How exactly does an associates in nurse education work?

I have decided to get my associates in nurse education. When I finish and take the nurse board exam can I be an RN? Also, if I then get a job as an RN is it best to be working towards my Bachelors degree in nursing at the same time? And if I so chose, could I finish off and get my Master's in Social Work? I know it will take me a while, but I want to work it out slow because it's expensive and I'm not the richest person in the world. Is this a good plan?

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