The Associate of Science Degree in Nursing: First Step on the Path to Becoming an RN
Do you dream of becoming a registered nurse? That dream could begin by earning an associate degree in nursing (ASN). This degree provides a direct pathway toward becoming a registered nurse. It prepares graduates who meet applicable eligibility requirements to sit for the NCLEX-RN®, a required step in obtaining RN licensure.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of registered nurses will grow 6% from 2025 to 2035, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to numerous factors, including:
- The need to replace nurses who retire or change careers
- Increased demand for health care services from aging baby boomers
- Our society’s growing emphasis on preventive care
- Increasing rates of chronic conditions (such as obesity and diabetes) that require health care services
Earning an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) is one way to start a nursing career. Let’s look at how Purdue Global can help you get on the path to becoming an RN.
Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing With Purdue Global
Purdue Global offers an associate degree in nursing through a blended learning format that combines online coursework with in-person laboratory, simulation, and clinical learning experiences. The associate degree in nursing program is only available to students living in Iowa and Maine.
How the ASN Program Works
In the Purdue Global Associate of Science in Nursing program, students:
- Develop foundational nursing knowledge. Students complete online coursework in areas such as pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal infant nursing, pediatrics, mental health care, leadership, and trends in nursing.
- Participate in interactive online learning. Course activities may include instructor-led content, videos, discussions, assessments, case-based activities, and other learning experiences designed to reinforce key nursing concepts.
- Apply knowledge through hands-on learning. In-person laboratory, simulation, and clinical experiences provide opportunities for students to develop nursing skills, strengthen clinical judgment, and apply concepts learned throughout the program. These are completed at designated Purdue Global simulation centers or approved health care settings within the community.
>>Related Reading: How Do Online Nursing Programs Work at Purdue Global?
Why Choose Purdue Global for Your Associate Degree in Nursing?
There are three main reasons to earn your associate in nursing with Purdue Global:
1. The Speed It Takes to Complete the Program
Purdue Global students can complete the ASN degree program in as few as 18 months of full-time study, whereas it typically takes 2 years in a community college program.
2. The Flexibility of an Online Education
Most on-ground programs require students to be on campus or at a clinical site 5 days a week. At Purdue Global, nursing theory courses are online, reducing the time students are required to be physically present for classroom instruction.
Laboratory, simulation, and clinical learning experiences are completed in person. Scheduling for these experiences varies by course, term, program location, and clinical site availability. This blended format provides students with greater flexibility while ensuring completion of all required hands-on learning experiences.
3. The Progression of Purdue Global’s Nursing Degrees
Purdue Global not only offers an associate degree in nursing but also bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate nursing programs. These serve as built-in stepping stones to earn the next-level nursing degree and advance as far as you wish.
As a student in Purdue Global's associate in nursing program, you will earn credits toward your Purdue Global BSN degree. Likewise, RN-to-BSN students at Purdue Global have the opportunity to earn credits that count directly toward a master's degree in nursing.
>>Related Reading: The RN's Guide to Earning a BSN Online
What Can You Do With an Associate Degree in Nursing?
It’s important to reiterate that completing an associate degree in nursing does not make you a registered nurse; it qualifies you to take the NCLEX-RN, which is the licensing exam required to become an RN. Once you pass the exam, you earn your RN credential and are then qualified to pursue entry-level nursing positions in such fields as geriatrics, labor and delivery, pediatrics, mental health, and trauma.
Average Salary
Range
Job Growth
In Your State
General labor market and salary data are provided by Lightcast and may not represent the outcomes experienced by Purdue Global graduates in these programs. Purdue Global graduates in these programs may earn salaries substantially different or less than the amounts listed above. The skills and employers mentioned are a representation of the hiring needs within the labor market generated by Lightcast and may change over time. There can be no guarantee that any listed employer is or will be hiring in the future or will hire a Purdue Global graduate. Salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education, and opportunities for employment that are outside of Purdue Global's control. The default state is Indiana for those outside of the U.S.
Purdue Global does not guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement.
Having an associate degree also qualifies you to continue your education and pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. According to the Journal of Nursing Regulation, a BSN can lead to improved patient care outcomes, greater autonomy, and higher earning potential.
Overall, earning an associate degree in nursing is one way to start your nursing career or your education.
Take the Next Step to a Career in Nursing
Purdue Global can help you get on the path to a nursing career you’ll love. Learn more about our ASN degree program, or request more information today.
See Notes and Conditions below for important information.