What does "AD" stand for in nursing education?

In the context of nursing education, "AD" stands for Associate Degree. This educational credential is typically awarded after the completion of a two-year program in nursing, which combines classroom instruction with clinical practice. An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) prepares students to sit for licensure as a registered nurse (RN) and provides a foundation in patient care, nursing principles, and healthcare systems.

While other degrees such as Advanced Diploma, Associate Doctorate, or Applied Degree exist in various fields of study, they do not specifically align with the commonly recognized and utilized terminology within nursing education. The Associate Degree in Nursing is widely regarded as a standard pathway into the nursing profession, leading to employment opportunities and a solid groundwork for further education in nursing and related disciplines.