If you are passionate about helping others live longer, happier, and healthier lives, you’ve likely considered a rewarding career as a nurse. Furthermore, you are in good company.
Employment of nurses is expected to grow by six percent by 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth rate results in an average of about 193,100 job openings yearly, and candidates can expect to earn a median annual wage of $86,070.
Individuals looking to begin their nursing career as soon as possible should pursue their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). Let’s look at how to choose the best ADN program below.
What is an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program?
An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) allows students to begin their career quickly, with many associate’s degree programs requiring a mere two years to complete.
Students are taught basic clinical skills and the foundational knowledge they need to begin working in nursing, preparing them to take their National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
Students learn how to care for patients by monitoring them and updating medical records through hands-on practice in clinical rotations.
Upon graduation and obtaining their licensure, graduates are ready to find employment as a registered nurse (RN) in:
- Ambulatory healthcare services
- Government
- Nursing and residential care facilities
- State, local, and private educational services
- State, local, and private hospitals
How to choose the best ADN program
The best ADN program prepares students for entry-level nursing positions that provide basic nursing care to patients in various healthcare settings.
Students should research the accreditation, curriculum, clinical experiences, program length, and support services of any school when choosing the best ADN program.
Accreditation
Accreditation is an essential quality to look for in any postsecondary degree. It underlines the quality of the program, faculty, and outcomes of the evaluated degree and ensures specific standards are met within the curriculum.
Accreditation, especially in nursing and healthcare professions, is essential as it shows that the ADN program has been approved by professionals whose mission is to make sure that educational programs provide safe, reliable, and consistent training to students.
Additionally, accreditation proves that the best ADN program meets the requirements to create successful and skilled clinical practitioners.
University of Bridgeport is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and the Connecticut Office of Higher Education. University of Bridgeport’s School of Nursing is a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN).
Curriculum
The second category to consider when choosing the best ADN program is the curriculum and courses you will take. Students should make sure that their classes will prepare them for a wide range of nursing responsibilities, including ones that lead to roles in hospitals, clinics, or specialized units.
RN Nursing course curriculum will vary depending on the university and nursing program, so students should be sure to research the best ADN program for them.
Most students can expect to take the following standard foundational courses:
- Behavioral Health: Students study human behavior, mental health conditions, theories of personality development, and therapeutic communication techniques.
- Chemistry: Students learn about the chemical composition of matter, chemical reactions, and the properties of elements and compounds.
- English: Nurses need to be able to document patient care accurately and communicate effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals. This course develops and strengthens candidates’ writing and communication skills.
- Foundations in Nursing: Students are introduced to the basic nursing principles, including patient assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation. Students will also learn about the legal and ethical best practices.
- Microbiology: Microbiology is the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Students learn about the structure and function of microorganisms, how they cause disease, and how to prevent the spread of infection.
Clinical experiences
In addition to coursework, the best ADN programs offer clinical rotations across multiple healthcare settings. As such, candidates get hands-on experience to reinforce the education they receive in the classroom.
Clinicals are typically offered in various settings throughout the state, including hospitals, medical centers, nursing homes, schools, and community settings. Many of the best ADN programs also typically have day, evening, and weekend options to fit students’ needs and schedules. Times and days may vary between each facility, so check with your program to see the clinical rotation schedule.
Program length
When determining how to choose the best ADN program, many students enroll in the program that will allow them to enter the nursing field as quickly as possible. ADN programs typically take two years to complete and are also more affordable than other nursing school programs.
Keep in mind that you will still need to apply for licensure and take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), governed by the National Council of States Board of Nursing (NCSBN). Do your research to understand your desired state’s licensure requirements.
Support services
The last factor to look at when choosing the best ADN program is the support services offered by the nursing program.
The best ADN program supports students in becoming skilled, engaged, and responsible nurses.
At University of Bridgeport, our Heckman Center and the career development counseling and resource center prides themselves on providing holistic resources and opportunities that foster academic, personal, social, and professional growth.
Our graduates have gone on to fulfilling ADN careers in:
- Community health centers
- Doctors’ offices
- Home healthcare services
- Hospice facilities
- Hospitals
- Long-term care facilities
- Nursing supervision and management
- Occupational and industrial nursing
- Travel nursing
Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration at University of Bridgeport
ADN degree programs are great entry points into the nursing field due to their affordability, accessibility, flexibility, and career opportunities available to graduates.
Plus, ADNs also have the option to advance their careers with higher education, such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree, for specialized nursing roles or leadership positions within the field. For example, an ADN in nursing can explore opportunities for career growth through certifications in critical care, pediatrics, or gerontology, enhancing their expertise within the nursing profession.
Start your journey with University of Bridgeport’s ADN program. Financial aid and scholarships are available.