Are you looking for a two year nursing program in the US to fulfil your dream of becoming a registered nurse (RN)? This article has a list of 20 best 2 year nursing degrees you can study to become a certified US nurse.
The United States is known to offer some of the best nursing programs in the world. The programs are offered in a variety of pathways for you to choose from. There’s the traditional BSN, the LPN, ADN, LPN- RN, Accelerated BSN, ADN-BSN etc.
Two year programs in the United States are commonly referred to as Associate Degree Programs and can be studied in community colleges or junior colleges. The programs are designed to equip aspiring nurses who are passionate about providing care and wellness to clients from diverse backgrounds.
Choosing an ADN program is a big decision for aspiring nurses, therefore requiring careful consideration.
Upon graduating from an ADN program, you have to be prepared to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to obtain the required licence to practise as a registered nurse in your state.
To help you choose the right two year nursing program, we have compiled a list of the best ADN programs in the United States.
Read through each admission requirement thoroughly before applying and you can also apply to multiple schools of your choice.
Table Showing 2 Year Nursing Programs in the USA for International Students and their Fees
|
Course |
University |
Tuition Fees |
|
Delaware County Community College
|
$25,083 |
|
Denver College of Nursing |
$37,754
|
|
University of Texas Arlington(UTA)
|
$8995 |
|
University of Charleston |
$33,300
|
|
Mercy College of Health Sciences
|
$75, 330
|
|
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
|
$14,360 |
|
Idaho State University |
$24,914
|
|
Dickinson State University
|
$336 per credit |
|
Rasmussen University |
$53,478 |
|
Montgomery College
|
Check Here
|
|
Fortis College |
$19,417 |
|
Southeastern University |
$44,080 |
|
Santa Monica College |
$4000 - $5000
|
|
Eastern Florida State College
|
$11,000 |
|
Valencia College |
$1720 |
|
Houston Community College |
$8960 |
|
College of Southern Nevada
|
$12,210 |
|
Chabot College
|
$8000 - $8500 |
|
Southeastern Illinois College
|
$16,175
|
20 2 year Nursing Programs in USA for International Students 2025
Here are the twenty best Nursing programs for international students in the United States, including the universities, tuition fees, admission requirements and application links.
-
Associate in Applied Science, Nursing (NURS)
The Associate in Applied Science in Nursing is one of the best two year nursing programs in the United States.
It is offered by Delaware County Community College (DCCC), an accredited, public two-year college located in Media, Pennsylvania.
In this nursing course, students are taught the skills and knowledge they require to qualify for entry nursing positions in a variety of healthcare settings.
Upon successful completion of the course, students receive an associate in applied science (AAS) degree and are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN to become a registered nurse in the state.
Tuition Fees: $25,083
University/College: Delaware County Community College
Admission Requirements
Please submit the following documents in order to be admitted to the College and to receive a Form I-20:
- A completed online application
- A completed, notarized Affidavit of Support (can be found within the online application)
- A copy of the bank statement confirming a minimum of $25,083 is available to cover the cost of the first academic year’s estimated tuition, fees, and living expenses (can be found within the online application)
- A copy and certified translation in English of high school/secondary school diploma/certificate of graduation (do not send original high school transcripts or diplomas to the College)
- A copy of the passport photo ID page
- If transferring from another U.S. school: International Student (F-1) Transfer Request Form
- If under the age of 18 at the time of enrollment: Medical Release Form
Apply to Delaware County Community College AAS, Nursing Program
-
Associate Degree in Nursing Program
The Associate Degree in Nursing Program at the Denver College of Nursing is another great two year course fitting for aspiring nurses in the United States.
The program is available for students who have completed and passed their prerequisite courses and are in pursuit of a career as a Registered Nurse in the United States. Upon graduation, students will be eligible to sit for their NCLEX-RN and further their education in a Bachelor’s in Science in Nursing.
Tuition Fees: $37,754
University/College: Denver College of Nursing
Admission Requirements
General Requirements
- Applicants that have not already graduated from an accredited college with a Bachelor’s degree have two opportunities to obtain a minimum of 75% on the HESI A2 English Composite Subscale (Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary, Grammar) and on the Math Subscale; and take the HESI A2 components utilized in the advising program
- Applicants that have already graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college do not have to take the HESI A2 entrance exam
- Successfully complete Anatomy & Physiology within seven (7) years of start date
Note: Applicants who have completed courses that are different from, but are the equivalent to, those required for admission should submit official transcripts and course descriptions for review by the Dean of Nursing Education Programs or designee.
