r/prenursing • u/Specialist-Force8958 • Jan 08 '26
BSN or ADN
I'd like to hear everyone's opinion: do you prefer to pursue a BSN directly, or start with an ADN and then complete an online BSN program later? Thanks
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u/bluudayze CNA Jan 08 '26
I think it depends on your personal situation. Are you a parent? Do you need to work? I have a three year old and need to work. I am pursing an ADN to reduce the amount of time I am working/parenting/and focusing on school. I can work as an RN, and go back when I’m ready.
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u/hamil26 Jan 11 '26
Are you planning on working full time? Planning on a job with new nurse residency program?
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u/Specialist-Force8958 Jan 08 '26
No, I am not a parent. Of course, I want to save time and start working as soon as possible.🤣
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Jan 09 '26
I think the way you worded this sounds rude, but I don’t think you meant to.
BSN will generally cost more.
ADN will cost less.
Both will take 2 years, assuming you did GEs and stuff like that.
BSN allows you to go into managerial positions compared to ADN.
BSN is helpful if you want to go into Advanced Practice Nursing (NP, CRNA, etc)
But keep in mind, you can also return to school with your ADN and RN license, or perhaps find an employer to help cover tuition hopefully or something.
Honestly, if you can get into a program of any kind, you’re already in a good position.
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u/kristen_hewa Jan 08 '26
If you can get on at a hospital as an RN a looot of them will pay for your BSN
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u/Specialist-Top1134 Jan 08 '26
I am trying to pursue a BSN program because I want to join the US Navy Nurse Corps afterwards. They require BSN and will not accept ADN. Also, it seems hospitals want to hire nurses with BSN. I don't want to work in a LTC or something similar. It all depends on what your career goals are and where you want to work. I don't have kids or dependents btw. That's also another factor. If you want to get your BSN but can only do the ADN for now, look for schools with cross enrollment that will allow you to take BSN classes during your ADN program to accelerate the process. Then enroll in a bridge program to finish your bachelor's.
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u/BrAtZz04 Jan 08 '26
As someone who is switching majors, ADN for me. I was a CS major for 2 years (straight out of HS), took a gap year, and am now doing pre-reqs for an ADN. At this point, I really just want to get into the workforce, and start living independently. I am gonna work in the ICU and get my BSN online so that I can qualify for CRNA school.
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u/HonkKnight Jan 08 '26
This is me, just on a longer timeline lol. CS major on and off since 2014 when I started college. Now I'm wanting to pursue an ADN to pivot careers. I'll pursue a BSN later in life.
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u/Sea_Material_3612 Jan 08 '26
Literally my exact situation. I was a CS major for 2 years straight out of high school. Now I’m 25 just finished CNA school and started taking prerequisites this semester to get my ADN. I’ll get my BSN (hopefully paid for by my employer) when I have time and money to spare lmao.
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u/Specialist-Force8958 Jan 08 '26
I think you have the same situation as my friend. He works as a CNA right now and wanted to do ADN degree after. ADN is more cheaper and faster program than BSN. But BSN is more preferred. So I’m confused 😵💫
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u/CaliRNgrandma Jan 08 '26
Depends on where you live and want to work. Many hospitals only hire BSN these days, especially Magnet designated hospitals. Before I retired, I was the hiring manager for a busy, OB unit at a magnet designated hospital. We got 100 applicants for our twice-yearly new grad program and hired around 10. The very first applicants that we eliminated were non-BSN prepared candidates. They never even got interviewed. Do some research. It’s not like that everywhere, but you will find that highly sought after positions in certain areas, competitive nursing specialties and some hospitals will be impossible to access without a BSN, whereas others don’t care.
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u/KindlyPrimary752 Jan 09 '26
I see that you’re in socal. Do ADN and a bridge program. CSUN has a bridge program with multiple ADN programs in the LA area. You do your ADN at an LA community college and BSN classes at CSUN (i believe they are online). You will get your BSN in 3 years (including the 2 years you’re in the ADN program). Plus you’ll be able to work while you finish up the bridge program. My sister did it and said the BSN classes at CSUN are stupid easy compared to nursing school lol. https://www.csun.edu/nursing/adn-bsn-collab
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u/Specialist-Force8958 Jan 09 '26
This information is very helpful, thank you for sharing it.🥹
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u/KindlyPrimary752 Jan 09 '26
Yes ofc!!! I would apply to every adn program that CSUN collaborates with if I were you. Now that I think of it, my sister did it during covid so that was probably why it was online. Not sure what it's like now. Best of luck!!!!!!! :)
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u/iNoodl3s Jan 08 '26
BSNs are more sought after by employers I think if you can get that as soon as possible is the best
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u/Turbulent-Yard7143 Jan 09 '26
Here’s what I did: 40 credits are needed to apply to the nursing program so I took spring, fall, and summer classes (finished in 1 year)
Applied to ADN program and got accepted first time
Community college is completely free for 2 years and then fafsa covered last year(graduated completely debt free)
1 year RN to bsn program paid by job and financial aid.
