Critical care nurses generally work in places such as intensive care units or burn centers. They provide assistance to patients with life-threatening illnesses or conditions such as surgery or serious infections. Students interested in critical care might take courses such as physiology, chemistry, and microbiology.

An Associate of Science is a two-year degree that is ideal for scholars who want to continue their education and pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the future. Students may be able to earn an AS both in person or online at a community college, technical school or university.