Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon in changing the world” (Durando, 2013). It is an important influence on all health care provider. Learning is an experience needed to move forward in our day to day activities. More education brings more opportunity. The more educational experience you have, the more doors are open for you, just like many doors are open to nurses with a BSN, than nurses with a diploma or an associate degree.
An associate degree nurse is a nurse with three years nursing training which are usually offered at community/junior colleges. After graduating from the program the associate nurse is qualified to take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) to become a registered nurse (RN). The program was offered to reduce the nursing shortages at hospital. Associate degree nurse program was formed by Mildred Montag (a nurse educator) in 1956 due to severe shortage of nurses after World War 11.
Baccalaureate degree nurses are nurses with four years of nursing training that are offered at summer colleges and universities. The graduates of this program are qualified to take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) and become a Registered Nurse. The BSN program includes all the courses taught in an associate or diploma degree program, but the courses go more in depth in physical sciences, social sciences, and nursing management.
The educational background a nurse receives from the Baccalaureate degree while in school helps the nurse to understand religious, cultural and social matters related to patient care and safety. The degree also helps to better understand social-cultural, economic and potential concerns that may have emotional and psychological impact on the patient’s wellbeing. It not only causes professional growth, but it also prepares them for a broader scope of practice.

As a nurse, critical thinking is