Quick Highlights:
- Duke University and University of Washington are top schools for an accelerated BSN program.
- An accelerated BSN is a fast-track program that allows people with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to become a registered nurse more quickly than traditional programs. It typically take 12-14 months to complete.
- On average, BSN nurses make about $95,000 a year, while RN nurses make around $75,000.
- After completing an accelerated BSN program, you will be ready to take the NCLEX. Though study and preparation will be required.
Have you ever thought about becoming a nurse? Nurses are in high demand, with jobs expected to grow 6% by 2032 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Maybe you’re looking for a career change, or you’ve always dreamed of helping people but took a different path at first. If you already have a bachelor’s degree in another subject, an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program might be just what you’re looking for. These special programs are designed for people like you who want to switch careers and become nurses quickly.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 accelerated BSN programs in the United States. We’ll tell you what makes each school special and why you might want to go there. Our goal is to help you find the best program that fits your needs and dreams.
This accelerated BSN ranking was created in July 2024 and the data was accurate at time of publication.
Related:
- BSN Programs: Is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Right for You?
- The Intersection of Ministry and Nursing in Dual Degree Programs
- Best Bachelor’s in Nursing and Healthcare
- Top Online Bachelor of Nursing Degree Programs
What are Accelerated BSN Programs?
Before we jump into our list, let’s talk about what accelerated BSN programs are. These programs are the nursing degree fast track. They usually take between 11 and 18 months to finish, which is much quicker than regular nursing programs that can take four years.
Accelerated programs are faster because they focus only on nursing classes. You don’t have to take general education courses like English or History because you already did that in your first degree. Instead, you’ll dive right into learning about the human body, how to care for patients, and the skills you need to be a great nurse.
These programs are intense. You’ll be studying and practicing a lot, often with classes five days a week and clinical training on top of that. It’s like a full-time job, but at the end, you’ll be ready to start an exciting new career as a nurse.
What are the Best Accelerated Nursing Programs?
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Related (Bachelor’s):
Per Credit Hour Tuition and Average Net Tuition Disclaimer: The tuition amounts given are estimates and subject to change.
Duke University
Duke University’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is an amazing program, perfect for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another subject and want to become nurses quickly.
Here’s why Duke’s ABSN program is so special:
- You can finish in just 16 months!
- It’s one of the top accelerated nursing programs in the country
- You’ll get over 750 hours of hands-on experience
- The program focuses on keeping people healthy, not just treating sick people
- You’ll learn how to be a leader in nursing
- Duke offers scholarships to help pay for the program
At Duke, you’ll learn from experienced teachers who are experts in nursing. They don’t just teach from books – they actually work as nurses too! This means you’ll learn the most up-to-date ways to care for patients.
Duke also has a special Student Success Center to help you do your best. They can help you with your studies, find tutors, and even help you manage stress.
One of the outstanding things about Duke’s program is that it teaches you about health equity. This means you’ll learn how to make sure everyone gets good healthcare, no matter who they are or where they come from.
When you finish the program, you’ll be ready to take the test to become a registered nurse. Duke graduates are known for being great nurses who can work in all kinds of healthcare settings.
If you’re passionate about helping others and want to start an exciting career fast, Duke’s ABSN program could be perfect for you. It’s challenging, but it will prepare you to be an awesome nurse who can make a real difference in the world.
University of Washington
The University of Washington’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is a unique program that helps people who already have a bachelor’s degree become nurses in just four quarters. That’s half the time of a regular nursing program!
Here’s why UW’s ABSN program is so special:
- World-class learning experiences with expert teachers
- Over 1,000 hours of hands-on patient care
- State-of-the-art Simulation Center for safe practice
- Partnerships with top hospitals like Seattle Children’s Hospital
- Support from helpful staff to guide you through the program
- Chance to learn about health equity and social justice
The program is tough but rewarding. You’ll learn how to be a great leader, use the latest research to help patients, and understand how things like money and education affect people’s health. You’ll also learn how to treat everyone with respect and kindness, no matter who they are.
When you finish, you’ll be ready to take the nursing license exam and start your exciting new career. You could work in hospitals, clinics, or even travel to help people all over the world!
The best part? UW offers scholarships and financial aid to help make your dream of becoming a nurse come true. They even have special information sessions to help you learn more and apply. If you’re passionate about helping others and ready for a challenge, UW’s ABSN program could be your ticket to an amazing new career.
University of Florida
The University of Florida’s Accelerated BSN program might be perfect for you! The program is offered at two places: Gainesville and Jacksonville. It starts in May each year and takes just four semesters to finish. That means you can become a nurse in only 15 months!
