What are the differences between an ADN (Associate degree in Nursing)
versus a BSN (Batchelor degree in Nursing)?  I need the similiarities
and differences, please!

Hi Jennajon

Thanks for your question about the Associate's and Bachelor's Degrees
in Nursing.

Let's start with similarities.

With either of these degrees it's possible to become a registered
nurse (RN) with a license to practise.  Each state has its own
requirements for a license which you would need to check out.  You can
find out all about this at:

http://www.allnursingschools.com/faqs/licensing.php

Both degrees could lead you to satisfying work with patients in
hospitals or other institutions.

But here come the differences.  

With an ADN you will be seen more as a "beginning nurse".  This is a
description of one typical program leading to the ADN:

It  "provides the student with the principles and the skills necessary
to assume a beginning professional nurse position in hospitals and
related institutions....... [the] hospital is the clinical setting in
which the student applies principles learned in the classroom and
science laboratory to the actual care of patients. A variety of
experiences in medical-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing,
psychiatric nursing, obstetrical nursing, and community health nursing
are available."

http://www.allnursingschools.com/schools/ID1105/

The associate's degree is usually a two-year program and may be in a
community college or a university, whereas the bachelor's degree takes
at least four years study at a university.  A typical BSN degree will
go into things in greater depth:

"The BSN program provides a broad professional preparation based on
the biological, physical and behavioral sciences, as well as the
humanities. " says one fairly typical course description from Michigan
State University:

http://www.allnursingschools.com/schools/ID581/

With a Bachelor's degree you would be qualified to work in a wider
range of settings including community work:
 "all health care settings like critical care, public health, primary
care and mental health ".

http://www.fulbright.co.uk/eas/subjects/nursing.html#qualifications

So four years working at the BSN would lead on to more choice of
employment opportunities.

I think you would find this site especially helpful in covering
questions about qualifications, schools, getting licensed as an RN
etc.:

http://www.allnursingschools.com

They summarise the two types of course like this:

    ADN
    * Usually 2-year program
    * Usually located in a community college
    * Prepares nurses for staff positions in hospitals 

 
     BDN
    * Usually 4-5 year program
    * Located in colleges and universities
    * Prepares nurses for positions in both inpatient and community
settings


I wish you the very best of luck in pursuing this.  Don't hesitate to
ask if you need clarification.

Regards - Leli

search notes:

"nursing degrees OR education"