10 Fastest Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Programs in 2024

The demand for registered nurses (RNs) in healthcare has increased over the past several years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the job outlook for RNs to continue to increase by 6% from 2022 to 2032, with around 200,000 job openings yearly. When you consider the excellent job security provided by an RN career, choosing this path becomes even more compelling.

What Is an ADN?

Completing an ADN program is a pathway to becoming a licensed RN. After program completion, you can take the NCLEX-RN, a critical step in fully becoming a registered nurse.

Many people searching for programs confuse ADN and Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN). As an ASN-prepared nurse, you must complete more clinical hours than with associate degree programs. However, you ultimately earn the associate's degree; it's just a matter of terminology. After graduating with either, you can take the NCLEX-RN exam to earn your nursing license.

RNs provide patient care duties, such as assessing patients, carrying out physician orders, administering medications, and implementing and evaluating best care practices. You can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, public health, and mental health facilities. RNs can also work in many specialties, such as intensive care, mother-baby, and emergency and operating rooms.

ADN Coursework

ADN programs typically include a mix of general education courses and specialized nursing courses. The nursing coursework is designed to provide a foundational understanding of nursing principles, patient care, and medical knowledge. Here's an overview:

• Basic Sciences: Courses in anatomy, physiology, Microbiology, and chemistry lay the groundwork for understanding the human body and its functions.
• Nursing Fundamentals: These courses introduce students to the basics of nursing practice, including patient assessment, care planning, and nursing ethics.
• Pharmacology: Students learn about different medications, their uses, side effects, and how they interact with the body.
• Medical-Surgical Nursing: This area covers the care of adult patients with various medical and surgical conditions.
• Maternal and Child Health: Focuses on nursing care related to childbirth and pediatrics.
• Mental Health Nursing: Teaches students about caring for patients with mental health issues.
• Community Health: Some programs include coursework on public health and community-based nursing.
• Nursing Skills: Courses that teach practical skills like IV insertion, wound care, and patient mobility.

ADN Clinical Training

Clinical training is a crucial component of ADN programs, providing hands-on experience in real healthcare settings. This training helps students apply their classroom knowledge in practical situations. Key aspects include:

• Supervised Clinical Rotations: Students work in various healthcare settings (like hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities) under the supervision of experienced nurses or instructors.
• Diverse Settings: Clinical rotations may include areas like medical-surgical units, pediatrics, maternity, emergency departments, and psychiatric units.
• Skill Application: Students practice skills such as patient assessment, administering medications, providing patient care, and collaborating with healthcare teams.
• Patient Interaction: Direct interaction with patients helps students develop communication skills and bedside manner.
• Professional Experience: Clinical training offers a glimpse into the nursing profession's realities, helping students understand the role and responsibilities of a nurse.
• Feedback and Evaluation: Instructors provide feedback on students' performance, allowing for improvement and growth.

ADN Prerequisites and Requirements

When applying to a program, you must meet the school and the program's admission requirements. ADN program requirements and prerequisite classes will vary but most include:

• High school diploma or a general education development (GED) certificate
• Proof of transcripts from high school or another institution, if applicable
• Completion of the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS), SAT, or other entrance exams, sometimes requiring a minimum score
• Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification
• Preference for exposure or clinical experience in the medical field
• Background check and drug screen
• Up-to-date immunizations and physical examinations by a physician

Many programs also require the completion of prerequisite classes. But again, this varies depending on the school, and some require no previous courses or experience. If the program requires previous coursework, you must also meet a minimum grade point average (GPA). This minimum is generally a C average, but the higher your GPA, the better. Below are some typical prerequisite classes for admission:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Statistics
• Microbiology
• Psychology
• Chemistry
• English
• Intro to Pharmacology

Research the different program types, such as ADN, ASN, or Associate of Applied Science(AAS). Before applying, look up their admission specifications, licensing pass rates, and graduation requirements.

