An Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) is an entry-level tertiary educationnursingdegree. In the United States, this type of degree is usually awarded by community colleges or similar nursing schools. Students awarded an Associate of Science in Nursing are qualified to sit for the NCLEX-RN and apply for licensure as a Registered Nurse. Tertiary education, also referred to as third-stage or third level education, is the educational level following the completion of a school providing a secondary education such as a high school, secondary school, or gymnasium. ... Nursing is a discipline focused on assisting individuals, families and communities in attaining, re-attaining and maintaining optimal health and functioning. ... It has been suggested that part or all of double degree be merged into this article or section. ... In Canada and the United States, a community college, sometimes called a junior college, is an educational institution providing post-secondary education and lower-level tertiary education, granting certificates, diplomas, and associates degrees. ... Nursing school is a type of educational institution, or part thereof, where people undergo formal education and training to become a nurse. ... The NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure EXamination-Registered Nurse) is a computer-adaptive test of entry-level nursing competence. ... Licensure refers (in the US) to the granting of a license, usually to work in a particular profession. ... Vintage photo of a nursing school class Registered Nurses are professional nurses who often supervise the tasks performed by Licensed Practical Nurses, orderlies and nursing assistants. ...
Some hospital-based nursing schools that granted diplomas altered their curriculum to offer associate degrees.
Many nursing schools offering a bachelor's degree have "fast-track" programs to enable practicing nurses with an associate's degree to earn a bachelor's degree in approximately two years.