Here’s why you should consider UF’s Accelerated BSN program:
- You’ll learn from experienced teachers both in person and online
- You’ll get hands-on practice in real hospitals and clinics
- The program is well-respected and accredited
- You can choose between two great locations in Florida
To apply, you need:
- A bachelor’s degree in any subject
- Good grades (at least a 3.0 GPA)
- To have taken six specific classes recently
- To pass an entrance exam called the HESI A2
The program teaches you everything you need to know to be a great nurse. You’ll learn about taking care of patients, working with different cultures, and using research to make good decisions.
UF also offers help with paying for school. They have financial aid and scholarships available. Plus, becoming a nurse can lead to a rewarding career with good pay.
The application process can be competitive. The school looks at your whole application, not just your grades. They want students who will make great nurses. If you’re ready for a challenge and want to help people, UF’s Accelerated BSN program could be your ticket to an exciting new career.
University of Pittsburgh
Are you looking for an exciting new career in nursing? The University of Pittsburgh’s Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN program might be a great fit!
Here’s why Pitt’s Accelerated BSN program is a great choice:
- You can earn your nursing degree in just one year
- You’ll get $8,333 in guaranteed scholarships
- The program prepares you for graduate studies if you want to advance your career
- Nursing jobs are growing fast, so you’ll have good job opportunities
- You’ll learn from experienced teachers and get hands-on practice
The program is perfect for people who want to change careers or go back to school. Nursing is an important job that helps people and communities. It’s a great way to make a difference in the world!
To apply, you’ll need:
- A bachelor’s degree in any subject
- To have taken some specific classes (but Pitt can help you figure out which ones you need)
- To apply online directly to the School of Nursing
You don’t even need to take the GRE test to apply!
Pitt’s nursing program is well-respected and gives you a strong foundation for your future. Many students go on to get advanced degrees and become nurse practitioners or work in healthcare management.
The school offers information sessions to help you learn more about the program. They also have advisors who can help you plan your courses and answer your questions. If you’re ready for a rewarding career that’s always in demand, consider Pitt’s Accelerated BSN program.
Villanova University
Villanova University’s Second Degree Accelerated BSN program is a flexible program with multiple tracks. Villanova’s Accelerated BSN program is a great choice. We especially like Villanova because:
- You can choose between a 14-month Express Track or a 23-month Flex Track
- The Flex Track lets you work part-time while studying
- You’ll learn from expert teachers and join a supportive learning community
- The program is fully approved and accredited
- You can work on research projects with your teachers
- There are opportunities to join professional groups and prepare for graduate school
The program costs $52,500 for both tracks in 2024. That might seem like a lot, but it’s an investment in your future. Nursing is a rewarding career where you can help people every day.
At Villanova, you’ll get hands-on practice in their Simulation and Learning Resource Center. This helps you feel confident when you start working as a nurse. The school also offers virtual information sessions where you can learn more and even get an application fee waiver.
To apply, you’ll need:
- A bachelor’s degree in any subject
- To meet the application deadlines (which vary depending on the track you choose)
If you’re ready for a meaningful career that makes a difference in people’s lives, consider Villanova’s Accelerated BSN program.
New York University
NYU’s Rory Meyers College of Nursing has an amazing program just for you! It’s called the Accelerated 15-Month Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, and it’s perfect for students with a passion for nursing but a degree in another subject.
Some highlights of the program include:
- You can earn your degree in just 15 months
- You can start in September or January, whichever works best for you
- You’ll be ready to take the test to become a registered nurse when you finish
- NYU is a top school in New York City, which means great opportunities
To apply, you’ll need:
- A bachelor’s degree in any subject
- To have taken some specific classes before you start, like chemistry and anatomy
- A good letter from someone who can talk about why you’d be a great nurse
- To write an essay about why you want to be a nurse
NYU looks at your grades, your essay, and your experience when deciding who to accept. They want students who are smart, motivated, and really want to help people.
The program costs about the same as other college programs, but don’t worry – there’s financial aid available! You can get scholarships and other help to pay for school.
While you’re studying, you might even get to do an externship at a hospital. This gives you real experience working with patients before you graduate.
NYU doesn’t interview students for this program, but they do have information sessions where you can learn more. You can also check their website for details about tuition and how to apply. If you’re ready for an exciting career where you can make a difference every day, NYU’s Accelerated BSN program could be perfect for you.
Loyola University
Are you thinking about becoming a nurse but already have a degree in something else? Loyola University Chicago’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program might be perfect for you!
