Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Overview

Registered nurses (RNs) can expect promising job prospects through the next decade. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a9% employment growth for RNs between 2020 and 2030. An ABSN degree, also known as a second degree nursing program, provides a pathway for bachelor’s degree-holders in non-nursing fields to transition into this in-demand career.

Read on to learn more about RN careers and how you can earn an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing degree in 18 months or less.

Earning an accelerated ABSN offers a fast track to a new and fulfilling career as an RN. Building on your prior college training, whatever the discipline, an ABSN can propel you into numerous RN roles and prepare you for advancement into leadership positions.

Compared to nurses with an associate degree, RNs with an accelerated bachelor’s in nursing jump start their careers with better job prospects and higher salaries. RN salary levels also vary with board certification and specialization, years of experience, and location. Some states pay much more than others, based on cost of living, nursing demand, and labor conditions.

An ABSN degree offers the fastest route to RN licensure and nursing careers for students who have already completed a bachelor’s or graduate degree in a non-nursing discipline. Because the structure of these programs builds on prior learning experience, the workload can be intense, with students completing the same courses and clinical hours in less than half the time of a traditional four-year nursing degree.

Consequently, applicants should prepare to meet rigorous admission requirements, as programs look for students who will thrive in this fast-paced and demanding academic environment. Requirements commonly include:

What you study in an accelerated bachelor’s in nursing depends on the school you attend, your chosen specialization, and state licensing requirements. Most programs consist of didactic coursework and applied clinical experiences that emphasize evidence-based practice, fundamentals of health and illness, healthcare systems, patient-centered care, and ethical and professional issues.

Although the curriculum varies by program, you can expect to take a nursing fundamentals course in the first term. Most programs offer courses in physiology, pharmacology, psychology and mental health, leadership management, population health, nutrition, and community and environmental nursing. Depending on the program, students may take required coursework in topics, such as women and infant health, gerontology, emergency care, and informatics in nursing.

Clinicals and labs comprise a critical component of ABSN programs. These practical experiences allow students to apply conceptual knowledge in professional environments. Students should expect to perform these tasks:

Schools may require immunization records, documentation of negative test results for tuberculosis, and a current basic life support certification. Students can also take charge by asking questions and volunteering for additional tasks.

Online ABSN programs accommodate learners who require flexible hours to earn their degrees. Distance courses may follow an asynchronous format, allowing students to complete assignments at any time before deadlines. Students engage with classmates and instructors through discussion boards, private chats, and email.

However, programs may also use a synchronous format, which requires enrollees to attend live classes through their webcams. While online ABSN programs allow students to complete courses remotely, clinical rotations and labs require in-person attendance.

Accelerated BSN programs offer a pathway for professionals to transition into new careers. However, students should ensure that ABSN programs meet their needs.

Accelerated nursing programs rigorously cover a significant amount of material in a short amount of time, so students should anticipate a competitive admissions process. The best candidates possess a proven track record for success.

ABSN programs vary in competitiveness. For instance, schools may not offer a highly developed nursing program, making their admission requirements less restrictive. Contrastingly, a school with a larger department, technology, and resources may set high expectations for applicants. Students should research admission requirements before formally applying to any program.

Aspiring RNs can find accelerated nursing programs in any state. More schools also offer online ABSN programs to accommodate professionals. Students can contact local universities to identify programs or research the best accelerated BSN programs that meet their needs.