BSN vs. MSN: How to Choose as an RN

If you’re a nurse interested in taking your career to the next level, you may want to consider pursuing a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) or a master of science in nursing (MSN) degree.

Deciding between a BSN and MSN can be difficult — which one is right for you? The best decision hinges on your unique skills, goals, and circumstances. No matter which degree you select, you can enroll in a nursing bridge program to get to the next level more quickly.

If you’re a registered nurse (RN) looking for new training to advance your career, the RN-to-BSN bridge or RN-to-MSN programs can open up a world of possibilities. This guide will help you understand the different components of these programs and — as well as a look at the career and salary trends you might expect after graduation.

Earning your BSN gives you a strong foundation in clinical skills, nursing practice, leadership, and critical thinking.

As a graduate-level nursing degree, the MSN can significantly expand your professional options by opening doors to nurse leadership roles and specialized clinical positions such as nurse practitioner or nurse-midwife.The chart below details the key differences between the two degree programs.

If you already have your ADN and are working as an RN, you may wonder why you should consider advancing your education. While the ADN can lead to a fulfilling career as an RN, most employers prefer BSN-prepared nurses and many require a BSN for higher-level positions. A BSN candidate also has a strong advantage when applying for any position.

The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) recommends that all RNs hold a BSN. Some states are considering legislation that requires RNs to have a BSN within a specified number of years after graduation.

A BSN also prepares you to directly enter a graduate program. In 2022, more than 70% of nurses held a BSN degree or higher. An ADN-prepared nurse may also face more competition from BSN holders in the job market.

An MSN degree increases your career opportunities and earning potential. MSN-prepared nurses may choose to become APRNs, nurse educators, researchers, or nurse administrators.

According to the 2022 National Nursing Workforce Survey, nurses older than 35 years of age are more likely to hold an advanced degree, including an MSN, DNP, or Ph.D. In 2022, 17.9% of RNs reported their highest degree was an MSN.

APRNs enjoy more professional autonomy. In states with full practice authority, APRNs can work without physician supervision. Even in the states with limited authority, APRNs have a far broader scope of practice and can exercise more independent judgment than an RN. Whether you want a higher salary, more independence, or a license that lets you assess, diagnose, and prescribe treatments, these are the most important BSN vs. MSN distinctions.

Whether an RN-to-BSN or an RN-to-MSN program is right for you depends on your career goals and resources, such as time and finances. BSN degrees prepare you for clinical specialties such as labor and delivery, emergency room, or cardiac care, and qualify you for leadership or management roles.

An MSN degree prepares you for greater independence in clinical roles, such as a nurse practitioner, midwife, and certified nurse anesthetist. The degree also prepares you for nonclinical roles, such as nurse educators, administrators, and healthcare policy analysts.

An RN-to-BSN program takes less time to complete and is academically less demanding. BSN programs encourage you to explore different specialties and career options, which is an advantage when you are new to nursing. MSN programs require that you choose a specialty.

MSN programs usually have more rigorous admission requirements than BSN programs, and more prestigious MSN programs are especially competitive. If your ADN degree GPA doesn’t reflect your abilities, an RN-to-BSN program may help you earn a higher GPA, which helps when you apply for an MSN. An MSN program also generally costs more per credit hour than a BSN. MSN applications require an active and unencumbered nursing license and experience.

There are many financial aid options for nurses for both types of bridge programs. Some employers help pay for a degree program in exchange for a commitment to work for them for a certain period.

The choice between a BSN vs. MSN bridge program depends on your goals and how much time and money you have to spend on earning a degree.

Only you can make the right choice between a BSN vs. MSN program. Several factors should influence your decision. For example, factors that my impact your decision include your career goals, transferable college credits, time and financial considerations, and your future educational goals.

If you thrive in a fast-paced medical environment and love hands-on patient care, then you might want to consider a BSN degree. However, if you want more independence in your nursing practice or want to consider research or administration, then you should consider an RN-to-MSN program.

If you’re unsure whether a graduate degree will fulfill your career goals, consider that completing an RN-to-BSN program may be a shorter, less expensive option that allows you to gain the experience needed for a specialized MSN program later.

Once you’ve decided on the path you want to take, you’ll also need to consider how program requirements may fit your lifestyle, such as whether you need to attend full-time or may take classes and clinicals at your own pace and whether the program is all online, in person, or a hybrid program.

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.