Associate degrees in nursing (ADN) generally provide a program of study that covers fundamentals of nursing courses, but there is a strong emphasis on liberal arts courses. This is an ideal degree for students who will eventually pursue a bachelor's degree, since the credits earned in the ADN degree are transferable to other colleges or university programs. An ADN degree usually last two years or less, and the required coursework might include: English, math, history and social sciences as well as nursing practices, health assessment, human development, mental health nursing and pharmacology.
Typically, the associate of applied science degree in nursing will give students a focus heavier on nursing courses than liberal arts. The purpose of an AASN is to provide students the necessary skills and knowledge for a quick entrance into employment. Credits earned through this type of degree are usually not transferable to a bachelor's program. The final decision of transferring credits greatly depends on the institution that issues the bachelor's degree program. Required coursework in an associate of applied science in nursing might include: mental health nursing, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, pathophysiology, anatomy and physiology, and introduction to chemistry.
After you complete the associate degree, the next step is to obtain the state license to exercise your career as a registered nurse. The process consists of taking the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), which is a standardized test administrated by the state board of nursing that certifies you are qualified for nursing practice. The exam covers four main categories, including safe, effective care environment; health promotion and maintenance; psychosocial integrity and physiological integrity. You must contact your state board of nursing to apply for eligibility.
Choose the right school or program of study by researching a school's accreditations. Most educational institutions are recognized by regional, national or other accrediting agencies that certify the educational level of the program of study is in accordance with the state department of education standards. This will help you narrow the search and will offer assurance that the school credits you complete may count at other colleges or universities. Examples of such accrediting agencies include the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).