RN To BSN Programs

Many universities offer RN to BSN programs that allow nurses to advance their education. These types of programs apply credits from a student's associate's degree or diploma in nursing towards their BSN. Some accelerated RN to BSN programs can be completed in as little as three semesters. Most programs are designed to accommodate the schedules of nurses who are working full-time while returning to school.

BSN Job Description 

An entry level BSN (bachelor's of science in nursing) usually begins their career as a registered nurse. Their duties begin in a patient care capacity, in either a hospital, clinical, or doctor's office setting. They complete tasks such as starting IVs, administering medications, observing patient conditions, and updating charts and paperwork. They handle basic patient care, under the advice of the attending physician, and may work in a supervisory role over nursing assistants and practical nurses. As they advance in their career, they may take on administrative roles or work on an educational level with patients or other care providers.  

BSN Educational Requirements 

Nurses with a BSN must have completed a bachelor's degree program at an accredited university or college. They must complete all required core educational credits and also any courses within the nursing track that are necessary for their program. Specific requirements are set out by the school or department. Additionally, they are required to pass the board testing for their state or locality, in order to work on a patient care level.  

Necessary Personal Attributes and Qualities for a BSN 

There are many personal attributes that make a career in nursing more enjoyable and more rewarding. While the lack of these attributes may not disqualify you from becoming a BSN, having them will make your education and your future job easier to handle. Those with a caring nature, who enjoy working with people in a one-on-one situation, have a much better experience with a career as a BSN.

You should have:

• good organizational and communication skills
• a strong stomach
• the ability to react quickly in a crisis situation.

Even those without these specific strengths can do well as a BSN, if they take the time to learn their job and work on the areas in which they are weak. 

BSN Career Outlook and Opportunities 

The current nursing shortage has created an amazing career outlook and many opportunities for those with a BSN. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the number of available nursing positions will increase by 23 percent by the year 2016. In addition to an increase in available positions, those who choose to complete a BSN have the opportunity to step into administrative and educational roles that those with lesser nursing degrees will not be qualified to fill.

Concerning salary, the median yearly earnings for a registered nurse with a BSN was $57,280 in 2006, according to the BLS. This figure could be even higher for those who work in specialized nursing settings. 

If you are considering pursuing a BSN, carefully weigh the job requirements and opportunities before making your final decision. If you decide that getting a BSN is the right career choice for you, you will have found an exciting and rewarding career that can last a lifetime.