13 Best Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Programs | 2024

In the dynamic world of healthcare, the demand for competent and well-trained nurses continues to grow.

For those who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree but wish to pivot into the profession, Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs present an enticing opportunity, as they're meticulously crafted to fast-track such a transition. By combining rigorous coursework with hands-on clinical training, graduates will be well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern healthcare.

Learn more about the intricacies of ABSN programs, from the foundational coursework and immersive clinical experiences to the prerequisites, requirements, and potential pros and cons. Whether you're contemplating a career shift or seeking to understand the landscape of accelerated nursing education, we've got you covered.

What Is an ABSN Program?

ABSN programs are designed for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree in another field and wish to pursue a career in nursing. These programs allow individuals to earn their BSN in a shorter amount of time compared to traditional BSN programs.

ABSN Coursework

The coursework in an ABSN is intensive and fast-paced, given the accelerated nature of the program. Students are expected to have a strong foundation in the sciences and humanities, as they will be building upon this knowledge throughout the program. The curriculum typically includes:

• Foundational Sciences: This includes courses in anatomy, physiology, Microbiology, and chemistry. These subjects provide the necessary background for understanding the human body and how it responds to various medical interventions.
• Nursing Theory: Students will learn the theoretical foundations of nursing, including nursing models, patient care philosophies, and the role of nurses in the healthcare system.
• Nursing Skills: This encompasses practical skills that nurses need in their daily work, such as patient assessment, medication administration, wound care, and more.
• Specialized Areas of Nursing: Depending on the program, students may also delve into specialized areas of nursing, such as pediatrics, obstetrics, mental health, and critical care.

ABSN Clinical Training

Clinical training is a crucial component of the ABSN program. It provides students with hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings, allowing them to apply the knowledge and skills they've learned in the classroom.

• Supervised Clinical Rotations: Students will rotate through various clinical settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. During these rotations, they work under the supervision of experienced nurses and healthcare professionals.
• Diverse Experiences: The clinical rotations expose students to a wide range of medical conditions, patient populations, and healthcare environments. This diversity ensures that students are well-rounded and prepared for various nursing roles.
• Skill Application: In the clinical setting, students have the opportunity to practice essential nursing skills, from patient assessments to administering medications and collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
• Professional Development: Clinical training also offers students the chance to develop their professional communication, critical thinking, and decision-making skills. They learn to work as part of a healthcare team and to advocate for their patients.

Best ABSN Programs

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most, with the addition of NCLEX pass rates, graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Duke University

The ABSN program at Duke University is designed for students who have already completed a bachelor's degree or higher. The program is a full-time, campus-based accelerated course that prepares students to become nurse leaders in just 16 months. The curriculum emphasizes wellness, health promotion, disease prevention, clinical leadership, evidence-based nursing practice, and culturally appropriate care.

Program Highlights:

• Full-time, accelerated, campus-based program.
• Duration of just 16 months.
• Focus on wellness, health promotion, disease prevention, and more.
• Clinical Practical Hours: 750+
• ABSN Courses: 15
• Elective Courses: 2
• The program boasts of faculty who are leaders in their field with real-world clinical experience.
• The Duke Difference emphasizes innovative nurse-led models of care, distance-based & hybrid education expertise, and learning & practicing in one of the world's most advanced health systems.
• Costs: Specific tuition and fees for the ABSN program at Duke University for the 2023-2024 Academic Year is $25,258 per semester. 

2. University of Pennsylvania

The BSN Second Degree Program at the University of Pennsylvania is tailored for individuals who already possess a bachelor's degree from any institution. This program offers an accelerated route to obtaining a BSN degree and is especially suitable for those considering working in the nursing profession before specializing or pursuing an advanced practice degree.

