Updated February 14, 2023
Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?
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Accelerated bachelor of science in nursing (ABSN) programs, sometimes called second-degree nursing programs or accelerated nursing programs, allow graduates with a bachelor's degree in another field to earn a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree, typically in less than two years. Most require prerequisite courses in physiology, human biology, microbiology, or other courses. Whether in-person or online, ABSN programs are rigorous, but many students find the fast progress to a nursing degree worth it.
This guide describes the best accelerated nursing programs, how to apply, and what to expect. If you are considering a career change to nursing, explore more with this helpful information.
We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best online ABSN programs, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.
ABSN programs require certain prerequisite courses, either as part of your existing undergraduate degree or that you take before you enter the ABSN program. Many schools require students to have taken these prerequisite courses within a certain number of years to ensure that your knowledge is based on the most recent science and findings.
ABSN programs are generally fast-paced. Some programs discourage students from working while studying, while a few specifically require that students not work another job while studying. The best accelerated nursing program for you should be at a pace you can manage.
While students with a bachelor's degree in any subject are eligible to apply to an online ABSN program, a degree, minor, or significant coursework in topics related to nursing are particularly helpful for admission. These often include biology, chemistry, physiology, public health, or psychology.
Accreditation is a rigorous process used to assess the quality of a program and whether graduates have the knowledge and skills to practice nursing safely. This protects everybody involved, including you, which is why you must have a degree from an accredited program to qualify for a nursing license.
Most accredited nursing programs do not accept transfer credits from an unaccredited program. Accreditation is so vital to program value that this guide to the best online ABSN programs includes only accredited programs.
#1 The Best Online ABSN Programs
The University of Central Florida offers one of the best accelerated nursing programs in the state. The 30-credit curriculum features flexible online learning, allowing registered nurses (RNs) to work while completing their bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).
Admittees may be able to transfer up to 29 credits and can finish the program in as soon as three semesters.
#2 The Best Online ABSN Programs
RNs with an associate degree in nursing (ADNs) or a nursing diploma can earn their BSN online at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The program requires 24-30 credits, not including UW's general education credits. The part-time curriculum culminates with a 60-hour clinical experience at a student-selected site.
#3 The Best Online ABSN Programs
The University of North Florida's accelerated bachelor of science in nursing (ABSN) program allows RNs to complete their bachelor's online in about one year. Distance learners complete 30 credits on their own schedules and can continue working. Course topics include acute-care nursing, healthcare ethics, scholarly evidence in the workplace, and nursing science.
#4 The Best Online ABSN Programs
Affiliated with UnityPoint Health-Waterloo, Allen College offers a BSN as an on-campus accelerated program and an online RN-to-BSN. Instruction for both programs combines coursework with extensive clinical hours, which distance learners can complete in their local community.
#5 The Best Online ABSN Programs
Catholic, Jesuit Saint Louis University offers an online BSN bridge program for RNs. The 55-credit RN-to-BSN can be completed at students' own pace through six accelerated eight-week terms. A passing score on the NCLEX-RN exam and prior nursing experience may count for up to 38 credits.
#6 The Best Online ABSN Programs
RNs can earn a BSN online at Oklahoma State University in 9-12 months. OSU's RN-to-BSN program accepts transfer students only and provides maximum flexibility for working nurses.
Learners can complete the 30-35-credit curriculum full- or part-time, including a capstone and two courses with clinical experiences at student-selected locations.
#7 The Best Online ABSN Programs
Designed for RNs with an associate degree or diploma in nursing who want to earn a BSN, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville's RN-to-BSN features fully online learning.
The 34-credit program's flexible start dates, full- or part-time study options, and virtual clinical components, allow students to finish in one year.
#8 The Best Online ABSN Programs
The online RN-to-BSN track at Western Carolina University takes as little as four semesters of part-time enrollment to complete. Students can continue working while studying remotely.
WCU organizes its 30-credit program into blocks, with topics in community health, leadership, professional transitions in nursing, and research.
#9 The Best Online ABSN Programs
The fully online BSN at Georgia Southern University enables RNs to complete their undergraduate training while continuing to work. The program features flexible clinical hours, full- or part-time attendance, and individual advising.
Coursework includes community health nursing, leadership and management, nursing research application, and professional nurse practice.
#10 The Best Online ABSN Programs
Midway University offers a fully online, ABSN program for working RNs. Coursework focuses on professional nursing theory and complex critical thinking, along with leadership practicums.
Midway's remote learners can meet with nursing faculty in person or by phone, email, or Zoom anytime they need support.
An ABSN program builds on your existing bachelor's degree and course prerequisites so that you can earn a BSN much faster. Most in-person or online ABSN programs take 1-2 years to complete, while a BSN takes four years.
ABSN programs are fast-paced and most programs recommend or require that you not work while in the course. Whether this is worth it to you depends on your circumstances and goals.
Most ABSN programs take between one and two years, with many running approximately 16 months. However, you may need to take some prerequisite classes first, especially if you did not major in a field related to nursing or took those courses a long time ago.
Many schools offer online ABSN programs, but you will need to complete your clinical hours in person. Make sure you can find local placement or can travel to a placement site.
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