Nursing is one of the best career choices today. It provides great job stability, higher-than-average salaries, and plenty of opportunities. Yet, not everyone has the time to spend years in school.
That’s where an accelerated BSN program comes in. It’s a smart move, especially with rising competition and college costs. You’ll save time and money and be ready to start your career sooner.
But with so many accelerated BSN degree programs becoming available, how can you choose the best one?
Not all programs are the same—factors like accreditation, clinical experience, tuition, and flexibility impact your education and career prospects. In this post, we will teach you how to choose the right accelerated BSN program based on your personal needs and interests. We’ll cover accreditation, program formats, financial aid options, and career outcomes so you can make an informed decision.
Related:
- Career Opportunities After Completing an Accelerated BSN
- BEST RN TO BSN PROGRAMS
- Fast-Track Your Healthcare Career With an Accelerated Degree
What is an Accelerated BSN Program?
Okay, before teaching you how to choose the right accelerated BSN program, it’s important first to understand what it is. Knowing how these programs work will help you determine if they’re the right fit for you or not.
Accelerated BSN is a fast-track nursing degree program. They’re shorter than traditional four-year BSN, lasting only 12 to 24 months. These programs can be just as competitive and intense as traditional BSN programs, if not even more so. The curriculum combines classroom lectures, hands-on lab work, and clinical rotations in a much shorter time frame than traditional nursing programs.
So, who should consider an accelerated BSN? While it’s open to anyone, it’s especially ideal for:
- Career Changers: Individuals who already have a degree in another field but want to switch careers and pursue nursing.
- Highly Motivated Learners: Those who thrive in fast-paced, rigorous academic environments and are eager to start their nursing careers quickly.
Keep in mind that these programs are very demanding. You’ll need a strong academic background and a commitment to intensive learning.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Accelerated BSN Program
With more than a hundred accelerated BSN programs, how can you choose the best fit? Here’s a quick and thorough guide on how to narrow down the best accelerated BSN programs for career changers:
1. Accreditation
One of the first things you should check is whether the program is accredited by one of the two major nursing accreditation bodies:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Why does this matter? Accreditation ensures the program meets high educational standards and is recognized by employers and state licensing boards.
2. Program Format: Online vs. On-Campus
Accelerated BSN programs are available online, on-campus, or in a hybrid format. How do you choose between online vs. on-campus accelerated BSN programs?
- Fully Online (With In-Person Clinicals): If you need maximum flexibility, the fully online format (with in-person clinicals).
- Hybrid (Online and On-Campus Classes Mix): If you want some flexibility but also value in-person interaction.
- Traditional On-Campus: If you can commit full-time and prefer hands-on experience.
3. Clinical Experience & Partnerships
Among the most important factors to consider in an accelerated BSN program are clinical experience and partnerships.
- Where Will You Complete Clinical Rotations? Some schools have partnerships with top hospitals and healthcare facilities, providing students with high-quality clinical experiences.
- How Many Hours Are Required? Some states require a minimum number of clinical hours for RN licensure. Make sure the program meets these requirements.
- Simulation Labs: High-quality programs offer advanced nursing simulation training.
4. Admission Requirements
Make sure you meet the program’s admission criteria. Common admission requirements for accelerated BSN programs include:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Most programs require a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, although a background in science (such as biology or chemistry) is often preferred.
- Prerequisite Courses: You’ll likely need to complete courses such as microbiology, human anatomy and physiology, statistics, and nutrition.
- GPA Requirements: Most schools require a minimum GPA (often 3.0), though some may accept a lower GPA with relevant experience or other qualifications.
- Test Scores: Some programs may require entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI A2. Check whether the program you’re interested in requires any specific exams.
5. Tuition & Financial Aid
The cost of accelerated BSN programs greatly varies from school to school and formats. Data from the U.S. News & World Report show accelerated BSN programs cost between $30,000 to $80,000. It might seem like a lot, but it’s important not to let the sticker price scare you.
Here are a few strategies on how to land affordable accelerated BSN programs:
- Scholarships & Grants: Look for nursing-specific scholarships and financial aid.
