Best Accelerated Nursing & BSN Programs Online

Are You a Registered Nurse (RN) Looking to Advance Your Career?

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Many schools have rolling admissions, which means you can start a program in a few weeks!

Healthcare is moving at quick pace, and nurses who want to stay competitive need a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to unlock advanced roles and greater responsibilities. Online accelerated BSN programs offer a convenient, flexible, and efficient path for both working Registered Nurses (RNs) and individuals with a prior bachelor's degree in a different subject to achieve their educational goals.

Get ready to learn it all - we've compiled a thorough rundown of the essentials. What if you could earn a BSN degree at an incredible pace?

Online accelerated programs make it possible. Get the inside scoop on programs - what they're all about, the traits of a winner, and the varying price tags and choices that'll help you find your ideal match.

Online Rn-to-BSN Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.  

Online Accelerated BSN Programs

Emory University (Atlanta, GA)

• Program Length: 1 year
• Program Overview: Emory University’s accelerated BSN program allows you to graduate in just three consecutive semesters. The 48-credit curriculum covers foundational nursing concepts, health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, and specialized nursing areas. The program includes a two-day on-campus intensive with travel and accommodations paid for by the college.
• Admission Requirements: Requires a non-nursing bachelor's degree and completion of prerequisites in physical sciences, math, and social sciences.
• Unique Benefits: Emory University's BSN program is nationally recognized by U.S. News & World Report, and more than 92% of students receive some form of financial aid.
• Learn More: Emory University Distance Accelerated BSN Program

Baylor University (Waco, TX)

• Program Length: 1 year
• Program Overview: Baylor’s accelerated BSN program is a 62-credit, full-time program grounded in Christian values. It prepares graduates to serve diverse patient populations. The curriculum includes online coursework, two on-campus intensives, and 720 hours of clinical training.
• Admission Requirements: Requires a non-nursing bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and 52 credits of prerequisite courses.
• Unique Benefits: High NCLEX-RN pass rates and a 90% placement rate for graduates. Clinical training is done at sites close to home.
• Learn More: Baylor University Accelerated BSN Program

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (Lubbock, TX)

• Program Length: 12 months
• Program Overview: This 61-credit, online program prepares nurses for NCLEX-RN licensure. The program is aligned with industry standards and prepares graduates to handle complex patient care challenges.
• Admission Requirements: Requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college with an overall GPA of at least 2.5, with prerequisite courses in pathophysiology, microbiology, and anatomy & physiology.
• Unique Benefits: Offers several financial aid and scholarship opportunities, and provides clinical training in your home community.
• Learn More: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Accelerated BSN Program

Mercer University (Atlanta, GA)

• Program Length: 12 months
• Program Overview: This 56-credit online program combines rigorous coursework with clinical training and covers fundamentals of nursing, mental health, population health, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice.
• Admission Requirements: Requires a non-nursing bachelor’s degree with a GPA of at least 3.0, completion of prerequisites, submission of a resume, essay, and TEAS score.
• Unique Benefits: Taught by accomplished faculty members, and offers three start dates (spring, summer, fall), with access to a state-of-the-art simulation lab.
• Learn More: Mercer University Accelerated BSN Program

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh (Oshkosh, WI)

• Program Length: 12 months
• Program Overview: This 52-credit program is designed for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders. The program includes nursing theory courses, an on-campus residency, and clinical rotations, covering topics from health assessment to community health.
• Admission Requirements: Requires a non-nursing bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5, and direct patient care experience is preferred.
• Unique Benefits: Excellent NCLEX-RN pass rates, high job placement rates, and opportunities to explore international clinical learning.
• Learn More: University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Accelerated BSN Program

University of Massachusetts Boston (Boston, MA)

• Program Length: 1 year
• Program Overview: This 52-credit program, designed for career changers, offers coursework in seven-week formats. It includes pathophysiology, pharmacology, health promotion, and professional nursing concepts, and is available in full-time or part-time formats with three start dates (fall, spring, and summer).
• Admission Requirements: Requires an undergraduate degree in a non-nursing field and submission of transcripts, essays, and recommendations, with an optional TEAS score.
• Unique Benefits: One of the more affordable 12-month accelerated online ABSN programs, with an engaging learning experience, and excellent simulation training at a high-fidelity simulation lab.
• Learn More: University of Massachusetts Boston Accelerated BSN Program

Wilkes University (Wilkes-Barre, PA)

• Program Length: 15 months
• Program Overview: Wilkes University offers a CCNE-accredited Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program designed to be flexible and comprehensive, allowing students to earn their BSNs in just 15 months. The program includes online coursework, on-campus residencies, and hands-on clinical experiences.
• Admission Requirements: Applicants must hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Additional requirements include a statement of professional goals and two letters of recommendation.
• Unique Benefits: The program boasts above-national-average NCLEX-RN pass rates and offers competitive tuition.
• Learn More: Wilkes University Accelerated BSN Program

The College of St. Scholastica (Duluth, MN)

• Program Length: 12 months
• Program Overview: The College of St. Scholastica’s Post-Baccalaureate Nursing program is an accelerated option for individuals holding a non-nursing bachelor's degree. The 45-credit curriculum integrates holistic nursing principles and includes online classes, in-person labs, and clinical experiences.
• Admission Requirements: Applicants must have a non-nursing baccalaureate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have completed specific prerequisites, including courses in psychology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, nutrition, and statistics. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification is also required.
• Unique Benefits: The program prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and enter the nursing workforce in all 50 states.
• Learn More: The College of St. Scholastica Post-Baccalaureate Nursing Program

Cheapest Accelerated Online BSN Programs

Note: Tuition costs are approximate and may be subject to change. It is always best to verify tuition and program costs with the college or university directly. 