Are you a student who discovered your passion for nursing late in your college career? Many students like you choose Loyola University Chicago’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program because:
- It’s fast – you can become a nurse in just 16 months
- You get to work in top hospitals while you learn
- The teachers are dedicated and really care about students
- You join a supportive group of students from different backgrounds
Here’s why Loyola is one of the top accelerated BSN schools:
- You practice in safe simulation labs before working with real patients
- You get to work in many different hospitals around Chicago
- These experiences can help you get a job after you graduate
- The program opens doors to lots of exciting nursing careers
Teachers understand what it’s like to be a student and help their students tough challenging times. The simulation labs help students feel confident when starting to work with real patients. Best of all, clinical experience at Northwestern Memorial Hospital can lead you to a high paying nursing job.
Illinois State University
Illinois State University’s Mennonite College of Nursing has an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Here’s why we think ISU’s Accelerated BSN program is a fantastic choice:
- You can finish the program in just 15 months
- You start in the summer and go year-round
- You only take nursing classes, so you’re focused on what really matters
- The teachers are there full-time to help you succeed
- You get to practice in a state-of-the-art nursing simulation lab that’s like a real hospital
What makes this program special:
- You’ll learn how to be a great leader in nursing
- You get lots of hands-on experience in real hospitals
- The school helps you prepare for the big test to become a registered nurse
- Almost 95% of students pass this test every year!
ISU makes it easy to afford this program too. If you’re from a nearby state, you can still pay in-state tuition. Plus, there are nearly 100 scholarships you can apply for!
The best part? You’ll be learning the same things as other nursing students, just faster. And when you’re done, you’ll be ready to care for many different types of patients.
To apply, you should start thinking about it in August or September for the next summer. But don’t worry if you’re a little late – they might still have space! If you’re ready for an exciting career where you can help people every day, ISU’s Accelerated BSN program could be perfect for you.
Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University has a Second-Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. The program is fast – you can finish in about15 months! That’s only four semesters. You’ll take classes at the Round Rock campus, which is near Austin, Texas. The classes mix different types of learning, like face-to-face teaching, practice with simulated patients, and real hospital experience.
Before you start, you need to take some basic classes in science and other subjects. These classes help you get ready for nursing school. You can take these classes at any college before you apply.
Here are some things we really like about this program:
- It’s quick – only 15 months long
- You get to practice in real hospitals
- The school helps you get your nursing license
- You can become a nurse even if your first degree wasn’t in nursing
- Texas A&M is a well-known and respected university
When you finish the program, you’ll be ready to take the NCLEX to become a registered nurse (RN). The school will help you get ready for this test and show you how to get your Texas nursing license.
University of Missouri St. Louis
Are you looking for a fast way to become a nurse? The University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) has an Accelerated BSN just for you! UMSL will prepare you to become a nurse in just 12 months.
- You’ll learn from experienced teachers who really care about your success
- You’ll get to use the latest healthcare technology
- The school has partnerships with over 100 healthcare providers, giving you lots of hands-on experience
- You can even work with teachers on exciting research projects
When you join UMSL’s nursing program, you’ll be part of a supportive community that wants to help you succeed. The school is dedicated to making great nurses, scientists, and teachers. If you’re ready for an exciting career where you can help people every day, UMSL’s Accelerated BSN program could be perfect for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! It lets you become a nurse quickly if you already have a college degree in another subject. These programs are fast and challenging, usually taking 12-18 months. An accelerated BSN can be more expensive than regular nursing programs, but nurses are in high demand. You’ll be able to take the same nursing exam as other graduates. Whether it’s worth it depends on your goals, money situation, and ability to handle a tough program. If you’re sure about nursing and can manage the workload, it could be a great option for you.
The main difference between traditional BSN and accelerated BSN programs is the time it takes to complete them and who they’re for. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Traditional BSN:
•Takes about 4 years to finish
•For students who don’t have a college degree yet
•Includes general education classes and nursing courses
•Typically has a more relaxed pace
Accelerated BSN:
•Takes about 12-18 months to finish
•For students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another subject
•Have their own accelerated BSN curriculum focused on nursing courses
•Has a much faster, more intense pace
Both programs prepare you to become a registered nurse and take the same licensing exam at the end. The accelerated program is quicker but more challenging, while the traditional program takes longer but might be less stressful.
The fastest way to get a BSN is through an accelerated BSN program. These programs usually take about 11 to 18 months to complete. However, the exact time can vary depending on the school. Some programs might be as short as 10 months, while others could take up to 24 months.
BSN nurses have a bachelor’s degree, while RN nurses might have an associate degree or diploma. The extra education can lead to higher pay. On average, BSN nurses make about $95,000 a year, while RN nurses make around $75,000 according to Payscale.