What can you do with a BSN degree? Employment Costs and Opportunities in 2023 | research.com (2023)

Nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree have received advanced education that builds on basic nursing skills throughonline nursing programsor in person. The program covers patient care technology, research, health promotion, safety and quality in the health care system.

Consequently, BSN degrees are becoming more and more important as the demand for highly qualified and qualified nurses grows. Almost everyone is looking to improve safety and prepare for future health challenges. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for registered nurses (RNs) is expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, a rate similar to most other occupations (BLS, 2022).

Obtaining a BSN degree can significantly affect pay, specialization, and overall career prospects. Our research team evaluated the different options on the market and compiled this article to delve into different aspects of BSN degrees. We'll discuss costs, job opportunities, types of BSN degrees available, requirements and what to consider when choosing a BSN degree program.

BSN Grade Index

1. What is a BSN degree?
2. BSN degree cost
3. BSN Degree Jobs
4. Types of degrees in BSN
5. BSN Degree Requirements
6. What to Look for in a BSN Degree Program

What is a BSN degree?

A BSN is an undergraduate degree designed to give students the knowledge and skills to become RNs. It gives nurses the leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills they need to tackle the myriad career opportunities that await them in the healthcare industry.

What can you do with a BSN degree?

Earning a BSN degree can provide graduates with a deeper understanding of patient care, health policy, and community health, possibly leading to better patient outcomes.

In their study entitled “Changes in the proportion of nurses with a bachelor's degree associated with improvements in patient outcomes”, published inResearch in Nursing and Healthin 2021, Lasater et al. suggested that a workforce of nurses with higher levels of education can benefit hospitals and patients.

Their 2021 study found that with the average percentage of RNs with BSN grades increasing from 41% in 2006 to 56% in 2016 in 519 adult critical care hospitals, “[…][M]ortality among general surgical cases has declined, from 1.4% to 0.9% in the period. Length of stay also decreased, to a lesser extent, from an average [of] 5.1 days to 4.7 days, while readmissions of 7 days and 30 days remained essentially the same over the period, at around 3% and 7%, respectively. These favorable changes in mortality and stability in readmissions occurred despite increases in virtually all comorbidities.”

As for nurses who want to continue their education, earning a BSN can lead to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), paving the way for higher-paying job opportunities in roles such as advanced nursing and consultant nursing.

Nurses who did not have the chance to complete a BSN or MSN can also pursue an RN-BSN or RN-MSN completion program, provided they enter the program with a hospital degree.

Cost of a BSN Degree

The cost of earning a BSN degree varies depending on factors such as public or private schools, in-state or out-of-state, and program format.

The average cost of completing a four-year BSN program in the US ranges from $40,000 to over $200,000, depending on various factors such as tuition fees, room and board, transportation, and personal expenses (Writers, 2022).

How much does it cost to get a BSN degree?

Public schools generally have lower tuition rates than private schools. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of tuition and fees for a four-year bachelor's program at a public school was $9,400 in 2020-21, while costs for for-profit and non-profit private schools were $18,200. and $37,600, respectively (NCES, 2022).

The tuition-only cost for private school students is double the cost of their public school counterparts. However, some private schools offer nursing student scholarships and other aids to make school more affordable.

Also, out-of-state students generally pay higher tuition than in-state students. On average, tuition in a community college nursing program costs between $72 and $82 per credit hour, while out-of-state tuition ranges from $154 to $216 per credit hour.

For non-nursing baccalaureate students looking to become RNs, an accelerated BSN program typically takes 11 to 18 months and can cost anywhere from $18,000 to $40,000 to cover tuition, fees, books, and supplies.

For RNs who want to complete the requirements for a BSN degree, RN-to-BSN programs can cost anywhere from $8,000 to $55,000 for tuition, fees, books, and supplies. Healthcare employers may pay an employee's enrollment costs to participate in an RN-to-BSN program (Smith, 2022).

Another factor that would add to the total cost is the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), which BSN degree holders must take and pass to become RNs. This exam typically costs around $200. However, many schools include the exam fee in their estimated program completion rates.

Nursing scholarships, grants, and loan programs are available, and filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid is required before receiving most scholarships or financial aid.

Is a BSN degree worth it?

Completing a BSN degree can be quite expensive. However, BSN graduates can gain various skills and knowledge along the way and increase their employment opportunities.

That said, a BSN is among thedegrees that pay well. The median BSN degree salary is $91,000 annually (Payscale, 2023).

BSN Degree Jobs

A nurse's most common role is to care for and supervise patients in medical facilities or at home, using the patient's medical history to inform current treatments. They prepare patients for procedures, plan tests, explain treatments, and address any concerns.

Is BSN in high demand?

Obtaining a BSN degree can help nurses excel in their job search. An August 2022 survey by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) found that the average job offer rate for 2021 BSN degree holders in the U.S. was 77% upon graduation and increased to 93% four to six months later.

