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RN Diploma / Certificate Programs
Pros and Cons of a Diploma-Based RN Program
The benefits of a diploma or certificate program include being low-cost and quick to complete. Therefore, it is by far the most accessible option for those with limited time and budget constraints. However, a main disadvantage is that you do not earn an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree. As a result, you may be less competitive among other registered nurses in the job market.
If your primary goal is to become a registered nurse as quickly as possible without incurring student loan debt, and if you plan on working as an RN for the foreseeable future, then a hospital-based program is a sensible choice. Nevertheless, it is essential to note that many healthcare employers now prefer nurses with higher levels of education. Consequently, hospital-based RN programs can be difficult to find nowadays.
RN Programs
Individual program accreditations are granted by the State Board of Nursing for each state. It is important to verify a school’s current approval status before attending their program. You can verify by contacting the board of nursing in the state where the school is located.
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Associate’s Degree (ADN) RN Programs
Another way to become a registered nurse is by completing an Associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) program. Most ADN programs take about 18-24 months to finish at a local community college. Often, the required classes can be taken online or during nights and weekends, making it easier for working students to fit study into their schedules.
After you earn your ADN, you can register to take the NCLEX-RN exam. Furthermore, these programs are relatively quick and inexpensive because they are typically offered at junior colleges.
ADN Versus BSN Degree
An advantage of earning an Associate’s degree is that you can always return to school later to earn your Bachelor’s degree. If you decide to pursue a Bachelor’s degree, it will only take about two more years to complete. Overall, the Associate’s degree path serves as a stepping stone for many future opportunities.
Bachelor’s Degree (BSN) RN Programs
The best career choice for a future registered nurse is to enroll in a four year Bachelor’s degree in nursing The best career choice for a future registered nurse is to enroll in a four-year Bachelor’s degree in nursing program. Although completing this degree will take about four years, the graduate will possess a valuable credential.
Advantages of a BSN Degree
For instance, a student who graduates from a BSN program can take the NCLEX-RN test and become a licensed registered nurse. Moreover, an RN with a bachelor’s degree is often preferred by employers over those with lesser or no degrees. As a result, nurses holding a BSN usually earn higher salaries and greater hourly wages.
Career Advancement Opportunities
In addition, an RN with a BSN can apply for nursing management positions. This enables rapid advancement within the profession into more specialized fields. Furthermore, a BSN degree opens up opportunities outside of nursing. Accordingly, a four-year degree from a reputable university has significant value in the US economy and signals academic achievement and competence.
Advantages of a Bachelor’s Degree
Lastly, holding a bachelor’s degree in nursing brings you one step closer to pursuing a Master’s degree, which requires about 18 months of additional schooling. Although this degree will take approximately four years to complete, the future graduate will possess a valuable credential that can be applied in various ways.
For example, a student who graduates from a BSN program can take the NCLEX-RN test and become a licensed registered nurse. Employers prefer an RN who holds a Bachelor’s degree over those with a lesser degree or no degree. Hence, nurses who have their BSN will demand higher salaries and greater hourly wages.
Additional Career Opportunities With a BSN Degree
Additionally, an RN with a BSN degree can also apply for nursing management positions and advance quickly within the nursing profession into more specialized fields. You can see current average salary data for Registered Nurses to help you make an informed decision. Lastly, a BSN degree allows the individual to pursue other careers outside of nursing.
Additionally, a four-year degree from a reputable university holds value in the US economy and serves as a signal of academic achievement and overall competence. For this reason, a bachelor’s degree in nursing also puts you one step closer to achieving a Master’s degree with about 18 months of additional schooling.