10 Best ADN Programs in Alabama in 2024

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Alabama involves exploring several educational pathways. Among them, the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is one of the fastest and most popular options.

Considering this, we've provided everything you need to know to apply for an ADN in Alabama, along with salary expectations after graduation and recommendations for the best programs in the state.

Best ADN Programs in Alabama

There are 25 Nursing Associate Programs in the state of Alabama, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most while selecting schools with the addition of NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rate of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Gadsden State Community College

Gadsden State as a whole focuses on affordability and accessibility. The ADN Degree program is a standout with low costs and strong NCLEX-RN results with nearly 92% passing in 2022. The program has been ACEN accredited since 1984.

2. Calhoun Community College 

Calhoun Community College in Tanner offers an AAS degree in nursing at an estimated annual cost of $6,604. With 95 students in 2022 and an impressive 95% NCLEX pass rate, this ACEN-accredited program provides excellent education and preparation for nursing careers.

3. Coastal Alabama Community College

Located in Bay Minette, CACC presents an ADN program with a tuition cost of $6,043. ACEN-accredited and serving 161 students in 2022, the program boasts a remarkable 95% NCLEX pass rate, ensuring students are well-prepared for success.

4. Wallace State Community College 

Wallace State Community College, located in Hanceville, AL, offers an ADN program with an annual tuition of $8,467. With a class of 171 students in 2022 and a 95% NCLEX pass rate, this ACEN-accredited program equips students with the skills needed to excel in their nursing licensure exams. Lawson State Community College

5. Lawson State Community College

Lawson State Community College, based in Birmingham, Alabama, provides an ADN program at a cost of $5,820. ACEN-accredited and serving 27 students in 2022, the program achieves an 89% NCLEX pass rate, offering students valuable training and preparation for a rewarding nursing career.

_{*Costs as reported by Department of Education unless otherwise noted. Actual costs will vary based on scholarship, coursework, etc.}

What Is an ADN?

An ADN is an entry-level degree that provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become RNs. Upon completion of an ADN program, students are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed.

ADN Coursework

The robust curriculum, including a blend of classwork and hands-on coursework, means students will be well prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and begin in a clinical nurse role upon graduation. Since ADN students work towards an associate of applied science, coursework in general education and nursing is required. Standard classes include:

• Fundamentals of Nursing
• Nursing care of adults
• Community Health Nursing
• Behavioral Health
• Microbiology
• Humanities
• Psychology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Chemistry

Can ADNs Be Taken Entirely Online?

Acquiring nursing skills requires hands-on learning and real-life practice, which can't be fully replicated in an entirely online environment for an initial nursing degree. Because of this, ADN programs aren't entirely online, as in-person skills training and direct patient care experiences in healthcare facilities are needed. However, plenty of ADN programs offer online coursework options, providing a hybrid environment for working students or those who require more flexible schedules.

Where Do ADN-Prepared Nurses Work?

Nurses with an ADN have many career options and opportunities and can practice in most care settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Nursing Homes
• Home Care Agencies
• Physician Office
• Educational Services
• Government Agencies
• Schools
• Community Centers
• Hospices
• Dialysis Centers
• Telephonic and Virtual Care Settings

ADN Prerequisites and Requirements

Acceptance to an ADN program comes with several prerequisites and requirements, including:

• Proof of Prior Education: Verification of high school diploma or GED.
• Prerequisite studies: Research your program for the exact courses needed.
• Pre-Entrance Exam: Tests like the TEAS or HESI.
• CPR Certification: Varying depending on the program.
• Criminal Background Check: To ensure patient safety.

ADN Program Costs

The costs associated with pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing in Alabama vary widely depending on several factors. Here's a breakdown of what to consider:

• Tuition: The cost of tuition can differ significantly between public and private institutions and may also vary based on whether you are an in-state or out-of-state resident. Typically, private colleges and universities and enrollment as an out-of-state student tend to be more expensive.
• Supplies: This includes expenses for textbooks, medical supplies, and other necessary educational materials, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
• Technology Fees: For hybrid or online ADN programs, there might be additional charges for accessing technology, software, or online resources required for the course.
• Lab & Clinical Fees: Certain courses may require fees for using specific materials or equipment necessary for practical learning.
• Miscellaneous Fees: These can include application fees, graduation fees, and other administrative costs that are often overlooked when budgeting for nursing school.
• Living Expenses: Consider the costs of daily living, including food, housing, utilities, and personal expenses. These are particularly important if you plan to study full-time without working or if you need to relocate to attend the program.

It's crucial to thoroughly assess the total cost of the ADN program in Alabama you select, enabling you to manage your finances effectively and concentrate on your studies without unnecessary stress.

ADN Salary Expectations in Alabama

In the dynamic landscape of nursing salaries, the distinction between ADN and BSN prepared registered nurses is pivotal. BSN RNs are likely to earn more, yet the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not differentiate between the two.

RNs nationally earn:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $45.42
• Mean Annual Wage: $94,480.00

According to the BLS, Alabama's RN salaries are 25% lower than the national estimates for 2023, yet the state boasts 50,450 employed RNs, positioning it in the 50-75% bracket nationally for RN employment.

 RNs in Alabama earn:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $34.31
• Mean Annual Wage: $71,370.00

The highest paying states for RN's are:

• California: $137,690.00
• Hawaii: $119,710.00
• Massachusetts: $113,440.00
• Oregon: $111,030.00
• Alaska: $109,210.00

While the BLS does not provide data to compare ADN RN to BSN RN salary, ZipRecrutier's reports identify a difference in salary. 

