Accelerated Nursing Degree Programs

In recent years, accelerated nursing degree programs have become increasingly popular as a way for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree to transition into the nursing profession. These programs allow students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in a shorter amount of time compared to traditional nursing programs, often completing their degree in 12 to 17 months. The accelerated nursing programs are designed to provide a rigorous and intensive academic experience, focusing on the essential skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the field of nursing.

Several universities across the United States offer these programs, each with its unique benefits and strengths. Some of the most notable institutions offering accelerated nursing programs include Creighton University, the University of Delaware, Purdue University, the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, and Samuel Merritt University. These programs are structured to accommodate individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, providing them with an efficient path to becoming registered nurses (RNs).

Creighton University is one of the institutions that offers a highly regarded accelerated nursing program. The School of Nursing at Creighton has designed its Accelerated Nursing Program specifically for students who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field. This program allows students to earn a BSN in just 12 months, providing an expedited route for those looking to change careers or advance in the healthcare field. The accelerated nature of the program means that students are immersed in a rigorous and fast-paced curriculum, which includes both classroom instruction and clinical experiences. The program is designed to equip students with the necessary nursing skills to succeed on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) and become licensed registered nurses. Creighton’s Accelerated Nursing Program has a strong track record of success, with graduates consistently exceeding national pass rates on the NCLEX, a testament to the quality and effectiveness of the education provided.

At Creighton University, students benefit from small class sizes and close interactions with faculty members, which allows for personalized attention and guidance. The university’s commitment to excellence in nursing education is further reflected in its reputation for producing highly skilled and compassionate nurses. The program’s emphasis on evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and hands-on clinical experience ensures that graduates are well-prepared to deliver high-quality care in a variety of healthcare settings. For individuals seeking to change careers and enter the nursing profession in a condensed time frame, Creighton University’s accelerated nursing program is an outstanding option.

Similarly, the University of Delaware offers an accelerated nursing program that caters to individuals with a baccalaureate degree in a non-nursing field. The program is designed to be completed in 17 months, providing students with the opportunity to earn a BSN in a relatively short time. The University of Delaware’s program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum, which blends advanced nursing theory with clinical practice. The program prepares students to sit for the NCLEX and become licensed as registered nurses. As with other accelerated programs, the University of Delaware’s program is highly intensive, requiring a strong commitment from students to keep up with the fast-paced nature of the coursework.

One of the strengths of the University of Delaware’s accelerated program is its accreditation. All undergraduate and graduate nursing programs are fully accredited by the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation is crucial for ensuring that students receive a high standard of education that meets national nursing education standards. Graduates from the University of Delaware’s accelerated nursing program are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide high-quality patient care and are well-prepared to take on leadership roles in the nursing field. The program also benefits from the university’s strong ties to local healthcare facilities, which provide students with excellent clinical placement opportunities.

Purdue University offers another prestigious second-degree accelerated nursing program that allows individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field to pursue a BSN. Known as the Second Degree Accelerated Baccalaureate Program in Nursing, Purdue’s program is tailored to meet the needs of adult learners who are eager to transition into nursing. Students in this program can expect to undergo a rigorous curriculum that includes courses in nursing theory, patient care, and healthcare policy. Purdue’s nursing program also emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences, ensuring that students are well-prepared to work in various healthcare settings once they graduate.

Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the NCLEX to become licensed registered nurses. Purdue University’s nursing program is respected for its high academic standards and its focus on producing nurses who are ready to meet the challenges of modern healthcare. The university’s nursing faculty members are highly qualified and bring extensive clinical experience to the classroom, providing students with a comprehensive education that incorporates the latest evidence-based practices in nursing care. With a reputation for producing competent, compassionate nurses, Purdue University is a top choice for individuals seeking to transition into nursing.

For those looking to pursue an accelerated BSN, the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) offers an excellent program for individuals who have already earned a bachelor’s or master’s degree in another field. UMDNJ’s Accelerated BSN Program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to become registered nurses in a short period of time. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for the NCLEX, and it includes both classroom instruction and clinical placements at the university’s affiliated teaching hospitals.

UMDNJ is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (CHE-MSACS), ensuring that students receive a high-quality education that meets national academic standards. Additionally, the primary and affiliated teaching hospitals of UMDNJ are accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), providing students with access to world-class clinical experiences. The combination of rigorous academic training and extensive clinical exposure ensures that graduates are prepared to take on the demands of the nursing profession.

Lastly, Samuel Merritt University (SMU) offers an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. The program is designed to be completed in just 12 months, allowing students to transition quickly into the nursing profession. SMU’s ABSN program is known for its intensity and comprehensive curriculum, which combines academic coursework with clinical training in various healthcare settings. SMU’s nursing graduates consistently exceed national pass rates on licensure and certification exams, which speaks to the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for careers as registered nurses.

Samuel Merritt University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), ensuring that its nursing program meets the highest academic standards. The university’s commitment to providing students with a well-rounded education that emphasizes both clinical and theoretical nursing knowledge makes it a strong choice for those seeking to become nurse practitioners or advance in the healthcare field.