ADN, Associate Degree in Nursing

An associate degree in nursing program, or ADN programs, is available at the junior and community college level for students seeking a career as a registered nurse. ADN programs typically take 2 years to complete. After finishing an ADN program, students may pursue a registered nurse certification and begin their health care career.

ADN Nursing Programs

ADN nursing program graduates may later seek career advancement with an RN to BSN degree or an RN to MSN degree. These accredited nursing programs are offered at campuses, in evening classes, and online so that RN and ADN program graduates may return to school while continuing their full-time occupation. It is common for nurses to establish some experience from ADN programs before pursuing an RN to BSN degree or RN to MSN degree.

ADN Degrees versus RN Degrees

In several States, registered nurses that earn an ADN degree are paid just as well as registered nurses that have completed an RN to BSN degree. Many nurses advise prospective students to pursue an ADN program and to later look into the benefits of the RN to BSN degree and RN to MSN degree in their area. ADNs seeking advancement may find more lucrative and rewarding benefits from an RN to MSN degree, with minimal promotion involved in an RN to BSN degree. In other States, however, the difference in pay with an RN to BSN degree warrants the educational advancement for a RN from an ADN program.

An ADN is considered to have more responsibilities than an LVN. These responsibilities vary by State. Prospective students interested in nursing are advised to check the responsibilities permitted to a registered nurse versus a licensed vocational nurse.

Learn More

To learn more about ADN programs, fill out the form below. Alternatively, check out information about a RN to BSN degree.