Nursing is a fulfilling career that is constantly evolving. That’s why it’s more important than ever to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). A BSN provides more in-depth research that will enhance students’ professional development and interpersonal skills with their patients.

In February 2019, the Campaign for Nursing’s Future, an initiative of the Center to Champion Nursing in America, highlighted the increasing number of nurses who have earned baccalaureate degrees. Approximately 56% of RNs have earned a BSN or higher, which has drastically increased from 49% in 2010 when the Institute of Medicine’s report on the Future of Nursing was released.

So, what does that mean for a new nurse in the field or an experienced RN who might not see the benefit of going back to school at this stage? We can all agree that nurses are already stretched on time as it is.

While there are a growing number of hospitals that are beginning to require a BSN, something also worth noting is that a bachelor’s degree offers broader professional opportunity. BSN-prepared nurses can work in some of the highest-paying nursing specialties including nurse research, pediatric endocrinology, orthopedic nursing, or neonatal nursing, to name a few. In the long run, a bachelor’s degree can open a lot of doors and create more financial freedom.

We are hoping to help fulfill this growing need for BSN degrees in the healthcare industry, and offer several paths, based on a student’s current education level and licensure status. Galen’s Online RN to BSN  is designed for real life, and lets you earn as you learn – meaning you don’t have to put life or your career on hold to pursue your degree. You can complete the program in as little as 16 months, or more if you need it, all while continuing to work in the field as an RN. Some employers also offer tuition-assistance or reimbursement programs, which can ease the financial strain that we all know is associated with advancing your education.

Life can get complicated but earning your BSN doesn’t have to follow suit. At Galen, our goal is to help you achieve your goal in a way that makes the most sense for where you are in your career. If this is something you’ve been thinking about, there’s no better time than the present to begin a career-changing endeavor.