AAS/RN Nursing Degree Programs

Nursing is one of the most dignified and honorable professions in the world. It involves high levels of trust, responsibility, management of pressure situations and excellent coordination.

Several programs like the 2 year Associate in Applied Sciences [AAS] in Nursing prepare students in entering the nursing field. The course content includes nursing care, microbiology, anatomy, psychology, physiology, medical/surgical nursing and medical terminology. Course outcomes can result in students developing skills like critical thinking, communication, team work, intervention skills, medication calculation skills, patient evaluation and diagnosis, interpersonal and patient interaction skills and ability to record vital signs of patients. On course completion, students can appear for licensure exams for Licensed Practical Nurse [LPN] or Registered Practical Nurse [RN]. Programs are also available for directly taking the Registered Practical Nurse exam of licensure. LPNs can opt for online programs to pave the way for an RN.

On graduating from these nursing programs, job opportunities open up. Though LPN positions are projected as diminishing by Bureau of Labor Statistics [BLS], yet there are many others available in the healthcare industry. Moreover, jobs in health care industry are estimated to increase by 27% through 2014 by BLS owing to the aging population. From a salary perspective, an LPN makes a median annual income of $35,000. As per BLS, the median annual salary earnings of RNs was $57,280 in 2006. This can vary based on location, experience and employer.

There is no dearth of institutions offering programs like AAS and RN. The University of Phoenix takes the lead with its highly accessible learning facilities. It is followed by Lincoln Technical Institute which offers hands-on training programs for in-demand career fields. Kaplan University bases its philosophy in unique and distinctive learning. In contrast, Everest Institute offers programs that fit your life. South University also offers flexible learning basing itself on student experiences.