Key Takeaways
RN entry paths include RN diploma, ADN, or BSN. BSNs are preferred, while diplomas are rare.
BSN nurses earn about $18,000 more than ADN nurses on average.
ADNs are faster and cheaper, but BSNs offer deeper knowledge and long-term career growth.
If you want to become a registered nurse (RN), the good news is that you can get started with an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or even an RN diploma. While these programs are shorter than a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), it's important to note that most employers prefer to hire RNs with a BSN. Also, RN diplomas are becoming less common, with only a few programs still existing today.
Explore the differences between an RN diploma, an ADN, and a BSN program.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Is an RN Diploma or Certificate?
Credits Required: 50 credits
Average Program Length: 1-2 years
Average Salary: $74,000 (Payscale, February 2025)
Diplomas/certificate programs were the original training options for nurses in the U.S., but are not as common today. These hospital-based programs focus primarily on clinical training rather than classroom coursework. While graduates are eligible to sit for theNational Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), they do not earn a degree upon completion. Further,NCLEX-RN pass rates are generally lower than those of ADN or BSN programs.
RN diploma programs are becoming less common. Research showsbetter patient outcomes when nurses have degrees, particularly a BSN. The National Academy of Medicine also recommends that nurses have a BSN, prompting many employers to make this a job requirement.
Admission requirements to RN diploma programs often include:
A high school diploma or GED certificate
English language proficiency, if applicable
Math and science high school courses
College prerequisite courses, including statistics, anatomy and physiology, and chemistry
A 2.0-3.0 or higher GPA
An application and fee
What Is an Associate Degree in Nursing?
Credits Required: 60-75 credits
Average Program Length: 2 years
Average Salary: $80,000 (Payscale, June 2025)
If you're unsure about pursuing a diploma/certificate, an ADN may work for you. The primary difference between an RN diploma program and an ADN program is the additional general education coursework required to earn a degree. Along with clinical training at a healthcare facility, ADN students complete classroom courses, including psychology, obstetric nursing, and pharmacology, after which they qualify for the NCLEX-RN exam.
ADN programs are generally shorter and more affordable than BSN programs, although this can vary based on school choice and enrollment status. For graduates who desire career advancement and higher earning potential, ADN credits may be applied toward a future BSN ormaster of science in nursing (MSN) degree.
Admission requirements toADN programs often include:
A high school diploma or GED certificate
English language proficiency, if applicable
Math and science high school courses
A 3.0 or higher GPA
An application and fee
What Is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing?
Credits Required: 120 credits
Average Program Length: 4 years
Average Salary: $98,000 (Payscale, August 2025)
While you can obtain an RN license after earning an ADN, a BSN brings more career advancement opportunities after graduation. Like ADN students, BSN students complete classroom courses and clinical hours at healthcare facilities, but they also take advanced courses in leadership, research, and public health courses. Graduates qualify for the NCLEX-RN exam and can apply their BSN credits toward an MSN if desired.
While BSN programs are typically longer and more expensive than ADN programs, BSN nurse salaries are generally higher, and career advancement opportunities and job stability are greater, asmany employers prefer to hire BSN-prepared nurses.
Admission requirements to BSN programs often include:
A high school diploma or GED certificate
English language proficiency, if applicable
Math and science high school courses
A 3.0 or higher GPA
An application and fee
Advantages of Earning an ADN or a BSN
Earning an ADN or BSN is an accomplishment, but affordability, coursework, and program length can make a difference when choosing between the two programs. For example, ADN programs allow you to finish faster, while BSN programs provide a greater knowledge base. Explore the advantages of earning an ADN vs. a BSN.
Advantages of Earning an ADN
Lower cost and less potential for student debt
Shorter than a four-year degree
Programs are available at many community/junior colleges
Credits can transfer toward a BSN bridge program
Can start earning an RN salary sooner
Advantages of Earning a BSN
Provides more in-depth training and comprehensive nursing knowledge than an ADN
Employers prefer BSN-prepared nurses
Allows you to advance beyond entry-level positions
Higher NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate
Higher salary potential
Salary Potential for RNs with ADN vs. BSN Degrees
Registered nurses earn average annual salaries ranging from $74,000 to $98,000, depending on their education level. BSN-prepared RNs make an average of $18,000 more annually than ADN holders. However, various factors can affect salary, including location, specialty, and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
A BSN and an ADN are college degrees awarded by nursing schools or programs. An RN is a healthcare professional. You need an ADN or BSN before becoming eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN and obtain an RN license.
