Emily Tuttle, RN

Nurse Types / Registered Nurse / ADN, ASN, and AAS Nursing Degrees

An associate degree is a great option to becoming a nurse. Associate degrees offer quick and affordable programs for those that want to begin their nursing careers.

Associate degrees are the minimum requirement to become a registered nurse.

General Overview of Each Associate Degree

There are 3 associate degree options for nursing: Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ASN), and Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS).

• ADN focuses on comprehensive nursing courses and clinical practice.
• ASN focuses primarily on clinical practice while also providing nursing courses.
• AAS is a career-focused program that provides basic nursing education.

All 3 degrees will allow you to be eligible to take the NCLEX and obtain your RN license. 

In this article, we will break down the similarities and differences between each degree to help you decide which one is right for you.

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What is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)?

An ADN is a great option for those that want to obtain a nursing degree and have the option to continue their education. 

ADN programs typically focus on coursework and clinical practice. ADN programs incorporate general health education courses, nursing-specific courses, and clinical experience. These programs take 2 years to complete.

An ADN provides a comprehensive nursing education and provides plenty of career opportunities. Although, ADN nurses are not eligible for every job as BSN nurses, they are still able to work in healthcare facilities in many different roles.

ADN nurses can also continue their education through ADN to BSN (or RN to BSN) programs.

There are also typically prerequisite requirements to get into these programs.  These requirements may vary among schools. Be sure to inquire about your school’s prerequisite requirements when applying.

You can find more information about ADN nursing opportunities here.

What is an Associate of Science Degree (ASN) in Nursing?

An ASN is another great option for those pursuing a nursing degree. The ASN is typically a 2-year program that focuses on coursework and clinical practice, and is very similar to an ADN. 

The main difference between ADN and ASN degrees is ASN programs put a bigger focus on clinical practice. The courses for ASN programs are similar to ADN programs, but often have more clinical hour requirements.

You will have opportunities to practice hands-on skills in simulated environments as well as clinical practice in healthcare facilities. Most schools have partnerships with local healthcare facilities that allow students to practice in the facilities under supervision of clinical faculty.

ASN nurses can also continue their education through RN to BSN programs, but it can be harder to transfer this degree to a university.

What is an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS)?

AAS programs include similar courses to ADN and ASN programs, but focus on different nursing specialties. An AAS program allows students exposure to many different nursing specialties to help students learn where they may want to work after graduation.

Like ADN and ASN programs, AAS programs are typically 2-year programs. AAS programs are a great option for those that want to move directly into practice rather than continuing education.

Educational outlines

Each program offers similar curriculums, but this will ultimately vary depending on your school. Schools typically require a high school diploma or GED, a background check, and minimum 2.0 GPA to be admitted.

Courses found in ADN programs include:

• Adult nursing
• Anatomy and physiology
• Pharmacology
• Foundations of nursing
• Microbiology
• Nursing specialties: maternal care, pediatrics, psychology

ASN programs are similar to ADN programs, but include more clinical practice hours. 

Courses found in ASN programs include:

• Adult nursing
• Anatomy and physiology
• Pharmacology
• Foundations of nursing
• Nursing specialties: maternal care, pediatrics, psychology
• NCLEX review
• Nursing leadership

ASN curriculums often include a capstone clinical where students are able to practice comprehensive nursing skills in a clinical setting.

AAS programs focus on nursing specialties while also providing core nursing courses. 

Courses found in AAS programs include:

• Adult nursing
• Pharmacology
• Foundations of nursing
• Nursing process
• Nursing leadership
• Nursing specialities: maternal care, pediatrics, psychology

Ultimately, all 3 associate degrees are focused on teaching students basic nursing concepts and skills required for entry-level nursing jobs.

Time commitment for each program

All programs typically take 2 years to complete. Different schools may have different tracks that allow you to complete your program in less time.

All degrees will allow you to take the NCLEX after completion. It is important to factor in the time to prepare and apply for the NCLEX into your time commitment for each program.