Program Highlights:

• The curriculum includes hands-on learning experiences, state-of-the-art simulations, comprehensive mentorship, clinical practice, and community engagement options.
• Students have the opportunity to begin graduate-level coursework at Penn while completing the BSN through the submatriculation program. Eligible students can apply to submatriculate into one of the MSN programs after finishing the first Summer clinical.
• After completing the BSN degree, students are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed.
• Penn Nursing graduates are in high demand, with most securing jobs immediately post-graduation. The university also boasts a vast alumni network that serves as mentors and guides for graduates evaluating career paths.
• Costs: Specific costs related to the BSN Second Degree Program for the entry year 2023 are as follows:
  • Fall 2023 Tuition: $30,038
  • Spring 2024 Tuition: $30,038

3. New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing

The Accelerated 15-Month Program at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing is designed for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree in any discipline. This program offers a fast-track path to a BSN degree, enabling students to graduate with a BS in nursing and be prepared to enter the workforce as RNs.

Program Highlights:

• Students complete the program in 15 months and graduate with a BS in nursing.
• The curriculum provides hands-on learning experiences, state-of-the-art simulations, comprehensive mentorship, clinical practice, and community engagement options.
• Students have the opportunity to begin graduate-level coursework at NYU while finishing the BSN.
• NYU Nursing graduates are highly sought after, and the college has a vast network of alumni who serve as mentors and guides for graduates.

4. University of Washington

The ABSN at the University of Washington is a unique four-quarter full-time program that offers an expedited path to a BSN degree, enabling students to transition into the nursing profession in less than two years.

Program Highlights:

• World-class learning experiences with over 1,000 hours of hands-on patient care.
• State-of-the-art Simulation Center for skill development in a controlled environment.
• Clinical placements with top hospitals through a partnership with Clinical Placement Northwest (CPNW).
• Comprehensive support from the Department of Student Academic Services, including advising and scholarship management.
• The curriculum includes in-person lectures, clinical simulation exercises, and supervised direct patient care.
• Graduates are prepared to apply leadership concepts, understand social determinants of health, deliver health promotion strategies, and advocate for health equity.

5. Villanova University

The Second Degree Accelerated BSN track at Villanova University offers two tracks: a 14-Month Express Track and a 23-Month Flex Track. The program is approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing and fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Program Highlights:

• Class cohesiveness, fostering a unique support system and learning community for the students.
• Access to expert faculty mentors.
• Opportunities to collaborate with faculty on research projects and related initiatives.
• Opportunities for professional membership and involvement.
• Graduate study opportunities.
• Over 1,000 hours of hands-on patient care, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and clinical placements with top hospitals.
• Costs:
  • 14-Month Express Track: Tuition is $51,000 for 2023. The program begins in May and finishes in August of the subsequent year.
  • 23-Month Flex Track: Tuition is $51,000 for 2023. The program begins in August and is designed for students who may want to work part-time or manage external responsibilities while enrolled as a student.

6. Northeastern University

The ABSN curriculum comprises 67 credits of undergraduate coursework spread across 4 semesters. The majority of these credits are completed online, allowing students to listen to lectures, submit assignments, engage in interactive learning modules, and participate in discussions with faculty and classmates.

Program Highlights:

• Experiential Learning: The Bouvé College of Health Sciences School of Nursing offers an extensive network of clinical affiliations at health centers, major teaching hospitals, community hospitals, and clinics. This enables students to engage in clinical experiences covering a wide range of nursing specialties, including:
  • Adult health
  • Obstetrics and women's health
  • Pediatrics
  • Behavioral and mental health
  • Public health
  • Management and leadership.

7. University of Texas Health Science Center

The ABSN program at UT Health San Antonio is tailored for individuals who are not registered nurses and already hold a baccalaureate degree or higher in a field other than nursing. The program allows these individuals to earn a BSN in 15 months with continuous, full-time study.

Program Highlights:

• Opportunity to earn distinction in research and clinical service.
• Prepares graduates for generalist nursing practice with a focus on health promotion as an act of social justice.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in a field other than nursing.
• 3.0 prerequisite GPA.
• 51 of the 60 hours of required prerequisite courses completed (including all math and science courses).

