Definition

Noun: A two-year academic degree in the field of nursing, typically awarded by community colleges or junior colleges. It qualifies the graduate to take the licensing examination to become a Registered Nurse (RN).

Usage

This term is used to refer to the specific academic credential itself or to a person who holds this degree. * She earned her associate in nursing from the local community college. * The hospital is hiring nurses with either an associate in nursing or a bachelor's degree.

Advanced Usage

• The degree is often a prerequisite for professional licensure and entry-level nursing positions.
• It is commonly contrasted with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which is a four-year degree.

Variants and Related Words

• A.N. (abbreviation): A common written abbreviation for Associate in Nursing.
  • Her diploma lists her degree as an A.N.
• Associate Degree in Nursing (full phrase): A synonymous, more formal phrasing.
• Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) (variant title): A common alternative title for the same degree.

Synonyms

• Nursing diploma (Note: This can sometimes refer to a hospital-based program, but is often used interchangeably in casual conversation.)
• Two-year nursing degree

Related Phrases

• ADN program: Refers to the educational course of study leading to the degree.
  • She is enrolled in an ADN program.
• ADN-prepared nurse: A nurse whose primary nursing education was an associate degree program.
  • The facility employs both BSN and ADN-prepared nurses.

Noun

1. an associate degree in nursing