Between 1980 and 2000, the percentage of Registered Nurses holding a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) rose from 22% to 32%. The number of BSN graduates continues to rise today as employers more often prefer to hire nurses with a bachelor degree. These 5 important reasons to earn a BSN are encouraging LPN’s, LVN’s, and RN’s to head back to school.
1. BSN Graduates Enter One of the Fastest-Growing Careers in the Nation
RN’s are expected to have the second largest number of new job openings in the nation through the year 2014, says the Bureau of Labor Statistics. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, an aging population, more critically ill hospitalized patients, and an aging RN workforce is contributing to the increased demand for RN’s. RN’s with a BSN are expected to have the best opportunities in the job market.
2. BSN Graduates have a Wider Scope of Practice
Compared to RN’s with a hospital diploma or associate degree in nursing, RN’s who possess a BSN have a wider scope of practice in a variety of settings. Specialized fields, such as emergency care, intensive care, diabetes education, and pediatrics require specialized knowledge that is not readily available in nursing programs below the BSN level.
3. BSN Graduates Earn a Higher Salary
More education translates into higher wages and salaries. In 2000, the federal Division of Nursing found that nurses with advanced education nursing degrees earned up to $10,000 more annually than the median income for all RN’s.
4. BSN Graduates have Access to Leadership and Management Opportunities
BSN graduates are able to climb the career ladder much easier than their co-workers with less education. Case management, clinical leadership, and policy development positions are typically reserved for RN’s who have at least a BSN.
5. BSN Graduates Experience High Levels of Career Purpose and Satisfaction
Many nurses cite important factors that contribute to their high level of career satisfaction. A 2004 Nurse Worklife Satisfaction Survey revealed appreciation by patients and an atmosphere of teamwork as positive contributions to RN’s who wish to continue in their current profession.
Prospective BSN students may visit College-Pages.com, the leading education and career resource website for a complete list of bachelor of science in nursing programs. Students will also find links to informative articles for making education and career decisions in the field of nursing.
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Tags: bureau of labor statistics, nursing, registered nurse, RN to BSN
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