Associates Degree in Nursing

The Associates Degree in Nursing is a very popular career choice for many people with the desire to enter nursing or develop their nursing career, if they do not already have a nursing degree. The Associates degree may take up to two years to complete and concentrates on the development of technical skills in nursing rather than the more academic focus of a Bachelor degree. Once a student graduates from an accredited associate program, they become instantly employable, and will possess they knowledge and skill set to fulfil and lifelong career in nursing.

The requirements of a two year associates degree in nursing program usually include basic studies in social sciences and liberal arts before moving onto nursing specific subjects such as anatomy and physiology, geriatric health, pharmacology, chemistry, biology, family health, pediatrics and mental health. The degree also gives the opportunity to learn in a clinical environment such as hospitals, clinics and nursing homes. It is not unusual to spend between fourteen and sixteen hours in clinical settings and up to six hours in a classroom based environment as part of the course.

Nursing Career Options

Once you graduate with an associate degree in nursing, you can obtain a nursing license. Completion of the degree means that you can apply for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Once you have the license you can go on to specialize in a wide variety of different nursing careers such as geriatrics, paediatrics or even being a travel nurse.

You Decide How Much Time to Devote!

Salaries for the qualified nurse are increasing due to the recognised shortage of nurses. The latest data from PayScale.com shows that a registered nurse earns between $25 and $35 per hour, with the highest salaries available in California.

The Associates degree in nursing therefore provides a rapid route to the position of registered nurse – take a look at some of the many opportunities available and see how you can enhance your career by becoming a nurse.

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