Thinking about a faster path to becoming a nurse? Accelerated nursing programs are designed to help students transition into the field more quickly, especially those with previous college experience. This guide will explain how accelerated nursing programs are structured, outline the different types of ABSN programs, and clarify common misconceptions.
What Are Accelerated Nursing Programs
Accelerated nursing programs were originally designed for students who already held a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field and wanted a faster path into the nursing profession. Today, many programs have expanded their admissions criteria to include students who have completed at least 60 college credits, even if they haven’t earned a degree.
These pre-licensure BSN programs are full-time and intensive, typically lasting 12 to 18 months. They offer the same core nursing curriculum as traditional BSN programs but in a more accelerated and condensed format.
Types of Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated nursing programs come in different formats to suit various learning styles and life circumstances.
| Program | In Person Lecture | In Person Clinical | Length |
| Hybrid ABSN | No | Yes | 12-18 Months |
| Traditional ABSN | Yes | Yes | 12-18 Months |
| 12-Month ABSN | Depends | Yes | 12 Months |
Traditional ABSN Program
These are traditional, in-person programs where students attend classes and labs on campus while completing clinical rotations at partnered healthcare facilities. They provide hands-on learning and more direct access to faculty and peers.
Hybrid ABSN Program
Hybrid accelerated nursing programs combine online coursework with in-person labs and clinical experiences. This format works well for students who are comfortable with online learning but still want the hands-on experience that clinical training provides.
12-Month Accelerated Nursing Program
Some accelerated nursing programs are structured to be completed in just 12 months. These programs move at a rapid pace, and often have both online and in person learning components. Due to the intensity and time demands of these programs, working is typically not possible for most students. Ultimately, this format offers one of the quickest pathways to becoming a registered nurse.
ABSN Admission Requirements
Most Accelerated BSN programs require applicants to have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or at least 60 completed college credits. While general education courses are required, they’re often waived if the student has a previously completed bachelor’s or associate degree. Students will need to complete science-based prerequisites such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, statistics, and sometimes nutrition and pathophysiology.
In addition to coursework, a minimum GPA is usually required, typically between 2.75 and 3.25. Some programs place extra weight on GPA earned in prerequisite science courses. Many ABSN programs also require an entrance exam, such as the TEAS or HESI A2. Other application components may include letters of recommendation, a personal statement, or an admissions interview.
Benefits of Accelerated BSN Programs
Accelerated BSN programs come with several practical advantages for students with prior college experience. They are one of the fastest routes to becoming a registered nurse, often quicker than both traditional associate and bachelor’s degree programs. Since most general education requirements are already completed, students can move into nursing coursework sooner. Graduates also earn a BSN, which could lead to them be more competitive candidates compared to their ADN counterparts.
When to Consider an Accelerated Nursing Program
An Accelerated BSN program may be a good fit if you already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or at least 60 completed college credits. These programs are full-time and intensive, often running year-round without summer breaks, so it’s important to be fully committed. If your goal is to complete nursing school as quickly as possible and you’re organized, self-motivated, and prepared for a fast-paced learning environment, an ABSN program may be right for you.
Common Misconceptions About ABSN Programs
There are several misconceptions about Accelerated BSN programs that can cause confusion for prospective students. One common belief is that you must already have a bachelor’s degree to apply. While many programs do require one, some accept students with 60 or more college credits. Another misconception is that working during the program won’t be an issue. In reality, ABSN programs make it difficult to balance a job alongside coursework and clinicals. It’s also incorrect to assume that all ABSN programs have the same admissions requirements. Each school sets its own prerequisites, GPA requirements, latency standards, and deadlines. Lastly, some believe that online ABSN programs do not include clinicals. That is incorrect. All accredited nursing programs require in-person clinical training, even if the coursework is delivered online.
Final Thoughts
Accelerated nursing programs are structured to deliver the same core nursing education as traditional BSN programs but in a shorter time frame. They follow a fast-paced schedule that blends theory with clinicals and are typically completed in 12 to 18 months. Graduates of ABSN programs are eligible to sit for the NCLEX, the final step toward becoming a registered nurse. Understanding how these programs work can provide helpful context when exploring nursing education pathways.
