BSN vs. non-BSN students and success in graduate study

In this study, the entry and progression characteristics of graduate students (nurses) with baccalaureate degrees in fields other than nursing (non-BSN) were compared to characteristics of students whose baccalaureate degrees were in nursing (BSN). Subjects were students enrolled in the Graduate School at the University of Minnesota majoring in Nursing. Analyses showed that BSN and non-BSN students did not differ with respect to the entry or progression measures used. All non-BSN students who have been admitted have been successful in graduate study. The results of this study suggest the feasibility of serving the non-BSN population at the graduate level under certain circumstances.