What is ASN in Nursing?: All You Need to Know About The Degree
Healthcare professions are some of the oldest and most respected thanks to their dedication to helping others prosper their health. If you have contemplated pursuing a career in this field, you most probably have considered the countless hours you need to invest in studying and gaining experience to be a successful healthcare worker. However, did you know that, regardless of whether you're an aspiring nurse or interested in any other position in the medical field, getting licensed as an RN is usually an inevitable step of your journey? You can follow various paths to become an RN, some taking more time than others.
One of the fastest ways to become an RN is to get an ASN. But what does ASN stand for in nursing? To learn more about ASN degree, please read below. Through this article, we answer questions like: "What is ASN nursing?", "What is an ASN nurse?" and much more.
What is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ASN)?
An Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) is one of the three associate degrees you can pursue in order to become a nurse. The two others are an ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) and an AAS (Associate of Applied Science in Nursing). However, it is essential to know that the three of them are separate from each other and are not the same.
The ASN degree will enable you to sit for the NCLEX exam, which is required to be able to apply for your license and become an RN. An Associate of Science Degree in Nursing program will prepare you for success through a combination of didactic coursework and hands-on training. It can help you start your nursing career or serve you as a foundation for career advancement, such as enrolling in a BSN program.
Below you can learn more about the ASN program, including its length, curriculum, and prerequisites.
Length of the program
In general, it takes about two years to complete an ASN program. However, if you have prior experience in nursing, you can get the degree in less than that. For example, as an LPN nurse, you can pursue an LPN-to-ASN program, which usually takes around 18 months.
Curriculum
An ASN program curriculum may vary depending on where you choose to pursue it; however, it usually includes classroom learning while also focusing on clinical experiences in different healthcare facilities.
In addition to general subjects like math and chemistry, you can expect classes in various areas, such as:
Health Assessment,
Pediatric Nursing,
Obstetrical Nursing,
Anatomy and Physiology,
Health Science,
Microbiology,
Pharmacology,
Surgical nursing,
Psychiatric Nursing,
Nutrition.
Moreover, since you are expected to sit for the NCLEX after graduation, some programs include NCLEX review classes to prepare you for the examination better.
On the other hand, clinical learning may include simulation labs for safe practice and hours in various healthcare settings to develop your nursing skills further. Here you will gain experience working directly with patients while being supervised by experienced nurses.
Prerequisites
Like the curriculum, ASN program requirements also vary depending on the school or college you choose. Usually, a school diploma is required by most programs.
Other prerequisites may include a specific cumulative GPA and passing the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). In addition, completing general courses in subjects such as math, anatomy, chemistry, and general biology and admission testing may also be necessary before enrollment.
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Is ASN the same as ADN?
As mentioned before, an ASN degree is not the same as an ADN. While both are associate degrees and share many similarities, such as a typical two-year program length, similar coursework, and NCLEX preparation curriculum, they also have their differences.
What are the main differences between an ASN and ADN?
While both degree programs include a blend of classroom learning and hands-on training, an Associate of Science in Nursing program usually focuses more on clinical experience. This way, ASN students spend more time in healthcare settings and clinical environments than in the classroom compared to ADN ones.
On the other hand, ADN graduates are more prepared to advance their education by pursuing a BSN since there is no need for additional courses to enroll in such a program (except for the ADN ones).
What Can You Do With an ASN Degree?
Getting an ASN degree is a fantastic way to start your nursing career. The programs are specifically designed to prepare students for various entry-level nursing positions in different healthcare facilities. Hospitals, clinics, doctor's offices, nursing homes, and outpatient care centers are some of the environments that typically hire nurses with ASN degrees.
The below-mentioned positions can all be achieved with an associate of science in nursing degree as a start:
Home care nurse,
Patient coordinator,
Clinical associate,
Pediatric nurse,
Oncology RN,
Emergency room RN,
In addition, you can advance your career by furthering your education by applying your credits and experience towards a BSN or MSN degree.
Can you be an RN with an ASN degree?
Yes. You can be an RN with an ASN degree. While only one of the many options available, getting an ASN degree is an excellent way to become a registered nurse. As we already established, the program is built specifically to prepare and make you eligible to pass the NCLEX exam and apply for your RN license.
Is an ASN the same as an LPN?
No, an ASN is not the same as an LPN. To become an LPN nurse, you need to complete a one-year program and get your licensed practical nurse certificate.
On the other hand, pursuing an associate degree takes about two years and usually leads to a registered nurse position, which is different from the LPN nurse. LPN nurses need around three more years to become an RN, while nurses with an ASN degree under their belt can easily earn their BSN degree.
The Bottom Line: Is ASN Degree the Right One For You?
When it comes to the big question of whether to pursue such a degree or not, you are the only person that can provide an answer.
If you are interested in becoming a registered nurse, an ASN degree can be the right choice. However, there are many other options available that you can consider before making a decision. Then, if ultimately you find that an ASN degree aligns with your interests and plans, then go for it!