Online Associate Degree in Nursing | Incredible Health (2024)

/ Online Associate Degree in Nursing

Earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) often is the first step in your journey toward becoming a nurse. With an ADN, you can pursue entry-level nursing roles at clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation facilities, and private medical practices.

When you have an ADN, you can perform direct patient care in healthcare settings like clinics, hospitals, and nursing homes.

ADNs also open the door to gaining valuable experience needed to advance your nursing career. You can get your associate’s degree and make money working as a nurse while you complete higher education requirements toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher.

In this article you’ll discover:

  • What is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)?
  • What classes are offered online?
  • What are the top 5 ADN online schools?
  • How do you pay for an ADN online program?

What is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)?

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a two-year nursing degree chosen by nursing students eager to get into the field.

As an aspiring nurse, you can earn an associate’s degree by attending an accredited nursing program part-time or full-time. You can choose between a traditional in-person classroom setting for your studies, or an online ADN program that offers more flexibility.

Once you have your associate’s degree, you can sit for the NCLEX exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN). You must be licensed in your state of practice before you can begin working.

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What classes are offered online?

Nursing programs require hands-on training called clinicals. You must take clinicals in person because they require applying the skills you’ve learned in nursing school to real-life situations. That kind of learning can’t be done effectively online.

However, most of the prerequisites you must complete for your ADN program can be taken online. Here’s an overview of the subjects you can take virtually:

  • Algebra
  • English
  • Fundamentals of Nursing
  • Informatics
  • Nursing Essentials
  • Nutrition
  • Pathophysiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Psychology
  • Technical Writing

Additionally, any nursing lectures – acute care, lifespan, geriatrics, mental health – can be completed online.

In-person component of ADN online programs

No 100% online ADN programs exist. What nursing students encounter when they try to sign up for virtual nursing programs are hybrid versions that include virtual classes coupled with in-person clinicals.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, nursing schools quickly discovered how difficult – and ineffective – it could be to simulate hands-on clinicals virtually. They were unable to complete in-person training due to tight restrictions at most healthcare facilities to curb the spread of COVID-19, forcing them to come up with virtual models that didn’t prepare nursing students as well as in-person clinicals

Clinical hours vary by state. However, most states require around 70 clinical hours to complete an ADN. You also must take the NCLEX exam in person.

What are the top 5 online schools?

If you’re considering enrolling in an ADN online school, make sure you choose an accredited nursing program. All state boards of licensing require you to earn a degree from an accredited nursing program.

Most nursing schools tout their accreditation, so it should be easy to verify whether the program you’re considering meets the requirement.

Other tips for choosing the best online ADN program include finding one that works with your schedule and fits within your budget.

Here are our top picks for ADN online schools.

#1 – Columbia College

Columbia College in Columbia, MO, offers a flexible online ADN program suitable for LPNs interested in advanced learning or those brand new to nursing. Nursing student candidates must have a minimum 2.75 GPA and a C in all nursing prerequisites for admission.

The college has accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

#2 – John A. Logan College

Located in Carterville, IL, John A. Logan College offers a hybrid online ADN program and a traditional in-person nursing program. You can choose the version that works best for you. Admissions are restricted, so it’s best to get your application in early if you choose this option.

The college has accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

#3 – Northwest Technical College

Northwest Technical College in Bemidji, MN, appeals to nursing students who want to focus on gerontological nursing. The hybrid program combines patient needs for this age group with basic nursing principles to provide a well-rounded education.

The college has accreditation from the HLC.

#4 – Nightingale College

Online learning and in-person clinicals combine at Nightingale College in Salt Lake City, Utah. The college does an excellent job of outlining which courses can be completed online for your ADN, and which must be done in person.

Nightingale College is accredited through the Accrediting Bureau of Health Schools (ABHES). It also has been granted Candidate for Accreditation status with the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

#5 – Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University, located in Altamonte Springs, FL, offers a hybrid online option for nursing students pursuing an ADN. You can complete the program in as little as 18 months when attending full-time.

Rasmussen is accredited by the HLC.

How do you pay for an ADN online program?

There are several ways you can pay for an ADN online program. Check your state for scholarships and grants for nurses. That’s free money you don’t have to worry about repaying.