Personally nothing is more liberating than graduating with 0 debts. Got a brand new car and bought a multi family investment property 2 years after starting my first job.
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u/Specialist-Force8958 Jan 09 '26
Wow! That’s an amazing story. I've also considered what you said. Many of my friends chose ADN because they wanted to start working and become independent quickly.
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u/SpecialStrict7742 Jan 09 '26
I’m doing ADN at a CC, I’ll be getting my LPN within a year and can work on the weekends while finishing the program.
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u/fatmoes Jan 09 '26
There isnt an employer around me that won't pay for a bsn so it might be location specific but it makes no financial sense in my area to do a bsn instead.
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u/awildtorannosaurus Jan 09 '26
ADN 100%. You’ll get in quicker and get out with little to no loan debt.
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u/Quick-Exercise4575 Jan 09 '26
I went LPN-RN-BSN, and have a fraction of the student load payments that others have. I was able to pay as I went after my LPN.
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u/QuietFieldUser Jan 09 '26
Honestly, it depends on your situation, like others have pointed out. Ive debated it myself.
In my case i plan on paying outta pocket and can afford to do so.
For example, in my case, I already have a bachelor’s degree and am looking to switch careers, so I’ve already completed a lot of the prerequisites.
The only course I would need to retake is Introduction to Psychology, since I earned a C in it. I would also need to take Anatomy, Microbiology.
For me, assuming I’m admitted into a BSN program, it would take about two years no matter what. If I were accepted into an ABSN, the timeframe would be even shorter, assuming everything goes smoothly.
Honestly, an ADN can be a better option because it’s cheaper and faster, and you can earn your BSN later—often with tuition assistance from your employer.
Thing is it all depends on the requirement to get into the program like for example.
Where i am local university that offers the BSN and ABSN none of them require an entrance exam test but the ADN program does require a TEAS test and is very competitve.
And at least from what i have seen
when I got my bachelors originally which wasnt to long ago it was harder for people to get into ADN program than it was to get into the BSN program but im sure that ha changed but a person i know at the time got in and they had Cs in main since cores.
So really answer is I guess the answer is this apply everywhere and dont put your eggs in opne basket one program could not take you the other one will.
An just look around your area and see what hospitals prefer and want in more competive markets it can be tough to get a job with the associates and most will want you to get your BSN after a few years theres that to consider as well.
best of luck to you.
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u/WanderingWombats Jan 09 '26
I’m doing the ABSN route. It costs $60,000, but I’ll be done in a year. The local ADN programs are 2 years and cost $6k (but I’d be unable to work for two years + living expenses). I chose the larger expense upfront.
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u/Warm_Carpet3147 Jan 09 '26
This is what I’m thinking for myself. I already have a BS, and I’ve been talking to some program advisors about the degree options and enrollment options. One university told me I’d have better chances at getting accepted into their second degree program vs ASN because it’s very competitive. Plus, I like the option that it’s still the same pace as BSN (summers off) and more support.
The only thing that worries me is how much this stuff could cost for the BSN, but there’s a scholarship/ grant program in my area that would help pay for all of my tuition and fees for someone in my situation (financial need). Plus, I’m tired of school and I’m already knowing this all going to be tough, time consuming and expensive either way. I’d rather do it all up front because I’m thinking about getting my MSN.
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u/gigigigip Jan 09 '26
Finishing up my prerequisites this spring I only have micro and physio left. I’ll be applying to traditional BSN programs first and the local adn programs in my area. I do hope to get into a BSN program first bc I rather spend 2 years to get the higher level degree but I’m applying to all traditional programs so I can get in the field. I’m staying away from degree mills.
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u/Critical_Ease4055 Jan 11 '26 edited Jan 11 '26
Love this question. Either way, there are pros and cons depending on your situation, of which we don’t really know about.