How to Get Your ADN

First, you must research which nursing degree you want to earn. Many options exist, such as an associate's or bachelor's degree. Also, many licensed practical nurses (LPNs) decide to return to school to earn a higher degree and become an RN. 

When researching schools, look for those accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). Many ADN programs do not carry accreditation, so be on the lookout when researching, as some state boards of nursing will only allow you to take the RN licensure examination after graduating from an accredited program.

Once accepted to an ADN program, you must complete nursing courses, typically pharmacology, nutrition, pathophysiology, foundations of nursing, and maternal and behavioral health nursing. ADN students must also complete clinical rotations in person, usually at a nearby healthcare facility where they'll shadow licensed RNs and learn hands-on nursing skills.

After you've graduated from your ADN program, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. Additionally, when applying for licensure, you must meet state eligibility requirements, including a background check, in-person identification verification, and fingerprinting. You'll officially become a licensed RN when you pass your exam and earn your state license.

Advancing Your Degree

As mentioned, many LPNs advance their degrees and become associate-degree or bachelor-degree-prepared nurses. They can become licensed RNs with either degree and expand their patient care knowledge and practices.

Many ADN nurses choose to advance their professional nursing careers by earning a BSN (typically a four-year degree) or even further to a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). ADN nurses may pursue these pathways due to increased salary potential, the opportunity to learn new skills, or the desire to expand their professional practice. Many BSN and MSN programs accept transfer credits from previous ADN programs. Some pathways include the following:

• ADN or RN to BSN programs: Many ADN graduates choose to enroll in a BSN program to advance their career and skills.
• Accelerated programs from RN to BSN: ADN-RNs can enroll directly in an RN to BSN program, helping these nurses complete their degree while working.
• RN to MSN programs: This pathway combines BSN and MSN for a more advanced practical nursing roles such as a nurse educator or practitioner.
• ADN to to MSN programs: Allows ADN graduates to earn an MSN degree, bypassing the BSN.

Accelerated ADN Programs in 2024

Program lengths range depending on the institution and whether you choose a full-time, accelerated, or part-time track. For those looking to earn their ADN quickly, we've compiled our ten fastest ADN programs in 2024.

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 rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Wake Technical Community College

Located across Wake County, North Carolina, in 9 different campuses and locations, the Associate Degree Nursing program equips students with skills to provide safe, quality care in various healthcare settings. It covers basic healthcare essentials and skills, nursing practice, and holistic patient care, preparing students to become the best in this industry.

• Duration: 24-month program
• Tuition: $5,472 (NC residents) or $19,296 (non-residents) 
• Financial aid offered for this program
• Accreditation: ACEN 

2. Moberly Area Community College

Located in Moberly, Missouri, the VADN (Virtual Associate Degree in Nursing) allows licensed practical nurses the opportunity to achieve their ADN within a condensed 12-month timeframe. This program combines the advantages of online and traditional classroom instruction, offering a flexible and well-rounded educational experience.

• Duration: 12-month program
• Tuition: $4,772 per semester
• Offers pre-ADN courses
• Has several satellite campuses throughout Missouri
• Approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing and the Coordinating Board of Higher Education 

3. Santa Monica City College

Based in Southern California, their program boasts of a 100% job placement for graduates. It also offers transfer articulation agreements with multiple University of California and Cal State University campuses for an easier transition for students who want to further their education.

• Duration: 24-month program
• Tuition: $4,000-$5,000 estimated program cost
• Above average school with a solid reputation for academic quality and success
• Accreditation: ACEN 

4. University of Charleston

This university offers online and hybrid program options in Charleston, West Virginia. Educators strategically developed the University of Charleston program to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the surrounding community.

• Duration: 16-month program
• Tuition: $22,800 estimated program cost
• 90% graduation rate 
• Accreditation: ACEN 

5. Big Bend Community College

Located in Moses Lake, Washington, this college accepts applications once a year during Spring. Three years ago, it was also ranked as the number 1 college out of 35 schools that offer the same type of program within Washington State.

