The decision whether or not to set the baccalaureate degree as the standard entry level into nursing programs has been a subject of debate for quite some time. Across the nation, professional healthcare organizations and facilities continue to deliberate on nursing education requirements. As healthcare continues to evolve, so do the skills and educational requirements for practicing nurses. Baccalaureate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs place a strong emphasis on training future nurses to function independently as caregivers, nurse leaders, and managers within their profession (Huston, 2013). Some may argue that diploma and associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs do not fully prepare nurses for the career path ahead. Others have argued that the failure to impose on nurses the same educational entry requirements as other health professions may put the nursing profession at risk of being labeled a trade rather than a profession (Huston). The idea that nursing requires a lower level of skill than other medical professions because programs can be completed in less time is false. Nursing requires critical thinking, skill, and a solid knowledge base regardless of degree level. However, the growing shortage of nurses and the growing number of patients place great emphasis on the need for well-trained nursing professionals to meet growing healthcare needs. The ADN program was developed because of the need to correct nursing shortages, but the shortage is more prevalent than ever (Huston). The debate then is whether the BSN program should be the standard entry-level program to ensure that nursing professionals are up to par with the College of Medicine. (2010). The future of nursing: Driving change, advancing health. Retrieved from http://iom.edu/Reports/2010/The-Future-of-Nursing-Leading-Change-Advancing-Health.aspxLane, S., & Kohlenberg, E., (2010). The future of nursing baccalaureate degrees. Nursing Forum, 45(4), 218-227. doi:10.1111/j.1744-6198.2010.00194.x Nursing Councils of the National Council of State. (2010, September 8). National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) Policy Position Statement. Retrieved from https://www.ncsbn.org/Policy_Position_Statement.pdfRaines, C., & Taglaireni, M. (2008, September 30). Career paths in nursing: Entry points and academic progression. Online Journal of Nursing Issues, 13(3). Retrieved from http://www.nursingworld.org/MainMenuCategories/ANAMarketplace/ANAPeriodicals/OJIN/TableofContents/vol132008/No3Sept08/CareerEntryPoints.html