Overcoming the hurdles of a non-traditional nursing student

So you've made the big decision: You want to become a nurse.

But the idea of returning to school — balancing personal responsibilities with the financial commitment and rigorous coursework — can feel overwhelming. If you're experiencing that tension right now, here are a few ways to save time, money, and headaches as you pursue your dream career.

Saving time with ABSN programs

Does pivoting from your current job to a career in nursing mean you have to start all over again? Not at all. If you've earned a bachelor's degree in another area, there's a nursing degree path designed just for you — and it can save years of schooling. 

What is an ABSN?

An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is an 11–18 month program designed for students who previously earned a different degree. These students already have completed general education requirements, and an ABSN will use those credits to place you closer to graduation. 

Just to clarify: Accelerated refers to the program, not the degree. An ABSN program results in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and adequately prepares students for the NCLEX, a licensure exam that tests for nursing competence.

Benefits of ABSN programs

Many non-traditional students are eager to start working as soon as possible, and ABSNs are the fastest track to a career in healthcare. Additionally, ABSNs are a more affordable option than a traditional BSN program. So if you're looking for the quickest route to begin supporting a family and returning to stability, the ABSN is your best bet.

And because you've already completed your general education courses, all curriculum is career oriented, strategically designed to help you retain the information and apply the skills you're learning.

Things to consider

While accelerated schedules have a shorter timeline than a traditional BSN, these programs still require the same clinical and lab hours. In other words, ABSNs are rigorous, time-consuming, and year-round, which means you should not enter the program while trying to hold down a job. You'll need plenty of motivation and discipline to be successful.

Saving money with online programs

Because of their flexibility and affordability, online nursing programs suit the needs of non-traditional students well. On average, a public online course costs $338 per credit compared to the average higher-ED tuition of $490 a credit. Many universities offer an array of online courses including ABSN programs, prerequisites, and hybrid BSN programs. Here are 10 universities that provide online nursing programs and their tuition rates: 

• Institution Cost Per Course
• Columbia University $1,050
• Doane University  $1,170
• Excelsior University  $1,530 _(estimated)
• Grand Canyon University $1,365
• Gwynedd Mercy University  $1,050 _(estimated)
• Liberty University Online $990 for BSN _(estimated)
• MGH Institute of Health Professions $1,575
• Purdue University Northwest $1,155
• Southern New Hampshire University  $960
• University of Phoenix $1,050 for BSN _(estimated)

Other post-secondary providers

Outside of traditional colleges and universities, several third-party providers offer online courses for nursing students. They are typically non-degree awarding and focus on transferable prerequisite courses. Some of these online educators offer a subscription service while others have the same pay-by-course model as universities. If you are interested in online learning providers, calculate what payment method will be most affordable for you before investing. 

Important factors: academic rigor and student support 

Even though you're eager to earn your degree and start working quickly, you don't want to settle for a subpar education. So when it comes to online educators, it's important to look for accreditation as a quality marker. For non-degree awarding institutions, make sure the credits you need will transfer to your college or university, so you don't waste time and money. 

If you choose self-directed learning to help complete your BSN, having a support system can make a world of a difference. Institutions like Portage Learning provide direct access to professors and student services that assist with accountability, time management, and study skills. 

Portage Learning is an accredited, post-secondary institution offering nursing prerequisites through self-directed courses. Students can sign up any day of the year and start their course within one business day of enrollment, so you won't be constrained by traditional semester schedules. 

Another benefit Portage Learning offers to non-traditional students: there are no fixed dates for exams, so you can take them on your schedule, when you feel you've mastered the material. Tuition is just $223 per credit, which makes it one of the most affordable options around. More than 50 percent of Portage Learning students are age 25 or older, and over 30 percent intend to pursue an ABSN.

You are not alone 

The non-traditional nursing student demographic is growing, and so are the resources for those juggling jobs, spouses, and families alongside their studies. According to a survey by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, there were 327 ABSN programs available nationwide in 2023, with more on the horizon. As a non-traditional student, you are helping to reduce the national nursing shortage in a career that's fulfilling and impactful.

By joining the thousands of adult learners in nursing programs, you'll become part of a motivated community receiving increasing support for your career aspirations. For sure, finishing nursing school can be one of the biggest challenges you'll face. But knowing your support system and finding a program that has your best interests in mind will set you up for success in the years ahead. 

Authors: Tim Kolodziej, Jerrod A. Poe, Ph.D., and Emily Lichius