Average Cost

The average cost of each program is dependent on each school. Cost can range $3,000-$10,000 per year depending on the school you attend. For example, on a broad scale, community colleges or vocational schools typically cost much less than 4-year universities. 

For further clarity on the expected costs, you can get an itemized estimation of tuition and to factor in the cost of textbooks, scrubs, stethoscopes, and any other extra supplies required for your program.

ADN, ASN, or AAS: How Do I Decide Which Program Is Best for Me?

ADN, ASN, and AAS programs have many similarities, which can make it hard to decide which one is right for you. 

Many employers look at all 3 associate degrees the same, so the main difference comes down to the ability and ease to continue your education.

Considering your career and educational goals

An ADN, ASN, or AAS are great options for individuals who:

• Are ready to fast-track into a nursing career
• Want flexible scheduling and less time commitment
• Are looking to make a career change
• Recent high school graduates who want to pursue a nursing career

How do these degrees transfer to universities?

ADN degrees typically transfer well to universities. Many universities that offer an ADN also offer a RN to BSN program. ADN programs are the most similar to BSN programs and are often the easiest degree to transfer to a university. 

ASN and AAS degrees are typically offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or a nursing program affiliated with a hospital. These degrees can be more difficult to transfer to universities.

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ADN, ASN, and AAS salary comparisons

ADN and ASN degrees have similar average annual salaries. The average salary in 2021 for ADN nurses was $73,000 while the average salary for ASN nurses was $72,000. 

AAS nurses typically make less than other nursing degrees. The average annual salary for AAS nurses was $59,000. 

Many facilities have similar starting salaries for all RNs, but often have a salary increase for those that have a BSN.

It is also important to remember that many employers are making a BSN degree a requirement for new hires. This could limit your job opportunities with an associate degree.

Overall benefits of an associate degree

An associate degree is a great option for those looking to quickly begin their nursing careers. Associate degrees are a cheaper and quicker option than a BSN degree.

Associate degrees allow nurses to gain knowledge and experience and give the opportunity to continue education.

A few career opportunities for nurses with an associate degree include:

• Hospital bedside nursing
• Outpatient clinics
• Doctor’s office
• Insurance company
• Nursing home or long term care
• Home health
• Travel nurse

There are so many different paths to pursuing a nursing career. It is important to take the time to research the different degrees, programs, and schools to find the best fit for you.

Nursing Degrees & Schools / Letter of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are a great way to stand out when applying to nursing school. Most schools require you to provide letters of recommendation along with your application. 

In this article, we will discuss:

• Finding the right people to write the letter
• What should the recommendation letter entail?
• Recommendation letter examples

Finding the right people to write the letter

Finding the right people to write a letter of recommendation is the first step. Anyone who can attest to your professional skills and character can be a good choice. 

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A professor, administrator, school counselor, or manager are great options. Co-workers can also be good choices, but anyone in a supervising role is generally preferred. Family members are discouraged and often considered biased sources for many schools.

It is best to ask for a letter of recommendation in person and to give enough time for them to write and submit the letter of recommendation. It can also be helpful to provide specifics on the schools you are applying to and why you are interested in their nursing programs.

Be sure to inquire about your school’s deadlines and communicate this to those recommending you. 

Many schools have specific guidelines on letters of recommendation and sometimes request a specific format for the letters. You can always reach out to the admissions office if you need clarification or have questions.

What should a nursing recommendation letter entail? 

Letters of recommendation do not need to be long. The structure of the letter should include:

• a professional greeting
• Introduction
• several body paragraphs
• conclusion
• formal signature.

The most common greeting is “To Whom It May Concern” if the identity of the person is unknown. The writer should also address their relationship to the applicant in the greeting. The formal signature should include the writer’s contact information. 

The body of the letter should address the applicant’s professionalism, character, and ability to be a good asset to the applicant’s desired program. Examples of leadership and academic success should be included.

