While a BSN- and ADN-prepared nurse acquire the same clinical skills, a BSN-prepared nurse takes courses covering topics like leadership, research, and administration.

Payscale reports that BSN graduates earn an average annual salary of about $91,000, versus approximately $74,000 for ADN degree holders.

Sometimes called ADN-to-BSN degrees, these programs build on RNs’ prior experience to provide advanced patient management training and even prepare them for graduate study.

The “ADN to BSN” degree is an 11-month online program offered by West Texas A&M University. Northwest’s full-time RN's with an Associate’s Degree in Nursing are qualified to enroll.