thoughts on the Accelorated BSN program..

CRNA2BKY · May 9, 2007

Hey, I'm in an 18 month (actually 16 months of school, with 2 months off this summer) ABSN program right now. I really like doing this accelerated program, but it's not for everyone. Our program is broken down into 8-week blocks, where we do all of our normally semester-long classes in 8-weeks. So, all the information comes at us fast and furious. It really is a lot to handle, but I like the idea that in just a few weeks time, the classes are over, and we can look forward to starting all new classes. It is hard, but definately do-able. I would recommed it to anyone who is willing to concentrate on school work for a few months time.

decartes · May 9, 2007

I am graduating from an ABSN program in May. If you're enjoying AP1 and 2 and motivated to becoming a nurse, I highly suggest going for it. It is intense but as long as you're motivated and enjoying the knowledge, you'll do fine. I don't know how traditional BSN program are set up but the ABSN program I was in has 2-3 week breaks between semesters of 14-17 credits of nursing courses. It IS doable.

carolinapooh, BSN, RN · May 10, 2007

I am starting the second half of my ABSN program and will graduate in December of this year (which I still cannot believe, no matter how much I say it). Yes, it is intense, but I really haven't had a chance to notice it! You just get in to a groove and get involved with what you're doing and what's required, and the time flies. I have had moments where I take a breather and think, this is completely insane, but you never have time to muse on it for long.

The best part is - it will be over in December (we go for 16 months with three two week breaks between semesters - Fall, Spring, Summer, and another Fall) and took less time (but more money) than an ADN program. I want to be an NP so time was of the essence for me (at 33 my biological clock is ticking, you know?).

All in all, I certainly don't regret my decision. I'm enjoying the program and definitely feel it's been worth every penny to date.

It's definitely something you can do, with a bit of determination and some organization. Sounds smart to say it, but it's really not as hard from my perspective as it seemed when I was looking in from your perspective.

Gannon1qb · May 10, 2007

Sounds good everyboyd...thank you all for your replies. I think i would rather do the Accerloated program. I was leaning toward that. Now are any of you guys working at the same time?

Because i knwo if i were to do it...i woudl quit whatever i was doing adn just focus on the program. I am not lazy at all. I study so much for my pre reqs and i do very well in school. I procastinate sometiems and that worries me, but maybe its becasue im workign 2 jobs and going to school. If i were JUST doing the ABSN program, im sure i coudl handle it. So what about work?

decartes · May 10, 2007

In my opinion, part time during the weekends at most. It is a lot of material to cram and the group projects will need time outside lecture and lab time. It wouldn't be fair to the others in your group if you were always unavailable because of work.

Gannon1qb · May 10, 2007

good point. Maybe 5 hours on a saturday just so i have some gas money. But i defenetly wouldnt let it interfere with my school work. I cant wait unitl im in nursing school. Getting there is such a hassle. Between taking the correct pre reqs, applying, gettign accepted...i just want to be in already. Soon enough though.

CRNA2BKY · May 10, 2007

Decartes talks about doing group projects, and working may leave the people in your group with extra work if you are not there to participate. However, I'm not sure if decartes realizes it, but all schools are not the same, and at my school, we do not have group projects. Anyway, I would highly recommend not working at all, if there is any way on Earth you can do it. If you need to work, as many do, try doing just the part time weekend thing, as decartes suggested. Keep us posted, as the ABSN thing is an awesome way to go.

kimvymai · Sep 12, 2007

Hello everyone,

What schools are you in for the ABSN? I finish my pre req and are stuck on my personal statement to apply. Any reccomendation. Thank you everyone

Gannon1qb · Sep 12, 2007

i live in bergen county, NJ. So im going to apply to Rutgers in Newark and William Paterson. Seton Hall also has it but i dotn think i want to go there. Anybody else?

Asherah, BSN, RN · Sep 12, 2007

I'm applying to several ABSN programs, and have been to information sessions for most all of them. Program directors have been very clear when they state that success in their programs is dependent on almost 100% focus towards studies and clinicals...meaning no outside employment. Many of the ABSN programs require you to answer a question within the personal goal statement outlining how you will manage your personal and financial obligations. I'm guessing that with this, they are trying to determine how many of their students will attempt working while in their program, if offered admission. I've also spoken to many students and alumni of such programs and there is just no time, when you are packing 100% of the necessary information into 50% of the time (when most programs are 12-13.5 months). I'm definitely not planning to work if I decide to join an ABSN program, I don't think I would be able to extract the most worthwhile experience and information if I had to worry about working.

For any ABSN program you are considering, I would definitely advise you to speak to the admissions officers, current students as well as alumni to determine if working during a program is feasible.

Good luck!