Specific examples of the applicant’s unique skills and experiences are a good way to stand out in your letter of recommendation. Any examples of leadership in projects, student organizations, or problem-solving are good ways to show how the applicant can succeed in the desired program.

Nursing recommendation letter examples

Sample 1

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing this letter of recommendation on behalf of Ms. Emily Colley, whom I have worked with for the past three years. Ms. Colley has worked with me at the Early Childhood Development Center as one of our preschool classroom assistants. She has demonstrated great responsibility and leadership during her time at the center.

I would gladly recommend Ms. Colley for the St. Louis University Nursing Program. Ms. Colley has a great passion for caring for others which she has demonstrated every day in her classroom assistant role. She has taken on more responsibility by leading a project to improve our playground’s safety and quality for the children. She was praised by many peers for her dedication and professionalism during the development of this project.

Ms. Colley demonstrates many skills that would make her a great nurse such as reliability, leadership, kindness, and patience. She is a quick learner, easily adaptable to new environments, and a team player. I have no doubt that she will be a great asset to your program.

Sincerely,

[Signature]

Mr. John Baker

Supervisor

Early Childhood Development Center

[email protected]

405-338-1516

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Sample 2

Dear Dr. Schiebel,

I am writing on behalf of Mr. John James for a position in the University of Wisconsin’s nursing program. I have had the privilege of teaching Mr. James in my biology class at Shawnee Mission East High School for the past year. 

Mr. James is one of my best students. He is always on time for class, turned in his assignments promptly, and advocated for himself and his peers. When many of my students were struggling with a specific concept, Mr. James organized a study group. He took time outside of class to teach his peers and help them build confidence in themselves. 

Mr. James recently received our school’s highest honor, the Jane Young Outstanding Student Award. This is awarded to five students each year who have exhibited leadership and dedication to their academic success. I was honored to be chosen to present this award to Mr. James.

Mr. James would make a great addition to your nursing program. I believe he would not only excel in the program, but be a leader to his fellow nursing students. Mr. James is always looking for ways to go above and beyond for others and any nursing program would be lucky to have him.

Thank you for your time and consideration,

[Signature]

Ellen Johnson

Shawnee Mission East High School

[email protected]

913-515-8879

Nursing Degrees & Schools / HESI Exam

If you are in nursing school or considering nursing school, chances are you have heard about the HESI exam. The HESI exam is a standardized exam used by many nursing programs around the country. Many schools require you to take the HESI exam to be admitted into their nursing program or to be eligible to graduate.

This article will help you understand what is covered on the HESI exam and how to prepare for this part of your nursing journey.

• What is the HESI exam?
  • Is the HESI mandatory?
  • How long is the HESI?
  • HESI A2 vs. HESI exit exam
  • HESI vs. TEAS
• What should I expect to be on the HESI exam?
• How should I prepare for the HESI?
• Studying resources
• Next steps

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What is the HESI exam?

HESI stands for Health Education Systems Incorporated. This exam is used to help schools assess and improve student performance.

Many schools use the HESI exam as a part of the admission process. It’s also used in many nursing programs to help students prepare for the NCLEX. Studies have shown that students who perform well on the HESI exam have a high probability of passing the NCLEX.

Is the HESI mandatory?

The HESI exam is not mandatory to become a registered nurse. However, some schools require it. Many schools include the exam as a part of their application process and as a requirement to graduate.

It is important to be aware of your school’s requirements for the exam and when you will be expected to take it.

Your school will dictate when you need to take the HESI exam. You may be required to take the HESI Exit Exam before you can graduate.

How long is the HESI?

The HESI Admissions Exam consists of 326 questions over 4 hours. The HESI Exit Exam consists of 150 questions.

Different schools may only require you to take certain parts of the exam. It is essential to talk with your school to understand which parts of the exam you need to prepare to take.

