Will getting my A.A. degree benefit me

[chinny4213]

Hey guys,

I need some advice. I start a nursing program in 9/2019, so I basically have a whole year to wait and don't feel like wasting anytime so do you guys think it would be worth it to get my A.A? I'm only 3 classes short of getting it... I already have all my prereq's done. I know I will be getting my 2 year ASN degree in nursing and then I'll go on to get my BSN (hopefully) but will getting my A.A. benefit me in any way? My goal is to be a nurse practitioner one day so is there any classes I can take that will help speed up the process down the road, will carry over or benefit me in some other way?

[Trust in Jesus, RN]

I'd get the AA for just 3 more classes. You can add it to your resume and, also, some nursing programs award extra points for having a degree (it sounds like you are already accepted, but just in case). I don't know if the classes will be applicable for nurse practitioner programs, but you can definitely take classes that will serve as pre-reqs for your BSN. Look at the schools you are interested in for a BSN and find out what classes you will need to begin their programs. This way you can transition straight from an ADN to a BSN without wasting a semester or two.

[meanmaryjean, DNP, RN]

Be VERY careful as you might impact financial aid equations. Generally, your financial aid will NOT cover two degrees at the same level. So you can get $$ for you nursing associates, but not if you've expended it getting a general studies one previously.

Talk to financial aid before deciding anything.

[Guest1029094]

I completed my AA degree before pursuing my ADN. It definitely has not hindered my financial aid as my adn is 100% covered with grants and so was my AA. I would say go for it!