Many Registered nurses start off by studying a 2 year degree course, gaining their associate degree. They become registered and start nursing, and then are limited in how far they can progress in their career. They find that many of the interesting specialisms and entry to higher graduate positions, such as nursing management and clinical research, teaching and administrative positions require higher qualifications, and they have to consider studying further and gaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Many States offer tuition reimbursement programs for nurses who wish to work towards a BSN, as a highly educated nursing profession can ease the pressure on the health care industry, taking on some of the roles traditionally assumed by doctors. Indeed, there is support for nurses who wish to take graduate studies as well.
A BSN course will include subjects such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, psychology, and nursing practice. Clinical experience can include time spent in nursing homes, public health departments, home help agencies and ambulatory clinics. Qualities such as leadership, team work, negotiation skills, communications ability and good judgment are fostered on a Bachelors course, helping nurses to assume a more management oriented attitude to their career.
Gaining a BSN will mean that promotion prospects are greatly increased, allowing management and supervisory promotion, and opening opportunities into clinical specializations. Salaries for RNs are in the region of $45,000 according to the US Department of Labor, but BSN graduates will be able to consider some of the higher salary regions, which can be as high as $65,000.
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