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Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

School of Nursing

College of Health Sciences

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

School of Nursing

College of Health Sciences

On-Campus

Program

63 - 64 Credit Hours

to Graduate

Full-Time, In-State Tutition

$5,010 Per Semester

Free Books

for All Students

Gain the Educational Foundation to Start Your Nursing Career

Nursing continues to be a critical component of the healthcare system. Education makes the difference in direct patient care and the variety of opportunities available. Start your career with an educational foundation that will allow you to grow into your potential and pave the way for future studies. After earning your AASN degree and successful completion of the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), you’ll be prepared to practice nursing as a registered nurse (RN).

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Career Outlook


Employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 6 percent from 2021 to 2031.

– U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

EKU nursing graduates are prepared to practice nursing and take on leadership roles in a variety of settings including:

Job Titles Include:

  • Hospitals
  • Community health and mental health agencies
  • Industrial health centers
  • Nursing homes
  • Family planning centers
  • Crisis care centers

In addition to working in hospitals, clinics and medical offices, some of our graduates have entered the armed forces, served as missionary nurses, and worked with humanitarian organizations.

The Office of Academic and Career Services is a one-stop shop for all your career and professional development needs.

Services Include:

  • Creating/updating your resume and cover letter
  • Interviewing tips and coaching
  • Career documents review
  • Job search

Why EKU?

  • Free textbooks through EKU BookSmart
  • No application fee
  • Reduced tuition for active-duty military members and their spouses
  • Progressive, innovative program that will guide you through the study of nursing science
  • Learn from a dedicated group of nurse specialists with a commitment to excellence in teaching
  • Develop one-on-one relationships with nursing faculty through small clinical groups and seminars
  • Work Ready Scholarship – The AASN program is eligible for the Work Ready Kentucky scholarship distributed by the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA). This program allows students in eligible programs to earn up to 60 credit hours tuition free.

The associate nursing program at Eastern Kentucky University School of Nursing located in Richmond, Ky. is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), 3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400, Atlanta, GA 30326 (404) 975-5000. The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the associate nursing program is continuing accreditation. View the public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program.

The Associate of Science in Nursing program is approved by the Kentucky Board of Nursing (KBN), 312 Whittington Parkway, Louisville, KY 40222, Phone 800-305-2042, Fax 502-696-5762. Visit the KBN website.

Curriculum & Enrollment


Build your professional expertise through interactive discussions and meaningful course assignments. EKU’s nursing curriculum blends academic and professional preparation through course topics such as health promotion and disease prevention, mental health, complex health issues and communication in healthcare.

A minimum of 63-64 credits are required to graduate.

View the degree requirements:

Please review the admissions requirements before applying for this or any program. If you have questions about the program or are planning to register for classes, please speak to the program advisor.

Students wishing to transfer nursing courses from another accredited nursing program must have a minimum grade equivalent of a 2.0 or the program’s passing grade in any nursing or support course.

Previously earned nursing credits must be submitted for review and approval.

All students who are admitted to EKU and declare their major as Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN) are admitted as pre-associate degree nursing majors. However, admission to the university does not guarantee admission to the AASN program. Students are eligible to be considered for admission to the AASN program only after having been admitted to the university.

Part I: Apply to EKU

Part II: Complete Other Requirements

Schedule the HESI A2 Admission Assessment Entrance Exam – Register for a Testing Date

Set up a CastleBranch account and complete all requirements:

  • Immunization records
  • TB test documentation
  • Health insurance certificate/letter
  • CPR documentation
  • Drug test completed through CastleBranch
  • Background check completed through CastleBranch

How to get started with CastleBranch:

  • Visit: https://portal.castlebranch.com/EJ17
  • Select: EZ55: Background Check – Drug Test – Medical Document Manager
  • Follow the prompts

Part III: Apply to the AASN Program

Download & Complete the EKU School of Nursing AASN program application

Include the Applicant from Another Nursing Program and Nursing School Director Reference portions of the BSN application if previously enrolled in another nursing program.

Submit high school transcripts and transcripts from any other colleges or universities attended to the School of Nursing Chair for review – nursing@eku.edu

  • Meet university requirements for proficiency in English, reading and mathematics
  • Meet the Pre-College Curriculum requirements
  • Minimum high school or college GPA of 2.5
  • Grades of “C” or better in any supporting courses that have been completed
  • Complete the HESI A2 exam

Completion of eligibility criteria does not guarantee admission to the clinical nursing courses. Admission is competitive and based upon review of the applicant’s academic history and HESI A2 exam scores.

Advisor & Counselor Information


EKU’s College of Health Sciences Advising Office is committed to delivering high-quality academic advising for our students. We strive to create an atmosphere of mutual trust and meaningful engagement between students and faculty to help students reach their academic goals and have a rewarding educational experience

Contact Lisa Garvey for more information on the nursing associate program.

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Gabby Thurman

College Enrollment Counselor

859-622-2798
Gabrielle.Thurman@eku.edu


Student Stories & Features

Kim Kenney

Kim Kenney

EKU Doctorate of Nursing Practice Student
The EKU Online faculty has been very supportive. Their goal is to make sure we are successful in our pursuit of the DNP. They assist, but appropriately challenge the student to expand on base knowledge and improve the learning experience.
Judith L. Poe

Judith L. Poe

EKU Doctorate of Nursing Practice Student
This degree allowed me to apply for positions for which prior to this achievement I would have been overlooked. I appreciated the flexibility the program provided to work full time and pursue my terminal degree.

Gail A. Reichert

EKU Doctorate of Nursing Practice Student
I enjoyed connecting with fellow nurses, and meeting Dr. Bradshaw, who is a brilliant, innovative nurse and educator, a fellow military officer, and a wonderful mentor during my time at EKU. I enjoyed the discussion boards and learning from others in regards to different perspectives on many topics related to nursing, especially, the underserved.

Upcoming Events


News & Updates

EKU Addresses Kentucky’s Nursing Shortage

With Kentucky currently facing noticeable healthcare professional shortages in almost every county, Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) is constantly working to meet workforce needs by providing skilled graduates. EKU is actively […]

EKU Nursing Lab Offers Hands-On Experience for Students

In Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) nursing program, students get hands-on learning with state-of-the-art equipment in the Nursing Clinical Skills Laboratory and Simulation Center (CSLSC).  Thanks to a donation from Baptist […]

Related Programs

B.S. in Nursing

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Credit Hours: 120-121

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Modalities: online and on-campus

Credit Hours: 120


Contact Information

School of Nursing

521 Lancaster Ave
Rowlett 223
Richmond, KY 40475

859-622-1827
Fax: 859-622-1972
nursing@eku.edu