Different Types Of Registered Nursing Degrees

Licensed practical nurses (LPN), also referred to as licensed vocational nurses (LVN), and registered nurses (RN) are the two major categories of nurses within the United States. One of the main differences between the two is that a career in registered nursing typically requires additional education, certification and more extensive training than a licensed practical nurse. In the healthcare field, RNs typically supervise and oversee the work being done by LPNs. RNs tend to also have more job opportunities, better opportunities for career growth and higher pay than LPNs.

If you are looking to become a registered nurse, there are several nursing degrees you can pursue along with the required certification required by your state.

Registered Nurse With An Associate Degree In Nursing

An associate degree in nursing (ADN) is typically the quickest educational path towards becoming a registered nurse. Unlike the other degree options for RNs, an associate degree in nursing is a two-year program that will adequately prepare an individual for a career as a registered nurse. These courses can typically be obtained at community or junior colleges, but are also offered at private and four-year universities. In some instances, the program may also take more than the estimated two years depending on the student’s course load and course completion.

Here are key points to consider when pursuing an associate degree in nursing for RNs:

• Registered nurses with an ADN can begin working in their desired field much faster than those who pursue an advanced degree.
• An ADN program is typically more affordable than advanced degrees.
• ADN have limited opportunities for career growth than those with more advanced nursing degrees.
• Many registered nurses holding an ADN eventually return to school to obtain a more advanced degree to further their career opportunities.
• An ADN program consists of the primary education necessary to perform within the scope of work for a normal RN. This includes a curriculum with components that take place in the classroom and within a supervised clinical setting.
• Some states accept online ADN programs from accredited universities. However, these online programs still require the clinical component of a normal program. Students will have to make arrangements to complete this clinical coursework with hospitals and other facilities recommended by the school offering the online program.
• RNs who hold an ADN and are already working can seek reimbursement from their employer should they decide to pursue a more advanced degree.

Registered Nurse With A Bachelor Of Science In Nursing

A bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) is the next level of nursing degrees pursued by those who wish to become registered nurses. A BSN is a four-year program that includes all of the components of a two-year AND, with additional studies in areas like critical thinking, leadership, hospital management and communication. A bachelor of science in nursing also tends to include additional working experience outside of a normal clinical setting.

Here are some key points to consider when pursuing a bachelor of science in nursing:

• Bachelor of science in nursing degrees are typically offered at four-year colleges or universities.
• RNs holding a BSN can look forward to additional positions in administration, consulting and research.
• In a competitive job market, a registered nurse holding a BSN might seem more appealing than one holding an ADN.
• RNs who hold a BSN and are already working can seek reimbursement from their employer should they decide to pursue a master’s degree.

Registered Nurse With A Master of Science in Nursing

For registered nurses looking to take their career even further, a master of science in nursing (MSN) is the next step. Pursuing an MSN will open the doors to career opportunities as nursing educators and hospital managers. This advanced degree provides additional training for RNs looking to obtain positions in hospital management and administration, health policy, and as clinical nurse leaders.

Additional Information For Future RNs

• To become a licensed registered nurse within the United States, all RN candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) in the state they wish to practice in.
• Both associate degrees in nursing and bachelor of science in nursing provide the necessary resources and course curriculum to help prepare students for the NCLEX-RN upon graduation.
• While online courses are offered for ADN, BSN and MSN nursing degrees, not all state nursing boards are willing to accept such credentials. Be sure to consult the nursing board for your state before enrolling in an online nursing degree program.

Bottom Line

The type of nursing degree you pursue to become a registered nurse depends on your particular circumstances. For those who need to start earning wages as soon as possible, an associate degree in nursing is probably the best course of action. Fortunately, obtaining a more advanced degree at a later time is not that difficult, which is why it is the typical course of action for RNs who possess two-year degrees. If you are looking for higher pay and more career growth and opportunity, you should consider obtaining the highest degree possible for RNs.