The Complete Guide to Accelerated Nursing Programs
Accelerated nursing programs are for students with an undergraduate degree in a field other than nursing who want to become nurses. Universities nationwide offer accelerated programs for all types of nursing degrees, including BSN, MSN, and DNP.
Learn all about the different accelerated nursing programs for non-nurses and find out how you can transition into nursing from another field.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Gain the skills and credentials to advance into nurse management and leadership roles, while laying the groundwork to pursue future nurse practitioner or advanced practice roles. Complete your courses online, on your schedule, at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.
GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses. Transfer up to 90 credits and earn a BSN in as little as 12 months. GCU’s online classes allow you to study at the times that work for your schedule while still enjoying a close connection with your classmates and instructor via online discussions.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
The University of Texas at Arlington’s online programs are designed to help you achieve more in your nursing practice with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. They offer convenient, flexible options for completing your RN to BSN online, designed to fit into your busy schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
As a pioneer in distance learning since 1985, Liberty University’s online nursing programs are designed to prepare practicing nurses to serve with integrity by teaching advanced skills from an ethical perspective. Liberty's programs are based on industry best practices and up-to-date research – so you can get the tools you need to stay on the cutting edge of nursing care and innovation.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
What Is an Accelerated Nursing Program?
Accelerated nursing programs are specialty nursing programs designed for aspiring nurses with a bachelor's or master's degree in a non-nursing field. These programs allow students to earn a nursing degree more quickly than a traditional program because they build on the education they have already earned.
Are There Online Accelerated Nursing Programs?
Students can attend the didactic courses of accelerated nursing programs in person or online. However, they must participate in clinical courses in person.
Accelerated vs Traditional Nursing Programs
Unlike traditional programs, accelerated programs run continuously and are completed significantly faster.
How Do Accelerated Nursing Programs Work?
Accelerated nursing programs build on students' prior education so they can complete nursing classes in a condensed time. Since these students already hold undergraduate or graduate degrees, they only take courses directly related to their nursing degree.
For example, consider a student with an undergraduate degree in business who is now interested in nursing. They would not have to complete general undergraduate education courses such as English or philosophy. Instead, they would only attend nursing courses and clinicals.
Popular Online RN-to-BSN Programs
Gain the skills and credentials to advance into nurse management and leadership roles, while laying the groundwork to pursue future nurse practitioner or advanced practice roles. Complete your courses online, on your schedule, at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.
GCU’s RN-BSN program is tailored to meet the needs of the RN adult learner and to maximize the strengths that the working RN already possesses. Transfer up to 90 credits and earn a BSN in as little as 12 months. GCU’s online classes allow you to study at the times that work for your schedule while still enjoying a close connection with your classmates and instructor via online discussions.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
The University of Texas at Arlington’s online programs are designed to help you achieve more in your nursing practice with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. They offer convenient, flexible options for completing your RN to BSN online, designed to fit into your busy schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
As a pioneer in distance learning since 1985, Liberty University’s online nursing programs are designed to prepare practicing nurses to serve with integrity by teaching advanced skills from an ethical perspective. Liberty's programs are based on industry best practices and up-to-date research – so you can get the tools you need to stay on the cutting edge of nursing care and innovation.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Types of Accelerated Nursing Degrees
|
Degree |
Program Length |
Requirements |
Program Cost |
|
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) |
14-24 months |
|
Varies from $35,000 to $100,000 |
|
Accelerated Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
18-30 months |
|
Varies from $45,000 and $120,000 |
|
Accelerated Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
36-48 months |
|
Varies from $55,000 and $160,000 |
Accelerated BSN Degree
Accelerated Bachelor in Nursing (ABSN) programs are for students with a non-nursing undergraduate degree who want to become registered nurses.
ABSN students take courses specifically related to nursing and complete in-person clinical rotations.