ADN requirements
- Minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or above on a 4.0 scale (a grade of C or better, C- or below is not acceptable)or better in all prerequisite courses required.
- Have completed all prerequisites prior to the start date of their program.
- Prerequisite course work does not have to be completed at the time of application, however please be realistic about being able to complete all outstanding prerequisites before the start date of the program.
- Applicants will submit a one-page typewritten personal statement (double-spaced, 12 point font) that addresses your professional goals, healthcare related work background and volunteer experience with their application. The content is the most important part of the statement; however it will be reviewed for writing style, syntax and grammar.
- Eligibility for all ADN programs is pending the successful completion of a drug screen and a criminal background check before the start of the program. These are not required with the initial application.
- Eligibility for all ADN programs is pending the successful submission of all required immunizations records and completed “Fit For Practice” form. Applicants will receive more information on submitting these forms during the admissions interview if granted. These are not required with the initial application.
- Applicants must have the ability to meet all the requirements for licensure and the physical, psychological and emotional standards established by the Colorado Nurse Practice Act and the State Board of Nursing.
- Applicants must have the ability to become certified in CPR. This is not required with the initial application.
- ADN applicants who appear best qualified for the program will be contacted for an application interview and testing.
- Applicants that have already graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college do not have to take the HESI A2 entrance exam.
Apply to Denver College of Nursing ADN program
-
Professional Nursing Pathways Program(Online)
The Professional Nursing Pathways Program is a two year online nursing program available to international students at The University of Texas at Arlington(UTA).
The program offers nursing students an effective, flexible and affordable means to begin their journey into a Nursing career. The course also provides an efficient way for students to prepare for their BSN studies while still completing their ADN coursework.
Students interested in following the ADN to BSN pathway at UTA will follow UTA’s RN to BSN start date calendar.
Tuition Fees: $8995
University/College: University of Texas Arlington(UTA)
Admission Requirements
- Completed online application and submit application fee
- 2.25 Grade Point Average (GPA) of all courses completed
- TOEFL or TSI may apply.
- Official transcripts from all colleges/universities you have attended should be submitted, along with required documents, from the granting institution(s) to.
Apply To UTA’s Professional Nursing Pathways Program
-
Associate Degree of Nursing(Hybrid)
This is one of the most flexible two year nursing programs in the US. Offered in the hybrid format, students attend physical classes every other weekend with online classes through the weekdays.
This course at the University of Charleston is suitable for working students as well as students who wish to follow the ADN to BSN pathways.
The Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN) program at the University of Charleston is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Tuition Fees: $33,300
University/College: University of Charleston
Admission Requirements
Students must gain full admission to the University of Charleston before applying for admission to the ADN Program.
- Admission into the ADN Program occurs by application. Applicants must be academically admissible or re-admissible.
- GPA: 2.0 cumulative average.
- Must earn a “C” or higher in all requiredPre-requisite courses. Required Pre-requisite courses are BIOL 212/212L, PSYC 212, ENGL 101 and ENGL 102.
- The student will be required to take the TEAS examination and score a minimum of 60% or higher to be eligible to apply to the program.
Apply To University of Charleston’s Associate Degree of Nursing(Hybrid)
5. Associate of Science in Nursing
The Associate of Science in Nursing program at Mercy College of Health Science is another good course to study if you want to become a RN in two years.
The first year of your coursework consists of classes that will help you build a solid foundation in nursing education.
In the second year of the program, you’ll improve your knowledge and skills and prepare for a career as a registered nurse as you work toward the completion of your associate degree. You’ll also work alongside current healthcare professionals who will guide you as you prepare to work in a variety of healthcare industries.
Tuition: $75, 330
University/College: Mercy College of Health Sciences
Admission Requirements
- Earn an extracted GPA of 2.7 in the following college-level courses:
- General Chemistry (3 cr)
- English Composition I (3 cr)
- General Psychology (3 cr)
- College Math (3 cr)
- Human Anatomy with lab (4 cr)
- Earn a minimum adjusted cumulative score of 63% on the ATI TEAS Test
- Non-Mercy College LPN students who wish to enroll in the ASN program will take an NCLEX-PN Predictor Exam to determine placement in the ASN program.
Apply To Mercy College of Health Science ASN course
6. Associate Degree in Nursing
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College offers a two year nursing degree known as the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), one of the best associate degrees in nursing programs in the state.
The program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and has a student graduation rate of 94%.
