Whether you're working on a diploma, associate's degree, bachelor’s degree (BSN), or master’s degree in nursing (MSN), your focus as a nursing student will always be on learning how to help patients and assist doctors in their tasks.
However, the degree you hold will determine what kinds of positions you are eligible for, so take careful note of the requirements for the specific positions you're interested in.
Education for Nurses
Earning a BSN or MSN degree instead of an associate's degree or diploma will open many, many more doors for you in the nursing field. Some careers, in fact, require at least a bachelor’s. For example, if you want to go into administration, you'll need a BSN degree at least. Likewise, if you want to pursue graduate work in nursing, you’ll need your four year degree. BSNs are also required for nurses who want to enter one of the four advanced practice specialties (clinical nurse specialists, midwives, nurse practitioners, and nurse anesthetists). Earning your BSN will give you a stronger education, not only in nursing, but also in areas like critical thinking and leadership – both necessary skills for upper-level nursing positions.
No matter what nursing program you enter, you'll receive both classroom instruction and actual clinical experience at a hospital. You’ll need to take classes in anatomy, biology, chemistry, nutrition and other sciences, in addition to your traditional nursing courses. Most bachelor’s degrees also require students to take core classes in the liberal arts as well. Outside of your traditional classroom-based courses, your clinical classes allow you to gain actual experience in hospital while working in areas such as surgery, psychiatry, or the maternity ward.
Once you receive your degree in nursing – no matter what degree it is – you'll be required to pass the NCLEX-RN, the national licensing exam, before you actually receive your nursing license. However, be aware that passing this test may not qualify you to practice nursing in every state. Nurses who pass the exam in one of the states that's a member of the Nursing Licensure Compact Agreement are eligible to work in any of the other member states. Other states may require you to take the exam again. As of 2006, twenty states had joined the compact.
Regardless of which state you're registered in, you'll need to take some continuing education classes every year or so to retain your license. Beyond these classes, you may find that your career goals require you to seek further degrees – whether a bachelor's or master's degree. To work in the four advanced practice areas, you’ll need to earn a separate certification, which means more schooling. In addition, if you received your nursing degree abroad, you may need to complete certain courses or pass other exams to demonstrate your skills. As with the licensing exam, these tests may vary from state to state.
In addition to education, there are a few other qualifications you'll need to demonstrate as a nurse. These aren’t as easy to show as passing a class, though. Nurses have to have a good bedside manner, be sympathetic to their patients, and be very responsible with their work. However, if you’re dedicated to becoming a nurse, chances are good that you already possess these important qualities.
The Nursing RN to BSN degree completion program at South University allows registered nurses with associate degrees to complete their bachelor’s degrees. The program is offered at three South University campuses and online. Learn more about South University | Request free info
The Nursing RN to BSN degree completion program at South University allows registered nurses with associate degrees to complete their bachelor’s degrees. The program is offered at three South University campuses and online.