8. Emory University

Emory University offers a Distance ABSN (DABSN) program that allows diligent and intelligent students to earn a nursing degree from a quality university in just one year. After three semesters of study, students are eligible to join the nation's most trusted profession.

Program Overview:

• The DABSN program is the quickest way to a nursing degree at Emory University's Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing.
• The program has a small class size, limited to 30 students, ensuring individual attention and fostering a sense of community.
• Students undergo a full-time, rigorous online study that hones their clinical and critical thinking skills.
• Clinical rotations are a mix of on-campus intensive sessions and sites near the student's home. There are also optional learning opportunities in local, regional, or international healthcare settings.
• Admission requires a prior bachelor's degree in another discipline from an accredited institution.
• The program is designed for students living outside the Atlanta metro region, emphasizing addressing nursing workforce shortages in high-need or medically underserved areas.

9. Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago offers an Accelerated BSN program that can be completed in just 16 months. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive nursing education over four semesters, from Foundations of Clinical Practice to Clinical Role Transition.

Program Highlights:

• Learning Formats: The ABSN track offers two different learning formats for students.
• Jesuit Values: The program emphasizes a supportive learning environment rooted in Jesuit values, focusing on knowledge to help marginalized individuals.
• Clinical Rotations: Students gain real-world nursing experience in diverse areas of practice.
• Simulation Labs: Students can play the role of a nurse in highly realistic clinical scenarios.
• Requirements: Key requirements include a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and an existing bachelor's degree or higher in a non-nursing field.

10. University of Florida

The College of Nursing at the University of Florida offers an Accelerated BSN program tailored for students with a baccalaureate degree or higher in another field. This program begins each May and is completed after four consecutive semesters of full-time study, finishing the following August.

Program Highlights:

• Clinical Experience: Students undergo clinical experiences near their homes and are paired with a faculty member. They rotate through various clinical settings of the UF Health Jacksonville campus and the UF Health primary care and specialty care centers throughout northeast Florida. In addition to UF Health locations, students are placed at other clinical sites and medical centers in the metropolitan area.
• Curriculum: The program includes classroom and laboratory activities alongside supervised clinical practice experiences. It covers various issues in professional nursing practice and health care, introducing students to evidence development, the research process, and clinical reasoning.

11. Clemson University

The Accelerated Second Degree (ASD) Nursing Program at Clemson University is an intense, full-time track of study that includes rigorous clinical experiences. All classes and clinical experiences are based out of the CU Nursing Building in Greenville, SC, with clinicals held in the surrounding area hospital systems.

Program Highlights:

• After just 16 months of study, students earn a BSN.
• All classes and clinical experiences are based out of the CU Nursing Building in Greenville, SC.
• Clinicals are held in the surrounding area hospital systems, providing students with hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.
• Students begin the ASD Nursing Program each Fall as a full-time undergraduate transfer student.

12. George Washington University

The Accelerated BSN program at George Washington University is a second-degree option that spans four consecutive semesters. The curriculum advances students' knowledge, allowing them to gain invaluable hands-on experience during clinical rotations in top-rated facilities in the greater Washington, D.C., area.

Program Highlights:

• Students undergo clinical experiences in various specialties, including medical and surgical nursing, obstetrics, pediatrics, psychiatric nursing, and community health.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: The program offers learning through high-fidelity simulators, standardized patients, and interactive online modules.
• Unique Courses: Students can enroll in unique electives on topics such as perioperative care, health information and technology, global health, pediatric adversity, and early childhood development.
• NCLEX Preparation: The program integrates a review process throughout, with a live review before graduation to ensure students are prepared for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for registered nurses.

13. Metropolitan State University of Denver

The Accelerated Nursing Option at Metropolitan State University of Denver offers rigorous clinical experiences in various healthcare settings in the Denver area.

