[hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An associate degree in nursing (ADN) prepares you to become a registered nurse (RN) in just two years. Demand for RNs is high, and nursing salaries reflect this demand. Explore how to earn an ADN, what to expect, and RN jobs after graduation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Core Concepts of an ADN Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/adn/best-adn-programs/”]associate degree in nursing[/hen-ui-link] explores nursing safely, ethically, and legally. [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/how-online-nursing-programs-work/”]Learners in online programs[/hen-ui-link] receive the same training as their on-campus counterparts. Remote learners need a reliable internet connection and a computer. Programs usually offer tech support and services, such as advising, counseling, and tutoring, online or by phone.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Coursework covers nursing foundations, such as the healthcare system, safety, ethical, and legal concerns, and patient-centered care. Students learn practical, nursing, and organizational skills such as:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Running tests[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Taking vitals[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Administering medical treatments[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Preventing infection and injury[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Updating healthcare records[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Communicating and collaborating with healthcare professionals[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Caring for pediatric, maternity, and geriatric populations.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Clinical and Lab Components in an ADN Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In addition to coursework, the ADN curriculum includes simulation labs and on-site clinical rotations at partner healthcare settings. While ADN coursework is delivered online, students must complete [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/clinical-experience-for-online-nursing-students/”]clinical hours[/hen-ui-link] in person at a healthcare facility near their homes.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Simulation labs allow students to practice skills in a controlled, safe environment.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In clinical rotations, students practice clinical skills they learned in simulations. They learn to care for a few patients under the direction of a preceptor and assigned clinical instructor.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Accredited ADN programs typically include at least 400 hours of clinical experience and meet state licensure and national accreditation requirements. Clinical hour requirements vary by state and program.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Admission Requirements for an ADN Program[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Admission requirements for two-year ADN programs vary by school. However, applicants must typically submit:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A high school diploma or GED certificate[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Proof of completing high school coursework in math, biology, chemistry, English, world languages, and humanities[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Official transcripts[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A high school GPA of 2.0 or higher[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]ACT scores (18 in English, 19 in math) and SAT scores (450 in English, 460 in math)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An application and application fee[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Additional supplemental materials could include a resume, recommendation letters, and a personal essay outlining reasons for pursuing an ADN. Candidates may also need to describe their career goals and any applicable training, such as CPR, first aid, and volunteer or work experience. Applicants must also submit fingerprints, pass a background check, and pass a drug screening to participate in clinicals.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]ADN Jobs[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/adn/best-paying-adn-jobs/”]ADN graduates can pursue several nursing jobs[/hen-ui-link] based on their needs, goals, and personalities. ADN programs do not allow students to specialize during their programs. Yet, nurses can specialize when applying for jobs and gaining RN experience. Specialties, like emergency or critical care nursing, usually require prior nursing experience or a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nursing-residency-programs/”]nursing residency. [/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses can earn [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/resources/nursing-certifications/”]nursing certifications[/hen-ui-link] after they gain experience in their specialty. Nurses may need to earn their [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/”]bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree[/hen-ui-link] to advance their careers in certain specialties.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Registered Nurse[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/registered-nursing/”]Registered nurses[/hen-ui-link] earn a median annual salary of $86,070. Their typical responsibilities include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Conducting assessments[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Educating patients[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Administering treatments[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Performing diagnostic tests[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Critical Care Nurse[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/critical-care-nurse/”]Critical care nurses[/hen-ui-link] earn an average annual salary [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Registered_Nurse_(RN)%2C_Critical_Care/Hourly_Rate” target=”_blank”]of $81,543[/hen-ui-link]. Their typical responsibilities include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Caring for post-surgery and critical patients[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Responding to medical emergencies[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Transferring stable patients[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Comforting patients and families[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Emergency Nurse[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/er-nurse/”]Emergency nurses[/hen-ui-link] earn an average annual salary [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Registered_Nurse_(RN)%2C_Emergency_Room/Hourly_Rate” target=”_blank”]of $77,631[/hen-ui-link]. Their typical responsibilities include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Performing triage[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Monitoring vital signs[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Responding to changes[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Stabilizing patients[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Long-Term Care Nurse[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/long-term-care-nurse/”]Long-term care nurses[/hen-ui-link] earn an average annual salary [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Registered_Nurse_(RN)/Hourly_Rate/f84e31c5/Long-Term-Care” target=”_blank”]of $70,606[/hen-ui-link]. Their typical responsibilities include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Assisting with daily living activities[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Orienting residents to reality[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Administering daily medications[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Preventing falls[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″ class=”text-primary-900″]Pediatric Nurse[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/careers/pediatric-nurse/”]Pediatric nurses[/hen-ui-link] earn an average annual salary [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Pediatric_Nurse/Hourly_Rate” target=”_blank”]of $67,332[/hen-ui-link]. Their typical responsibilities include:[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Educating parents[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Administering medication and childhood vaccines[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Providing age-appropriate care[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Performing physical exams[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Average ADN Salary[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Nurses who’ve earned their ADNs make an average annual salary [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Associate_Degree_Nursing_(ADN)/Salary” target=”_blank”]of $77,000[/hen-ui-link], according to Payscale data from March 2024. Their average hourly rate is $32.56. Your salary may vary based on your location, facility, and years of experience.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Employment opportunities for nurses look bright. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects all RN jobs to grow by 6% from 2023-2033, faster than the national average for all occupations. About 193,100 positions are projected to open each year during that time.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Should I Get an ADN or BSN?[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An associate degree in nursing and a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/”]bachelor’s degree in nursing[/hen-ui-link] both prepare graduates to take the NCLEX-RN.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many nurses start by earning an ADN because of its value and flexibility. An ADN lets you become an RN after just two years. An ADN can be ideal for career changers, those who need to start earning as soon as possible, or those who are not positive that they want to commit to a nursing career.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]However, due to the more extensive education and practice requirements in bachelor’s programs, graduates with a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/articles/reasons-why-rns-should-pursue-their-bsn-degree/”]BSN typically enjoy more responsibility[/hen-ui-link] and higher pay than ADN holders.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If you advance your career, you can apply your credits and work experience to earn a four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) with an [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/bsn/best-online-rn-to-bsn-programs/”]RN-to-BSN bridge program[/hen-ui-link]. To become an advanced practice registered nurse, you must complete a [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/degrees/msn/”]master of science in nursing[/hen-ui-link] (MSN) after earning a BSN.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-secondary” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Advantages of an ADN[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Provides the skills and degree needed to become an RN[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Less time and financial commitment than a four-year degree[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Credits can potentially transfer to an RN-to-BSN bridge program[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”stroke” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Disadvantages of an ADN[/hen-ui-heading][hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Fewer opportunities for advancement than a BSN[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Lower earning potential than a BSN[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Less training than a BSN[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item][/hen-ui-list] [/hen-ui-card-content][/hen-ui-card][/hen-ui-grid][hen-ui-section-header title=”Related Pages” /][hen-ui-article-row variant=”3-col” ids=”34002,67946,37153″][/hen-ui-article-row]