If you are asking, are there any accelerated nursing programs near me, we can help you find one. We also explain other factors to take into consideration when looking for a nursing program, such as prerequisites, start dates, and NCLEX pass rates.
If you have a non-nursing college education and want to change your career to nursing, there are hundreds of fast-track program options across the United States from which to choose. But what you’re probably more interested in knowing: Are there accelerated nursing programs near me?
In this post, you’ll learn how to find Accelerated BSN programs (ABSN for short) and what you need to consider before applying to nursing school. We also provide answers to the most common questions people have about accelerated nursing programs.
Accelerated Nursing Programs Nationwide
If you find yourself searching for “accelerated nursing programs near me,” you’ve come to the right place. By filling out the form on our website, we can connect you to some of the top private universities in the country. Regardless of where you live, or where you wish to go to school, we can help you find an accelerated BSN program that suits you. We’ll go over several aspects you’ll need to consider before choosing a nursing program.
Accelerated BSN Considerations
Every nursing school runs its ABSN program differently. So, as you research the options available to you, be sure to consider the following items:
Admissions Requirements
Every ABSN program has a different set of admissions requirements. While most nursing schools require a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to apply, some are willing to accept students with 60 non-nursing college credits. The minimum cumulative GPA requirements for schools can range from 2.7 to 3.5. Most schools, however, have a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0.
Test of Essential Academic Skills
Some nursing schools require ABSN applicants to take the ATI TEAS. The test features 170 multiple-choice questions that cover reading, mathematics, science, and English. If you're applying to a school with a TEAS requirement, it's important to study and prepare for the test. Applicants who don't take this test seriously often do poorly, resulting in them not getting accepted into nursing school.
Prerequisite Courses
Pay attention to how many prerequisite courses an ABSN program requires. Some schools have as few as four, while others as many as 15. And the more prerequisites you need to complete, the longer it will take you to start nursing school.
You must do well in these courses. Because if you don’t meet the grade requirements, you no longer qualify for nursing school. Many schools require applicants to earn a minimum grade of C in each prerequisite. Some schools may allow you to retake a prerequisite course, however some may not.
While the number of prerequisites varies by school, you should expect to see a common thread of courses that include anatomy and physiology, chemistry, microbiology, and statistics.
Program Length
ABSN programs may vary in length, but generally they take as few as 12 months and as many as 24 months to complete. The most common program length, however, is 16 months.
But keep in mind, program length isn’t always what it seems. Nursing schools typically don’t factor prerequisites into their ABSN curriculum. You must consider the prerequisite requirements for your desired program in order to plan out your educational timeline.
Start Dates
You can increase your chances of getting into an ABSN program by applying to a nursing school that offers multiple start dates a year. It’s common for a nursing school to receive hundreds of ABSN applications but can only accept 30 students annually—creating a highly competitive situation. Having multiple start dates allows programs to accept more students, not to mention it can allow you to start nursing school sooner.
Course Delivery
When it comes to learning the fundamentals of nursing, some ABSN programs let you complete your core coursework online—only they’re not 100% online. Students in these online-based programs must complete hands-on nursing labs and in-person clinical rotations.
Prefer a traditional nursing education? There are several ABSN programs where everything is taught on campus. But they tend to fill up fast because many students are unsure of online learning. Take note online-based programs can accept more students per term than campus options.
We have a list of pros and cons to these flexible courses to help you weigh your options.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
When choosing a nursing school, it’s important to research its first-time NCLEX-RN pass rates. The NCLEX is the national licensure exam every nursing graduate must pass to practice as a registered nurse.
When a school maintains consistently high NCLEX pass rates, it usually means the institution provides its ABSN students with everything they need to succeed, from faculty support to test preparation.
You can find the NCLEX pass rates for a specific nursing school listed on its affiliated state board of nursing website.
National Accreditation
No matter what ABSN program you choose make sure it has the approval of the Accreditation Commission for Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These accrediting agencies validate the quality and integrity of nursing programs to ensure schools are graduating students within nationally established standards.
State Approval
Aside from national accreditation, an ABSN program must be up to snuff at the local level. After all, every state has different rules and statutes when it comes to nursing licensure. So, make sure the ABSN program you’re considering has the approval of its affiliated state board of nursing.
Nursing School Considerations
When choosing a nursing school, there are several items worth considering. Keep in mind that the information listed in this section reflects sweeping generalizations. However, this is not a comprehensive list, and it’s understandable if you still have remaining questions.
ABSN Program FAQs
Are accelerated nursing programs competitive?
Yes, student competition is everywhere. It’s common for a nursing school to receive more applications than their ABSN program can accommodate. You can, however, increase your chances of getting into an accelerated nursing program by applying to one that has an online learning component and multiple starts a year. Such programs tend to be able to enroll the highest number of students per year.
How hard are accelerated nursing programs?
Nursing school is hard. It’s probably one of the most challenging education paths available. But it must be because people trust nurses with their lives. To be successful in an accelerated nursing program, you need to be fully committed to your education and willing to spend up to 60 hours a week on your studies.
For a more in-depth answer to this question, see our blog that touches on how hard nursing school is and how you can push through despite the challenge.
Are accelerated nursing programs worth it?
Yes, but you must put a lot of time and energy into your studies to get a return on your investment. Nurses with BSN degrees are in demand across the country, so there’s high job security and good pay for individuals entering the profession.
How much does an accelerated nursing program cost?
Accelerated nursing program tuition varies by school. When weighing nursing programs, be sure to take note tuition doesn’t include the ancillary costs of attending nursing school. You’ll also need to factor in technology fees, supply costs, and health insurance, etc.
Additionally, you’ll have to think about whether you will be able to work while in the program. As mentioned, nursing school is a challenge and will take up most of your time. We recommend putting all of your attention into your studies while in school, however not working while in school may take some additional financial planning.
Searching for, “Accelerated Nursing Programs Near Me?”
If you have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or a minimum of 60 college credits in a field other than nursing, we can connect you with an Accelerated BSN program near you. Simply complete our online form, and we’ll get to work. We provide this as a free service, and you’re never obligated to any of the nursing schools that contact you.