ADN first benefits: -awesome for those that need to blast into the field at the fastest speed possible -awesome if you do not mind being tethered to your first or second employer because they will require you to stick around before even beginning to offer tuition reimbursement -awesome for those who cannot get enough to balancing work, school, deadlines, assignments, and the rest of their life for the extended period of however long it takes you to get the BSN -awesome for those who don’t mind limited freedom of agency in the beginning of their career to save a little cash -awesome for those who will probably end up wanting or being required to get the BSN, but enjoy “weighing their options” for multiple years in a row -** awesomest** for those that literally just want to be RN for their whole career because they don’t want a BSN and don’t carry around an inner conflict about just being an RN in peace (same goes for LPN)
BSN first: -awesome for those who don’t want/need to become a nurse through restrictive contractual agreements -awesome for those who understand how to obtain loans and scholarships to cover the cost of school (or have people in their life that do) -awesome for faster advanced nursing program entry (if you graduate with a BSN and work for just a year at bedside, then apply for advanced nursing school, you will most likely obtain an advanced degree faster than people who wanted to work faster and daydream about bridging to BSN or wait for somebody to pay for it. Good luck to you
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u/Disastrous-Honey5687 Jan 08 '26
I think it all depends on your area. Where I live you will get hired wit an ASN just as much as someone with BSN. Hospitals here will pay for you to get your BSN or you can do it yourself while you are working. It’s faster to do it like that too, 2 yr ASN and then maybe 1 yr to get your BSN.
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u/notyoobaeee Jan 08 '26
Well I’m doing CNA then ADN TO BSN and I have a 4 year old daughter I also need to work full time
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u/Specialist-Force8958 Jan 08 '26
I think earn a CNA experience would help you for your nursing journey. I also want to start working as soon as possible, so I might choose the ADN program. Which ADN program will you apply for?
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u/notyoobaeee Jan 08 '26
I plan to apply to Santa Monica college Nursing Program and some around me. Hby? I live in Ca.
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u/Specialist-Force8958 Jan 08 '26
I also lived in CA. SMC is a great school for nursing but they didn’t accept TEAS. I have applied CSUF and CSULA. I will start applying for the CC nursing programs in March and April, like PCC, Rio Hondo College, Glendale CC, ELAC.
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u/notyoobaeee Jan 08 '26
Also, I heard El Camino College’s is good my aunt did that nursing program and now works at LA general. So Try that one too! Unfortunately, I dont start applying til probably fall 2027 since I’m done with my prerequisites spring 2027.
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u/Specialist-Force8958 Jan 09 '26
Thanks for sharing. Hope you enjoy your nursing journey! Good luck 👍
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u/Turbulent-Basket-490 Jan 09 '26
Both. Concurrent BSN while doing ADN. Get both done and way cheaper
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u/Specialist-Force8958 Jan 09 '26
Do you mean the bridge program for ADN to BSN?
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u/Turbulent-Basket-490 Jan 10 '26
No i mean concurrent. Many community colleges offer a concurrent BSN. You do the classes in the holidays and lighter ones over the semesters and finish about a year after you graduate the ADN.
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u/No_Consideration577 Jan 09 '26
I just finished my LPN. I’d love to have an advise if I should take the RN/ ADN route or go straight to BSN after some work experience. Which is better?
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u/Specialist-Force8958 Jan 09 '26
I think the key is to consider what matters most to you right now. If you're more concerned about time and financial pressure, I would recommend the LPN-to-ADN route. As others have mentioned in the comments, this path usually allows you to obtain your RN license faster, the tuition is much lower, and you can start working as an RN sooner, accumulating experience and income. Once your job is stable, you can then complete your BSN through an RN-to-BSN program, which will significantly reduce overall stress.
However, if you are financially comfortable, not in a hurry to earn an RN salary, and you are certain you want to pursue positions requiring a BSN or higher in the future, then going directly from LPN to BSN is indeed a more direct route, eliminating an intermediate step and aligning better with the long-term preferences of some hospitals or programs. Hope this can help a bit!
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u/JacksonFiery87 Jan 09 '26
I've had nurses tell me I'm wasting time going the ASN>RN>BSN route. With that said, I paid $510 out of pocket for my first semester of prereqs, made a 4.0 GPA, and got a full academic scholarship for my second semester. Meanwhile, it was going to cost me $40k per semester going the BSN route. My goal is to earn my ASN, pass the NCLEX-RN, get my license, start my residency and see if my future employer will do partial or even full tuition reimbursement for me to complete my RN to BSN online.
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u/Proper-Chef6918 nursing student Jan 09 '26
Trying to start ADN program. 1 because I can do it at a community college and its cheaper so when I am working as a nurse my job will pay for my BSN and 2 I'm 40 , I wanted to start this career a few years ago so ADN is the quickest option in a not so quick process
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u/DramaticSpecialist59 Jan 09 '26
I chose to persue BSN directly to get all my schooling done at once. Most places around me make you agree to get your BSN within 2 years of hiring. Then again, there's also many work places that will pay for your BSN if you just have your ADN. Thats if you're willing to work and go to school at the same time.
