Accelerated Nursing Programs

I have not completed one, but will be applying to a few this summer. I do, however, have some info to share.

First, since it is fast paced, meaning you will be taking anywhere between 15 and 18 credits per semester, this will warrant a rather large tuition bill. Also, based on where school is located, and if it is a public or private one, the amount on the bill will vary greatly. Also, some schools calculate the cost for such programs differently. For example, LIU's (the one in Brooklyn, NY) charges $59000 per its ABSN which is 12-15 months long (cannot remember how long it is). A CUNY school like Hunter or Lehman charge per credit as it would a regular generic BSN, so you can save attending these schools.

Second, application process seems to be the same (at least in my area) as generic BSN programs. You do have to apply to the school first, and then, once accepted, apply to the nursing program. Also, same goes for taking entrance exams, if any, and completing certain pre-reqs. Oh yes, GPA is, as well, very important.

I have not graduated yet, but I'll answer as a current ABSN student.

Tips for application: Research your programs! Know what schools you want to apply to. Know their deadlines. Know their specific pre-reqs and admissions requirements. Some have very specific and unique requirements for their program so make sure you are aware of these well in advance. I found creating an excel spread sheet with all the programs I was interested in and including required pre-reqs and steps for admission, deadlines, cost, and other information very useful to staying organized before and during the application process.

Also really get to know the school. Many ABSN programs want a personal statement, and some conduct interviews. The more you can show why you are a good candidate - not just for nursing school, but for their particular program the better. Know the school's values, and strengths as a program, be able to articulate how you fit in with these values, and education philosophy and what you as an individual are able to bring to their program.

Cost: Can be highly variable, the range seems to be about $40K -130K based on my research, but you may find different information. It depends on how the specific program is set up (e.g. do they charge by credit hour or by program cost) and what kind of school you attend (e.g. public university as in-state student or private Ivy league). I am attending a well-respected public university as an out-of-state student. My cost is aprox. $55K for the 15 month program not including living expenses. For a student with in-state tuition the same program runs about $40K.

Realize that when looking for the combination of high-quality education, accelerated, and low cost, it is almost impossible to find an option that meets all 3 criteria. So it is most about finding a balance that works for you.