“RN... all it takes is an associate’s degree”.
That has changed, I believe. A two year degree and you are a nurse’s aid but you need a four year degree for a R.N.
With respect, that is not the case. CNA takes a few months; LPN takes a year. RN takes two years and an associate’s degree, but many go on to get a 4-year BSN. If they want to teach or become a APRN it’s mandatory, IIRC.