You also can apply for federal financial aid (FAFSA) or private loans. Some nursing schools offer financial assistance, so investigate this option before enrolling.

Next steps

Once you’ve selected an online ADN nursing program, the only thing left to do is apply and wait for your acceptance letter.

You may want to have a few backup schools on your list in case you don’t get admitted to your first choice. Nursing programs are competitive. Some schools limit the number of applicants they admit each semester. Good luck!

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FAQs

What is an ADN?

An ADN is an Associate Degree in Nursing. It takes about two years to earn this nursing degree. This degree consists of just nursing courses. There are prerequisites for this program like math and English.

Are there online programs for ADNs?

Yes, but there are no 100% online programs available. Clinicals must be completed in person, so most online degree programs are hybrid versions, with some classes online, and clinicals on site.

Can you complete the entire program online?

No. Clinicals must be completed in person. Most online nursing programs that offer ADNs state this up front.

What can nurse with an associate degree in nursing do?

When you have an ADN, you can perform direct patient care in healthcare settings like clinics, hospitals, and nursing homes.

Sources
Online Associate Degree in Nursing | Incredible Health (2024)

FAQs

What is the easiest nursing degree to get? ›

An LPN or LVN program usually takes around a year to complete, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). What makes an LPN or LVN preparation program the easiest type of nursing education you can pursue is its focus on training for basic nursing services only and its quick completion time.

What are nursing associates not allowed to do? ›

Taking bloods. Administering ECGs. Monitoring blood glucose levels. Escalating issues to the registered nurse in charge.

What level is nursing associate degree? ›

Learning at Level 3 by qualification (normally 48 UCAS points). Two years of verifiable and relevant work experience. For more information, contact courseinfo@greenwich.ac.uk or 020 8331 9000.

What questions are asked in a nursing associate interview? ›

17 Nursing Associate Interview Questions and Answers
  • Are you comfortable working with patients who are in a lot of pain or who are agitated?
  • What are some of the most important skills for a nursing associate to have?
  • How would you handle a situation where you don't know how to handle a patient's problem?
19 Jul 2022

Is associate's degree in nursing hard? ›

Despite the shorter education, ADN programs are still extremely challenging and have a competitive curriculum. Most ADN programs expect students to earn a minimum of a C grade or higher, although some ADN programs require higher grades (such as a B-, or above 80%, for example).

What is the lowest degree in nursing? ›

As the name suggests, CNAs assist nurses with patient admittance and vitals. It is the lowest-level credential related to the nursing field and the quickest point of entry.

Is an associate's in nursing worth it? ›

The Benefit of an Associate Degree in Nursing

Rather, you are setting yourself up for success in many ways – For one, an ADN will qualify you to take the licensing exam and start working in the field within two years' time, putting you a step ahead other aspiring nurses pursuing a four-year bachelor's degree.

Can you get a job with a nursing associates degree? ›

One of the fastest ways to become a registered nurse (RN) is by pursuing an associate degree in nursing (ADN). This two year degree can prepare nurses for a variety of entry-level jobs, from emergency room care to pediatrics.

Can nurse Associates give injections? ›

Nursing Associates (NAs) can

- administer medication via oral, enteral, topical, Intramuscular, subcutaneous, inhalation routes and administer enemas and suppositories in line with a valid prescription.

What is a nurse with an associate's degree called? ›

Associate in Nursing (ASN)

You can become a registered nurse (RN) in just two years with your associate degree in nursing (ASN). RNs are the first line of care in many healthcare settings, and they are in increasingly high demand as healthcare organizations strive to accommodate a growing patient population.

Can a nurse associate become a nurse? ›

Qualified nursing associates can also go on to train as a registered nurse by putting their training towards a shortened nursing degree or registered nurse degree apprenticeship (RNDA). Your nursing associate training may shorten a registered nurse degree apprenticeship to 2 years.

What is the difference between a nurse and a nursing associate? ›

While nursing associates will contribute to most aspects of care, including delivery and monitoring, registered nurses will take the lead on assessment, planning and evaluation. Nurses will also lead on managing and coordinating care with full contribution from the nursing associate within the integrated care team.