In this ADN program, your course curriculum will cover developmental psychology, nursing pharmacology, clinical care across the lifespan microbiology, and complex health alternatives, for a total of 70-semester credits.
Tuition Fees: $14,360
University/College: Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Admission Requirements
For instructions on how to get started, download the application checklist for this program
Apply to the Northeast Wisconsin Technical College ADN
7. Associate’s Degree Registered Nurse (ADRN)
Idaho State University’s Technology College offers an Associate’s Degree Registered Nurse (ADRN) program which runs for a total of five semesters. The program is ACEN accredited and has been specifically designed for those nursing students who already hold an LPN license.
Tuition Fees: $24,914
University/College: Idaho State University
Admission Requirements
The prerequisite for entry into the Associate Degree Registered Nurse (ADRN) program is that the student be a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Here is a list of the course admission requirements;
- All students must first be admitted to the university.
- Completion of the following prerequisite courses, or equivalents, with a grade of "C" or better: ENGL 1101, 1102; PSYC 1101; LLIB 1115; NTD 2239; BIOL 2227/2227 L and BIOL 2228/2228 L OR BIOL 3301/3301L and BIOL 3302/3302L; MATH (any goal 3, MATHS 1153 preferred); COMM 1101
- A cumulative grade point average of at least 2.5 is required. This includes all post- secondary course work.
- Active unrestricted licence to practise as an LPN in the state of Idaho.
- Current CPR certification (Healthcare provider) from the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.
- Current immunisation and good health status (per program policy), upon conditional acceptance into the program.
- Background check and drug screening per department policy, upon acceptance into the program.
- IV Therapy certification of completion.
Apply To Idaho State University ADRN program
8. Associate in Applied Science Degree - Practical Nursing
The Nursing Department at the College of Education, Business & Applied Sciences at Dickinson State University offers a two year Associate in Applied Science Degree – Practical Nursing (AASDPN) program.
The program was developed to help students become knowledgeable healthcare practitioners capable of working and adapting in the continually evolving healthcare community.
The course is available to aspiring nurses who wish to write the NCLEX-RN exams upon completion of their degree.
Tuition Fees: $336 per credit
University/College: Dickinson State University
Admission Requirements
General Requirements into Nursing Program
- Students wishing to apply for admission to the nursing programs must complete a formal application to BOTH Dickinson State University and the Nursing Program.
- All nursing students admitted or readmitted to a nursing program are required to complete an annual CBC via the Nursing Program.
- All nursing students admitted or readmitted to a nursing program are required to complete Drug Screening via the Nursing Program.
- All nursing students admitted or readmitted to a nursing program MUST provide documented proof of all required health information, health insurance coverage and immunizations prior to the start of the semester.
ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE IN PRACTICAL NURSING PROGRAM ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Official transcripts of high school coursework (partial or complete), GED (if appropriate), and all colleges/universities attended
- A completed North Dakota University System application to Dickinson State University (available online).
- A completed AASPN Program application to the Nursing Program
Apply to Dickinson State University AASDPN program
9. Professional Nursing (ADN/RN) Program
This professional Nursing program is offered in a hybrid format to prepare you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exams.
Classes are offered in a mix of online classes, on campus lab simulations and clinical experiences.
It is the best course for current LPN’s who wish to advance their degree in just 18 months.
Tuition Fees: $53,478
University/College: Rasmussen University
Admission Requirements
- High school verification documentation may be required.
- Students will need to pass the TEAS entrance exam
- OR
- have a conferred Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctoral degree with a GPA of 2.25 or higher from an accredited institution of higher learning as recognized by the US Department of Education or by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Apply to Rasmussen University ADN/RN program
10. Associate’s Degree Nursing Program
The basic nursing curriculum covers two academic years, is approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing, and is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Montgomery College offers an Associate of Science degree in Nursing that is recognized as one of Maryland’s best associate degrees in nursing programs.
This best ADN program is accredited by the ACEN and approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing. The program can be studied at the college’s Silver Spring/Takoma Park University/College, where nursing students must complete 70 semester credit hours to graduate.
Tuition Fees: Check Here
University/College: Montgomery College
Admission Requirements
- All students should review the advising guide and consult an advisor.
- Find out about related programs and courses in the Fields of Study section.
- Most courses have either assessment levels that must be met or prerequisites (courses that must be taken first).
- All degree-seeking students must take a central group of General Education Courses in English, mathematics, arts, behavioural and social sciences, humanities, and science.
