $77,976. Clearly, the wage premium for earning a BSN can be substantial.
Opportunities Are Expanding
Many United States healthcare facilities are hiring more BSN-prepared nurses. This shift toward higher education levels for nursing staff aligns with recommendations from the National Academy of Medicine (formerly the Institute of Medicine), the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and others.
Plus, more and more advancement or hiring opportunities require BSN-level preparation for nurses. For instance, nurse leaders and nurse managers at Magnet hospitals must have at least a baccalaureate-level degree.
What Jobs Can You Get With a BSN?
The job opportunities with an online RN to BSN are many and varied. A registered nurse with a BSN can work in many types of healthcare facilities. Some BSN nurses work in management, public health and continuing education. With a bachelor’s degree, you can also work in nursing research for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) or a similar organization.
A BSN also provides nurses with a steppingstone toward earning graduate-level nursing degrees required for more specialized advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) roles like family nurse practitioners. APRN roles can offer nurses more job versatility, higher wages and the possibility of having an independent practice, depending on state-by-state regulations.
If you want to expand your career, consider a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Earning an online RN to BSN can open the doors to many new possibilities.
Learn more about Lamar University’s online RN to BSN program.
