What’s the difference between a BSN and an MSN?
Discover the key differences between a BSN and an MSN, including education requirements, career paths, and benefits, so you can make the right choice for your nursing career.
By: Gayle Morris BSN, MSN, Edited by: Rebecca Munday, Reviewed by: Elizabeth Clarke
Last updated: August 13, 2025
Choosing the right nursing degree program can be confusing, especially when comparing a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) to a master of science in nursing (MSN).
What's the difference, and which one is right for your goals? We'll break it down for you.
You'll learn how each degree can impact your career prospects, salary potential, and scope of practice, so you can make an informed decision about your future in nursing.
BSN vs. MSN compared
When you have an associate degree in nursing (ADN), both bridge programs can lessen the time it takes to earn an advanced degree. However, you may have reasons to choose one over the other. Consider the following reasons you might choose an RN-to-BSN or an RN-to-MSN degree.
Benefits of a BSN
- Build a solid academic foundation: A BSN strengthens clinical skills and nursing theory, preparing you for advanced study later.
- Faster and more affordable: Earning a BSN typically takes less time and costs less than earning an MSN.
- Meet employer requirements: Many hospitals require registered nurses (RNs) to earn a BSN within a set timeframe for continued employment.
- Gain experience before specializing: A BSN lets you develop bedside skills and explore specialties before committing to a graduate-level focus.
Benefits of an MSN
- Qualify for advanced roles: An MSN prepares you for positions such as nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or clinical nurse leader.
- Earn a higher salary: Advanced practice nurses typically earn more than those with a BSN.
- Expand your scope of practice: Nurses with MSNs can diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and lead healthcare teams.
- Pursue leadership and teaching: An MSN can open doors to administrative or academic roles.
- Fast-track your goals: RNs who've already passed the NCLEX-RN licensure exam can bypass the BSN and go directly into an RN-to-MSN program. This can expedite your career advancement, although possibly at the expense of experience.
What is a bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN)?
A BSN is a four-year degree that typically requires students to earn 120 credits. A BSN is usually less costly than an MSN and may take fewer than four years, depending on whether you enter the program with transferable credits.
What is a master's degree in nursing (MSN)?
This graduate degree requires between 30 and 50 credits, depending on the master's in nursing program. It can typically be completed in 2-3 years. But your education may take more or less time depending on your number of transferable credits and whether you are a full-time or part-time student. An MSN can cost between $18,000 and $57,000 in total tuition. However, there are many financial aid opportunities available to help you pay for your master's in nursing.
Can you make more money with an MSN vs a BSN?
While nurses with MSNs generally earn more than those with BSNs, salary isn't based on education alone. Experience, geographic location, specialty, and workplace setting can all influence earning potential. The table below demonstrates how degree level and job position impact salary.
| Career | Degree required | 10th percentile annual wage | Median annual wage | 90th percentile annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered nurses | BSN | Less than $66,030 | $93,600 | More than $135,320 |
| Nurse practitioners | MSN | Less than $97,960 | $129,210 | More than $169,950 |
| Nurse midwives | MSN | Less than $74,670 | $128,790 | More than $177,040 |
| Nurse educators | MSN | Less than $47,950 | $79,940 | More than $130,040 |
Source: BLS, May 2024
BSN vs. MSN: Which nursing degree is right for me?
Choosing the right type of nursing degree for you depends on any transferable college credits you've completed, your lifestyle, and your career goals. Below, compare BSN and MSN programs based on your current education level.
Comparison of BSN and MSN programs for ADN-prepared nurses
If you have an associate degree in nursing (ADN), you can choose from bridge programs that accelerate advanced degree completion. These include RN-to-BSN and RN-to-MSN degree programs. Consider the following as you choose between the programs:
BSN programs
- An RN-to-BSN program is more affordable and faster than an RN-to-MSN program.
- Employers usually prefer BSN-prepared nurses, which increases your job opportunities and may increase your salary potential.
- A BSN provides a solid foundation to pursue an MSN later.
- Additional education and training can improve your clinical skills and patient outcomes.
MSN programs
- MSN-prepared nurses qualify for more job opportunities, higher salaries, and greater job security because of their advanced skills.
- An MSN degree opens doors to advanced practice, nursing leadership, and nursing education roles.
- MSN nurses can specialize in areas like family practice, pediatrics, or psychiatry / mental health.
- Advanced practice nurses who need at least an MSN have an expanded scope of practice, including diagnosing and treating patients and prescribing medications.