Can You Be an RN with an Associate Degree?

If you’re considering a career in nursing or moving up in your nursing career in an LPN to RN program, you might be wondering: Can you be an RN with an associate degree? The answer is yes, but keep reading as we explore how to actually earn your Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and what you need to know if you’re thinking about beginning down this path. 

What is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)?

An ADN is a two- to three-year program offered at many accredited community colleges and some universities. It provides the essential knowledge and hands-on training you will need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam—the national licensing exam for registered nurses—and begin an RN career.

ADN programs typically include core nursing courses in:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Microbiology
• Nursing fundamentals
• Pharmacology
• Clinical rotations in hospitals and healthcare settings

As well as general education and prerequisite courses such as: 

• Sociology
• Intro to Psychology
• College Mathematics
• English
• And others
  

What is an LPN to RN Bridge program?

An LPN to RN Bridge program is an education path designed for Licensed Practical Nurses who want to become Registered Nurses. These programs often recognize your previous nursing education and experience and allow you to skip redundant coursework and move more quickly toward earning an RN license.

Many LPN to RN programs lead to an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), but some lead to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Both types of LPN to RN programs will qualify you to sit for the NCLEX-RN and earn your RN license.

How to become an RN with an associate degree

There are a few steps you will need to take to become an RN with an Associate Degree. Whether you’re looking to enter the nursing profession for the first time or working to Bridge in an LPN to RN program, CNA to RN program, Paramedic to RN program, or other nursing bridge program, you will need to: 

Complete nursing prerequisites and general education courses: 

Almost every nursing program will require you to complete prerequisites and general education courses before you are allowed to enroll in core nursing courses. These courses can be completed at the accredited nursing school of your choice, or through a process called credit by exam. 

Enroll in an accredited ADN program: 

You want to choose a state-approved and accredited nursing program to ensure you're eligible to take the NCLEX-RN after completing your Associate Degree in Nursing. Accreditation should be listed on the school website. 

Graduate from the program: 

Successfully complete all coursework and clinical requirements in your LPN to RN program or other nursing program to earn your accredited Associate Degree in Nursing.

Pass the NCLEX-RN: 

This is the final step to obtaining your RN license and beginning your career as a Registered Nurse. Once you pass this test, you’re officially licensed to practice as an RN!

What is credit by exam and how does it work? 

Credit by exam is an educational system supported by the U.S. Department of Education designed to help adults going back to school. Rather than attending semester-long college courses, this path allows you to test out of college courses and earn the same credits by passing one exam instead. The credits you earn will transfer to your college of choice, helping you save time while making real progress.

As mentioned above, most RN programs require you to complete prerequisites and general education courses before beginning your core nursing courses. Achieve Test Prep prepares you to earn credit by exam for prerequisite and general education courses with confidence in online courses that fit your schedule, but are also supported by live instructors who can answer questions and provide assistance when it’s needed. 

Are there part time RN programs?

Yes. Part-time LPN to RN programs and other RN bridge programs allow busy adults the flexibility to balance work, family, and school responsibilities. People in these programs choose to cut down the number of credit hours (or classes) they take at one time. 

Unlike full-time programs that typically meet during working hours, part-time RN programs usually offer day, evening, and even weekend class availability so that students can find class times that work with their work schedules. 

Going to school part time means it will take longer to finish your nursing degree. This is because you’re not taking the maximum amount of credit hours per semester. 

For example, a full-time ADN student typically graduates in 2 years after taking 12 credit hours (or 4 classes) per semester. A part-time ADN student may only take 1 or 2 classes at a time, prolonging the process.

While a part-time education may take longer, there are several benefits to studying nursing part time. With a part time RN program, you can learn at your own pace, continue making money while you go to school, budget for your education, and balance family responsibilities with school and work. 

Why choose an ADN route to earning an RN?

There are several advantages to starting your nursing career with an associate degree. 

• You can enter the workforce faster because ADN RN programs take less time to complete than BSN programs. 
• You can save money because community colleges typically have lower tuition than four-year universities. 
• Once you complete an LPN to RN program to earn your Associate Degree in Nursing and RN license, you will be eligible to work in hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, specialty care units, and many other healthcare settings. 

Are there limitations for an RN with an associate degree?

While an Associate Degree in Nursing does qualify you to become an RN, there are some limitations you may want to consider. 

Fewer Job Opportunities in Some Areas: Some employers, especially magnet hospitals and teaching hospitals, may prefer or require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Limited Advancement: Career advancement into leadership, education, or specialized roles often requires a BSN or higher.

Future Education Requirements: There's an ongoing push in healthcare for more RNs to hold BSN degrees, and some states or employers may eventually require it.

Can I still earn a BSN after getting an ADN?

Many ADN-educated RNs go on to earn a BSN through RN to BSN bridge programs, often while working. These RN to BSN programs are widely available, frequently online, and designed to fit around a working nurse’s schedule.

Where do I begin if I’m ready to earn my RN? 

You can absolutely be an RN with an associate degree, and for many, it’s a practical and rewarding way to enter the nursing profession. Whether you stop at earning your Associate Degree in Nursing or go on to pursue a BSN or higher, the important thing is getting started. With the demand for nurses continuing to grow, there's never been a better time to begin your journey in healthcare.