An ABSN, or an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, makes it possible to transition to the nursing field quickly. Within a year, you can be on your way to becoming a registered nurse (RN) and start a rewarding career.
ABSN programs are faster-paced than traditional BSN programs and are an efficient option. Those who are interested in enrolling in an ABSN program can typically apply previous credits towards their degree. This may shorten degree completion time further, depending on the applicant's background.
BSN degrees are becoming more widely preferred—and in some cases required—by healthcare employers.
Today’s dynamic healthcare environment calls for skilled nurses who are knowledgeable and can adapt. Magnet hospitals, which are known for setting high standards in patient care, already require any nurse in a position of leadership to hold a BSN or graduate degree.
Nurses with BSNs are also better equipped to promote positive patient outcomes, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). They are also better positioned for more responsibilities, leadership positions, and increased pay.
The Median Salary for RNs is $73,300 annually*. Job Outlook: Much faster than average at 12% growth. Source: BLS.gov.
With an online ABSN program, you can complete your degree in just under a year.
- Hospitals
- Emergency Rooms
- Surgical Units
- Geriatric/ Hospice
- Private Practice
- Homecare Services
An ABSN program makes it possible to transition to the nursing field, allowing experienced applicants the opportunity to earn their degree quickly. Within a year, you can be on your way to becoming an RN.
ABSN students can typically apply previous credits and knowledge towards their degree. This may shorten degree completion time further, depending on the applicant's background.
ABSN programs are of the same educational caliber as their BSN counterparts. The coursework is rigorous and relevant to today’s dynamic healthcare environment.
ABSN graduates are equipped with the clinical knowledge and skills needed to promote positive patient outcomes. Accelerated learning through an ABSN program helps nurses step into rewarding careers sooner.
Like other nursing degrees, ABSN programs can be online and convenient for working adults. They offer the same level of preparation as a traditional BSN program, with less time to completion. ABSN programs also equip students to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), which allows nurses to practice as licensed RNs under their state board of nursing.
Each ABSN program is unique so its structure will differ between universities. However, many do share similarities. We’ve outlined a few basics below.
Who Can Apply
Applicants vary, but many ABSN students are from non-nursing backgrounds looking to transition quickly to the field. ABSN students may be looking to change careers after working for years in another industry, or they could be recent college graduates who want a fast route into nursing.
Some ABSN students may also have their sights set on graduate school. Since the degree is still a BSN degree, it can allow you to pursue higher education sooner.
Previous Credits
Applicants must have a specific amount of college credits to apply to an ABSN program. Although these requirements vary, many ABSN programs require at least a Bachelor’s degree in another field. These programs are designed to give students the quickest route to entry, despite having little to no field experience.
Program Prerequisites
Prerequisite requirements vary, but ABSN applicants should expect to have completed general requirement courses before applying. To name a few, classes like anatomy, nutrition, chemistry, and biology are typical prerequisites of an ABSN program.
Online Coursework
Many reputable universities offer ABSN programs online. These programs are included on our site, each is fully accredited, and among the nation’s top universities. Many ABSN programs facilitate clinical placement and support services for online students. Some also include on-campus residencies to maximize learning experiences.
Graduate in as Little as One Year
With many online ABSN programs, graduates are ready to start a rewarding career in just under a year. Become a nurse quickly and touch countless lives in your community.