BSN degrees in nursing are awarded by most four year colleges and universities. BSN programs are often competitive, and prospective nursing students should prepare by getting the highest grades possible in high school, particularly in mathematics and science courses. Because of their highly competitive nature, some BSN programs have their own admissions criteria in addition to those specified by the college.
A bachelor's degree in nursing takes four years to obtain, but there are different paths to obtaining the BSN. Students directly out of high school will often enroll directly into a four-year program. Adult students who wish to work while in school or who require a more flexible schedule may enter into two-year associate degree nursing programs and then obtain the BSN through special programs that allow nurses with two year ADN degrees to work while finishing the BSN degree.
Students enrolled in BSN programs receive advanced clinical training involving many different nursing disciplines. They also undergo advanced coursework in pharmacology, medical ethics, anatomy, nutrition and microbiology. More so than their ADN counterparts, BSN nurses receive instruction in leadership, critical thinking and communication. Prospective nurses enrolled in BSN programs also spend a substantial amount of time observing and working with nurses at hospitals and other healthcare institutions before graduation.
To receive the BSN degree, a student must graduate from a school that is licensed by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. Once a student has received the BSN, he is eligible to register for and take the National Council of Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. This exam gives BSN nurses authority to practice in a health care setting.
The BSN degree allows nurses to obtain employment in specialized positions, such as the operating room or maternity ward. Also, positions that involve teaching, research, consulting or administrative duties will require a BSN. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that median annual wages of registered nurses was $62,450 in May 2008. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $43,410, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $92,240. Job prospects for nurses with BSN degrees were rated as excellent in 2010.