RN Diploma vs. ADN vs. BSN Degree: What’s the Difference?

If you want to be an RN, the great news is you only need an RN diploma or associate degree in nursing (ADN) to get started. These programs are shorter than bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) programs.

However, earning a BSN offers benefits that you might not have expected. For example, RNs with a BSN are more likely to be hired by hospitals and typically earn more than ADN-prepared nurses. Explore the differences between an RN diploma, an ADN, and a BSN program.

Diplomas or certificate programs were the original training options for nurses in the U.S. until the development of nursing associate degrees in the 1950s. Students earn RN diplomas at hospital nursing schools rather than a college or university. Hospitals in some states still offer this traditional training. Yet, only 43 accredited diploma programs still exist in the U.S., and their NCLEX-RN pass rates are lower than ADN or BSN programs.

RN diplomas and certificate programs do not result in a degree but qualify students for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Graduates qualify for entry-level RN positions.

Diploma and certificate curriculums often consist of 50 credits and focus on clinical practice rather than general education. Courses include nursing care foundations, medical-surgical nursing, nursing care of adults, and professional development.

The advantages to this route include completing the program in one year or less and the focus on job readiness. However, academic credits earned often do not transfer to a degree program, but some programs may award credit for your nursing experience. Job opportunities and earning potential for this path may be limited.

Admissions requirements to RN diploma programs often include:

If you’re unsure about pursuing a diploma/certificate or a degree, an ADN may work for you. Students can finish in about two years and study online or in person. Programs usually require between 60-75 credits. Students take general education, pharmacology, maternal-newborn and pediatric nursing, and psychiatric nursing courses.

Students complete clinical hours at healthcare sites to practice their nursing skills. Clinical hours vary by program and state. Each program must meet the minimum state-required clinical hours, but programs may require more than the minimum. Graduates qualify for the NCLEX-RN exam and can apply their ADN credits toward a future BSN or master of science in nursing (MSN) degree.

ADN students benefit from a shorter — and often less expensive — program but may find their advancement and salary potential limited without a bachelor’s degree. RNs who want to become nurse leaders or nurse informaticists will need a BSN.

Admissions requirements to ADN programs often include:

While you can obtain an RN license after earning an ADN, a BSN offers more professional opportunities post-graduation. A traditional BSN program lasts four years; students can study online, hybrid, or in-person. BSN programs typically require about 120 credits. Coursework is similar to ADN programs but includes leadership and informatics courses.

BSN students complete clinical hours at healthcare sites, which can vary by program and state. Each program must meet the minimum state-required clinical hours. Graduates qualify for the NCLEX-RN exam and can apply their BSN credits toward a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree if desired.

While BSN programs are typically longer and more expensive than ADN programs, BSN nurse salaries are generally higher, and career advancement opportunities are greater. BSN-prepared RNs are more likely to fulfill leadership roles than ADN-prepared RNs, and many hospitals prefer to hire nurses with a BSN.

Admissions requirements to BSN programs often include:

Whether you earn an ADN or BSN, both are accomplishments. However, affordability, coursework, and program length can make a difference when choosing a program. For example, ADN programs allow you to finish faster, while BSN programs provide a greater knowledge base. Explore the advantages of earning an ADN vs. a BSN.

Salary for RNs with an ADN is similar to that of RNs with a diploma or certificate. RNs with BSNs are the highest earners, making about $20,000 more annually than ADN and diploma holders. Various factors can affect salary, including experience, location, and specialty.

Page last reviewed on April 26, 2024