RNs with BSN degrees have more career opportunities than RNs with associate degrees or nursing diplomas. A BSN is a prerequisite for nurses who want to advance in the field, such as becoming nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists. Extensive research proves a more educated nursing workforce results in better patient outcomes.
1. Money
The advantages of pursuing an RN to BSN online Massachusetts are numerous. This pathway allows nurses to enhance their qualifications, advance their careers, and achieve their professional goals. A bachelor’s degree is an excellent investment in your career. The skills learned in a BSN program will give you the edge to be promoted and move into leadership roles. Plus, if you decide to pursue an advanced degree in nursing, you’ll be ready to do so because a BSN is a prerequisite for many graduate programs.
RNs with a BSN are more desirable by employers, especially those in hospitals. They tend to have a more in-depth understanding of the medical field and are better equipped to provide quality patient care. Plus, many schools offer a flexible online BSN program that allows students to take classes around their schedules rather than at a brick-and-mortar school.
2. Flexibility
RNs with a BSN can expect more opportunities for advancement within the nursing field. A growing number of hospitals and healthcare organizations require their new hires to have a bachelor’s degree, so it’s best for those interested in advancing their career that they earn a BSN.
Nurses with a BSN also find it easier to enter graduate programs later in their careers. This can help them progress to an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) or a post-master’s program such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice. RNs who are considering earning their BSN can do so easily online. Whether you’re an RN and want to pursue your BSN or enter the workforce, plenty of flexible online programs can meet your specific needs and schedule.
3. Accessibility
The cost of tuition for an online BSN program can be significant, but many students find that financial aid options, scholarships, and grants help limit the costs. Depending on the program, additional expenses like textbooks, nursing outfits, and medical supplies may also need to be considered. While a registered nurse can work as an entry-level caregiver with only an associate degree, most employers prefer nurses with bachelor’s degrees. This is particularly true for hospitals seeking Magnet designation, and it makes sense for current RNs considering advanced nursing roles such as nurse educator or nurse practitioner to earn their BSN.
For this reason, many healthcare systems offer their employees the opportunity to earn their BSN through a partnered online program. This allows their employees to complete the degree quickly and efficiently while saving on tuition costs. The specifics of these programs vary from one healthcare system to another, but they are worth exploring with your HR department.
4. Time
When you pursue a bachelor of science in nursing degree online, you’ll save both time and money. The total cost for a traditional BSN can range from $40,000 to $100,000, depending on the program and college. In addition to tuition, you’ll likely have to pay registration, application, and technology fees, as well as textbooks, nursing outfits, supplies, and room and board if you’re attending school on campus. For those who already have an RN and are looking to take the next step in their careers, an online RN-to-BSN program can enable you to earn your degree more quickly.
Conclusion
This program skips the general education courses and focuses on nursing-related classes where you can demonstrate competency after passing prerequisites. Additionally, accelerated BSN programs help you skip some of the nursing-related coursework and accelerate your progress in the program. This is especially helpful for those who are working while they study.