How do I pass an associate nursing interview? ›

The interview panel will want to know how you prepared. Mention The Code and how in becoming registered, nursing associates will uphold it, under the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Here's one that is so important.
...
Talk about yourself!
  1. clear and effective communication.
  2. good decision making.
  3. team work.
  4. adaptability.

How do I pass my nursing interview? ›

Nursing Interview Tips
  1. Know where you're going. Healthcare facilities are often big and confusing. ...
  2. Dress professionally. Professional attire tells interviewers you take them and the job seriously.
  3. Rehearse your nursing interview questions. Don't just prep answers. ...
  4. Pamper yourself. ...
  5. Listen and take notes.
25 Oct 2022

What are the 10 most common nursing interview questions and answers? ›

Common nursing interview questions
  • Do you work well with other nurses, doctors and staff? ...
  • How would you handle a difficult patient? ...
  • How do you handle workplace stress? ...
  • What do you do if your replacement does not arrive? ...
  • How would you handle a disagreement with a doctor? ...
  • Describe how you manage a busy workload.

Are online nursing schools legit? ›

The short answer is an emphatic yes! It is possible to get a nursing degree online. You can earn a variety of nursing degrees online from Ohio State, ranging from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing to a Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Which semester of nursing school is the hardest? ›

Health Assessment: the hardest semester of nursing school

Health assessment will likely be one of the initial courses you'll take in nursing school, and it involves delving into the various body systems and learning how to assess patients from head to toe.

Which is harder nursing school or being a nurse? ›

Being a Nurse is better than being in Nursing School

In nursing school, it's about 90% theory and lectures, and 10% skills and application. In the nursing profession, it's flipped: its 90% application and 10% theory and learning. In fact, you apply theory and think critically as you're working.

Can I be a nurse without a degree? ›

In order to become a registered nurse, you must obtain an associates degree (ADN) and be working within the medical field, usually under a specific specialty. An RN has also passed their state board exam (NCLEX-RN) and has completed their licensing requirements set in place by the state they work in.

What degree is closest to nursing? ›

For those who are interested in more behind-the-scenes work, or who want to explore their options in healthcare, health science is a great alternative major to nursing. A health science degree can lead to many different careers, from a healthcare administrator to medical biller and coder.

What state has the lowest RN salary? ›

As of 2021, Hawaii tops the list at 119.3, while Mississippi comes in lowest, at 87.8. Adjusting each state's average RN salary by its cost of living index gives us a potentially more accurate means of comparing where nurses get paid the most.

Is an associate's enough? ›

If you're deciding between no higher education degree at all and an associate degree, the answer is, quite simply, “Yes; getting an associates degree is worth it!” If you are hoping to break into a professional field and want to raise your job prospects, getting an associate degree is going to serve you much better ...

What can I do after nursing associate? ›

If you're already a nursing associate, you can train to become a registered nurse by completing a shortened nursing degree or a nursing degree apprenticeship.

What can a nursing associate do? ›

Nursing associates contribute to service delivery and patient care by: • assisting nurses with a greater range of care-giving responsibilities • improving patient communication • providing more patient-centred care and acting as patient advocates • identifying and escalating patients with deteriorating health • ...

Is an ADN good enough? ›

Associate Degree in Nursing

Earning an ADN is a great start to your nursing career. The main advantages of an ADN program are that it's less expensive and less time-consuming. You'll become a nurse faster, start earning money and getting nursing experience. You can complete ADN programs in as few as 18 to 24 months.

Which is better ADN or ASN? ›

Compared to ASN and AAS, an ADN degree is the best option for transiting to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Remember that every school is different regarding prerequisites and actual course material.

Is an ADN the same as an RN? ›

Is an ADN the same as an RN? An ADN is a two-year nursing degree that leads to becoming an RN. The RN credential is more than holding the degree: It includes earning an RN diploma, ADN, or BSN degree, passing the NCLEX, and completing state licensing requirements.

How long does it take to become a nurse associate? ›

How long does it take? Up to two years.

Can nursing Associates change catheters? ›

The purpose of this document, the term health care professional (HCP) refers to all registered nursing staff trained to insert and care for urinary catheters. Nursing associates can perform catheterisation and intermittent catheterisation on female patients.