Program Highlights:

• The program spans over four consecutive semesters.
• Students undergo clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings in the Denver metropolitan area, gaining hands-on experience.
• The program begins each Fall semester.
• Simulation Lab: The program offers a state-of-the-art simulation lab where students can practice clinical skills in a controlled environment.
• Information Sessions: Prospective students can attend virtual information sessions to learn more about the Accelerated and Traditional Nursing Options.

ABSN Prerequisites & Requirements

For those considering an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, it's essential to understand the prerequisites and requirements to ensure a successful application and transition into the program.

Prerequisites

Prerequisites are courses or qualifications that a student must complete before entering the ABSN program. These prerequisites ensure that students have foundational knowledge that will be built upon during the ABSN program. Common prerequisites include:

• Science Courses: Most ABSN programs require students to have completed courses in anatomy, physiology, Microbiology, and chemistry. These courses provide a foundational understanding of the human body and its functions.
• Mathematics: Some programs may require coursework in statistics or other relevant math courses to ensure students have the necessary quantitative skills.
• Humanities and Social Sciences: Courses in psychology, sociology, and other humanities may be required to give students a well-rounded education and understanding of human behavior.
• Previous Bachelor's Degree: Since ABSN programs are designed for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree in another field, having a completed degree is a standard prerequisite.
• Minimum GPA: Many programs have a minimum GPA requirement for the prerequisite courses to ensure that students are academically prepared for the rigors of the program.

ABSN Requirements

Requirements refer to the criteria that applicants must meet during the application process as admission requirements or once they are admitted to the program. They typically include:

• Application and Fees: Prospective students must complete the program's application form and pay any associated fees.
• Letters of Recommendation: Most programs require letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or other professionals who can attest to the applicant's qualifications and potential as a nursing student.
• Personal Statement or Essay: Applicants may need to submit a personal statement or essay detailing their reasons for pursuing a nursing career and why they believe the ABSN program is a good fit for them.
• Interview: Some programs may require an interview as part of the admissions process. This gives the admissions committee a chance to get to know the applicant better and assess their fit for the program.
• Background Check and Drug Screening: Due to the sensitive nature of healthcare work, many programs require students to undergo a background check and drug screening before beginning clinical rotations.
• Health Requirements: Students may need to provide proof of immunizations, a recent physical examination, and other health-related documentation to ensure they are fit for clinical work.
• CPR Certification: Some programs require students to be certified in CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) before starting their clinical rotations.

ABSN Pros & Cons

While ABSN programs offer a fast track to a nursing career and come with several advantages, they also present challenges that prospective students should consider. It's essential to weigh the pros and cons and determine if the program aligns with one's personal and professional goals.

Pros

1. Time-Efficiency: One of the most significant advantages of ABSN programs is the ability to earn a BSN degree in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional nursing programs. This is especially beneficial for individuals looking to transition into the nursing field quickly.
2. Advanced Curriculum: Given that ABSN students already have a bachelor's degree, the curriculum often dives deeper into advanced topics, providing a comprehensive nursing education.
3. Diverse Student Body: ABSN programs attract students from various backgrounds and disciplines, leading to a diverse cohort. This diversity can enrich discussions and provide multiple perspectives on healthcare topics.
4. High Demand: With the ongoing need for healthcare professionals, ABSN graduates are in high demand. The accelerated nature of the program allows more nurses to enter the workforce sooner.
5. Opportunities for Further Specialization: Many ABSN graduates choose to pursue further specializations, such as becoming a nurse practitioner (NP) or clinical nurse specialist (CNS). The rigorous training of ABSN programs often prepares students well for advanced roles.

