Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN Degree) Practice Exam

Graduating with a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) is essential for advancing to graduate-level nursing programs because most of these programs, such as those for nurse practitioners, nurse educators, and nurse administrators, require candidates to hold a BSN as a prerequisite. A BSN provides a foundational education that includes comprehensive nursing theory, clinical skills, and a broader understanding of the healthcare system, which is critical for more specialized advanced practice roles.

In contrast, while a certified nursing assistant position does not require a BSN, and both ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) and BSN graduates can take the same licensure exam (the NCLEX-RN), those pathways do not necessitate a bachelor's degree for entry. Thus, the BSN is specifically important for those wishing to pursue graduate education in nursing.