When you decide to become a nurse, the type of training you receive can affect and shape the entire path of your career. If you want to become a registered nurse (RN), one of the first major decisions you may face is whether to pursue an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Both paths can prepare you to become an RN, but they differ in program length, educational scope, and how they may shape your long-term career options. Many find their way by pursuing an associate degree in nursing (known as an ADN), while others pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Knowing more about these two educational paths toward a career in nursing—associate vs bachelor’s in nursing—can help you determine which one is right for you and your career goals. Here are some things to keep in mind when comparing ADN and BSN programs:
Key Takeaways
- Both ADN and BSN programs can lead to RN licensure if you complete an approved program and pass the NCLEX-RN.
- An ADN is typically the faster path into the workforce, while a BSN provides broader preparation in leadership, research, and public health.
- Employer preferences increasingly favor BSN-prepared nurses in many healthcare settings.
- A BSN may support long-term career flexibility, advancement, and graduate education opportunities.
- The best choice depends on your timeline, finances, and long-term career goals.
Can You Become an RN with Either an ADN or a BSN?
Yes. Both ADN and BSN graduates can become registered nurses if they complete an approved nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN. This is one of the most important points to understand when comparing these two paths.
What Is an ADN?
An ADN degree is an associate degree, typically a two-year program, that you can earn in order to pursue a registered nurse (RN) designation and work in healthcare. This shorter timeline is one of the main reasons students choose the ADN path, especially if they want to enter the workforce more quickly. ADN programs help you build the basic skills needed as a nurse, such as administering patient care.
What Is a BSN?
A BSN degree is a bachelor’s degree, typically a four-year program, that is a step higher than an ADN degree. In addition to core nursing skills, BSN programs often include coursework in leadership, research, public health, and evidence-based practice. Registered nurses with this degree not only go to school longer, but they also gain a more in-depth education compared to those with an ADN degree. This can lead to better work situations and advancement opportunities throughout your career. Read more in our guide on the benefits of earning a BSN.
| Category | ADN | BSN |
|---|---|---|
| Primary goal | Faster path to RN preparation | Broader nursing education and long-term flexibility |
| Typical timeline | Usually shorter | Usually longer due to expanded coursework |
| RN licensure path | Can lead to NCLEX-RN eligibility through an approved program | Can lead to NCLEX-RN eligibility through an approved program |
| Coursework scope | Core nursing and clinical preparation | Core nursing plus leadership, research, public health, and broader professional study |
| Employer preference | Accepted for many entry paths, depending on employer | Often preferred by employers seeking baccalaureate-prepared nurses |
| Long-term mobility | May require later BSN completion for some roles or advancement | Stronger platform for specialization, leadership, and graduate study |
ADN vs. BSN: Which Path Is Right for You?
Choosing between an ADN and BSN is less about which degree is “better” and more about which path fits your current situation and future goals.
An ADN may be a strong fit if you:
- Want to enter the workforce as quickly as possible
- Prefer a shorter, more affordable initial program
- Plan to begin working as an RN and potentially pursue a BSN later
A BSN may be a strong fit if you:
- Want broader preparation from the start
- Are interested in leadership, specialty roles, or long-term advancement
- Want to align more closely with employer preferences for BSN-prepared nurses
Main Differences Between ADN and BSN
While ADN and BSN are both degree options for registered nurses, they differ considerably. The kind of education you can expect and the types of job opportunities that are available are among the key differences between an ADN and BSN degree. These degree programs also differ in terms of salary and job outlook.
1. Education
Earning an ADN usually means going to a community college or other academic institution for 2 years. Experienced nurses who entered the field with a diploma and earned an RN designation can often participate in accelerated programs. These RNs have the option to transfer credits, which helps reduce the time needed to graduate with this degree.
During an ADN degree program, aspiring nurses learn to provide care for patients, such as monitoring them and updating medical records. These programs focus on helping students learn nursing concepts. Clinical rotations are also part of these programs since they offer students a chance to gain hands-on practice. After earning an ADN, students can obtain their licensing, which includes passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
BSN degree programs typically take 4 years to complete, but accelerated programs are also available for those with experience working as an RN. Courses for BSN programs provide students with a more in-depth nursing curriculum that often includes classes on pharmacology, ethics, and other advanced concepts. Students in BSN programs study nursing theory and concepts through courses such as community health, developing nursing practice, case management, and nursing research. These higher-level classes provide students with the skills and knowledge to handle more complex nursing tasks and responsibilities. These additional areas of study help prepare nurses for more complex responsibilities and broader roles within healthcare systems. Students who earn a BSN must pass the NCLEX and meet other requirements to become licensed.
