“BSN” stands for Bachelor of Science in Nursing, which is an undergraduate-level degree for registered nurses (RNs) that introduces them to topics such as patient care technology, research, health promotion, safety, and quality within the healthcare system. A BSN degree provides future nurses with the level of education many employers expect their registered nurses to have. While a person can work as an RN with an associate degree, nurses with a BSN are typically given more responsibility, supervisory roles, and higher salaries. In fact, some hospitals require registered nurses to have their BSN.  

The American Nurses Credentialing Center, or ANCC, offers Magnet designation to hospitals that require nurse leaders to hold at least a BSN degree. A Magnet-status hospital is known as a great place for nurses to work and for providing exceptional care for patients. Nurses who work at these hospitals are serious about achieving and maintaining the highest level of quality, safety, and patient satisfaction. The only way for an RN to work at a Magnet-designated hospital is to earn their BSN. 

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, including what you’ll learn in the program, the steps to earning the degree, and reasons why it may be a good route for your professional journey. 

What Is a BSN Nurse? 

A BSN nurse is a licensed registered nurse that is baccalaureate prepared. BSN nurses can work in hospitals as well as primary and preventive care settings within the community, in patients’ private homes, in outpatient centers, and in neighborhood schools and clinics. Registered nurses who hold their BSN degree have more career options and access to higher-paying jobs. BSN nurses can work towards opportunities in specialized areas or in managerial roles. 

The main responsibilities of a BSN nurse include: 

• Assessing patient symptoms and conditions. 
• Administering treatments to injured, disabled, or ill patients. 
• Educating patients and their families about their medical conditions and treatments. 
• Recording medical histories. 
• Setting up patient care plans alongside doctors and other nurses. 
• Monitoring patient health statuses.  
• Reviewing and maintaining medical records.  

BSN Degree Overview 

Earning a BSN degree typically takes four years, but this timeline can be shorter at some universities. The program includes general education requirements and classes specific to a major in nursing. This degree is for entry-level nurses who want to make a meaningful contribution toward better patient care in the ever-evolving field of nursing, expand their abilities in patient-care settings, and reach higher salaries only available to nurses with certain qualifications. Upon completing their education requirements, aspiring nurses must also pass the NCLEX-RN licensing examination to prove their competence.  

The demand for nurses with a BSN degree is quite high—and growing, due to the prevalence of widespread diseases such as COVID-19 and an aging baby boomer population. Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow by 6% between 2022 and 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which will equate to 193,100 new jobs per year. The healthcare industry is increasingly complex, with new lifesaving technologies being introduced every year, so the importance of highly educated registered nurses—those with bachelor’s degrees—has never been greater.  

Earning a BSN Degree 

Becoming a nurse is a great career choice for many. It offers incredible job security, great salaries, countless specializations, and the opportunity for fulfilling work. WGU offers three nursing program options to earn a BSN degree: 

1. Traditional BSN  

WGU’s BSN (Prelicensure) program is the best way for aspiring nurses to earn their registered nurse (RN) license and their BSN degree in one program.  

In this program, nursing students will work closely with their Program Mentor and Course Instructors to prepare for challenging assessments and virtual reality simulations. Once students have been successful in completing those, they’ll be able to start clinical rotations. Between clinical rotations, simulation labs, and schoolwork, students spend at least 30 hours a week completing this degree. The curriculum in this program is designed to turn students into outstanding nurses who are prepared to play an integral role in patient care and on a strong team. The traditional BSN program has a standard path and a set pace, with a completion time of 2.5 years. 

2. RN to BSN 

While the traditional BSN program is suited for students who are starting from scratch, WGU offers an RN-to-BSN program that helps current nurses earn a bachelor’s degree, bridging the gap between an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and BSN. This degree program was designed specifically for current RNs who want to level up their ability to improve patient outcomes and community health. This is an opportunity for nurses to enhance their résumés, increase job security, maximize their earning potential, and provide even better care to patients.   

3. Accelerated BSN 

Some students want to start their nursing careers even quicker than our traditional BSN program allows. That’s why WGU offers an accelerated BSN program that permits students to earn both their RN and their BSN in the same program and at a faster pace than normal. 

There are major benefits of earning a BSN degree online. For example, an online degree offers unmatched flexibility compared to traditional, on-campus schooling. It also allows students to finish their degrees in the time frame that they prefer. Most of all, it provides a path to a fulfilling career of caring for those in need. 

Reasons to Consider a BSN Degree  

A BSN degree has many benefits for ambitious nurses, including: 

• Comprehensive education: A BSN program provides a more in-depth education compared to an ADN (covering critical topics such as leadership, management, and nursing research), which prepares nurses for a wider scope of practice.
• Enhanced patient care: Studies have shown that BSN-prepared nurses are associated with better patient outcomes. The advanced training equips them with the skills to coordinate care more effectively and make informed decisions in complex situations.
• Increased job opportunities: As the healthcare landscape evolves, many healthcare employers are prioritizing BSN-qualified candidates. A BSN can open doors to various nursing roles, including management, education, and specialized nursing.
• Professional growth: A BSN lays the groundwork for pursuing advanced education and certifications. Nurses with a BSN can easily transition into graduate programs, enabling them to become nurse practitioners or specialists in their chosen fields.
• Job stability and security: With the growing emphasis on higher education in nursing, obtaining a BSN can contribute to greater job stability and security in a competitive job market, ensuring that graduates are well prepared for future changes in healthcare requirements.

BSN Salary 

Nurses who hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree generally enjoy a competitive salary compared to their counterparts with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). The salary for a BSN-prepared nurse can vary widely depending on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, and the specific healthcare facility. 

On average, BSN nurses can expect to earn a median salary of $86,070, but in high-demand areas or specialized roles, salaries can exceed $100,000. The enhanced qualifications that come with a BSN not only open the door to various nursing positions but also often lead to further advancements in salary as nurses gain experience and take on leadership roles within healthcare settings.

Get Started 

From affordability to career advancement opportunities, here’s why earning your BSN from WGU could be the best decision you make for your nursing career.

1. Affordability 

Nursing education can be expensive, but WGU stands out for its affordability. Our unique tuition model allows you to save money without compromising on the quality of your education. Key financial benefits include:

• Flat-rate tuition means you pay the same amount regardless of how many courses you complete per term.
• Scholarships and financial aid options are available to further reduce costs.
• No hidden fees, as all required resources are included in your tuition.

2. Competency-based Education Model

WGU’s competency-based learning model puts you in control of your education. Rather than sitting through scheduled classes, you advance by demonstrating your knowledge and skills through assessments. This model is particularly beneficial for students who want:

• Flexibility to study on your own schedule, making it easier to balance work, life, and education.
• Personalized pace, allowing you to move quickly through material you already know and spend more time on challenging subjects.
• Immediate application of learned skills, ensuring you are job-ready upon graduation.

3. Career Advancement

Earning a BSN from WGU not only provides you with a solid educational foundation but also significantly enhances your career prospects. A BSN is increasingly required for many nursing positions and is often considered a stepping stone for:

• Higher earning potential compared to those who hold only an ADN.
• Greater job market competitiveness, as many employers prefer or require a BSN for hiring.
• Pathway to an advanced degree such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, for those looking to further specialize in their field.

A BSN degree program helps you develop the knowledge and experience you need to be successful in the nursing field. Whether you’re a current RN or starting from scratch, WGU has a BSN program for you.