BSN represent a Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing, while an ADN is an Associate’s Degree in Nursing. There are several differences in the competency levels of these two-degree programs. BSN program is a four-year degree, which is knowledge, theory and research based and the emphasis is on the entire picture of the field of nursing. The ADN program is shorter and more concise which focuses on the clinical skills and is more tasks oriented. It lacks the theory and science behind nursing as a profession. According to Aiken (2003) patients experience significantly lower mortality and failure to rescue rates in hospitals where more baccalaureate prepared nurses provide direct patient care. At least 1,700 preventable deaths could have been realized in Pennsylvania hospitals alone if baccalaureate prepared nurses had comprised 60% of the nursing staff and the nurse to patient ratios had been set at 1 to 4. Nurses prepared at the BSN level were found to have higher levels of job satisfaction which is a key to nurse retention. Studies have also found that nurses prepared at the baccalaureate level have stronger communication and problem-solving skills (Johnson, 1988). The associate degree level of nursing was developed out of a need to produce nurses in response to a shortage during and following World War II. Therefore, it was proposed as a temporary solution to a shortage but was not intended to replace the professional level of nursing education. However, the associate degree level of nursing education became popular and has come to be viewed as an attractive career path for those who desire a shortened, less expensive route to becoming a registered