10 Benefits of Pursuing a Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) Degree for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can you do with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree?

A bachelor of science degree in nursing is more than just a credential—it’s a career accelerator. Graduates are prepared not only for traditional bedside care but also for roles in leadership, research, public health, and advanced practice training. With the U.S. facing a projected shortfall of 200,000 to 450,000 registered nurses by 2025 (McKinsey & Company), the demand for BSN-prepared nurses has never been higher. 

Completing this program positions you at the forefront of solving one of healthcare’s biggest challenges while opening doors to higher-paying positions, job stability, and the foundation for graduate-level education.

Where can you work with a BSN degree?

Graduates of BSN programs have one of the widest ranges of employment opportunities in the healthcare field. A BSN qualifies you for direct patient care in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, but it also expands access to specialized and leadership roles. With more than 197,200 registered nurse job openings expected every year through 2033, the career outlook is solid and diverse.

Many BSN-prepared nurses also find opportunities in public health, education, government agencies, and even corporate healthcare environments such as insurance, consulting, or pharmaceuticals.

Top employing industries for BSN graduates include:

• General medical and surgical hospitals
• Outpatient care centers
• Nursing and residential care facilities
• Home healthcare services
• Government health services

Top states employing BSN graduates:

• California
• Texas
• Florida
• New York
• Pennsylvania

These states consistently rank at the top due to their large healthcare systems, higher population density, and ongoing demand for qualified nurses in the middle of a nationwide shortage.

How much can you earn with a BSN degree?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for registered nurses (including BSN-prepared RNs) was $93,600 as of May 2024. With a workforce shortage projected to leave tens of thousands of RN positions unfilled by 2025 (HRSA), healthcare organizations are offering competitive pay and incentives to attract BSN-trained nurses. Salaries vary by state, employer, and years of experience, but holding a BSN typically places nurses at the higher end of the pay scale.

Here’s how different sources report RN/BSN salaries:

• Zippia: Average RN salary around $57,564 per year
• Salary.com: Typical range $81,220 to $94,480 per year
• ZipRecruiter: Average salary $87,868 per year
• Indeed: Average salary $92,486 per year
• Payscale: Average hourly rate $36.01/hour (~$76,940 per year)
• Glassdoor: Estimated average salary $99K per year

The combination of high demand and limited supply is pushing employers to pay more—meaning BSN graduates are entering a market where their skills directly translate into financial stability and career growth.

10 Core Subjects in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree for 2025

A bachelor of science degree in nursing curriculum blends science, clinical practice, and leadership to create well-rounded nurses ready for modern healthcare. These core subjects form the backbone of every accredited BSN program, preparing students for both entry-level practice and graduate pathways such as top BSN to MSN programs online.

Anatomy and Physiology

This foundational subject explores the structure and function of the human body. Students study major systems such as cardiovascular, respiratory, muscular, and nervous systems, gaining the knowledge needed to understand disease processes and treatments. For BSN students, this course is essential as it provides the biological framework to assess patients accurately, interpret symptoms, and apply safe interventions. Without a solid grounding in anatomy and physiology, nurses would struggle to make informed clinical decisions or communicate effectively with physicians and interdisciplinary teams.

Microbiology

Microbiology introduces students to the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Topics often cover infection control, immunity, and the relationship between pathogens and human health. In a BSN program, this subject is crucial for understanding how diseases spread and how to prevent healthcare-associated infections. Knowledge gained in microbiology directly influences nursing practice in areas such as wound care, sterile technique, and patient safety protocols, ensuring nurses play a critical role in minimizing infection risks in hospitals and other care settings.

Pharmacology

Pharmacology focuses on medications, their mechanisms of action, side effects, and safe administration. Students learn drug classifications, dosage calculations, and the principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. In BSN programs, pharmacology is essential for preparing nurses to safely administer and monitor medications. It builds the foundation for patient education, ensuring nurses can explain treatment plans clearly and support adherence. As medication errors remain a leading cause of preventable harm, BSN-trained nurses must be proficient in this subject to safeguard patient outcomes.

Nursing Fundamentals

This subject introduces students to the core principles of professional nursing. It covers basic patient care, vital signs monitoring, communication techniques, and ethical and legal considerations. Nursing fundamentals also introduce the nursing process—assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation—which guides clinical practice. For BSN students, this subject serves as the gateway to more advanced coursework and clinical rotations. It emphasizes compassion, professionalism, and patient advocacy, ensuring graduates enter the field with a strong grasp of nursing’s core values.