HESI A2 vs. HESI exit exam

The HESI A2 exam consists of 9 sections:

• Reading Comprehension
• Grammar
• Vocabulary
• Basic Math Skills
• Biology
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Physics
• Chemistry

Each section contains 25-50 questions. The exam also includes a learning style inventory so schools can understand how you learn best. This exam gives a comprehensive picture of your baseline knowledge and learning style.

At the end of your nursing program, you take the HESI Exit Exam to identify strengths and weaknesses before taking the NCLEX. This exam focuses specifically on nursing content and critical thinking. The exam consists of 150 questions and uses NCLEX style questions, including multiple-choice, select all that apply, fill in the blank, and drag/drop.

Your school may require a specific passing score on the HESI Exit Exam to be eligible to graduate.

HESI vs. TEAS

Another standardized exam schools may use is the TEAS exam (Test of Essential Academic Skills). This exam is less specific than the HESI A2 exam and is also used for non-medical programs.

The main difference between the HESI and TEAS exams is the content. The TEAS exam consists of 4 sections:

• Reading
• Math
• Language Usage
• Science

The TEAS exam consists of 170 questions over 3.5 hours compared to the 326 questions in 4 hours for the HESI A2 exam.

What should I expect to be on the HESI exam?

The HESI Exit Exam consists of 3 sections with 150 questions in total:

• Nursing Process: assessment, analysis, planning, implementation, evaluation
• Client Needs: safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, physiological adaptation
• Nursing Specialties: dosage calculation, fundamentals, health assessment, nutrition, pathophysiology and pharmacology, community health, critical care, gerontology, maternity, pediatrics, medical-surgical, psychiatric/mental health

It’s also important to note that you can not use a personal calculator. You can only use the calculator provided on the exam computer.

Once you have taken the exam, you can expect results within 2 weeks.

How should I prepare for the HESI exam?

It is important to know the subjects that will be covered by your school as you may only need to study specific content.

It is also important to develop study methods that cater to your learning style. Study groups, flashcards, practice tests, and study guides are just a few methods to help you prepare for the HESI exam.

HESI has many study tools and practice tests that you can access here.

Practice tests can help you identify weak areas and gauge your expected score.

A passing score for the HESI A2 exam is dependent on each school. For score requirements, you can check your school’s admissions requirements.

The HESI Exit Exam scores indicate NCLEX pass probability:

• Above 950: outstanding pass probability
• 900-949: excellent pass probability
• 850-899: average
• 800-849: below average
• 750-799: additional preparation needed
• 700-749: serious preparation needed
• 650-699: probability of failing
• Below 649: expected poor performance

Your school may require a certain passing score to be eligible to graduate. Most schools allow two attempts to pass the exam.

You are allowed to take the HESI A2 exam once every 60 days. If you do not meet your school’s passing score, you have another 3 attempts over the course of 12 months.

The cost of the HESI exams is dependent on each school, but it typically ranges from $40-100 per test. Some schools will incorporate the cost of the exams into tuition. You can also inquire with your school for more information on payment for the exam.

Studying resources

To begin preparing for the HESI exam, there are many practice tests, study guides, and resources available here.

You may also want to begin preparing to take the NCLEX exam. Most schools offer free or discounted NCLEX test prep to their students.

There are many test prep companies that also offer NCLEX practice tests and study resources. Kaplan and UWorld are great places to find different study tools.

Finding the right test prep for you can be overwhelming. Sometimes it helps to hear from firsthand experience. Check out Incredible Health’s nurse forum where you can get firsthand advice for your specific questions. This is a great option to connect with other nurses and nursing students.

Next steps

Now that you have learned more about the HESI exams, what are your next steps? 

Your first step is to determine what your school requires and when to expect to take the HESI exam. You can find this information on your school’s application website or by reaching out to your academic advisor.

Exams can seem overwhelming at first. But remember, it is a tool to help you practice for the NCLEX so you can continue your career as a registered nurse.

With the proper preparation, you can be confident you will pass the HESI exam.

There are so many tools to help you prepare for these exams, and all your hard work and preparation will pay off as you begin your nursing career!

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