Research on the differences between baccalaureate and associate degree nurses

A large number of subjects, instruments, and situations have been reported in the research studies reviewed. No major differences are noted between the cognitive abilities of students in baccalaureate and associate degree programs. Baccalaureate nurses are generally perceived as being better prepared for a wide range of nursing competencies and are seen as performing in the professional role for which they have been prepared. Associate degree nurses are seen as performing well in teh technical role for which they have been prepared, as well as in some leadership roles for which they were not originally prepared. In general, nurses were seen as performing in the roles for which they had been educationally prepared. However, the service setting infrequently utilized graduates of the two types of programs differently. Differences were more likely to result from the role functioning of individual nurses.