A BSN degree (Bachelor of Science Degree in nursing) is typically a four year college degree. Many registered nurses go this route in their educational pursuit’s right from the very beginning. But many RNs do not initially earn their BSN. Many of those instead opt to earn an associates degree which may be known as an ADN (Associates Degree in Nursing) or get a diploma which allows them to earn their RN.
It is fairly common for those RNs who did not initially earn their BSN to go back to college later in their career.
If you are just starting out and are not yet an RN or in college consider your career plan now. Decide if you should initially earn your four year BSN degree or complete a lesser program allowing you to become an RN with the option of later returning to school to complete your BSN.
Generally the BSN is needed for RNs wanting to advance their career to the managerial side of medicine. An RN today who wants to return to college and earn their BSN Degree has many options. In addition to a traditional campus based RN to BSN Program, many schools and colleges are offering online BSN Degrees in nursing to their students.