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Some hospitals cover tuition in exchange for work commitments.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs: Consider financial aid options for accelerated BSN students like the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or Nurse Corps Scholarship Program.
6. NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
The NCLEX-RN pass rate is a good way to gauge how well a program prepares you for the licensure exam. Pick a program with a pass rate of 90% or higher to ensure you’re getting a quality education.
7. Support Services & Student Resources
You can tell the top accredited accelerated BSN programs if they provide the following:
- Academic Advising & Tutoring: These are essential for handling the tough coursework.
- Career Placement Services: A school with strong connections to hospitals can boost your chances of landing a job after graduation.
- Alumni Networks & Mentorship: Programs that offer mentorship from experienced nurses can provide great career advice and support.
Comparing Different Types of Accelerated BSN Programs
1. Traditional Accelerated BSN (On-Campus, Full-Time)
Ideal for those ready to commit to a full-time, intensive program with hands-on clinical experience.
- Pros: Immersive, strong faculty interaction, structured schedule.
- Cons: Full-time commitment, may require relocation or daily campus attendance.
2. Hybrid Accelerated BSN (Partially Online, In-Person Clinical)
Offers flexibility with online classes and in-person labs/clinicals.
- Pros: Flexible, combines online learning and in-person interaction.
- Cons: Requires some campus attendance and scheduling.
3. Fully Online Accelerated BSN (With Local Clinical Rotations)
Perfect for those needing maximum flexibility, like working professionals or parents.
- Pros: High flexibility with online coursework.
- Cons: Requires self-discipline and arranging local clinical placements.
How to Apply to an Accelerated BSN Program
Now that you know how to choose the right accelerated BSN program let’s start discussing how to apply to one:
Step 1: Research schools & meet prerequisites.
You need to start by looking into accredited nursing schools (for high-quality education) and their admission requirements (make sure you meet them).
Step 2: Prepare application materials.
There are several application materials you might need to submit. However, these are the most commonly asked-for materials:
- Official transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- A personal statement
- Entrance exam scores (if they’re required)
Step 3: Apply for financial aid & scholarships.
Don’t forget to fill out the FAFSA and look into nursing scholarships or grants that could help you out.
Step 4: Prepare for interviews (if required).
Some BSN programs may require an interview. Be ready to explain why you want to become a nurse and how you plan to manage the intense workload.
Best Accredited Accelerated BSN Programs
1. University of Texas at Arlington – Accelerated BSN
- Length: 15 months
- Format: Online
- Key Features: High NCLEX pass rate, strong clinical partnerships at partner hospitals statewide, top faculty.
2. University of Pennsylvania – Second Degree BSN
- Length: 15 months
- Format: On-campus
- Key Features: Integrated clinical placements at top hospitals, leadership focus.
3. University of Washington – Accelerated BSN
- Length: 12-18 months
- Format: Hybrid
- Key Features: Affordable tuition, high employment rates, strong simulation labs.
Job Prospects & Career Outlook After an Accelerated BSN
The demand for nurses is seen to grow by 6% by 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). With an Accelerated BSN, you can expect to enter a field with a high job growth rate and ample opportunities for advancement.
Job Prospects After an Accelerated BSN Program
- Hospital RN (ER, ICU, Pediatrics, etc.)
- Public Health Nurse
- Nursing Leadership & Management
Potential Salaries
The yearly annual salary for a registered nurse is $86,070, but specialized roles such as critical care or operating room nurses tend to earn more.
Conclusion
The main points of this post are:
- Choose an accredited program with strong clinical placements and high NCLEX pass rates to ensure high-quality education and credibility.
- Consider cost, format, prerequisites, and support services when making your decision.
- Research financial aid options, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement.
It’s important to consider the accelerated BSN program curriculum and clinical requirements before taking the plunge. This will help you plan your time and energy effectively, ensuring you’re ready for the program’s intensity.
With careful planning, you can find the right accelerated BSN program and start your nursing career quickly.