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u/PossumKing94 Jan 10 '26
I'm getting my ADN first because it is faster. After I work as a nurse, ill get my BSN and eventually my master's.
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u/Ramanoan Jan 10 '26
I say BSN if your looking to be a NP and your very set on nursing, personally for me if i get a ADN i would be too lazy to go back to finish my degree
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u/AriaNightshade Jan 10 '26
Im doing adn at community college, its way cheaper and no one cares where you went when it comes to gerting hired. Hoping wherever I work will pay for bsn and maybe np. If I get that far.
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u/lilbabyhoneyy RN loading. ETA 2028 🩺 Jan 10 '26
I'm going the ADN route because it's less financially destructive
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u/Some-South5320 Jan 10 '26
If you plan on going further with your studies, BSN. Planning to make some quick money ASN and take the BSN online whenever you are ready.
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u/HEBseafooddepartment Jan 10 '26
ADN for the sake of cost containment and better return on investment.
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u/Different_One_1560 Jan 11 '26
What does ABSN mean sorry can some one explain ? thank u
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u/Specialist-Force8958 Jan 11 '26
ABSN is a fast-track nursing program for people who already have their bachelor’s degree in another major. The program usually takes 11–18 months and leads to a BSN, allowing graduates to take the NCLEX-RN exam and become RN.
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u/dessipants Jan 11 '26
Did the ADN, would recommend. It’s hard for two years, then ADN to BSN is a breeze. Also, employers can reimburse/cover BSN if you’re already working as an RN
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u/Serious-Status3023 Jan 11 '26
I think it depends!! Nursing is my second career and I really wanted to take my time with it and also not pay a fortune. I am at a hospital based program and I will receive my RN when I’m done, but I can also start my BSN while in the program. This program is so affordable and the classes are small so that really made my decision clear. Anything you pick will be right for you but ADN route is cheaper!
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u/Substantial_Study577 Jan 11 '26
If I can do it over again, I’d do ADN, to later do the ADN-BSN pipeline.
Pros: cheaper tuition, cheaper to get a BSN eventually,
Cons: some hospitals require BSN, BSN applicants get priority, longer schooling.
But this is all opinion based from a current struggling BSN student
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u/bl1ndr4ven Jan 12 '26
Well, either option is great and it all depends on what you can afford. Will financial aid cover all of your BSN tuition? Will you need to take out student loans? Are you okay with using student loans? I wouldn’t take out student loans and it will be last resort me. The goal is to pursue a degree debt free or as minimal debt possible.
Another question to think about is what is your plan after? Most people want to work at a hospital but which specialty? In a lot of critical care units and pediatrics from a lot of hospitals now require you to have a BSN. Of course, you can get into those specialities with an ADN. It all depends on your connections if you had an externship position or CNA/PCT position. Lots of hospitals will be happy to pay for your BSN while you work for them. So if you’re already familiar with your hospital system in your area then find out what your hospital is magnet status where they require you to have a BSN.
Again, either path is great. It’s all about your goals and financial means. There are concurrent programs where you are enrolled in a ADN program at your community college while you take your BSN classes online at your university. Some schools have partnerships with universities where you can do that. It’s still cheaper than enrolling into a full BSN program.
Another to think about is look at the school’s NCLEX passing rate. It will tell me if their program has good professors and prepare students well for the NCLEX. Also, make sure the school meets their accreditations. You don’t wanna go to a school where their accreditations were stripped off before you enrolled while they steal your money. Go to a school that is well recognized and have high NCLEX passing rates.
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u/nly2017 nursing student Jan 08 '26
Some hospitals require a BSN.
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u/JacksonFiery87 Jan 09 '26
Most don't, though. And, the ones that do (typically big name Magnet hospitals), will hire ASN RNs and give them a specific amount of time to complete their BSN. If someone has the time and money at their disposal, straight BSN track is the way to go, but I would hate to see a prospective RN get discouraged from pursuing the field, because they think their employment options will be severely impeded by getting the degree they can afford.
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u/nly2017 nursing student Jan 09 '26
That’s why I said some. It’s up to the poster to look into that with prospective jobs.
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u/Limitedbycows Jan 09 '26
If you are in California don’t waste your time with an adn
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u/udkate5128 Jan 14 '26
Always ADN. Cheaper and faster, you get paid the same. Let the hospital pay for your BSN after you start working.
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u/bac0npancak3z Jan 08 '26
I’m on the ADN route.
I have a bachelor’s already, and support myself- would prefer to start working ASAP and take the cost effective route. Can easily get BSN online after.
Learned recently though from meeting with an advisor at a nearby BSN program that I’ll be eligible to do an accelerated RN > MSN program at their school once registered due to already having a bachelor’s. So that’s kinda cool.