Accelerated BSN Programs

Greetings,
I am new to this website and Nursing. I completed an Accelerated BSN Program last year and it was very tough. I could not see myself working during the program. It was ridiculous, as far as the time needed to study. I have no regrets as well. I just wish I had the opportunity to do an Externship which was impossible in my program. Other than that, it was an interesting experience.

anyone do an online program? are they recognized? any recommendations?
I have a BS and know I will need some refresher prerequisites as I graduated in 1987 - yikers! looking to go back for nursing and just trying to figure out the best way. I don't mind taking a couple of years to get prerequisites done as my kids are just 3 and 4 so to start the accelerated program when they are in school is best anyway. Any thoughts? advice?

Thanks Vicky for this blog. I am applying to accelerated programs and I do not plan to work. What do you suggest I try to do to get scholarships and grants? I am trying to limit the amount of loans I would have to take out. Thanks again

Hello all,

I just graduated from Texas Tech's Accelerated BSN program AKA Second Degree BSN program on Aug. 7th. It was a 12 mo. (Aug-Aug.) program. It was very intense and I can't imagine trying to work. As a matter of fact, they ask you to sign a contract at the beginning of the program saying you will not work during the program.

I have already found a job working in Pediatrics at our local hospital and I am thrilled! I was hired the Wednesday after I graduated. My previous degree was in Biology. I was an elementary teacher for 5 years.

For those looking for an online program, this program was considered a "50-50" program. At least 50% (actually closer to 75%) of classwork and assignments were online. We attended clinicals at one of three local hospitals for 2 to 3 12hr. clinicals each week. Each person was assigned a BSN prepared preceptor that we worked with throughout our clinicals. About every third week, we would have proctored tests (Med-surg and all finals) at the Texas Tech office here in Odessa. This program is also offered in other areas of Texas, including: Austin/Hill Country, El Paso, Abilene, Lubbock, and Odessa/Midland (where I went!).

The program was very challenging, but absolutely doable. I finished with a 3.95 GPA. I would highly recommend this program. It seems as though the instructors in the program have every intention of helping you with whatever you need to prepare you for NCLEX. Let me know if you have any questions.