Pathophysiology

Pathophysiology examines how diseases alter normal body functions. Students learn the underlying mechanisms of illness, from cellular damage to organ failure, and link these processes to observable clinical symptoms. This subject is vital for BSN students as it sharpens their ability to recognize disease progression and anticipate complications. With this knowledge, nurses can make more accurate assessments, communicate findings with physicians, and provide better patient education. Pathophysiology bridges the gap between theory and practice, transforming biological knowledge into practical nursing expertise.

Health Assessment

Health assessment trains students to collect, interpret, and document patient data systematically. It covers physical examination techniques, interviewing skills, and diagnostic reasoning. In BSN programs, health assessment is critical for developing the ability to identify patient needs early and create effective care plans. Students practice head-to-toe assessments, learn to interpret vital signs, and integrate cultural considerations into patient interactions. Mastering this subject ensures that BSN-prepared nurses are confident in detecting health changes and advocating for timely interventions.

Community and Public Health Nursing

This subject broadens the scope of nursing from individual care to populations. Students explore epidemiology, health promotion, disease prevention, and the social determinants of health. In BSN programs, community and public health nursing prepares graduates to work with diverse populations, including vulnerable groups. With the U.S. facing both nurse shortages and public health crises, this subject ensures future nurses can contribute to vaccination campaigns, disaster preparedness, and health education, extending their impact beyond hospital walls into community well-being.  Those interested in advancing their specialization may also explore careers with a graduate certificate in nurse midwifery to see how additional credentials expand clinical and leadership opportunities.

Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice

Nursing research equips students with skills to evaluate and apply scientific studies to clinical practice. Topics include research design, data analysis, and critical appraisal of evidence. For BSN students, this subject is essential because modern nursing is grounded in evidence-based practice. By learning how to integrate current research into patient care, nurses improve outcomes, reduce risks, and contribute to policy changes. This subject also lays the groundwork for graduate study, helping nurses transition into leadership, advanced practice, or academic roles.

Leadership and Management in Nursing

Leadership and management courses prepare BSN students for supervisory and administrative roles. Content typically includes conflict resolution, team coordination, healthcare finance, and legal and ethical decision-making. In today’s nursing shortage, leadership skills are more critical than ever—nurses are stepping into roles that require them to advocate for staff, streamline operations, and influence policy. This subject ensures BSN graduates are not just caregivers but also leaders shaping the future of healthcare delivery.

Mental Health Nursing

This subject focuses on the principles of psychiatric and mental health care. Students learn to assess, diagnose, and support patients experiencing mental illness, substance abuse, or emotional crises. Topics include therapeutic communication, crisis intervention, and psychopharmacology. Mental health nursing is a core component of BSN programs because nurses often serve as the first point of contact for patients in distress. Given the growing awareness of mental health in healthcare, BSN graduates trained in this area are indispensable for holistic, patient-centered care.

Will a BSN degree help me earn more than an ADN?

A BSN generally leads to higher earnings compared to an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). According to Zippia, nurses with a bachelor’s degree earn an average of $63,583 annually, while those with an associate degree average $55,268. That gap of over $8,000 per year can add up to more than $300,000 across a 35-year career. Data from the BLS also supports this trend, reporting a median annual wage of $93,600 for registered nurses, with BSN-prepared nurses more likely to earn at the higher end of the scale. 

Beyond the numbers, the difference comes from opportunity. A BSN is often the minimum requirement for leadership, specialized clinical roles, and graduate programs—positions that come with greater responsibility and higher pay. While an ADN may open the door to entry-level nursing, a BSN expands long-term career growth and earning potential. For nurses focused on financial stability and advancement, the evidence is clear: the BSN delivers more value over time.

This salary chart highlights how education directly impacts nurse earnings. As shown, bachelor’s degree holders consistently earn more than those with an associate degree, reinforcing why a BSN is a smart investment for nurses seeking long-term financial growth and career advancement.

Do hospitals prefer or require nurses with a BSN?

Hospitals increasingly prefer—and in many cases require—nurses to hold a bachelor of science degree in nursing. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) notes that more than 77% of employers express a strong preference for BSN-prepared nurses, and many Magnet-designated hospitals mandate it. The reason comes down to outcomes: research shows that hospitals with higher proportions of BSN-trained nurses see lower patient mortality rates, fewer medication errors, and better overall care quality. 

Nurses considering additional credentials may also be interested in understanding salary with a graduate certificate in nursing informatics to evaluate how specialized training can impact compensation alongside a BSN.

The BLS highlights that hospitals remain the largest employer of nurses, with strong growth projected through 2032, meaning that educational qualifications matter more than ever. Nurses with a BSN are viewed as better equipped for leadership, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice—skills essential in today’s healthcare system. 

For those entering the profession through bridge pathways, even programs such as accelerated medical assistant to RN online programs emphasize BSN-level training. Simply put, while an ADN may still be accepted in some facilities, a BSN is fast becoming the industry standard for hospital employment.

