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Is an AAS Nursing Degree Right for You?

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Written by Marie Hasty, BSN, RN Content Writer, IntelyCare

An AAS nursing degree is an Associate of Applied Science with a focus on nursing care. If you’re researching your degree options to become a nurse, you might be aware of the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ASN), but is an AAS degree different? And does it allow you to become a registered nurse (RN)? We’ll answer these questions and more in this guide on earning a nursing AAS degree so you can determine if it’s the right degree for you.

The AAS Degree in Nursing, Explained

An Associate of Applied Science in Nursing is a type of ADN degree that prepares students to work as registered nurses. It’s a two-year program that includes nursing classes, clinical experiences, and lab work, often offered through hospital-based programs and community colleges. The terminology can be confusing since it sounds like the two degrees are different, but completing an AAS program will mean that, as with an ADN, you will graduate with an associate degree.

So what’s the difference between AAS vs. ADN?

AAS programs tend to have more of a clinical, hands-on focus than and ADN and ASN, and AAS is a great way to earn your license quickly. If you plan to work clinically after graduation rather than pursue additional degrees, an AAS degree could be a great fit. On the other hand, if you want to pursue a career in nursing education, leadership, or research, an ADN may make it easier to eventually complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

AAS in Nursing Degree Requirements

What does it take to graduate with this degree? To apply for most AAS programs, you’ll need some or all of the following requirements:

GPA of 2.5 or higher in prerequisite courses
Entrance exam (HESI, TEAS, and NLN-PAX are common)
General school admission
High school diploma or GED and transcripts
Active Basic Life Support (BLS) credential
Vaccination records

Prerequisites Courses

If you’ve graduated from high school but you haven’t completed additional coursework yet, expect to spend at least a semester on prerequisite courses before you can enter an AAS program. These typically include:

Introduction to college writing
Introduction to ethics
Introduction to psychology
Anatomy and physiology (typically broken into 2 courses)

Nursing Classes

Once you’re admitted to an AAS program, you’ll take courses that are more specific to nursing practice and knowledge. These classes typically include:

Introduction to nursing
Nursing skills
Health assessment
Adult health
Mental health nursing
Maternal, newborn, and women’s health
Pharmacology
Pediatric nursing

Clinical Rotations and Labs

When you’re first learning skills like IV starts and Foley catheter insertion, you’ll practice in a lab or simulation room setting. Many programs run mock code simulations so you know what to do in case of a real patient emergency. This gives you a chance to learn the basics and run through potential patient scenarios with your peers.

Clinical rotations are another essential element of nursing school education. Certain nursing courses are paired with clinicals, and you’ll be practicing hands-on skills alongside didactic coursework. It’s common to attend clinical experiences in the following areas:

The Cost of an AAS Nursing Degree

An AAS program is generally cheaper than a BSN. You might find the lowest tuition at schools in your state, and you may also want to apply for financial aid or scholarships. In addition to tuition, you’ll also need to pay for uniforms, books, lab supplies, transportation, and other expenses. Learn more about paying for nursing school.

Check out some example schools and their posted tuition below:

Arapahoe Community College: $4,434 in-state, $17,034 out-of-state
Dallas College: $5,940
Wake Tech Community College: $5,472 in-state, $19,296 out-of-state
St. Louis Community College: $13,000

AAS Nursing Degree: Salary Expectations

An RN salary is $98,430 per year on average, but you may earn less with an AAS than a nurse with a BSN. Nursing salaries for ADN-prepared nurses fall between $67,700 and $71,600 on average. But it’s possible to increase your earning potential by pursuing specialty RN certifications, gaining experience in a specialty area, or even going back to school.

Location also plays an important role in determining your nursing income. If you’re open to a move, check out roles in states with the highest average RN salary:

AAS in Nursing: FAQ

AAS vs. ADN: What’s the difference?

The two degree paths are essentially the same. An ADN is a two-year nursing degree, while an AAS is a type of ADN program.

AAS vs. ASN degree: What’s the difference?

An ASN degree is very similar to an AAS. They’re programs that prepare students for RN licensure. Since both programs may have more of an emphasis on hands-on skills than traditional ADN programs, they’re great for students who want more practical experience before graduation. Look up curricula in your area for specific information.

Can you get an AAS nursing degree online?

Many schools offer didactic nursing courses online. However, hands-on clinical experience is a requirement for school accreditation, so it is not possible to fully complete your AAS degree from a computer. If you’re considering online nursing degrees, be sure you understand how you’ll complete clinical requirements, as well as the facilities and faculty you’ll be learning from.

What roles does an AAS degree in nursing qualify you for?

Nurses with an AAS degree can work in a variety of settings, specialties, and locations. RNs are in demand, with BLS projecting a 5% growth in jobs over the next several years. After completing an AAS degree and becoming licensed, you could work in any of the following areas and many more:

Opportunities for RNs and Nursing Students

Considering an AAS nursing degree? We can help you find roles during nursing school and after graduation. Start receiving personalized job notifications to learn about opportunities in your area.