The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN, BScN) also known in some countries as a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) or Bachelor of Science (BS) with a Major in Nursing is an academic degree in the science and principles of nursing, granted by an accredited tertiary education provider. The course of study is typically three or four years.
The bachelor's degree prepares nurses for a wide variety of professional roles and graduate study. Course work includes nursing science, research, leadership, and related sciences that inform the practice of nursing. It also provides the student with general education in math, humanities and social sciences. An undergraduate degree affords opportunities for greater career advancement and higher salary options. It is often a prerequisite for teaching, administrative, consulting and research roles.
A BSN is not currently required for entry into professional nursing in all countries. In the US there has been a push for it to become the entry level degree since 1964, when the American Nurses Association (ANA) adopted the position that the title of registered nurse should be reserved for those holding a baccalaureate degree, while those holding associate degrees be titled practical or technical nurses.
Accreditation
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) are the accreditation bodies for Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs in the United States. Both Commissions are officially recognized as national accreditation agencies that ensure quality standards for undergraduate to graduate nursing programs by the U.S. Secretary of Education.
Accelerated BSN programs
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs allow those who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field to obtain their BSN at an accelerated rate, which is why they are also commonly referred to as "Second Degree Nursing Programs". These programs usually have strict prerequisites because the program coursework focuses solely on nursing. Accelerated BSN programs are typically anywhere from 12-20 months.
See also
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
- Doctor of Nursing Practice
- Master of Science in Nursing
- Associate of Science in Nursing
- National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission
- Nurse education
- Nursing school
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