Can nursing associates Cannulate? ›

Upon qualification, Nursing Associates will be educated and trained to understand the appropriate and safe use of invasive and non-invasive procedures such as inserting a cannula or a urinary catheter, medical devices, and current technological and pharmacological interventions under the direction of a registered nurse ...

Is nursing the hardest degree? ›

There's a rumor circulating on the internet that The Guinness Book of Work Records has declared a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing to be the toughest of all bachelor's degrees to obtain. There's no truth to this claim.

Can I take the Nclex with an AAS? ›

Students who graduate from accredited ADN, ASN, or AASN programs qualify to take either of the National Council Licensure Examinations (NCLEX) offered by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

Which nursing degree is best? ›

The BSN is the nursing degree that most employers prefer, and it provides graduates the best career opportunities straight out of school.
...
The Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) is the best nursing degree an individual can earn for a career as a:
  • Nurse Researcher.
  • University Professor.
  • Nurse Administrator.

What does it mean to be a nursing associate? ›

Nursing associates are members of the nursing team, who have gained a Nursing Associate Foundation Degree awarded by a Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) approved provider, typically involving two years of higher-level study, enabling them to perform more complex and significant tasks than a healthcare assistant but ...

How long is the top up from nursing associate to registered nurse? ›

Duration. The programme start date will determine programme duration. Typically, an applicant would complete the programme between a range of 20 – 24 months.

What qualifications do I need to be a nurse? ›

You'll typically need level 3 and maths and English qualification/s to start an RNDA. If you have a level 5 qualification as a nursing associate or assistant practitioner, your apprenticeship might be called a 'top up' RNDA or 'conversion' to registered nurse course.

Can nursing associates do medication? ›

Under Clinical and Care Skills 6, trainee Nursing Associates will be trained to correctly and safely undertake delegated medicine calculations, and to administer medicines safely and in a timely manner.

Is it easier to be a nurse or CNA? ›

In some ways, being an RN is a lot harder than being a CNA. You have more decisions to make and more in the way of judgement calls. In some ways, though, being a CNA can feel harder. The job may be more physical.

Is a CNA lower than a RN? ›

Since RN programs are longer and more involved, RNs tend to earn higher salaries than CNAs. The BLS reports the median annual salary for RNs in 2018 was $71,730, while the median annual salary for CNAs was $28,530. In both cases, salaries vary based on experience, geographic location, and industry.

What is the hardest part of nursing interview question? ›

The hardest part of being a nurse is seeing a patient in pain or unhappy and being limited in the extent I can comfort them. The reality is that as a professional I can only do so much. However, I realize this helps me so that I do not become too emotionally invested in my patients."

What makes an excellent nursing associate? ›

A friendly, caring nature to build relationships with the patients. Tact and sensitivity. The ability to treat each patient as an individual. Strong observation skills to read the signs that a patient's condition is changing.

What skills do you need to be a nursing associate? ›

The ability to communicate effectively, with sensitivity and compassion, and to manage relationships with people is central to the provision of high quality person-centred care. These competencies must be demonstrated in practice settings and adapted to meet the needs of people across their lifespan.

What is your weakness best answer? ›

Answer “what is your greatest weakness” by choosing a skill that is not essential to the job you're applying to and by stressing exactly how you're practically addressing your weakness. Some skills that you can use as weaknesses include impatience, multitasking, self-criticism, and procrastination.

How do you introduce yourself in a nursing interview? ›

Tell an important story

Use a personal story or two about a time when you demonstrated the qualities that would make you a good nurse. These could be experiences where you were able to exhibit your work ethic, personality traits, passion for health care, or compassion for others.

What are your weaknesses best answers nursing? ›

How to Discuss Your Weaknesses in a Nursing Interview
  • Paying too much attention to detail.
  • Wanting to do everything at once.
  • Spending too long on paperwork.
  • Having a lack of clinical experience (for new grads)

What questions will I be asked in nursing degree interview? ›

Nursing University Interview Questions
  • Tell us about yourself.
  • Talk us through your personal statement.
  • Why do you want to be a Adult/Child/Mental Health nurse?
  • What have you done to prepare yourself for a career in Nursing?
  • What strengths do you have that will help you deal with all the work involved?