Apply to Montgomery college ADN program
11. Associate Degree in Nursing(ADN)
Fortis’s Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program is a two year nursing degree designed to provide students with the best academic and clinical skills and knowledge of healthcare. The course is offered in a perfect balance of traditional classroom tutorials and practical skill development.
After graduation, students are able to write and pass their NCLEX licensure exam and actively pursue a career as an entry-level registered nurse in a variety of clinical and hospital settings.
Tuition Fees: $19,417
University/College: Fortis College
Admission Requirements
Contact Fortis today to speak to an admissions advisor to learn how our associate degree in nursing programs can prepare you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Apply to Fortis College ADN course
12. Associate Degree in Nursing
Ready to begin your nursing career? This Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at Southeastern University is the one for you.The course is a 2-year nursing program designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to excel in healthcare.
The program offers convenient learning formats, making it possible to continue working while earning your degree.
Tuition Fees: $44,080
University/College: Southeastern University
Admission Requirements
- TOEFL examination scores (a required minimum score of 540-543 on the paper-based exam, 207 on the computer-based exam or 76 on the Internet-based exam.
- Transcript evaluation: If you would like to transfer in college credit hours earned from foreign universities, you must have your college transcript evaluated by an independent service before SEU will review them for the possibility of transfer.
- Requirements for release of I-20: After being accepted to SEU, you must submit the following documents in order for SEU to release an I-20 on your behalf:
- Affidavit of financial support
- Statement from a financial institution verifying the amount of your deposited funds
- Payment in full for one semester
- Copies of passport and current visa
- F-1 transfer form (if you are transferring from another U.S. institution)
Apply to Southeastern University Associate Degree in Nursing
13. Associate in Science Degree Nursing
The associate in Science Degree nursing program prepares nurses who are passionate about promoting health, healing and hope for a career in healthcare.
The program is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing and accredited by the Accreditation Commission of Education in Nursing.
Upon completion of the program, graduates receive an Associate in Science degree certificate and are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a Registered Nurse.
Tuition Fees: $4000 - $5000
University/College: Santa Monica College
Admission Requirements
- An overall grade point average of 2.5 for the Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, and Microbiology prerequisite courses, taken in the last 5 years, with no grade less than C for each course.
- Only one repetition (excluding W) in the group of science prerequisite courses (Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology) is allowed within the last 5 years at the time of application.
- College-level English composition class (minimum 3 semester units) with a grade no less than C.
- Be in good standing at Santa Monica College (not on academic or lack-of-progress probation).
- Meet the minimum physical qualifications and essential functions (more information at smc.edu/nursing).
- Must have a negative criminal background check and drug screening.
- Persons who have been convicted of misdemeanour or felony may not qualify for licensure to practise nursing in California.
- Must take and achieve the required score on an Admission Assessment.
- Must have a valid Social Security Number or a valid Individual Tax Identification Number.
Apply to Santa Monica College ADN program
14. Associate Degree Nursing
The Associate Degree Nursing Program (ADN) was established in 1966 with the goal to produce professional nurses who are able to think critically, make appropriate decisions, communicate effectively and function as a member of a health team in providing holistic care to patients from different backgrounds.
Upon successful completion of this program, the student will receive a Nursing RN Associate in Science (A.S.) degree and will be eligible to take the national examination for licensure as a Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN).
Tuition Fees: $11000
University/College: Eastern Florida State College
Admission Requirements
- Interested students must review and complete the customized Nursing RN Application Process. Completed application files are due by the deadline.
- Students accepted into the Nursing RN A.S. programs are required to complete and pass a background check, drug screening, and comply with immunization requirements.
Apply to Eastern Florida State College ADN program
15. The Nursing Associate in Science
The Nursing Associate in Science (A.S.) degree program at Valencia College is one of the best two-year programs in the US for international students. The course is thoughtfully designed to prepare caring nurses for a specialized career in the nursing field.
Students who wish to become employees in the field of nursing and who may decide to continue to any Florida public university as a junior to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing through a R.N. to B.S.N are highly encouraged to apply for this AS Nursing program.
Tuition Fees: $1720
University/College: Valencia College
Admission Requirements
- Attend a Program Information Session. Bring a copy of the program guide for your desired track with you. If you are not local and cannot attend the information session, review the program guide and read the Frequently Asked Questions.
- Apply to Valencia College.
- Complete required general education courses before applying to the program.
- Once your transcripts have been received and evaluated, and if you meet eligibility requirements, you can apply to the program.
Apply to Valencia College A.S nursing program
16. Associate Degree Nursing
Houston Community College provides an affordable means for students to earn an Associate nursing degree in just two years of study.
