BSN vs. MSN: How to Choose as an RN
If you’re a registered nurse (RN) with an associate degree in nursing (ADN), you might be considering further education to improve your career opportunities and salary. This guide helps you decide between getting a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or a master of science in nursing (MSN), so you can plan for your future.
For RNs with an ADN, there are two paths to consider: earning a BSN or an MSN. Both options have their benefits, and this guide will help you understand the differences and make an informed decision.
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Comparing RN-to-BSN and RN-to-MSN Programs
An MSN is a master’s degree that can open doors to becoming an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN), like a nurse midwife or nurse practitioner. On the other hand, a BSN is a bachelor’s degree that can lead to advancement and also set you up to pursue an MSN later on. However, a BSN doesn’t grant you the same extended practice capabilities as an MSN does.
| RN-to-BSN | RN-to-MSN | |
|---|---|---|
| Who is it for? | RNs who have not earned a BSN | RNs who have not earned a BSN |
| Program Length | 1-2 years | 2-4 years |
| Degree Conferred | BSN degree | MSN degree |
| Average Salary | $91,000 according to Payscale, February 2023 | $100,000 according to Payscale, February 2023 |
RN-to-BSN Overview
If you already have an ADN, you might be wondering why you should consider joining an RN-to-BSN or RN-to-MSN program. Many employers want a BSN for higher-level jobs, and having a BSN can give you an edge when applying. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) suggests that all RNs have a BSN, and some states are even thinking about, or already passing laws, that will require RNs to have a BSN in the future.
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A BSN also gets you ready for a graduate program. Almost half (48.1%) of RNs have a BSN, and this number is growing. RNs with only an ADN might face more competition from those with a BSN when looking for jobs.
Time to Complete
RN-to-BSN programs usually take 1-2 years to finish. It depends on how fast the program goes, if you plan to work while studying, and if you go full-time or part-time. The right pace depends on your responsibilities and how much time you want.
Prerequisites
Most RN-to-BSN programs need or prefer a GPA of 3.0, at least two references, and a current RN license for entry. Many want at least one year of nursing experience. If your ADN GPA doesn’t show how good you are as a nurse, special experience or other things, like knowing multiple languages or working with underserved communities, can matter more than a borderline GPA.
What You Can Do with a BSN
A BSN can give you a boost for many nursing jobs. Some employers, especially important ones, need a BSN for leadership roles. If you plan to do an MSN later, having a BSN gives you more options.
There are good reasons for employers to hire BSN-educated nurses. Hospitals need a certain percent of RNs with a BSN to get Magnet status. So, some employers might say ADN-prepared RNs must get a BSN in a certain number of years in their hiring contract.
Right now, New York wants RNs to finish a BSN program within 10 years of getting their RN license.
RN-to-MSN Overview
An MSN degree brings even more job choices, including higher pay. While most MSN students become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), you can also become a nurse educator or nurse administrator with an MSN. In 2020, 14.9% of RNs said they had an MSN as their top degree.
APRNs also have more professional freedom. In states where they have full practice power, APRNs can work without a doctor’s supervision. Even in states with limited power, APRNs can do more and make more independent decisions. Whether you want more money, independence, or a license that lets you assess, diagnose, and prescribe treatments, these are the main differences between BSN and MSN.
Time to Complete
As you’d guess, an RN-to-MSN program takes longer, around two to four years. It depends on how fast you go and how many credits you need. Lots of programs work for working students, but getting an MSN needs a lot of effort.
After an APRN program, you need to pass a board exam for your specialty. Make sure you have time to study and prepare. Like in your ADN program, you also need to do clinical work and manage your schedule.
Prerequisites
RN-to-MSN programs often have tougher rules for getting in. Most need or strongly want a GPA of 3.0. You also need two references, a current and clear RN license, and a current resume or CV. Most also want an essay explaining why you want an MSN and what it means to you. If you’re going for an APRN program, you should have nursing experience in the area you want to specialize in.
What You Can Do with an MSN?
One big difference between BSN and MSN is that a BSN covers a bit of everything, while an MSN is more focused. Each MSN program trains you for a different job, like a nurse midwife, nurse educator, pediatric care provider, or family nurse practitioner. If these jobs sound better than regular RN work, they can help you choose between the two degrees.
Some common APRN specialties are:
– Family nurse practitioner (the most common)
– Adult-gerontology nurse practitioner
– Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner
– Neonatal nurse practitioner
– Clinical nurse specialist
– Certified nurse midwife
You can also be a nurse administrator or educator with an MSN. You don’t have to get certified for these roles, but it helps in finding a job.
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Benefits and Drawbacks of RN-to-BSN or RN-to-MSN
Choosing between an RN-to-BSN or RN-to-MSN program depends on your career plans and resources, like time and money. An RN-to-BSN program is faster and less tough. If you’re short on time due to work and other things, an RN-to-BSN program is a better fit.
MSN programs are usually harder to get into than BSN programs, and good MSN programs are even harder. Applying to an MSN program also needs nursing experience. If your ADN GPA doesn’t show how good you are, the RN-to-BSN program can help you raise your GPA for your MSN application.
Financially, an RN-to-MSN program offers more money. If you’re early in your career, an RN-to-MSN program can help you earn more.
There are many ways to get financial help for nurses in both bridge programs. Some employers might pay for your program if you agree to work for them for a while. But, higher education is expensive, and an MSN program usually costs more per credit than a BSN.
Many MSN programs want you to specialize, while BSN programs let you explore more. If you’re new to nursing, this can help. Choosing between a BSN and MSN depends on your goals, time, and money.
How to Choose Between an RN-to-BSN and RN-to-MSN Program
To pick between an RN-to-BSN or RN-to-MSN program, talk to someone you trust. You might even be able to watch an APRN or MSN program graduate at work to see if you like it more than regular RN work.
A BSN can prepare you for an MSN program later. If you’re not sure about an MSN, getting a BSN can help you decide. If you enjoy higher-level classes, an MSN might be right for you. But if you don’t find them interesting, a BSN could be better.
After you choose a degree, there are more choices, like specializations (for MSN), program format, and full- or part-time schedules. A trusted advisor can help you with these options and choose what’s best for your future.
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