5 Best ADN Programs in Maryland in 2024

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) in Maryland 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 Maryland, along with salary expectations after graduation and recommendations for the best programs in the state.

Best ADN Programs in Maryland

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. Chesapeake College

Chesapeake College, located in Wye Mills, offers an ADN program with an estimated annual tuition of $4,373. With a commendable NCLEX pass rate of 91% and ACEN accreditation, the college ensures students receive a quality nursing education at an affordable cost.

2. Frederick Community College

Frederick Community College in Frederick provides an ADN program with an estimated annual tuition of $4,222. The program maintains a solid NCLEX pass rate of 90% and holds ACEN accreditation, making it an excellent choice for aspiring nurses seeking an affordable and reputable nursing education.

3. Cecil College

At Cecil College in North East, students can pursue an ADN program with an estimated annual tuition of $9,226. The program boasts an impressive NCLEX pass rate of 97% and is ACEN accredited, providing students with a high-quality nursing education to succeed in their careers.

4. Harford Community College

Harford Community College in Bel Air offers an ADN program with an estimated annual tuition of $6,819. While maintaining ACEN accreditation, the program's NCLEX pass rate is 88%, making it a cost-effective option for nursing education with good exam success rates.

5. College of Southern Maryland

College of Southern Maryland, situated in La Plata, presents an ADN program with an estimated annual tuition of $7,724. The program holds ACEN accreditation and demonstrates an 86% NCLEX pass rate, offering students an affordable pathway to a successful nursing career.

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, many ADN programs offer online coursework options, providing a hybrid environment for working students or those requiring 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.

Cost of ADN Programs in Maryland

The expenses associated with pursuing an ADN in Maryland are influenced by various factors. Consider the following key financial elements when planning your nursing education budget:

• Tuition: Tuition fees can vary greatly between public and private schools in Maryland, as well as between in-state and out-of-state students. Generally, private institutions and out-of-state tuition rates tend to be higher.
• Supplies: This category includes expenses for textbooks, medical supplies, and other essential educational materials. These costs can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
• Technology Fees: Students enrolled in hybrid or online ADN programs may face additional expenses for technology, software, or digital learning tools.
• Lab & Clinical Fees: Some courses may require fees for specific materials or equipment necessary for hands-on training.
• Miscellaneous Fees: Often overlooked, these fees may include costs for applications, graduation, and other administrative expenses essential to your education.
• Living Expenses: The cost of living—including food, housing, utilities, and personal expenses—is particularly relevant for students who plan to study full-time without working or those who are considering relocating for their studies.

Understanding the financial requirements of your chosen ADN program in Maryland is crucial for effective financial planning and staying focused on your educational goals. Additionally, exploring the Most Affordable ADN Programs available in 2024 can help you manage your educational expenses more efficiently.

ADN Salary Expectations in Maryland

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. This makes it important for prospective nurses to understand the nuances in salary expectations based on their level of education.

RNs nationally earn:

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

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses in Maryland earn salaries slightly below the national average in 2023. With 49,770 RNs employed, Maryland ranks in the 50-75th percentile nationally for RN employment.

 RNs in Maryland earn:

• Mean Hourly Wage: $44.27
• Mean Annual Wage: $92,090

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. 

BSN RNs in Maryland earn an average wage of:

• Hourly Wage: $56.00
• Annual Wage: $116,955.00

ADN RNs in Maryland earn an average wage of:

• Hourly Wage: $41.00
• Annual Wage: $84,837.00

Cities with the highest ADN RN salary in Maryland are: 

• Columbia: $85,586.00
• Germantown: $783,772.00
• Hagerstown: $80,504.00
• Glen Burnie: $79,412.00
• Ellicott City: $79,148.00

Understanding the salary expectations for ADN RNs in Maryland is crucial for those considering this career path. While ADN RNs earn respectable salaries, those with a BSN tend to have higher earning potential and broader career opportunities. Prospective nurses should weigh these factors carefully when planning their educational and career paths. Exploring various programs and financial aid options can help make nursing education more accessible and manageable, ultimately leading to a rewarding career in healthcare.

Is Pursuing an ADN in Maryland Worth It?

An associate in nursing offers a fast and economical pathway into the nursing profession, addressing the continuous demand for healthcare professionals in Maryland. As with any major decision, enrolling in an ADN program comes with its own set of benefits and challenges.