This graphic reinforces the trend: 25% of hospitals now require a BSN, while nearly 70% of employers strongly prefer BSN graduates. These numbers highlight how the BSN is no longer optional but increasingly essential for securing and advancing in hospital-based nursing roles.

Does having a BSN actually improve patient outcomes?

Yes—research consistently shows that BSN-prepared nurses improve patient outcomes compared to those without the degree. Studies have found that hospitals with higher percentages of BSN-trained nurses experience lower mortality rates, fewer complications, and better recovery outcomes. For example, Post University highlights that patient survival after cardiac arrest is significantly higher when care teams include BSN-educated nurses. Similarly, Mercer University points out that BSN nurses are better trained in critical thinking and evidence-based practice, which directly translates into safer, more effective care. 

A bachelor of science degree in nursing program equips nurses with advanced knowledge in areas such as research, leadership, and community health—skills that go beyond bedside care and impact hospital-wide policies. Even for those coming from non-traditional pathways, such as through an accelerated online paramedic to RN bridge program, advancing to BSN-level training enhances not only career prospects but also the quality of care delivered. In short, a BSN isn’t just a personal career investment; it’s a direct investment in better patient outcomes and higher healthcare standards.

Can I get into leadership or specialty roles faster with a BSN?

Yes—a BSN degree significantly accelerates your path into leadership and specialty roles. Employers prefer BSN-prepared nurses for positions that require advanced decision-making, team management, and policy implementation. 

A Bryant & Stratton College report highlights that BSN training builds strong leadership, communication, and evidence-based practice skills—all critical for higher-level roles. Graduates often qualify sooner for specialty certifications and graduate programs, such as nurse practitioner training, including the cheapest post master's certificate pediatric nurse practitioner online, which expand both clinical authority and earning potential.

Possible leadership and specialty roles for BSN-prepared nurses include:

• Charge Nurse: Oversees unit staffing, resources, and patient assignments.
• Nurse Manager: Directs operations for a hospital unit, focusing on staffing, budgeting, and quality outcomes.
• Specialty RN Roles: Includes pediatric, oncology, and critical care nursing, requiring advanced training.
• Public Health Nurse: Leads health promotion programs and policy initiatives in community settings.

By holding a BSN, nurses shorten the path to these roles, gaining both credibility and career mobility.

The salary chart below shows the financial rewards of advancing into leadership and specialty roles with a BSN. From public health nursing to nurse management, BSN-prepared nurses consistently earn higher salaries, proving that advanced education directly translates to better pay and career growth opportunities.

Is a BSN required to pursue advanced degrees like MSN or DNP?

Yes—earning a BSN is typically the first step toward graduate-level nursing education such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Most accredited MSN and DNP programs list a BSN as a prerequisite for admission, since the curriculum builds directly on the competencies developed in bachelor’s programs. Without a BSN, nurses often need to take additional bridge coursework to qualify, which can lengthen the process. 

According to the AACN, the BSN provides the academic foundation in research, leadership, and community health that prepares students for advanced study. For example, nurse practitioners, nurse anesthetists, and clinical nurse specialists—all graduate-level roles—require a BSN as the baseline entry point. Nurses looking to expand into management and administrative roles may also explore what can you do with a nursing leadership graduate certificate to understand the opportunities this credential unlocks.

Although some accelerated RN-to-MSN pathways exist, most still include BSN-level content to ensure students meet national standards. In short, if you want to move beyond bedside nursing into advanced practice, teaching, or leadership, a BSN isn’t just helpful—it’s required.

Will earning a BSN make me more secure in my nursing job?

Yes—earning a BSN can significantly improve job security in today’s healthcare landscape. With the United States facing a projected shortage of 200,000 to 450,000 registered nurses by 2025, hospitals and healthcare systems are raising educational standards to ensure high-quality care. The Institute of Medicine has even recommended that 80% of the nursing workforce hold a BSN or higher, and many employers are adopting that benchmark when making hiring decisions. This shift means BSN-prepared nurses are more competitive for positions and less likely to be displaced as employers tighten requirements. 

Furthermore, Magnet-designated hospitals—which represent the gold standard for nursing excellence—often require or strongly prefer BSN-trained staff. Nurses with a BSN are also better positioned for promotions, specialty roles, and leadership opportunities, making them more resilient in the face of workforce reductions or staffing changes.

For those considering pediatric specialization, understanding pediatric NP graduate certificate salary can also highlight the financial benefits of pursuing advanced certification alongside a BSN. In essence, earning a BSN not only opens the door to advancement but also acts as a safeguard for long-term career stability in a rapidly evolving healthcare system.

