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BSN vs. RN

By Zippia Team - Sep. 7, 2022

A BSN is a registered nurse that holds a bachelor's degree in nursing, while an RN is a registered nurse that has an associate degree in nursing.

BSN stands for Bachelor of Science in Nursing. This degree helps one become a registered nurse or gives added credentials to current registered nurses. New and existing nurses pursue a BSN if they want to advance their careers in nursing. Some hospitals only hire nurses with a BSN, and in some states, a BSN is required for people looking to become full-time nurses.

An RN or registered nurse is the term for the certification that nurses need to practice nursing. This refers to a license, not a degree. All registered nurses must at least have an associate degree in nursing. To obtain this license, prospective nurses must take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).

Here are the key differences between a BSN and an RN:

A BSN is a registered nurse that holds a bachelor's degree in nursing.An RN is a registered nurse that has an associate degree in nursing and has passed the NCLEX.
People or current nurses pursue a BSN to advance their career in nursing.RN does not refer to a degree but a license obtained after passing the NCLEX.
Here are the average annual salaries of BSNs based on experience:
  • Entry-level nursing: $53,000+

  • 1-4 years: $62,000+

  • 5-9 years: $75,000+

  • 10-19 years: $94,000+

  • 20+ years: $115,000+

Here are the average annual salaries of RNs based on experience:
  • Entry-level nursing: $49,000+

  • 1-4 years: $57,000+

  • 5-9 years: $70,000+

  • 10-19 years: $86,000+

  • 20+ years: $106,000+

BSN vs. RN

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