An ADN is an associate degree of nursing. A BSN is a Bachelor of Science nursing degree. Both of these lead to similar beginning positions. The time it takes to earn one, however, is different as are the opportunities it that can result. For examples, BSNs tend to find jobs in private clinics as well as within medical administration and education. ADNs usually are work in hospitals where they regularly monitor patients, administer medication, draw blood and provide emotional support to patients and their families.
It typically takes two years to earn an associate degree. Schools offering ADNs usually are classified as community colleges or technical schools. Most students who graduate from high school are qualified to attend community colleges offering ADN programs. Additionally some high schools offer nursing programs through which students earn credit toward ADN degrees.
Students pursuing an associate degree in nursing complete a combination of liberal arts courses, specialized sciences courses and classes specific to nursing. Liberal arts courses include core academic subjects such as English and math. Science courses can include nutrition, anatomy, chemistry, physiology and microbiology. The classes specific to nursing include supervised clinical experience during which associate degree students work at hospitals, home health agencies, public health departments and clinics.
Before enrolling in a school offering an associate of nursing program, students should consider whether they have the personality for a nursing career. An effective nurse is detail oriented, responsible, empathetic and emotionally balanced. Occasionally nurses trained in associate programs must take immediate action to save their patients' lives. The ability to remain calm under pressure and handle stress are important traits for future nurses.