How Long Does It Take To Get an Associate Degree in Nursing?

An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is one of several degree options available to individuals seeking nursing careers.

If you are interested in earning an ADN, you might wonder how long it will take to complete your studies.

Keep reading to learn more about the Associate Degree in Nursing and how quickly you can complete a program to get your start as a practicing nurse.

What Is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)?

The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) prepares students to meet the qualifications needed to become registered nurses (RNs).

It is considered the standard pathway to initial nursing licensure and is the minimum degree a student can earn to practice in the field.

Once a student earns their ADN, they will qualify for the NCLEX-RN, which is the exam used to grant licensure to U.S.-based registered nurses.

ADNs are typically delivered by community colleges and hospital-based schools of nursing.

Why Enroll in an ADN Program?

Enrolling in an ADN program enables you to secure the knowledge and practice needed to perform your nursing duties at a high level.

Also, many employers require a minimum of an ADN when considering RN job candidates.

Once you've earned your ADN and secured your nursing license, you will qualify for entry-level nursing positions.

Common workplaces for registered nurses include clinics, hospitals, doctor's offices, nursing care facilities, and home healthcare settings.

How Long Does It Take to Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing?

The time required to complete an Associate Degree in Nursing program varies depending on your school of choice and the type of program you enroll in.

Here are different types of ADN programs and the length of time it might take to complete them.

Traditional ADN

Average Program Length: 2 Years

The traditional Associate Degree in Nursing is designed for completion in two years — or four semesters — of full-time study.

Programs typically include two fall semesters and two spring semesters with program entry in the fall and completion following the second spring semester.

Part-Time ADN

Average Program Length: 2.5 to 4 Years

The goal of the part-time ADN is to give students who work full-time or lead busy lives more time to complete their nursing degrees.

To help students meet their degree requirements, part-time programs often reduce per-term workloads and add one or more additional terms.

For instance, an ADN program might require students to take fewer courses per term over five or six terms instead of the traditional four.

Part-time programs are usually completed in two and a half years to four years.

Accelerated ADN

Average Program Length: 1.5 Years or Less

Accelerated ADN programs are designed for students who want to start their careers in nursing as quickly as possible.

The programs generally don't require fewer courses for completion. Instead, they accelerate the rate at which students finish courses found in traditional programs.

Students might take more courses per term and possibly take courses during the summer. This accelerated rate of study enables them to complete their programs in one and a half years or less.

Flexible-Start ADN

Average Program Length: 2 Years or Less

Flexible-start ADN programs differ from traditional programs in that they offer students multiple start dates per year instead of just one.

Some programs allow students to begin in either the spring or fall term, while other programs offer up to four entry points during each academic year.

The goal of flexible-start ADN programs is to help students begin their journey to become an RN in a manner that aligns with their busy lives.

The timeframe to complete an ADN with a flexible start can be two or fewer years.

LPN-to-RN ADN

Average Program Length: 18 months (about 3 semesters)

LPN to RN programs are bridge programs for students who already practice as licensed practical nurses and want to continue their education to become RNs.

Students in LPN to RN programs take courses that ensure they are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and assume the duties of RNs in healthcare settings.

Since LPNs already have coursework under their belts, LPN to RN programs take less time to complete. Generally, students can earn their ADN in three semesters or 18 months.

No-Prerequisite ADN

Average Program Length: 2 Years or Less

Prerequisites are courses students must take in order to gain admission to a nursing program. They might include courses like human anatomy, physiology, general psychology, and statistics.

While students generally complete prerequisites prior to applying for admission, some programs admit students without requiring prerequisites. Instead, the courses are included in the program.

Despite prerequisites being included in the coursework, these programs can be completed in two years or less, making them a great choice for students who want to quickly begin their ADN studies.

How to Enroll in an ADN Program

If you are interested in enrolling in an Associate Degree in Nursing Program, here's how to gain admission to most programs.

Step One: Determine Prerequisite Requirements

Contact your nursing school of choice to find out what prerequisite courses they require and the best way to complete them.

Keep in mind that most nursing programs have minimum GPA requirements for prerequisites.

Step Two: Apply for College or University Admission

Before applying to a nursing program, it is generally required that you first apply to the college or university that houses the program.

If the school offers an online application, be sure to fill it out — or speak with an admissions counselor to find out exactly how to apply.

Step Three: Send School Transcripts and Test Scores

Most schools require that you send them your high school or GED transcript along with your GPA details.

If the college or university requires test placement scores, be sure to have them delivered, as well.

Step Four: Apply to Your Nursing Program

After you have gained admission to the college or university you want to attend, you're ready to apply to the nursing program.

If you are not sure of the steps to take, contact the nursing school for assistance.

Be sure to submit any documents, transcripts, test scores, or additional details they request.

Once you've gained admission to your nursing program, you're all set to choose your start date and register for your first-term courses.

FAQs about the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Explore the most commonly asked questions about Associate Degree in Nursing programs.

How Much Do Associate Degree in Nursing Programs Cost?

The cost of an Associate Degree in Nursing program varies greatly from school to school.

The total cost of tuition can range from $10,000 to $25,000 or more.

Factors that can impact cost include the program's length, in-state vs. out-of-state status, and the school's size.

Are Associate Degree in Nursing Programs Available Online?

While most ADN programs only offer an in-class format, some offer a hybrid online/in-class format for students who want a more flexible learning experience.

In hybrid online/in-class programs, students take general education courses online and nursing courses in the classroom.

The reason ADN programs are typically not available fully online is due to the importance of first-time nursing students getting hands-on practical experience in actual or simulated healthcare settings.

What Does It Take to Become an RN?

The goal of the ADN program is to help students become registered nurses. In order to become an RN, you must do the following:

• Complete your ADN program.
• Pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
• Obtain nursing licensure in your preferred state of practice.

Once you've completed these steps, you're all set to begin practicing as an RN in your state.

Jumpstart Your Nursing Career with an Associate Degree in Nursing

If you are ready to become a registered nurse, earning an ADN is an important next step. Choose the ADN program that best suits your needs and begin the process of making your nursing dream a reality.