The Associate Degree Nursing Program is designed to help aspiring nurses or LPN nurses master the knowledge and skills needed to work with patients and their families in a variety of health-care settings.
Tuition Fees: $8960
University/College: Houston Community College
Admission Requirements
- Student must complete Immunizations and Other Health Requirements
- Minimum Prerequisite Courses GPA 3.0 or higher
Apply to Houston Community College ADN program
17. Nursing, AAS
This nursing AAS course is the best course for nurses who want to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) for state licensure.
While studying this program, students can also apply and prepare toward the requirements for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at a four year institution.
Tuition Fees: $12,210
University/College: College of Southern Nevada
Admission Requirements
- 23 Total General Education Credit; Mathematics (3 Credits), English Composition (3-5 Credits), Human Relations (3 Credits), Natural Science (4 Credits), Fine Arts/Humanities/Social Sciences (3 Credits), U.S. and Nevada Constitutions (4-6 Credits)
Apply to the College of Southern Nevada Nursing, AAS program
18. Associate in Science in Nursing
Chatbot College’s Associate in Science in Nursing program is a two-year, full-time program offered in four consecutive semesters.
The Chabot Nursing Program is highly recognized and received the Strong Workforce Gold Star for 2018 year.
The program prepares aspiring nurses to be qualified to take the National Licensing Examination (NCLEX-RN) and upon passing, become a registered nurse and pursue a Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) and finally work within the nursing field.
Tuition Fees: $8000-$8500
University/College: Chabot College
Admission Requirements
- Complete Science Prerequisite
- Pass the TEAS at Adjusted Individual Score of 62% or higher.
- Attend a mandatory Nursing Program Information Meeting. Proof of attendance is required with application materials.
After-admission requirements
All admitted(selected) students are required to complete the following:
- Maintain a grade of “C” at 75% or better in each nursing course for progression in the program and for an Associate in Science Degree in Nursing.
- Submit a background check using a social security number; all students must have a social security card.
- Submit a urine drug screening test. All students are required to have a ‘clear’ drug screen prior to program admittance. Positive results on any non-prescription drug will result in dismissal from the program.
- Students are required to be current on their immunizations. Titer reports for MMR, Varicella, and Hep B are required. Annual Flu and a Covid Vaccine will be required and, in addition, students must complete TB testing (QuantiFERON-TB Gold and/or chest X-ray + Symptom Review Form), have a current TdaP and complete an N95 Mask fit test.
Apply to Chatbot College’s Associate in Science in Nursing program
19. Associate Degree Nursing
Southeastern Illinois Associate Degree Nursing course is a two year course designed to develop student’s skills and knowledge which are required to provide care to patients by assessing and monitoring their condition, working in coordination with physicians during medical procedures, and administering treatments prescribed by the healthcare provider.
Students who graduated from this program have a greater chance of passing their NCLEX-RN and those who plan to further their nursing education by earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing leave fully prepared to take that next step.
Tuition Fees: $16,175
University/College: Southeastern Illinois College
Admission Requirements
- Obtain and read the “Associate Degree Nursing Admission Packet” available in the Nursing Office, T-236. Attend an Advisement Meeting and
- submit Nursing Application packet. Take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS).
- Minimum 2.0 GPA
Apply To Southeastern Illinois Associate Degree Nursing Program
20. Accelerated BSN Program
The Accelerated 2nd-Degree BSN Program is a 12-month degree program designed for students who have earned a bachelor's degree (non-nursing) prior to acceptance and who are interested in becoming registered nurses. The course curriculum covers the essential prerequisites for a traditional BSN program. It is one of the best two year nursing courses for international students in the US.
Tuition Fees: $32,016
University/College: The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Admission Requirements
- BSN applicants are required to have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher or a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 earned during the applicant's most recently completed degree program. A 2.6 or better for science pre-requisite GPA is required.
- Required science prerequisite courses: Anatomy and Physiology I & II and Microbiology (calculation is based on the highest grade achieved on the first or second attempt); Applicants must earn a C or better on all pre-requisite science coursework. Science prerequisite courses (Human Anatomy & Physiology I, II, and Microbiology) must be completed within 5 years of the entry term.
- Official transcripts from everycollege/university you have attended.
- Two recommendations from academic and work related professionals are required to support the applicant’s ability to successfully complete the program and perform in the role.
Apply To The University of Tennessee Health Science Center ABSN program
Conclusion
Become a certified Nurse in just two years by applying to one of these 2 years Nursing degrees above.