So you want to become a nurse. You’re looking at degree options, and you’ve got a few questions about the differences between them. There are a few main acronyms floating around your search: AAS (Associate of Applied Science), ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing) and ASN (Associate of Science in Nursing).
What are the differences between these degrees—specifically between an AAS and ADN?
The simple answer is that not much. These are all different degree designations that will lead you to a similar place: being able to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN®) to become a Registered Nurse (RN). The caveat is that an AAS is actually a type of ADN degree (and so is an ASN, but that’s a separate story).
Both an AAS and an ADN are associated with program requirements, coursework and skills—and even these can vary based on your geographic state or board of nursing. All of that considered, here’s a breakdown of each degree program, as well as some of the main differences between the two.
Use this guide can help you decide which to choose as you start on your path to becoming a nurse.
AAS vs. ADN: The main similarities and differences
Before we dive into the specifics of each type of nursing program, let's sum up the main similarities and differences between the two associate degree terms.
AAS vs. ADN: Similarities
- Degree category. Both an ADN and an AAS are an associate nursing degree.
- Program length. Both ADN and AAS programs are typically two-year programs.
- NCLEX preparation. Both board of nursing approved ADN and AAS programs prepare graduates to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and for licensure as a registered nurse (RN).1
AAS vs. ADN: Differences
- Generally speaking, AAS programs involve fewer core nursing classes, focus on a wider range of nursing specialties and are more clinically-driven than ADN programs.
- BSN degree preparation. With a more balanced approach to core nursing education and clinical training, ADN programs align better with those looking to earn their BSN and will require less additional coursework for those making the transition¹
- Next steps. An AAS is a great choice for students that want to move directly into practice after graduation, and an ADN paves the way for those considering further education in the nursing field.
What is an ADN? Associate degree in nursing
Defining an ADN means first understanding that a nursing associate program can lead to an ADN credential, but there also are ADN programs that lead to an AAS degree credential. Think square (AAS) vs. rectangle (ADN). Every square is a type of rectangle, but rectangles are not squares.
In this section, we dive into what an ADN program entails.
Program logistics for an ADN
ADN programs are offered by a range of different colleges and universities—from community colleges to traditional four-year institutions. They generally focus on core nursing courses and clinical practice. A typical ADN program is pretty balanced in its coverage of coursework and hands-on training, and this makes it a great option if you’re interested in eventually earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).1
ADN programs can typically be completed in two years, though the Rasmussen University ADN program can be completed in as few as 21 months.2 The main goals of an ADN program? To teach students about the basic health needs of patients, and to train students in the technical skills needed to sit for the NCLEX and secure an entry-level nursing position.
Here are some examples of courses you’ll take, skills you’ll learn and potential pathways to follow if you choose to pursue an ADN.
Sample ADN courses
Here are some sample ADN program courses offered at Rasmussen University to give you an idea of what to expect in this type of program.
- Nursing Care of the Older Adult
- Mental and Behavioral Health Nursing
- Professional Nursing Skills I
- Leadership and Professional Identity
Of course, these are only a snapshot of a comprehensive ADN program. The Rasmussen University ADN program consists of 25 courses and 102 credit hours. For a deeper look at some example coursework, check out a full course listing.
Top ADN program skills
With the goal of preparing you to confidently enter the nursing workforce, ADN coursework builds the following important professional skills.
Patient care
Learn patient-centered skills in real-world environments, and prepare to serve in a variety of healthcare settings.
Professional confidence
Build your confidence through in-class and experiential learning, allowing you to provide exceptional patient care.
Critical thinking
Develop decision-making skills and care interventions that meet patients’ needs swiftly and calmly.
Well-rounded perspective
Gain firsthand industry insights from nursing faculty with real-world experience.
Taking the NCLEX-RN3
For most ADN programs, NCLEX success is a major goal. A solid ADN program will prepare students to sit for the NCLEX-RN national certification exam and continue on to gain RN licensure.
Confidently work in the nursing field
Once they pass the NCLEX, ADN graduates will be prepared to pursue a range of RN roles. Graduates work across a variety of healthcare teams and settings—from physician’s offices to private medical clinics, to home healthcare services and long-term care facilities.
Continue your education
If you choose to continue your education beyond an ADN/RN, you’ll be well-prepared to do so. From an RN to BSN program (RN to BSN) to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), it’s up to you how far you go on your educational journey.
What is an AAS? Associate of applied science
Okay, so how does all that compare to an AAS program? First, remember that many ADN programs lead to an AAS degree. But if we look at the larger differences between all ADN programs and the more specific AAS degree—you can see a few things that tend to define an associate of applied science in nursing.
An associate of applied science degree is a career-focused program that instructs students on a variety of nursing specializations as well as nursing basics. Here’s a little bit about what to expect if you take the AAS pathway.
Program logistics for an AAS program
An AAS is another two-year program. It’s typically offered by community colleges, in vocational schools and by hospital-based programs. AAS programs introduce and instruct students on a variety of different nursing specialization areas, as well as provide basic nursing and healthcare training.
The main goals of an AAS are to teach students about the different specializations available in the field, and give them the essential skills they’ll need to pursue an entry-level position in their preferred area. Of course, AAS degrees also prepare students to sit for the NCLEX-RN.1
Given that an AAS is a career-focused degree, there tends to be less of an emphasis on core nursing courses and more on clinical exposure to different areas—giving students the knowledge they need to decide which nursing departments and patient populations interest them most.
If you’re already involved in a hospital program or a different healthcare job and are looking to plan out a specialized nursing career path, an AAS can be a great way for you to figure out those next steps while gaining the fundamentals.1
Top AAS program skills
Like all ADN programs, an AAS program will teach skills you need to work as an RN. Here are the top skills you’ll walk away from an AAS program with.
Nursing fundamentals
Learn the basics of nursing and patient care delivery across different specialization areas, and train in the related healthcare subjects.
Professional clarity
Gain exposure to a range of different nursing career paths and patient populations, and choose the specialization that best aligns with your abilities and interests.
Taking the NCLEX-RN®
Since passing the NCLEX is what sits between an AAS graduate and their chosen career path, a central objective of an AAS program is preparing students to sit for the NCLEX-RN® national certification exam.
Confidently work in the nursing field
Once they pass the NCLEX, students with AAS nursing degrees will be prepared to pursue a role in their desired field. Graduates may work across a wide range of nursing areas and settings—from pharmacology to maternal and newborn care to psychology and beyond.
AAS vs ADN: choose your associate nursing degree
So, what will it be—ADN or AAS? The good news is that both degree options are great ways to land you where you want to be: sitting for the NCLEX-RN to become a nursing professional. When you become a registered nurse, the degree you took to get there will not matter. The RN licensure is what people care about.
Once you make your choice, the next step is getting into your dream program. For some expert tips and guidance, read our article “How to Get Into Nursing School: Your Step-by-Step Guide.”
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NCLEX-RN® is a registered trademark of National Council of State Boards of Nursing, Inc.
1Kathleen Gaines, What are the Differences Between ADN, ASN and AAS Nursing Degrees?, (accessed March 2024), ADN, ASN, AAS Nursing Degrees | Nurse.org
2Completion time is dependent on transfer credits accepted and the number of courses completed each term.
