If you want to become an RN, you’ll need to enroll in an associate’s degree program. Associate’s degrees are shorter programs that teach students about the theories and principles of nursing, but they don’t cover clinical practicums. Nurses who want to work in hospitals or other clinical settings must complete a bachelor’s degree program in nursing.

Associate Degree Program In Nursing

1. What is an associate degree in nursing?

An associate degree in nursing (ADN) is a two-year degree that is the minimum requirement for becoming a registered nurse. It’s also a stepping stone to earning your bachelor’s degree and moving up in the healthcare field.

Before deciding on an ADN or baccalaureate program, consider whether you want to work as a registered nurse (RN). The RN role requires being accountable for independent decision making, which means being able to make critical decisions based on clinical judgment. In order to be eligible for this role, you must have an associate degree or higher from an accredited nursing program.*

If you’re interested in working as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or licensed vocational nurse (LVN), these roles may require less education than RNs do—check with local state boards about possible requirements.

2. Do I have to be a registered nurse (RN) to apply for the associate degree in nursing program?

You do not have to be a registered nurse (RN) to apply for the associate degree in nursing program. You can apply without being a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Certified Medication Assistant (CMA).

3. How long does the associate degree in nursing program last?

One of the most common questions that students ask is how long does the associate degree program in nursing (ADN) last? The ADN program is two years long and equivalent to the first two years of a Bachelor’s degree. This means that you will get your associate degree after completion of 60 credits, which usually takes about two years.

A lot of people don’t realize that an associate degree can be used as a bridge between high school and bachelor’s degrees because it generally requires only half as much schooling as traditional four-year programs do.

5. What should I expect during associate degree in nursing classes?

First, you’ll explore the anatomy and physiology that make up a human body. You’ll also learn about pharmacology and how medications are broken down in our systems. Then, you’ll study the roles of nursing professionals, including registered nurses (RN), licensed practical nurses (LPN), certified nurse assistants (CNA), case managers and more.

Next up: The Nursing Process. This section is all about how nurses think through problems by following a step-by-step process for each patient interaction. (Think: “Is this symptom cause for concern?”)

Once you’ve completed these courses and others like them, you’ll dive into topics like nursing ethics—which examine what type of ethical considerations are important to people working within a hospital setting—and leadership skills needed when serving as an administrator or supervisor at any level within your facility’s hierarchy

6. What are some topics covered in the associate degree in nursing curriculum?

The associate degree in nursing curriculum covers a wide variety of topics, from theory to skills. Topics may include:

• Nursing theory and philosophy
• Nursing research methods and statistics
• Nursing leadership skills and ethics
• Nursing informatics (the use of technology for health care)
• Healthcare policy

7. How much does an associate degree in nursing cost?

The cost of the program depends on a number of factors. These include:

• The institution where the student is enrolled in their nursing degree program.
• The type of program they are pursuing (for example, traditional or distance learning).
• Future plans for continuing education and earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nursing.

The cost can be anywhere from $20,000 to $60,000 per year depending on these factors and other considerations such as academic performance and financial aid options available at each institution.*

8. To become an RN, enrollees must obtain an associate’s degree.

To become an RN, enrollees must obtain an associate’s degree. The RN-to-BSN bridge program is especially useful for students who have already completed their associate’s degree and are looking to earn their bachelor’s in nursing. If you’re interested in pursuing this route, here are some tips on how to find a reputable program that will help get you there:

• Research local programs by visiting your school’s career center or academic advisors. They can also provide helpful information regarding financial aid options if necessary.
• Contact the schools directly via phone or email and ask them if they offer any special scholarships or awards for students wishing to pursue assistant nursing degrees with a focus on BSN completion. Many schools offer scholarship opportunities specifically tailored toward this end goal!

Closing

If you’re looking to begin your nursing career, an associate degree in nursing is the perfect option. This program gives you an introduction to the field and helps prepare you for further education at a bachelor’s level. Aspiring nurses will learn about human anatomy, physiology and pathology as well as how to manage patients’ needs with compassion and empathy. Most importantly, they’ll gain experience working under supervision from more senior nurses who can provide guidance on how best practice their skills