2. Career Opportunities
Nurses with an ADN can work in a hospital, physician’s office, or other medical facility providing patient care. These nurses can also find other kinds of nursing job opportunities, such as travel nurse, home health nurse, occupational health nurse, outpatient care nurse, community health nurse, and psychiatric nurse. These jobs involve providing basic nursing care to patients in different healthcare settings.
Nurses who have earned a BSN have the same job opportunities as those with an ADN, as well as more advanced job opportunities. These nurses can work as pharmaceutical nurses, informatics nurses, operating room nurses, nurse administrators, and nurse case managers. These jobs often have more complex responsibilities and duties, which can lead to a more challenging yet rewarding career. These roles often involve additional responsibilities, coordination, or specialization compared to entry-level positions.
3. NCLEX Pass Rates
Working as a licensed RN with an ADN or BSN degree requires passing the NCLEX. The pass rates for this exam vary slightly based on the type of degree candidates have.
According to NCLEX, 87 percent of candidates with a BSN passed this exam from January through December 2025. During this same time period, 86 percent of candidates with an ADN passed the exam. In 2020, NCLEX reports that these rates varied even more. Roughly 90 percent of candidates with a BSN passed the exam compared to roughly 82 percent of candidates with an ADN. The education that a BSN provides can better prepare you for this exam. While both pathways can lead to licensure, some data suggests BSN preparation may provide additional support for exam readiness.
What If You Start with an ADN?
Many nurses do not view ADN and BSN as mutually exclusive paths. A common approach is to start with an ADN, begin working as an RN, and later pursue a BSN through an RN-to-BSN program. This pathway allows you to gain experience while continuing your education.
How to Decide if an ADN or BSN Is Best for You
When deciding whether to earn an ADN or BSN, you should weigh the advantages that each degree offers. Although you will not be in school as long while earning an ADN, nursing careers are more limited with this degree. You should also keep in mind that accelerated BSN degree programs are available. These programs make it possible to earn a BSN in a shorter amount of time by allowing you to transfer in a high number of credit hours needed for graduation. When comparing ADN vs BSN costs, you can look for affordable BSN programs that fit your budget.
Choosing between an ADN and BSN degree also involves thinking about the kind of nursing career you want to build. A BSN degree provides you with more employment opportunities, as well as a chance to earn a higher salary. With a BSN degree, you will also be able to provide a wider range of healthcare to patients. If you are looking for a more challenging nursing career or a career that is more complex, a BSN degree might be the better option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Become an RN With an ADN?
Yes. Graduates of approved ADN programs can become registered nurses by passing the NCLEX-RN.
What Is the Difference Between an ADN and a BSN?
The main differences are the level of education, the breadth of coursework, and the long-term opportunities each path may support. A BSN typically includes broader study beyond core clinical preparation.
Do Employers Prefer BSN Nurses?
Many do. AACN reports that nearly 28% of employers require new hires to have a bachelor’s degree and 72% strongly prefer baccalaureate-prepared nurses.
Is an ADN Faster Than a BSN?
Generally yes. An ADN is usually the shorter path, while a BSN involves broader coursework and a longer academic timeline.
Can You Get a BSN After Earning an ADN?
Yes. Many nurses start with an ADN and later complete an RN-to-BSN path.
Advance Your Nursing Education With Post University’s Online RN to BSN Program
If you’re already working as a registered nurse and considering what comes next, earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing can be a meaningful step in your professional journey. Whether you’re looking to deepen your clinical knowledge, strengthen leadership skills, or prepare for future graduate study, an RN to BSN program can help you continue building on your experience.
Post University offers an online RN to BSN program designed for working professionals who need flexibility while balancing career and personal responsibilities. With supportive faculty and a curriculum focused on today’s healthcare environment, you can explore an educational path that aligns with your long-term goals and helps you grow as a nursing professional.
Thank you for reading! The purpose of this blog is to provide general information to the reader, and as such, this information may not directly relate to programs offered by Post University.
Please note jobs and/or career outcomes highlighted in this blog do not reflect jobs or career outcomes expected from enrolling in or graduating from any Post program.