Specifically, survey results indicated that job offer rates varied across regions, with BSN graduates in the South, Midwest, North Atlantic and West regions receiving job offers at rates of 84%, 80%, 71% and 55%, respectively, after graduation. .

Additionally, job offer rates for BSN degree holders were highest after four to six months, with rates of 96%, 97%, 94%, and 92% in the South, Midwest, North Atlantic, and West regions. respectively (AACN, 2022).

What jobs can you get with a BSN degree?

As nursing professionals who clinically treat patients and provide emotional and educational support to patients and their families, RNs work with different types of physicians in various specialties and settings, including clinics and outpatient clinics.

BSN-prepared nurses may also qualify for leadership and management positions in healthcare organizations after years of clinical experience. Some potential careers for BSN-prepared nurses include the following positions:

• Nurse Manager.Nurse managers supervise nursing staff and train other nurses in administering treatments, reporting, and restocking hospital or clinic rooms. This position requires at least a BSN and years of experience as an RN.
• Nurse Educator.These nurses instruct aspiring nurses in classroom and clinical settings and work in teaching hospitals, nursing schools, and technical schools. Nurse educators hold at least a BSN and have experience as an RN.
• Director of Nursing.Needing at least a BSN, this role involves dealing with the entire nursing staff in a hospital, including nurse managers and their departments. Responsibilities include coordinating physician visits, maintaining nursing staff, creating reports, conducting assessments, maintaining budgets, and resolving patient issues.

Earning a BSN diploma can also lead nurses to seek positions in thescience, technology, engineering and mathematics industry, as:

• Clinical Research Nurse.RNscans use their knowledge and experience in patient care to understand and demonstrate the effects of medications and drugs in large populations (Western Governors University, 2021). In addition to the BSN, this position usually requires a degree in other scientific disciplines such as biology or chemistry.
• Forensic Nurse.these nurseswork with law professionalsto collect evidence for criminal investigations. In addition to your BSN degree, this job usually requires a certificate or MSN in forensic nursing.

What kind of salary can I earn with a BSN degree?

When comparing nursing salaries, one can consider the difference between the BSN salary and the RN salary, as there can be a significant discrepancy between the two.

RNs earn an average base salary of $72,504 annually, while jobs that require a BSN degree, such as Clinical Research and Forensic Nurses, earn around $74,000.

Furthermore, the average annual salaries for leadership and management roles such as Nurse Educator, Nurse Manager, and Director of Nursing are $80,538, $94,535, and $99,210 respectively.

Types of degrees in BSN

There isthree main types of BSN degrees: Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN and RN-BSN. All programs have unique characteristics and requirements, and students should consider their individual needs and goals before choosing a program.

Factors such as current educational level, motivation and whether the person intends to work while earning their BSN should be considered when deciding which program to choose.

The AACN provides an overview of traditional BSN programs, accelerated nursing programs, and nursing degree completion programs.

What types of BSN degrees are there?

Traditional BSN degree

Average time to completion:Four years

Traditional BSN programs have general education courses in addition to nursing fundamentals and theory courses, practical nursing skills practices, and various clinical rotations. There are no prerequisites needed before enrolling in a traditional BSN program.

The program includes classroom lectures, homework assignments, exams, hands-on labs, and clinical exams. It is designed for students with no previous college experience and only a high school diploma.

Thus, traditional BSN programs are ideal for high school graduates or transfer students with a few non-nursing college credits.

Accelerated BSN Grade (ABSN)

Average time to completion:one to two years

OABSN programit is ideal for transfer students or those with a bachelor's degree. It is designed for students with non-nursing degrees such as adegree in biologyor at least 60 college credits to qualify for admission.

Some ABSN programs combine online course instruction and homework with in-person exams, skills labs, and simulation and clinical activities. ABSN's blended programs offer the best of both worlds, as students can benefit from the hands-on experience and flexibility of online learning.

Accelerated BSN programs have a more condensed time frame of one to two years and may offer multiple start dates per year. Most ABSN programs require prerequisite courses prior to enrollment, ensuring students are prepared to enter the nursing curriculum.

Programa RN-BSN

Average time to completion:about two years

The RN-to-BSN program is for those who have already obtained aBachelor's Degree in Nursing (ADN)and want to continue their education and career. This program is designed to build on the knowledge base and skills acquired during the ADN training.

It typically takes around two years to complete, although the duration can vary depending on the institution and course requirements. RNs who follow this program will learn advanced nursing concepts and skills, including leadership, research, community health, and evidence-based practice.

They will also gain experience managing complex patient cases, working in interprofessional teams and leveraging technology in healthcare delivery.

One of the benefits of an RN-to-BSN program is that it is designed for working RNs who may not have the flexibility to attend traditional on-campus classes.

There isonline nursing schools, and many programs offer the BSN degree through hybrid formats that allow them to complete courses at their own pace, according to their schedule. This makes it easy to balance work, family, and other commitments while pursuing the BSN degree.

BSN Degree Requirements

A BSN diploma typically requires a cumulative high school GPA of 2.75 or higher, SAT scores, and an application essay. However, the specific requirements for a BSN degree vary depending on the institution.