ABSN programs are excellent for students interested in transitioning into nursing in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Program Requirements
Specific accelerated nursing program requirements vary depending on the university. However, most have similar admission standards, which include:
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s Degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (May Vary)
- Personal Interview
- CV/Resume
- Official Transcripts
- Letters of Recommendation
- Application fee
- University and Nursing Program Application
- Science and Statistics Course Prerequisites
Program Cost
Accelerated registered nursing programs can cost as little as $35,000 or as much as $100,000. Program costs will vary depending on the university, length of program, private vs. public, and other factors.
Note that most accelerated BSN students are not eligible for traditional scholarships through the university, so that is something to consider when applying.
What to Expect in an ABSN Program
Students enrolled in accelerated BSN programs should expect a fast-paced, nursing-focused, and rigorous curriculum. Unlike traditional BSN programs, classes and clinicals in ABSN programs may be held in the evening or on weekends.
Additionally, students attend condensed courses, and the program expects them to learn and retain a great deal of information quickly. These expectations continue throughout the entire length of the program.
BSN Nurse Jobs
Nurses with a BSN have various career options, but most will work at the bedside. Other options include:
Accelerated MSN Degree
Accelerated MSN programs are for students with non-nursing bachelor's or master's degrees who want to become advanced practice or administrative nurses. Coursework may lead to RN licensure after the program's first year, depending on its structure.
Who are Accelerated MSN Degrees Right For?
Accelerated MSN programs are ideal for students who want to become advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and skip working at the bedside altogether. These programs are also perfect for those interested in nursing administration. Upon completion of the program, students can sit for national certification exams.
Popular Online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) Programs
Earn a valuable nursing credential at Purdue Global’s School of Nursing. Expand your expertise and prepare to take on leadership and independent practice opportunities. Complete your courses online, on your schedule.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, but certain programs have state restrictions. Check with Purdue for details.
GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals.
CCNE
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY, RI and CT. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.
WGU's award-winning online programs are created to help you succeed while graduating faster and with less debt. WGU is a CCNE accredited, nonprofit university offering nursing bachelor's and master's degrees.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Program Requirements
You must meet the minimum admission requirements to apply for an accelerated MSN program, including:
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s OR Master’s Degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (May Vary)
- Personal Interview
- CV/Resume
- Official Transcripts
- Letters of Recommendation
- Application Fee
- University and Nursing Program Application
- GRE Scores, If Applicable
The minimum required degree for accelerated MSN programs may differ between schools. Programs requiring only a bachelor's degree require more coursework for graduation. You will take both BSN and MSN courses throughout such programs.
Other programs accept students with a non-nursing master's degree as long as they completed the science prerequisites. If you need clarification on the admission requirements, speak to an admissions counselor.
Program Cost
The cost of an accelerated MSN program varies depending on the program and the type of MSN degree earned. However, most programs range between $45,000 and $120,000.
APRN programs will cost more than a nursing education or nursing administration degree because of the required credit and clinical hours. The more credit hours needed for a program, the greater the cost.
Like an accelerated BSN program, students are rarely eligible for traditional scholarships. However, federal student loans may be a viable option for paying for the program.
What to Expect in an Accelerated MSN Program
Accelerated MSN programs are demanding. Students will take courses for both their BSN and their MSN in a condensed format. Courses are shorter than traditional programs, so it is especially difficult to work while you study.
Some accelerated MSN programs will award students a BSN and allow them to sit for the NCLEX after one year. Students will earn an RN certification and may be able to earn bedside experience while completing graduate courses. Other programs do not award students a BSN; students will only earn an MSN after the program.
MSN Nurse Jobs
After earning an MSN, you will have many more career options than with a BSN. All advanced practice registered nursing positions require, at minimum, an MSN. Most nursing administrators also hold an MSN degree.
Some examples of careers if you earn an MSN include:
- Nurse administrator
- Clinical nurse specialist (CNS)
- Neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP)
- Nurse educator
- Certified nurse-midwife (CNM)
- Family nurse practitioner (FNP)
- Pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP)
- Adult-Gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP)
- Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP)
- Women’s health nurse practitioner (WHNP)
- Clinical nursing instructor
- Nurse manager
Accelerated DNP Degree
Accelerated DNP programs combine BSN, MSN, and DNP programs into one cohesive program. Like accelerated MSN programs, students may take the NCLEX and earn their RN certification after one year, allowing them to gain nursing experience while they continue their education.