• University of South Florida: Program cost of $3,152 ($105 per credit hour) for a 30-credit program.
• University of Wyoming: Program cost of $5,370 ($154 per credit hour) for a 30-credit program.
• University of Central Florida: Program cost of $5,376 ($179 per credit hour) for a 30-credit program.
• Florida Gateway College: Program cost of $5,125 for a 31-credit program.
• Florida International University: Program cost of $5,491 ($229 per credit hour) for a 24-credit program. 

What are Online Accelerated BSN Programs?

Online accelerated BSN programs provide a fast-track route for both working Registered Nurses (RNs) and individuals with a prior bachelor's degree in a different subject to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.

These programs acknowledge the prior knowledge and experience of working RNs, while also being beneficial for those with bachelor’s degrees in other fields who are seeking a career change into nursing. They allow students to complete their BSN in a significantly shorter timeframe than traditional BSN programs, often in 12-24 months. This fast-track route can help you expand your career opportunities, increase your salary potential, and prepare you for more advanced nursing roles.

Unlike traditional BSN programs that typically take four years to complete, online accelerated BSN programs can often be completed in 12-24 months, depending on the program structure and format."

Program Structure and Components

Online accelerated BSN programs are structured to provide a blend of online coursework and in-person clinical experiences. The online component typically includes engaging lectures, interactive learning modules, and opportunities for virtual collaboration with faculty and peers.

These programs leverage learning management systems (LMS) which provide easy access to course materials and allow you to complete coursework at a pace that meets your schedule.

While the theory part of your education is delivered online, the clinical component is typically completed in person at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, where students can apply their knowledge to a real-world setting.

Many programs use a hybrid model where didactic coursework is completed online, with clinical experiences and lab work completed in person. Additionally, some programs may require a residency component, which usually takes place on campus. These residencies can range from a single on-campus visit to multiple in-person sessions.

Prerequisites and Application Requirements

To be considered for an online accelerated BSN program, whether you are a working Registered Nurse (RN) or an individual with a bachelor's degree in another field, you will typically need to meet the following criteria:

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Educational Requirements

Prior Bachelor's Degree

• Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

For Registered Nurses (RNs)

If you are a working RN, you may need:

• A current and unencumbered RN license
• An Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Nursing Diploma from an accredited program

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Academic Requirements

GPA Requirement

• Many programs require a minimum GPA for prior coursework, typically between 2.5 and 3.0 or higher.

Prerequisite Courses

Most programs require students to complete specific prerequisite courses, which may include:

• Anatomy
• Physiology
• Microbiology
• Chemistry
• Statistics

Note: Specific prerequisite courses may vary by program, so it's essential to verify the requirements for each program you consider.

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Application Materials

When applying for an online accelerated BSN program, be prepared to submit the following:

• Official transcripts from all prior higher education institutions
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Personal Statement outlining your professional goals
• Letters of recommendation from professional or academic references
• Sometimes an interview may be required

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Important Note: Admission requirements may vary from program to program. It is essential to check the specific admission criteria for each nursing school you are considering.

Key Qualities of a Good Online Accelerated RN-to-BSN Program

When selecting an accelerated online RN-to-BSN program, consider the following key factors to ensure you receive a quality education that meets your needs and goals:

Accreditation
Always prioritize programs that are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous academic standards.

Flexibility
Look for programs that offer flexible scheduling, asynchronous learning options, and various start dates to accommodate your work and personal life.

Student Support
Choose a program that provides robust support services such as academic advising, technical support, career counseling, and mentorship opportunities.

Clinical Placement Assistance
Programs that assist with securing clinical placement opportunities can save you valuable time and effort.

NCLEX Preparation
A strong program will integrate NCLEX-RN exam preparation into the curriculum and provide resources and tools to help you succeed in the licensing exam.

Experienced Faculty
Look for programs with experienced faculty who are experts in the nursing field and have experience in online learning methodologies.

Program Length and Cost
Carefully consider the program length and total cost, ensuring they align with your budget and timeline. 

Career Opportunities with a BSN Degree

Earning a BSN can lead to significant career benefits for nurses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses earned a median annual wage of $86,070 as of May 2023—and nurses with a BSN generally enjoy even higher earning potential.

Research from academic sources indicates that BSN-prepared nurses can earn, on average, about $10,000 more per year than those with an ADN or diploma, although actual differentials may vary by region and experience. In addition to higher pay, a BSN provides a broader educational foundation that opens the door to advanced nursing roles, leadership positions, and specialized areas such as research, academia, public health, and case management.

Many Magnet-recognized hospitals and other healthcare facilities actively seek to hire BSN-prepared nurses, and surveys conducted at academic institutions (for example, discussions at the University of Washington School of Nursing) show that approximately 70%–72% of employers strongly prefer to hire nurses who have achieved a BSN.

Accelerated Online BSN Programs FAQ

Conclusion

Online Accelerated BSN programs offer a great opportunity for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field to transition into nursing and accelerate their education. These programs allow you to build on your previous academic experience, gain nursing knowledge quickly, and open doors to new career opportunities. By taking into account the key factors outlined in this guide, you can confidently choose the program that best aligns with your goals and personal schedule. Pursuing an accelerated BSN can significantly enhance your nursing skills, broaden your career options, and increase your earning potential. If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career, be sure to explore the online accelerated BSN programs discussed here.

Online Rn to BSN Programs That Might Interest You

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.