ADN RNs in Alabama earn an average wage of:

• Hourly Wage: $27
• Annual Wage: $55,550

BSN RNs in Alabama earn an average wage of:

• Hourly Wage: $27
• Annual Wage: $55,550

Is an ADN Program Worth It?

Absolutely! ADN RNs play a crucial role in healthcare, making an Associate Degree in Nursing a practical choice due to the high demand for nursing professionals. The two-year ADN program is an efficient entry point into the nursing field, quickly preparing students to meet the needs of the healthcare system.

Choosing between an ADN and a BSN should align with your career goals. While an ADN quickly opens doors to various nursing positions, specialized roles often require or prefer a BSN. According to the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), 28% of employers require a bachelor's degree and 72% strongly prefer it. Researching the requirements of specific jobs or locations can guide your decision.

If you're committed to starting a nursing career and open to evolving your qualifications, an ADN offers immediate entry and flexibility for future advancements. To help aide your decision we have put together some of the Pros & Cons of choosing an ADN program as your entry intop the nursing workforce. 

ADN RN Program Pros

1. Faster Entry into Nursing: An ADN program typically takes two years to complete, allowing graduates to enter the workforce faster than those pursuing a four-year BSN degree.
2. Cost-Effective: ADN programs are generally less expensive than BSN programs, often offered at community colleges with lower tuition rates.
3. Widespread Availability: These programs are widely available at community colleges and technical schools, making them accessible to a broad range of students in different geographic locations.
4. Preparation for NCLEX-RN: ADN programs prepare students to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required to become a licensed registered nurse.
5. Flexibility: Many ADN programs offer flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend classes, which is ideal for students who may need to work or manage family obligations while studying.

ADN RN Program Cons

1. Career Limitations: Some employers, especially in certain specialized or advanced practice roles, prefer or require a BSN degree. This may limit career advancement opportunities for ADN graduates until they further their education.
2. Educational Advancement Needs: While an ADN qualifies you to become an RN, pursuing specialties or moving into administrative roles typically requires further education, such as a BSN or MSN.
3. Competitive Disadvantage: In a job market where many nurses hold BSN degrees, ADN graduates may find themselves at a competitive disadvantage, particularly in regions or hospitals with higher educational standards.
4. Potential Requirement for Further Education: As the nursing field evolves, the trend is moving towards requiring a BSN degree for RNs. This shift means that ADN graduates may need to pursue bridge programs to BSN in the future to maintain competitiveness and comply with employment policies.
5. Limited Scope in Some Settings: Certain nursing positions, especially in research, public health, or managerial roles, may be less accessible to ADN graduates compared to those with a BSN or higher degrees.

ADN Program Accreditation Matters

The importance of accreditation in Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) RN programs cannot be overlooked, especially when considering your career mobility and educational future. Here are the pivotal reasons why accreditation is crucial:

• Educational Quality: Accredited programs uphold rigorous standards in curriculum, faculty qualifications, resources, and clinical training, ensuring a high-quality education that meets national criteria.
• NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation: Being in an accredited program enhances your preparation for the NCLEX-RN, significantly improving your chances of passing this critical exam on your first attempt.
• Licensing Flexibility: While a program approved by your state's Board of Nursing might qualify you to practice within that state, it's important to note that without accreditation, you may face restrictions and be required to complete additional accredited education to gain licensure if you move to another state.
• Employment Prospects: Graduates from accredited programs are generally preferred by employers because they have received education that adheres to established national standards. This accreditation facilitates greater career opportunities and simplifies the process of moving across state lines where accreditation may be a requirement.
• Credit Transferability: Credits from an accredited program are more widely accepted by other educational institutions. This is vital for those seeking to advance their nursing education through programs such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
• Professional Reputation: Earning your degree from an accredited program boosts your professional credibility, aligning your education with recognized standards and promoting the advancement of nursing practices.
• Access to Financial Aid: Accreditation is also a criterion for eligibility for federal financial aid, which is crucial for many students.

Aspiring nurses should prioritize enrollment in programs accredited by respected agencies such as theAccreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the National League of Nursing's Commission for Nursing Education Accrediation (NLN CNEA). Although the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is also highly reputable, it does not provide accreditation for ADN or diploma nursing programs.

How to Choose a Nursing School

In addition to ensuring accreditation, reasons for choosing a nursing school will vary per student and their specific needs. Some students value the cost of education, while others may place greater emphasis on NCLEX pass rates, academic reputation, or other factors.

Although it will vary by individual, a survey by allnurses revealed the top 11 reasons nursing students chose their programs:

1. Cost
2. High NCLEX Pass Rate
3. Location
4. Academic Reputation
5. Availability of Financial Aid and Scholarships
6. Length of Time to Obtain Degree
7. Flexibility of Schedule
8. Curriculum
9. Campus and Surroundings
10. Nursing Clinicals Location
11. Availability of Online Courses

Ultimately, prospective students should assess their needs and pick schools that are the best fit for them.

FAQ and Additional Readings

Q: How do I transfer my nursing license to Alabama?

Alabama is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses to practice in other NLC states without additional steps. You do not have to transfer your license if moving from an NLC state.

Q: Are there specialization programs for nurses in Alabama?

Many schools in Alabama offer advanced nursing degrees, allowing RNs to specialize in pediatric, geriatric, family nurse practitioner, acute care, and more.

Q: Is it better to have an ADN or a BSN?

While obtaining an RN license after completing an ADN is possible, the opportunities after graduation and beyond are more significant with a BSN degree. BSNs focus more on research, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice, whereas an ADN primarily focuses on clinical skills.

Additionally, many healthcare institutions now require BSN-prepared RNs to fulfill various accreditation and Joint Commission requirements and to achieve the prestige of Magnet status.

Edited May 11 by Erin Lee
A few sentences on the top 5 programs