For those looking to start their careers in nursing, online Associate Degrees in Nursing (ADN) are becoming more and more popular. These programs give students an accessible and adaptable method to get the education and training they need to become registered nurses (RNs).
Online Associate Degrees In Nursing
Being able to obtain a nursing degree without having to attend a conventional on-campus school is one of the main benefits of online ADN programs. Students who might find it difficult to attend a regular college or university may find this to be an appealing alternative because it enables them to manage their education with obligations to their families, jobs, and other commitments.
Crucial Details Concerning the Associate Degree Nursing Program
Every student must understand the special qualities of this online nursing degree. Even more difficult than in-person instruction is distance learning. Together with a dedication to academic rigour, the associate degree program’s nursing component demands exceptional critical thinking abilities and nursing judgment.
- The Associate Degree in Nursing program is intended for LVNs, paramedics, LPNs, and certain active duty military, National Guard, or Reserve categories working in particular military jobs with a scope of practice comparable to that of an LVN or paramedic.
- Be it an LPN, LVN, paramedic, or military corpsman credential, a student’s achievement in the Associate Degree in Nursing program is not assured.
- The Associate Degree in Nursing program is intended for people who have worked in clinical environments before. Throughout the program, students will be given the chance to deepen their understanding of clinical concepts, and during the nursing capstone, they will showcase their clinical proficiency.
- When applying to NUR 250 Clinical Nursing Practicum: Care of Patients Across the Lifespan, students must present a Verification of Health Care Experience Form that has been signed by a clinical supervisor both during the admissions process and once more before the course is approved.
- While enrolled in the Associate Degree in Nursing program, students may collaborate with several members of the academic advisement team in addition to their principal academic advisor.
Students will be required to pay the relevant tuition and/or fees if they repeat any Excelsior University sources of credit. The appropriate Academic Services Fee must be paid by the students. - A student’s advancement through the Associate Degree in Nursing program will be impacted by their success or failure in fulfilling program requirements, including all sources of credit offered by Excelsior University. The associate degree must be completed within 4.5 years.
- On the Excelsior University website, pass rates for the National Council Licensure Examination-RN (NCLEX-RN) are updated and accessible.
- The transferability of credits acquired in Excelsior’s Associate Degree in Nursing program to other higher education institutions varies, as each institution has its unique credit transfer policy.
- It is the responsibility of the students to read and comprehend the requirements for RN licensing in the state in which they intend to practice after graduation, or if they are thinking about moving. Students wishing to learn the most recent details about eligibility for RN licensing in each state and U.S. jurisdiction should speak with the State Board team or visit the State Authorization & Disclosures website.
- It is recommended that students peruse the School of Nursing catalogue before committing to a study plan.
ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
To apply for admission to the associate’s degree in nursing, you must be able to:
- Possess and uphold an unencumbered, active LPN/LVN license in the United States; possess a valid, active paramedic certification; or are employed by the active duty military, National Guard, or Reserves in a military capacity that is comparable to that of a LPN/LVN or paramedic.
- Work in an environment where providing direct patient care is necessary, and you are overseen by a health care credential holder who assesses your clinical practice.
- Worked in this environment for 200 hours or more during the year before the date on which you submitted your Verification of Health Care Experience.
TEST OF ESSENTIAL ACADEMIC SKILLS (TEAS) REQUIREMENT
To be admitted, you must pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) and obtain the minimum scores listed below. One year before the date of your application, you must complete your ATI TEAS score report.
HEALTHCARE EXPERIENCE VERIFICATION
A completed Verification of Health Care Experience Form (VHCE) must be sent with your application. Your supervisor, who is a licensed healthcare professional and assesses your clinical practice, must sign this form.
COPY OF HEALTH CARE LICENSE
To confirm your professional position in a suitable healthcare profession, you must also submit a copy of your most recent healthcare license or certification.
ARE YOU READY TO APPLY?
- Click “Degree Program Application” after visiting community.excelsior.edu/apply.
- For credits you have already earned in college, send valid transcripts.
- Email application@excelsior.edu with the completed Verification of Health Care Experience form.
- After being accepted, discuss the credit evaluation findings with your counsellor.
- Enroll in your initial term! You have now registered as a student.
Conclusion
Online associate degree programs in nursing have become a game-changing answer as the healthcare business keeps changing and the need for qualified nurses rises. These cutting-edge programs provide a flexible, easily accessible, and reasonably priced route for people looking to start a fulfilling career in nursing. Online associate degrees in nursing use technology to their advantage by offering thorough nursing courses, real-world clinical experiences, and individualized support. This gives students the tools they need to succeed in the ever-changing healthcare industry.
Many more people, including working professionals, parents, and residents of underserved or distant locations, now have access to nursing education thanks in large part to the accessibility and cost of these online programs. Online associate degrees in nursing have democratized access to high-quality nursing education by removing the logistical and geographic barriers associated with traditional on-campus programs. This has made nursing education more accessible than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are online ADN programs accredited?
- Yes, reputable online ADN programs should be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation ensures the program meets established standards for nursing education.
Can I take the NCLEX-RN exam after completing an online ADN program?
- Yes, graduates of accredited online ADN programs are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed as a registered nurse.
What are the career prospects for online ADN graduates?
- Registered nurses are in high demand, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 6% growth in RN jobs from 2021 to 2031. Online ADN graduates can pursue a variety of nursing roles in healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and more.
Can I continue my education after earning an online ADN?
- Yes, many online ADN graduates choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, either through an online RN-to-BSN program or by transferring to a four-year university.
How much do online ADN programs cost?
- Tuition and fees for online ADN programs can vary widely but are often more affordable than traditional on-campus programs. Many schools offer financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans to help make online nursing education more accessible.