RN to BSN programs are more critical thinking and leadership based. You have to do a lot more writing and research to complete them in most cases because you learn about putting data together after finding the proper evidence based research, statistics, population health/ community based health and what being a leader in Nursing means. This is a completely different take on things from your traditional learning about a disease, labs, diagnostics and meds, taking a test and going to clinically ready to apply. I hope this gives you clarity.
Depends on many factors including the student, teacher, school, program, dedication/devotion, interruptions, family support, finances. It can be done. My husband and I both went back for our RN to MSN in our LATE 40s while working FT but didn't have little ones to raise (grandkids around but so was their mom).
They’re not easy, otherwise everyone would have their BSN. They require time and a sacrifice. I think it’s a small price to pay for the doors it opens. If you’re thinking about doing it, just do it. Most hospitals pay 1.50 -2.00 an hour extra. It may not seem like a lot, but over the course of 10 years you’re looking at around $40,000 more. Plus it’s an investment in yourself. You can never go wrong there.
I personally thought that the online program was much harder than nursing school. It’s a lot of writing, and as a conservative, I always seem to come up against mainstream thinking, making credible peer reviewed sources harder to find. That’s said, I think it was well worth the effort. It gives you more of a Birdseye view of the nursing spectrum. Helps you to learn strategies for relevant critical thinking, peer engagements, community issues and additional resources.
If you are good at researching and writing, an online RN-to-BSN program should not be hard.
I wouldn't say they're hard but some can be challenging. There are various online and in person options. If a BSN aligns with your future goals I say go for it even if it is a bit challenging.
That would be a personal thing