Pros of ADN Programs in MD 

1. Quick Workforce Entry: ADN programs typically take two years to complete, enabling graduates to start their nursing careers sooner than those pursuing a four-year BSN.
2. Affordability: ADN programs, especially those at community colleges, are generally less expensive than BSN programs. This makes them an attractive option for students seeking a more economical education path.
3. Wide Availability: Many community colleges and technical schools across Maryland offer ADN programs, making them accessible to a diverse range of students.
4. NCLEX-RN Preparation: ADN programs are designed to prepare students thoroughly for the NCLEX-RN, the licensure exam required to become a registered nurse.
5. Flexible Learning Options: ADN programs often provide flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend classes, which are ideal for students with work or family commitments.
6. High Demand for RNs: There is a strong demand for registered nurses across various healthcare settings in Maryland, making it easier for ADN graduates to find employment.
7. Pathway to Advanced Education: Many ADN programs offer seamless transition options to BSN programs through bridge programs, allowing for continued education and career advancement.

Cons of ADN Programs in MD

1. Competitive Job Market: In a competitive job market, BSN-prepared nurses often have an edge over those with an ADN, particularly in hospitals and healthcare facilities that prefer higher educational qualifications. 
2. Potential for Lower Salaries: ADN-prepared nurses may earn lower salaries compared to their BSN-prepared counterparts, as some employers offer higher pay rates to those with advanced degrees.
3. Long-Term Educational Trends: There is a growing trend towards requiring a BSN for RNs, with many employers preferring or mandating a bachelor's degree. This may necessitate further education for ADN graduates to stay competitive and meet evolving employer expectations.
4. Less Comprehensive Curriculum: ADN programs may offer a less comprehensive curriculum compared to BSN programs, potentially leaving graduates with fewer skills in areas such as leadership, public health, and research methodologies.
5. Ongoing Education Requirements: While an ADN qualifies graduates to practice as RNs, advancing into specialized or administrative roles often requires further education, such as obtaining a BSN or MSN. Roles in areas like research, public health, or management typically require higher qualifications.
6. Limited Networking Opportunities: BSN programs often provide more extensive networking opportunities with professionals in specialized fields and healthcare leaders, which can be crucial for career advancement and job placement.
7. Higher Educational Costs in the Long Run: While ADN programs are more affordable upfront, the need for further education to obtain a BSN or higher degree can lead to higher overall educational costs over the long term.

Choosing an ADN program in Maryland offers significant advantages and provides a solid foundation for a nursing career. However, it's important to consider your long-term career goals and educational needs when making this decision.

How to Choose a Nursing School

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 best fit them.

ADN Program Accreditation in Maryland

Accreditation is another vital factor to consider when selecting an ADN program, especially for those planning their career and educational paths. Here's why accreditation is crucial:

• Educational Quality: Accredited nursing programs in Maryland adhere to strict standards in curriculum development, faculty qualifications, resource allocation, and clinical training, ensuring that the education provided meets or exceeds national benchmarks.
• NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation: Enrolling in an accredited program significantly enhances your preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam, increasing your chances of passing on the first attempt.
• Licensing Flexibility: While a state-approved program allows you to practice within Maryland, the lack of accreditation might restrict your ability to obtain licensure in other states without additional accredited education.
• Employment Prospects: Employers often prefer graduates from accredited programs because their education aligns with national standards, which aids in job placement and facilitates easier transitions across state lines for career opportunities.
• Credit Transferability: Credits earned from an accredited program are more likely to be recognized by other educational institutions, which is crucial for those looking to further their education with degrees such as a BSN, MSN, or DNP.
• Professional Reputation: A degree from an accredited program enhances your professional standing by aligning your education with recognized standards and advancing nursing practices.
• Access to Financial Aid: Accreditation is essential for eligibility for federal financial aid, a significant consideration for many students.

Prospective nursing students in Maryland are encouraged to select programs accredited by esteemed organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the National League for Nursing's Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA). While the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) is highly respected, it does not provide accreditation for ADN or diploma nursing programs.

FAQ and Additional Readings

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

Maryland 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 Maryland?

Many schools in Maryland 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 require BSN-prepared RNs to fulfill various accreditation and Joint Commission requirements and achieve Magnet status prestige.

Edited May 14 by Erin Lee
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