The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that nurses held about 2.6 million jobs as of 2008. It is one of the largest occupational fields in the United States. With so many employment opportunities, prospective nurses may be uncertain about which type of educational degree is right for them. There are several different nursing degrees available, each of which may fit a different type of student best.
There are 4 main types of nursing degrees including:
- Associate degree in nursing (ADN)
- Bachelor’s of science degree in nursing (BSN)
- Diploma
- Accelerated degrees
An ADN allows nurses to apply for several entry-level positions in the field. It takes about 2 to 3 years to complete. Most community or junior colleges offer ADN programs. An ADN is best for a younger nursing student who is just entering the field or a professional who is unsure whether they would like to work in health care. Older professionals who are looking for a second career may also choose an ADN.
Health care employers may have special tuition reimbursement programs or incentives for nurses to convert their ADN to a BSN. Nurses with an ADN should ask their employer about possible assistance if they are planning to upgrade their ADN to a BSN. Some employers allow students to work part-time and study for a BSN at the same time.
A BSN is rapidly becoming the minimum job requirement for many nursing positions. Nurses with a BSN can apply to considerably more positions than those with an ADN. A BSN will take about 4 years for a student to complete. The BSN is suitable for professionals who are sure that they want to work in the nursing field. It’s also for ADN nurses who want to advance their professional career.
A diploma program is relatively rare compared to ADN and BSN programs. Diplomas are usually taught in hospitals and will run about 3 years. Generally students only have access to a diploma program if they live in an urban or suburban setting with a large medical or hospital complex. Most students will pick an ADN or BSN program over a diploma program.
Accelerated programs generally come in BSN and master’s degrees. A master’s in nursing will give the student both a BSN and a master’s degree at the conclusion of the program. Accelerated programs work best for students who can spare the time and effort. The coursework and material is condensed into fewer days, making it difficult to complete for students who have a full-time job or other limitations on their time. Students should be able to attend accelerated programs full-time without distractions for the best chance of success.
With so many different types and styles of nursing degrees to choose from, any prospective nursing student should be able to find one that fits them. As the nursing field continues to grow, more nurses of all levels will be needed. Not being able to enroll in a degree program should not be a barrier to becoming a registered nurse.