How to Go About Earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing (BSN)

A career in nursing is one of limitless opportunities and options. And, because nurses are always needed anywhere there are people, there is the promise of job security. Before a person decides to become a nurse, it is often suggested that prospective candidates volunteer at a local hospital or sign up for a nursing camp where they are given training in clinical skills. They also attend anatomy and pathology workshops, simulated clinical situations and other workshops dealing with patient care. With such practical experiences, individuals can better decide if they wish to become nurses, as well as be better prepared for a nursing program.

Earning a BSN Degree

If a nurse has earned a Bachelor’s degree, there are more career opportunities and the promise of better pay than without such a degree. So, how does a person go about earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing?

  • The prospective nursing student should be sure to have either a high school diploma or a GED diploma. This education is a mandatory requirement since basic knowledge of English, Math, Science, and Social Science is a prerequisite.
  • The student should apply to an Accredited BSN Program and go through the application process. He or she should always make sure the college he or she plans to attend has all the required accreditation. Otherwise, the student will run the risk of the degree being contested at job interviews.
  • The student should look into the cost of earning the degree and the financial options such as scholarships and financial aid.
  • The student should complete all required courses for the degree.
  • The graduate should then apply for an RN license and take the NCLEX-RN® exam.

Schools whose Nursing Programs are well-respected are good choices for prospective students interested in earning a Bachelor of Science and becoming an RN since prospective employers and graduate schools take into consideration the reputations and programs of the schools issuing the BSN degrees.

Having a BSN provides opportunities for advancement

RNs who do not have a bachelor’s degree but have experience and have completed a two-year Associate’s degree program can enroll in a comprehensive year-and-a-half RN-to-BSN program. Some of these programs are conveniently available online. Fortunately, many hospitals have tuition reimbursement programs for nurses who wish to further their formal education. By upgrading their degrees, nurses are afforded more opportunities for employment and for advancement.

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