• Duration: 24-month program
• Tuition: $8,073 estimated annual cost
•  Accreditation: ACEN 
• Approved by the Washington State Board of Nursing, as well as recognition from the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.

6. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University has many locations throughout Florida and is a hybrid on-campus and online ADN. Program availability also varies by state and campus. Completion time may also depend on the number of courses completed on each term and approved transfer credit.

• Duration: 21-month program
• Tuition: $51,414 estimated total program cost
• 99% post-graduation employment rate
• 100% admission rate
• Accreditation: ACEN 

7. Durham Tech

Durham Tech's classes build upon healthcare and quality improvement domains. In addition, they hold ACEN accreditation.

New students are eligible for enrollment during the fall semester, but it is mandatory for them to hold CPR certification and Nursing Assistant I certification before beginning their initial nursing course.

• Duration: 18-month program
• Tuition: $6,484 estimated tuition and fees 
• Offers an LPN to ADN track
• Accreditation: ACEN 

8. Midway University

Kentucky's Midway University provides quality education for all students and has many scholarship offerings. This program also prepares graduates for a seamless transition into their BSN program.

• Duration: 18-month program
• Tuition: $12,740 per full-time 9 credit hour semester 
• NCLEX Pass Rate: 93.5% average over 3 years for ADN graduates
• The program focuses on ATI assessments
• Accreditation: ACEN 

9. Denver College of Nursing

Denver College of Nursing offers on-campus classes in the capital of Colorado. All courses have didactic and clinical components.

• Duration: 18-month program
• Tuition: Estimated total cost of $44,220 (includes all additional fees)
• Many start dates throughout the year
• Has late acceptance of up to two weeks before the program start
• Accreditation: ACEN 

10. ECPI University

ECPI University has campuses located in NC, VA, SC, FL, TX, and VA. This program supports interdisciplinary and holistic care. Many students praise this university for its flexible schedules and small class sizes, which provide students with the opportunity for one-on-one interaction with their educators and clinical instructors.

• Duration: 18-24 months for full-time
• Tuition: $9,900 per semester
• NCLEX Pass Rate: Averages 85.72% across five campuses, highest at Roanoke with 96.15%.
• 80% admission rate and a 40% graduation rate
• Accreditation: ACEN at the following Virginia campuses -- Manassas, Newport News, Richmond, Roanoke, and Virginia Beach.

Costs of ADN Programs

When considering the costs of ADN programs, there are several key factors to take into account:

• Tuition and Fees: The cost of tuition can vary widely depending on the institution. Public schools generally offer lower tuition rates compared to private institutions. Tuition for ADN programs can range from around $5,000 to $35,000 in total for public schools, and between $30,000 and $100,000 for private schools.
• Books and Supplies: In addition to tuition, you'll need to budget for books, supplies, and possibly uniforms. This can add several thousand dollars to your total cost.
• Technology Requirements: Many nursing programs have specific technology requirements, such as laptops or tablets that can run certain software, as well as reliable internet access for online components of the course.
• Housing and Living Expenses: If you're attending a school away from home, you'll need to consider the cost of housing, whether it's on-campus dormitories or off-campus apartments. Additionally, living expenses like food, transportation, and personal expenses should be factored in.
• Clinical Rotations: Some programs may require travel to clinical sites, which could involve additional transportation costs.
• Licensing Exam Fees: After completing your ADN program, you'll need to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed. There are fees associated with this exam.

It's encouraged that prospective students look into financial aid options, including loans, grants, and scholarships, which can help offset the costs of education.

ADN Salary Expectations in 2024

The BLS reports that the median salary for RNs was around $89,010 annually with a mean hourly wage of $42.80. However, this number includes ADN and BSN-prepared nurses. Most healthcare facilities offer a higher salary to BSN nurses. Additionally, some magnet nursing facilities exclusively hire nurses with a BSN degree.

As an entry-level nurse, you'll likely start out earning less than the median salary. However, starting salaries for ADNs depend on geography, your specialty, and the type of facility you are working at. As your experience level increases, so will your earning potential.

