The Most Common way YOU can get a Nursing Degree

The ADN programs tend to focus more on the technical side of nursing. This differs from BSN programs that focus on the theory and critical thinking side of nursing. Basically what that means is you get more hospital/clinical time in an ADN program as opposed to a BSN program. The prerequisites required for this type of nursing degree are usually lower in number. This is due to you not having to satisfy the educational goals set by a traditional four year college, such as foreign language and arts and culture education.

When you graduate from an ADN program, you are almost a nurse. Just like all BSN graduates, you will be required to take the dreaded NCLEX. After passing that, you are legally a registered nurse or RN. Depending on the state you work in, you may or may not receive a smaller salary than a BSN RN. In my experience, both types of nurses are paid the same, however please ask around in your particular state before deciding on the type of education you will pursue.

1. The school’s NCLEX pass rate!! DO NOT overlook this. You need to know that you will be fully prepared for the most important test.
2. The hospital(s) you will do clinical at. Because two year programs spend so much more time in the hospital than four year programs, you need to make sure getting to the hospital a lot is feasible for you.
3. The costs of the program. Like you weren’t already looking at this!
4. The length of the program and if they are willing to let you go part-time if you need to or want to.
5. Opinions from previous students. Ask about their experiences and if they would go there again if they had to do it all over. This is great advice if you are looking at BSN programs too. Past students can give you knowledge about how supportive and helpful the professors really are.

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