Degree Levels
Associates Degree In Nursing The Associate of Nursing degree is awarded upon completion of the program which usually runs around two years, however can be accelerated depending upon the school you attend and the number of classes you take. The Associates Degree in Nursing program often teaches more of the technical side of nursing. Once you've completed your Associates Degree program you will become a registered nurse meaning you can begin your career as a nurse immediately. Many choose to build upon their Associates degree and move on to the next step which is a Bachelors Degree in Nursing.
The Bachelors Degree in Nursing is typically a four year degree program for those starting into their nursing education from scratch. If you've already earned your Associates Degree in Nursing then the program will typically only run two years. Once again depending upon nursing schools and class load you can dramatically reduce the amount of time required to earn a Bachelors in Nursing degree. For the most part the Associates Degree program in the nursing field deals with the technical requirements of nursing. With the Bachelors Degree in Nursing programs the first and second years mirror the associates degree closely, however the final two years of the Bachelors Degree program deal with the more in-depth skills of nursing. Bachelors Degrees in Nursing are extremely in demand. Many of the classified ads you see seeking to fill nursing positions require a Bachelors Degree. Hospitals and healthcare agencies are willing to offer premium pay for those who have achieved their Bachelors Degree in Nursing.
The Masters Degree in Nursing is an advanced nursing degree lasting close to two years. Usually a Bachelors Degree in Nursing is required before being allowed to enter into a Masters Degree in Nursing Program.
Masters Degree in Nursing Programs are generally tailored to the student who wants to get into management of nurses and healthcare facilities. Once again candidates graduating with a Masters Degree in nursing are in high demand and will probably have several job offers before graduating from their Masters program.
Many Masters Degree in Nursing programs have strong curriculums in not only nursing, but also leadership and management. This allows those graduating to be prepared to manage a diversified workforce of health care professionals.