These programs are less common than other accelerated nursing programs and more competitive. Compared to other accelerated BSN and MSN nursing programs, accelerated DNP programs are longer and cost more.
After completing an accelerated nursing program, students can work in nursing administration, as an APRN, or in nursing education.
Program Requirements
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s OR Master’s Degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA (May Vary)
- Personal Interview
- CV/Resume
- Official Transcripts
- Letters of Recommendation
- Application Fee
- University and Nursing Program Application
- GRE Scores, if Applicable
Program Cost
Accelerated DNP programs are the most costly of all accelerated nursing programs. These programs can cost upwards of $100,000 because of the many credits required to graduate and the cost of specific credit hours. Students will complete upwards of 70 credits of coursework plus over 1,000 hours of in-person clinicals. At least 25 of the credits will be specific to the DNP degree.
Generally speaking, undergraduate coursework will cost less than graduate coursework. Credit hours specific to the DNP portion of the program will cost the most.
What to Expect in an Accelerated DNP Program
DNP programs educate students to practice independently, meaning the information is high-level and advanced. Students will complete didactic courses as well as in-person clinicals in general nursing and their chosen specialization.
Careers for Nurses With a DNP
Accelerated DNP programs prepare you for various nursing specialties depending on your professional interests. These include:
- Nurse administrator
- Clinical nurse specialist (CNS)
- Neonatal nurse practitioner (NNP)
- Nurse educator
- Certified nurse-midwife (CNM)
- Family nurse practitioner (FNP)
- Pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP)
- Adult-Gerontology nurse practitioner (AGNP)
- Psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP)
- Women’s health nurse practitioner (WHNP)
- Chief nursing officer
Popular Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs
Georgetown University is one of the world’s leading academic and research institutions, and the School of Nursing has been delivering graduate nursing programs in a distance-learning environment since 2011. Georgetown's online programs allow students to learn from wherever they are while they pursue an accredited, mission-driven nursing education that will allow them to deliver high-quality care.
CCNE
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY and WA.
GCU's College of Nursing and Health Care Professions has a nearly 35-year tradition of preparing students to fill evolving healthcare roles as highly qualified professionals.
CCNE
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Earn your nursing degree from one of the largest nursing education providers in the U.S. Walden University’s BSN, MSN, post-master’s APRN certificate, and DNP programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Get enhanced practicum support with our Practicum Pledge.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide, excluding NY, RI and CT. Certain programs have additional state restrictions. Check with Walden for details.
The CCNE-accredited online DNP program from Simmons University will prepare you to advance to the highest level of professional nursing practice — and to drive meaningful change in health care as a nurse leader. Learn from experienced professors-of-practice and join a legacy of more than 100 years developing nursing leadership and excellence by completing your DNP on a part-time basis over seven 14-week terms.
CCNE
Online
RN Required
Enrollment: Nationwide
Is an Accelerated Nursing Program Right for You?
Determining the best pathway toward a nursing career may feel overwhelming, but it can be quite simple. Your prior degree is the first thing to consider when deciding on a program. If you have a non-nursing degree and meet the prerequisite requirements for an accelerated nursing program, it may be the right fit.
Other things to consider are:
- Regardless of undergraduate or graduate-level coursework, accelerated programs require significant time for classes, clinicals, and study.
- You will consume large amounts of important information in a short time.
- Students do not get traditional breaks in accelerated programs compared to conventional programs.
- Students learn quickly and efficiently in these condensed courses, leaving little room for a full-time job.
- Some classes and clinicals may also be in the evenings and on weekends.
The rigorous nature of accelerated nursing programs may seem intimidating. But, they are the most efficient way to transition into nursing if you already have a degree.
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