Admission Requirements

Most accredited BSN programs require the following:

• High school diploma or equivalent.BSN programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED (General Education Development) test credential.
• Standardized test scores.Some BSN programs may require applicants to submit standardized test scores, such as the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or American College Test (ACT). However, this is not a universal requirement and many schools do not require these scores.
• Personal statement or essay.Many BSN programs require applicants to submit a personal statement or essay that outlines their goals, motivation for pursuing nursing, and any relevant experiences.
• Letter of recommendation.BSN programs may require applicants to submit letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or other professionals who can speak to the applicant's academic skills and potential as a nurse.
• Health and background checks.BSN programs typically require applicants to undergo health and background checks to ensure they are physically and mentally capable of performing nursing duties and do not have a criminal record that would prevent them from obtaining licensure.

Upon admission, BSN students are expected to complete general education requirements and core courses and maintain a good GPA (BSN, 2023). The list of requirements includes:

• General education courses.BSN programs generally require completion of general education courses such as English, math, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
• Nursing courses.BSN programs typically require multiple courses in nursing theory, clinical practice, health assessment, pharmacology, and nursing research.
• Clinical experience.BSN students are generally required to complete a certain number of clinical hours to gain hands-on experience in patient care.
• Electives.BSN programs may require completion of a certain number of electives, allowing students to focus on areas of interest or explore different fields.
• GPA requirement.Many BSN programs require students to maintain a minimum GPA (grade point average) to remain in the program and graduate.
• Certification and licensing.Upon completion of a BSN program, graduates are required to pass the NCLEX-RN to become licensed to practice as an RN.

skill requirements

Some BSN programs also require applicants to have the following basic skills:

• Critical thinking.Aspiring RNs must be able to analyze patient data and make informed decisions about their care.
• Problems solution.They must also be able to identify and resolve issues that arise during patient care.
• Listening and communication.Future nurses must be able to listen actively and convey information effectively to patients and their families.
• Leadership and teamwork.Nurses must be able to work in a team and lead when needed.

What to Look for in a BSN Degree Program

Investing in a BSN degree program can be expensive. Therefore, it is important to consider the followingqualities that the best undergraduate colleges havein common when choosing which BSN program to make it worthwhile:

• NCLEX-RN pass rate.Licensing pass rates generally reflect the effectiveness of an institution's curriculum.
• Accreditation.The CCNE (Council on Collegiate Nursing Education) or the ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing) are two organizations that must accredit the BSN degree program.
• Curriculum and costs.Tuition and fees may differ in price from one university to another. Students should therefore do their homework and choose a curriculum that meets all of their needs while offering good value for money.
• Student support services.Financial aid options help students pay for their education.

Is a BSN Degree Right for You?

One's work goals, financial situation, and personal goals should all be considered when deciding whether to pursue a BSN degree. The BSN program needs a considerable amount of time and financial commitment, as well asmost respected grades.

However, the advantages of earning a BSN degree are significant and include better employment possibilities, greater earning potential and more chances for career advancement.

A BSN degree can be a good investment for nurses who are passionate about providing great patient care and giving back to local communities.

That said, aspiring nurses can choose the right curriculum and know what to expect from their nursing education by knowing the various parts of the course.

References:

1. 2022 data on employment of recent nursing graduates and employer preferences for baccalaureate-prepared nurses.(n.d.).https://www.aacnnursing.org/News-Information/Research-Data-Center/Employment/2022
2. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Salary| Pay scale. (n.d.).https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Bachelor_of_Science_in_Nursing_(BSN)/Salário
3. Bsn, A.B.a. R. (2023, January 10).BSN Degree and BSN Online Programs. https://www.registerednursing.org/degree/bsn
4. Lasater, K.B., Sloane, D.M., McHugh, M.D., Porat-Dahlerbruch, J., & Aiken, L.H. (2021). Changes in the proportion of licensed nurses associated with improvements in patient outcomes.Research in Nursing and Health, 44(5),787-795.https://doi.org/10.1002/nur.22163
5. National Center for Education Statistics. (n.d.).Fast Facts: College and University Tuition Costs (76). https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=76
6. National Council of State Nursing Councils. (n.d.). NCLEX 2022 Passing Rates. Retrieved March 31, 2023, fromhttps://www.ncsbn.org/public-files/NCLEX_Stats_2022-Q4-PassRates.pdf
7. Registered Nurses: Handbook of Occupational Perspectives:: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.(2022, September 8).https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm
8. Smith, L. (2022, November 17).Average tuition and fees for a BSN program.BSN Programs.https://www.bsnprograms.org/tuition-and-fees.html
9. University of Western Governors. (2021, July 8).Medical biotechnology: advancement and ethics. https://www.wgu.edu/blog/medical-biotechnology-advancements-ethics1811.html
10. Writers, S. (2022, December 23).How much does nursing school cost?|NurseJournal.org.NurseJournal.https://nursejournal.org/resources/how-much-does-nursing-school-cost