This graphic reinforces the strong job security for BSN-prepared nurses. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 6% growth in RN employment from 2023 to 2033, adding nearly 197,200 jobs—proof that demand for well-educated nurses will remain steady for the next decade.

Does earning a BSN expand my career options outside clinical care?

Yes—a BSN degree significantly broadens career opportunities beyond bedside nursing. While clinical care in hospitals and outpatient facilities remains central, a BSN also equips graduates with skills in leadership, education, research, and public health. Many BSN-prepared nurses transition into roles within government agencies, insurance companies, corporate wellness programs, and healthcare consulting. Others pursue opportunities in nursing informatics, pharmaceutical sales, or policy development, where their clinical background is combined with business or data expertise. 

According to the AACN, the broader scope of BSN education makes nurses highly adaptable to diverse roles across the healthcare system. Even those advancing through accelerated LVN to BSN programs online gain access to positions that extend far beyond traditional bedside care. In today’s healthcare landscape, where organizations value adaptability and cross-functional expertise, a BSN doesn’t just prepare you for patient care—it opens doors to careers that influence policy, drive innovation, and expand the impact of nursing on a larger scale.

Can networking and professional growth be better in a BSN program?

Yes—pursuing a bachelor of science degree in nursing often leads to richer networking opportunities and professional development compared to entry-level nursing programs. BSN programs typically place students in diverse clinical rotations, exposing them to multiple specialties and connecting them with faculty, mentors, and healthcare leaders. These interactions provide invaluable career connections that can lead to internships, job offers, and future collaborations. Professional nursing organizations also often encourage BSN students to participate in conferences, research projects, and community initiatives—further widening their networks. 

Beyond immediate connections, a BSN also signals to employers that you’re committed to lifelong learning, making you more likely to be recommended for promotions or leadership tracks. BSN-prepared nurses benefit from access to more continuing education and professional advancement opportunities. Networking and growth aren’t just about who you know—they’re about being in environments that cultivate leadership and innovation. A BSN program places you at the center of these opportunities, giving you both visibility and momentum in your nursing career. 

Will earning a BSN make it easier to get or maintain my nursing license?

Yes—a BSN can streamline the licensing process and strengthen your professional standing. Both ADN and BSN graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam to obtain licensure, but BSN programs are meticulously structured to align with state Board of Nursing requirements, particularly for clinical hours and coursework breadth. Moreover, the BSN’s comprehensive education—which includes leadership, public health, and ethics—is increasingly being recognized by licensing boards and employers alike.

Another practical benefit: nurses advancing via pathways like accelerated EMT to RN bridge programs online often aim for BSN-level education next, which can simplify licensure renewal and endorsement across state lines. And in compact-license states, a BSN may smooth transitions between jurisdictions, though this ultimately depends on each state's regulations. Ultimately, a BSN doesn't just help you qualify—it helps you stay competitive and compliant in an evolving licensure landscape.

This NCLEX-RN pass rate chart highlights how education impacts licensure success. First-time U.S.-educated candidates—most of whom complete BSN programs—achieve an 88.8% pass rate, far higher than repeat or internationally educated candidates. This underscores how a BSN better equips nurses for exam success and long-term licensure stability.

2025 NCLEX-RN Pass Rates (January–June, NCSBN Data)

Source: NCSBN, 2025

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Here's What Graduates Have To Say About Their Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing

Other Things You Should Know About Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree (BSN) Degree Programs

How long does it take to complete a BSN degree?

A traditional BSN program usually takes four years to complete if pursued full-time. However, accelerated programs can shorten that to 12–18 months for students who already have prior college credits or healthcare experience. Part-time and online formats are also available, allowing working professionals to complete the degree over a longer period while balancing employment and family responsibilities.

Is financial aid available for BSN programs?

Yes—most accredited BSN programs qualify for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, Stafford Loans, and work-study programs. Many schools also offer scholarships specifically for nursing students, while some employers provide tuition reimbursement to nurses pursuing advanced degrees. State-level programs and healthcare organizations may also offer loan forgiveness options, particularly for nurses who commit to working in underserved or rural communities.

Can international students apply for BSN programs in the U.S.?

Yes—many U.S. universities accept international students into BSN programs, but additional requirements often apply. These may include proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS scores), credential evaluations of prior education, and visa eligibility. International students should also expect different tuition rates and may need to secure additional funding sources. Some programs even offer pathways designed for international-educated nurses to transition into U.S. licensure.

What licensing exam do BSN graduates need to pass?

All BSN graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed. The exam measures readiness to practice safely and effectively as an entry-level nurse. NCLEX pass rates are generally higher for BSN graduates than ADN graduates, due to the additional preparation in areas like critical thinking, leadership, and evidence-based practice that BSN programs emphasize.