Sample1

With an increase in population and advances in medical science a tremendous amount of pressure has been laid on the older already established institutions, as a result new institutions and facilities are cropping up to fulfill the needs of the growing number of patients this in turn has created a dire need for skilled medical professionals including nurses. Educational institutions offering academic qualification to nurses have introduced newer courses, with reduced durations to meet this growing demand. Two of the academic options now available are the Bachelor of Science in Nursing and The Associate degree in Nursing

The former requires four years and the later two years, so needless to say there has to be some difference in the curriculum. The Bachelors degree concentrates not only on nursing theories but also includes courses on Research, Leadership and Public Health Management. However since graduates going through both the degrees essentially start at the same level most hospitals and clinics are ready to accept both equally and believe that professionals with either of the degrees can perform the same responsibilities and duties with an equal amount of finesse. Then the question is why are there still a good number of people willing to invest two additional years to earn a Bachelors degree?

Even though most hospitals and clinics accept both the degrees, some even preferring the Associate degree over the Bachelors due to its accelerated nature, there is however a difference in the pay scale earned. Nurses with a Bachelors degree not only earn more than their colleagues with an Associate degree but they are also usually at the front of the line when it comes to promotions. A nurse with a bachelor’s degree would typically take only a few years to be promoted to the positions beyond staff nursing. In contrast, a nurse with an Associate degree would need considerable seniority or would have to be part of a relatively small institution to move to an administrative or supervisory position.

Most Industry watchers believe that the difference exists because a Bachelors degree offers a 360 degree curriculum aimed not only at nursing theories but also algebra, chemistry, physical education, history, communication etc. Where as an Associate degree program, primarily concentrates on inculcating skills directly relevant to the nursing profession; so a student opting for an Associate degree can take a combined algebra and chemistry class which focuses on the relevance of these subjects to nursing.

Typically an Associate degree is offered by community colleges or technical training schools and a Bachelors degree is offered by universities. Many of them also offer a ‘fast track’ version of the traditional four year program but you will need all your grit and determination to go through the accelerated program which also includes summer classes. Generally though just like a bachelor’s in any other discipline; a Bachelor in Nursing also takes four years.

This doesn’t mean that the possibilities are limited for nurses with an Associate degree, on the contrary it will take you just two years to land a job and earn good wages and you could then further your knowledge and practical experience by taking a few classes and working towards your bachelor’s degree.

There will always be people who favor the bachelor’s degree over the associate’s. But as long as there are clinics and hospitals willing to hire nurses with fast track Associates degrees; there will always be a demand for them.