The job outlook for this kind of program from 2022-2032 is 6% faster than average for all occupations, signifying the huge demand for this type of job.

California is the state with the highest earning annual mean wage of nurses amounting to $133,340, followed by Texas ($84,320) and Florida ($79,910).

Are Accelerated ADN Programs Worth It?

Accelerated ADN programs can be a worthwhile investment for many aspiring nurses, but like any educational path, they come with their own set of pros and cons.

Pros of Fastest ADN Programs

1. Quicker Entry into the Workforce: Accelerated ADN programs allow you to complete your nursing education and enter the nursing profession more quickly, often in less than two years.
2. Intensive Learning Experience: These programs offer a condensed and intensive learning experience, which can be beneficial for students who thrive in fast-paced environments.
3. Cost Savings: Completing your degree in a shorter time can lead to savings on tuition and living expenses, as well as the opportunity to start earning a salary sooner.
4. Focused Curriculum: Accelerated programs often have a focused curriculum that covers essential nursing skills and knowledge without the additional electives or general education courses found in longer programs.
5. Attractive for Career Changers: For individuals looking to switch careers, these fast-track programs provide an efficient way to gain the necessary qualifications without a prolonged period of study.

Cons of Fastest ADN Programs

1. Highly Intensive Course Load: The accelerated nature of these programs means a more demanding course load, which can be challenging to manage, especially for those with other commitments.
2. Limited Breaks and Downtime: The fast pace often means fewer breaks and less downtime, which can be stressful and lead to burnout.
3. Less Time for Clinical Experience: While you still get clinical experience, the condensed format may offer less time for hands-on practice compared to traditional ADN programs.
4. Potential for Higher Stress Levels: The accelerated pace can lead to higher stress levels, as students must absorb a large amount of information in a shorter period.
5. Limited Networking Opportunities: With a shorter program duration, there may be fewer opportunities for networking with classmates and instructors, which can be a valuable aspect of nursing education.

Importance of Choosing an Accredited ADN RN Program

Selecting an accredited Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program holds paramount importance for several reasons, focusing on the maintenance of rigorous standards in the nursing domain:

• Educational Standards: Accredited programs must maintain high standards in curriculum, faculty qualifications, resources, and clinical training via ongoing evaluations.
• Licensing Prerequisite: Graduating from an accredited ADN program is typically a mandatory requirement for state licensure for registered nurses.
• Improved Career Prospects: Graduates from accredited programs have an edge in securing employment and career advancement. This not only widens career opportunities but also provides flexibility for roles like travel nursing or relocation to states requiring nursing school accreditation.
• Effortless Credit Transfer: Credits earned in an ADN or BSN RN program accredited by reputable institutions are more likely to be accepted by other nursing institutions, making it easier for transfer students or those pursuing advanced degrees to transition smoothly.
• Enhanced Professional Credibility: Completing an accredited nursing program demonstrates that one has received training in accordance with national standards for advancing nursing practice. 
• Access to Financial Aid: Accreditation is often necessary for federal financial aid eligibility for RN students.

Aspiring registered nurses (RNs) who plan to pursue an associate degree in nursing (ADN) should ensure that the programs they choose are accredited by reputable organizations such as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This accreditation ensures that the education they receive meets established quality standards, which positions them for a successful career in nursing.

FAQs and Additional Readings

Q: Is an ADN worth it?

A: Many ADN nurses think their degree is worth it and continue to BSN or MSN programs. It gives them a headstart on their RN career. Also, nurses can transfer many credits from ADN programs to BSN and MSN programs.

Q: Is an ADN the same as an RN?

A: An ADN is a degree you earn. An RN is a state nursing license. If you graduate from an ADN program, you can take the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain your RN license.

Q: Are ADNs and LPNs the same?

A: ADNs and LPNs are not the same. An LPN cannot perform the same duties as an RN. As an ADN, you can become an RN by passing the NCLEX-RN. LPNs take the NCLEX-PN exam.