Nursing is a fulfilling career dedicated to providing compassionate care to those in need. With a growing demand for skilled nurses, now is the perfect time to consider a career in health care.
One of the most common avenues to becoming a registered nurse (RN) is earning an associate degree in nursing. This degree provides a solid foundation in nursing principles and prepares you for a successful career in various health care settings.
Keep reading to learn what you need to know about an associate degree in nursing and find out if it’s right for you.
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What is an associate degree in nursing?
An Associate of Science in Nursing, or ASN, is an undergraduate degree that provides an in-depth introduction to nursing. Associate nursing programs typically include coursework in:
Anatomy and physiology: You’ll get a better understanding of the human body and its functions.
Microbiology: You’ll learn about microorganisms and their role in health and disease.
Pharmacology: You’ll study the actions and uses of medications.
Nursing fundamentals: You’ll develop essential nursing skills, such as taking vital signs, administering medications and providing patient care.
Mental health nursing: You’ll learn the principles of mental health care and how to support patients with mental health conditions.
Maternal and newborn care: You’ll learn about pregnancy, childbirth and caring for newborns.
In addition to classroom learning, associate nursing programs include supervised clinical experiences in hospitals and other health care facilities. These hands-on experiences allow you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings and develop essential clinical skills.
Can you be a registered nurse with an associate degree?
An associate degree is widely recognized as a pathway to becoming a registered nurse. Graduates of accredited programs are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, the national licensing examination for registered nurses. Once you pass the NCLEX-RN, you can apply for licensure in your state and begin your career as a registered nurse.
How can you get an associate degree in nursing?
The first step to becoming a nurse with an associate degree is to find an accredited program that meets your needs. Here's a general overview of the process:
Ensure you meet the prerequisites: Most associate degree in nursing programs require a high school diploma or equivalent and specific prerequisite courses, such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology and English composition.
Apply to the program: Submit your application, including transcripts, test scores (like the TEAS exam) and any other required documentation.
Complete the program: Programs typically take two years of full-time study, require class attendance, participation in labs and completing clinical rotations in real health care settings.
What are the requirements to get an associate degree in nursing?
Admission requirements for associate nursing programs vary but generally include the following:
Background check and drug screening: These are often required for clinical placements.
High school diploma or equivalent: We require a minimum GPA of 3.0 (a higher GPA increases your chances of admission).
Prerequisite courses: You must complete specific courses with a minimum grade.
Standardized tests: Many programs require the TEAS exam, and some may require the HESI A2 exam.
For detailed information on admission requirements for our ASN program at AdventHealth University, visit our ASN admissions page.
How long does an associate degree in nursing program last?
The length of associate nursing programs can vary, but most require intensive study time and take around two years to complete. However, some programs offer accelerated options.
We know you want to make a difference in people’s lives. That’s why our ASN program at AdventHealth University is designed to be completed anywhere from 20 to 24 months. This timeframe allows you to enter the workforce quickly and deliver the whole-person care your community deserves.
Do hospitals hire nurses with an associate degree?
Hospitals are actively seeking prepared nurses with associate degrees to fill various roles. A 2018 survey from the National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses found that nearly 30% of registered nurses in the U.S. hold an associate degree as their highest level of education. It’s common for nurses to go back to school after they’ve started working to receive their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) later in their career. However, you can find employment in various settings, including:
Clinics: Nurses provide care in outpatient settings, such as doctor's offices and urgent care centers.
Home health care: Nurses deliver care to patients in their homes.
Hospitals: Nurses work in medical-surgical units, emergency departments, intensive care units and other specialized areas.
Long-term care facilities: Nurses care for elderly patients or those with chronic illnesses.
You can rest assured that you’ll be qualified to work in environments like these after completing our robust ASN program.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Nursing Career
An Associate of Science in Nursing is a valuable credential that can launch your career in the health care field. If you're dedicated and eager to learn, we encourage you to explore the possibilities of an ASN education here at AdventHealth University.
Our ASN program provides a unique learning experience that sets us apart. We integrate Christian values and a holistic approach to nursing, emphasizing compassionate, whole-person care. You'll benefit from hands-on experience in our state-of-the-art simulation labs and diverse clinical settings, guided by dedicated faculty passionate about your success. Many graduates from the program are hired by AdventHealth, allowing them to remain in an environment that aligns with AHU's mission and values.
Take the next step toward your future in nursing. Request information for our Orlando or Tampa instructional sites, and an admissions advisor will reach out to help you learn more about our ASN program. You can also apply today to kickstart your health care education. We look forward to welcoming you to AdventHealth University, where you can further your education and learn how to extend the healing ministry of Christ in your health care career.