What questions will I be asked in a nursing job interview? ›

Other common nursing interview questions and answers
  • What do you like most about being a nurse? There are a lot of things that I like about being a nurse. ...
  • What do you find most difficult about being a nurse? ...
  • Why are you leaving your current position? ...
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses as a nurse?

What should I wear to a nursing interview 2022? ›

The Outfit

Picking the right outfit for a nursing interview is critical — but not difficult. Turn to neutral tones, and make sure your outfit is clean, pressed, and presentable. Women should wear a mid-length skirt or slacks with a blazer, while men should lean towards a suit and tie.

What is the fastest program to become an RN? ›

If you are aiming towards becoming a registered nurse, an associate degree in nursing (ADN) is one of the fastest paths to get there. This undergraduate degree is the minimum educational requirement for becoming a registered nurse and usually takes two to three years depending on the credits.

What is the fastest nursing degree? ›

Accelerated baccalaureate programs offer the quickest route to licensure as a registered nurse (RN) for adults who have already completed a bachelor's or graduate degree in a non-nursing discipline. Fast-track entry-level baccalaureate programs take between 11 and 18 months to complete, including prerequisites.

What kind of nursing is easy? ›

Nurses can work in a variety of clinics, but many consider one of the least stressful nursing jobs to be working in a generalist physician's office. Nurses who work in doctor's office—think of a pediatrician's office or family medicine—see a steady stream of patients every day.

Where is it easiest to become a nurse? ›

Easiest states to become a nurse – Length of licensing process
  • Maine: 1-2 weeks.
  • Maryland: 2-3 days.
  • Missouri: 2 weeks.
  • Nevada: 1-2 weeks.
  • North Carolina: 1-2 weeks.
  • North Dakota: 1-2 weeks.
  • Texas: 2 weeks.
  • Vermont: 3-5 business days.

Is adn the same as RN? ›

Is an ADN the same as an RN? An ADN is a two-year nursing degree that leads to becoming an RN. The RN credential is more than holding the degree: It includes earning an RN diploma, ADN, or BSN degree, passing the NCLEX, and completing state licensing requirements.

Can I nurse in one year? ›

It is possible to become an RN in one year with the help of Mercer University's Second Degree Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing track. Students can complete an accelerated, comprehensive nursing curriculum in as few as 12 months, emerging as practice-ready nurses.

Can I get a nursing degree online? ›

Online degrees

From January 2021, some universities are offering adult nursing courses where the theoretical content is mainly delivered online, making it easier to fit studies around home life. You can search for the courses, sometimes called 'blended' courses on our course finder.

Is nursing school hard to pass? ›

But nursing school is notoriously difficult. Most nursing programs require high GPAs and impressive scores in math, chemistry, biology, psychology, and other demanding subjects. It's also extremely fulfilling.

What type of nurse is the least stressful? ›

The 10 Least Stressful Nursing Jobs This Year (2022)
  • Nurse Educators. ...
  • Institutional Nurses. ...
  • Research Nurses. ...
  • Public Health Nurses. ...
  • Occupational Health Nurses. ...
  • Case Management Nurses. ...
  • Home Health Nurses. ...
  • Clinic Nurses.
6 Jul 2022

What type of nurse is most needed? ›

Registered nurse (RN)

BSN-prepared nurses are the most sought-after RNs in the job market and can advance to leadership and management roles more quickly than the ASN nurse.

Which state is the hardest to become a nurse? ›

Whether you're a first-time travel nurse or a seasoned veteran, the matter of obtaining licensure in a new state you'd like to work in is always a hurdle.
...
5 States that Take Longest to Get an RN License In
  1. Ohio (4-6 months) ...
  2. 2. California (3-6 months) ...
  3. Maryland (10 weeks) ...
  4. Maine (8-10 weeks) ...
  5. Alaska (8 weeks)
4 Oct 2018

Why is becoming a RN so hard? ›

The main reason why nursing school is challenging is because it involves learning about complicated nursing concepts and practical skills, then applying that information into diverse patient care scenarios — going well beyond memorizing facts. While it is challenging, nursing school is not impossible.

Can I get into nursing school with a 2.5 GPA? ›

Most programs require at least a 2.5 GPA or higher. Some set their limit at a 3.0 GPA. This is important to find out during the research phase of your accelerated nursing program search.

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