The Associate-Degree Level of Nursing Versus the Baccalaureate-Degree Level in Nursing Multiple pathways exist today for an individual deciding to seek a career in the nursing profession. It can be intimidating to an individual trying to decipher the various educational programs and the relationship of each program to the future nursing practice (Creasia, J.L. & Friberg, E., 2011). Programs at all levels provide these multiple pathways that can lead an individual to one or more nursing credentials (Creasia, J.L. & Friberg, E., 2011). The historical overview of the various programs available can help in building a greater understanding of the factors that are influencing nursing education (Creasia, J.L. & Friberg, E., 2011). The associate-degree and the baccalaureate-degree levels of nursing both provide contributions towards the contemporary health care system, advancement of the nursing profession, and promotion of a profession dedicated to lifelong learning. In 1965, the educational entry point into the professional practice of nursing was designated to be the baccalaureate degree by the American Nurses Association (ANA) (Creasia, J.L. & Friberg, E., 2011). Three educational pathways for the registered nurse (RN) still exist more than 45 years later. These educational pathways include the diploma programs, associate degree, and baccalaureate. For an individual trying to choose the best pathway to enter the nursing profession, it can be confusing with the existence of the various program types that still exist today.
Associate-Degree Level of Nursing
In 1952, the Associate Degree in Nursing was designed by Mildred Montag in to assist in the shortage of nurses caused by World War II. These programs were an alternative to the collegiate preparation of technical nurses (Creasia, J.L. & Friberg, E., 2011). A pilot project funded by the W.K. Kellogg