Cons

1. Intensity: Due to the accelerated nature of the program, ABSN courses can be highly intensive. Students often find they have little free time outside of their studies and clinical rotations.
2. Cost: ABSN programs can be more expensive than traditional BSN programs on a per-semester basis. While the overall duration is shorter, the cost per semester or quarter might be higher.
3. Stress: The fast-paced environment can be stressful for students, especially those who are balancing other responsibilities such as work or family.
4. Limited Breaks: Given the condensed nature of the program, students may find they have shorter breaks between semesters or terms, which can be challenging for those needing rest or time to recharge.
5. Competitiveness: Due to the popularity and advantages of ABSN programs, they can be highly competitive. High academic standards and other requirements might make it challenging for some applicants to secure a spot.

ABSN Costs & Salary Expectations

The costs and salary expectations of ABSN programs will vary based on numerous factors including institution, employer, location, and more. Nonetheless, the following are general cost considerations and recent salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

ABSN Costs

• Tuition: This is the primary cost and can vary based on whether the institution is public or private, in-state or out-of-state, and other institutional factors.
• Books and Supplies: Students will need to purchase textbooks, study materials, and other necessary supplies for their courses.
• Clinical Fees: Some programs may have separate fees associated with clinical rotations or placements.
• Uniforms and Equipment: Students typically need to buy uniforms for clinical rotations, as well as equipment like stethoscopes.
• Licensing and Exam Fees: Towards the end of the program, students will need to pay for the NCLEX-RN exam and any associated licensing fees.
• Living Expenses: While not directly tied to the program, students should also consider costs like housing, transportation, and meals, especially if relocating for the program.

It's important to note that while ABSN programs might seem more expensive on a per-semester basis due to their accelerated nature, they might be comparable in total cost to traditional BSN programs since they are completed in a shorter timeframe.

ABSN Salary Expectations

According to the latest data from the BLS, registered nurses earn an average annual salary of $89,010 or a mean hourly wage of $42.80. The lowest 10% earned an average of $61,250 while the highest 10% earned $129,400.

Top-Paying States for RNs:

• California: $133,340
• Hawaii: $113,220
• Oregon: $106,610
• Massachusetts: $104,150
• Alaska: $103,310

Unfortunately, the BLS doesn't differentiate between RNs with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or diploma versus BSN-prepared RNs, but considering that a BSN is known to increase salary expectations, it's likely that an ABSN will gear toward average and above salaries and is less likely to be represented by the lowest salary estimates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the main difference between a traditional BSN and a pre-licensure ABSN program?

A traditional BSN program is designed for students without a bachelor's degree and typically spans four years. In contrast, a pre-licensure ABSN program is tailored for individuals who already possess a baccalaureate degree in another field and wish to transition into nursing. The ABSN program is accelerated, allowing students to complete their nursing education in a shorter timeframe.

Q: Are ABSN programs accredited, and why is this important?

Accreditation ensures that the program meets specific standards of quality and prepares students adequately for the nursing profession. It's also essential for eligibility to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain licensure.

This includes accreditation by:

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
• Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

Q: How do ABSN program pass rates compare to traditional BSN programs?

While pass rates can vary by institution, many ABSN programs boast high NCLEX-RN pass rates, indicating that their graduates are well-prepared for the licensure exam. Prospective students should research individual program pass rates as a measure of program quality.

Q: Can I work full-time while enrolled in an ABSN program?

Given the intensity and fast-paced nature of ABSN programs, it's often challenging to work full-time while enrolled. The program requires significant time commitment for coursework, clinical placements, and studying. Some students might work part-time, but it's essential to balance work with the demands of the program.

Q: How do clinical experiences in ABSN programs differ from traditional BSN programs?

ABSN programs offer diverse clinical experiences across various healthcare settings, from hospitals to public health clinics. Due to the accelerated nature, students might find their clinical placements to be more intensive, but they cover the same breadth of experiences as traditional BSN programs.

Q: What financial aid options are available for ABSN students?

Many colleges of nursing offer financial aid options for ABSN students, including scholarships, grants, and loan programs. It's advisable to contact the financial aid office of the specific institution for detailed information and explore external scholarship opportunities tailored for second-degree or accelerated program students.