Accelerated Nursing Programs: Is This a Good Way to Earn My BSN?

Accelerated BSN nursing programs are quickly gaining popularity with more than 17,725 students enrolling for accelerated programs in 2016, according to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). Accelerated nursing programs are ideal for non-traditional students who want to start working as soon as possible and don't want to interrupt their lives for four years in order to attend a traditional college.

Let's take a look at how ABSNs and BSNs differ and see if you would be a good candidate for an ABSN!

Traditional BSN vs. ABSN Programs: What is the difference?

The fundamental difference between traditional BSN and Accelerated BSN programs is the duration it takes to complete the programs. Like other bachelor’s degrees, traditional BSN programs could take 4 years to complete, although most student spend longer in school. Most Accelerated BSN programs take around 2.5 years to complete. This means a future nurse could graduate from an accelerated program while their traditional program peer is still a junior in college.

This difference is largely influenced by the schedule and pacing of the program:

• Traditional nursing students attend semesters that usually last 16 weeks at a time
• Accelerated students take two classes per five-week term, allowing them to move through their program quickly

Benefits of Accelerated Nursing Programs

Besides the obvious benefit of finishing sooner, there are many other reasons why students choose to take an accelerated program over a traditional one. Here are the common benefits of accelerated BSN programs:

No Prior Healthcare Experience Required

Many people often assume that you must have some prior experience in healthcare or education background in nursing to pursue a nursing degree program. That is not always the case. As long as you have a high school diploma, a desire to help others, and meet all relevant deadlines and paperwork requirements, you could find yourself in a classroom (or clinical rotation!) very shortly.

Class Flexibility Allows Working Adults to Keep Working

Many accelerated programs offer day or night classes to help accommodate busy students' schedules. Some general education classes might even be conducted online. This helps working students and those with families to keep up with their obligations while studying hard in school.

Mastery Learning Model

An accelerated program often provides students with the strong academic background and clinical preparedness required to take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX). In most cases, the class sizes are sometimes smaller than traditional BSN programs, which makes it possible to foster collaboration in the leaning process. You could experience each class, one subject at a time, through the mastery learning model or block curriculum.

Improved Accessibility

Today, finding a nursing program with no waitlist can seem impossible. Accelerated nursing programs offer the flexibility to accommodate more students with various starting dates throughout the year. Moreover, you could get the opportunity to begin clinical rotations earlier and encounter real patients for valuable experiences.

Tips for Accelerated Nursing Programs

For most people, applying for a nursing program seems like a daunting task, with uncertainties on eligibility. However, admission for an accelerated BSN doesn’t have to be difficult as long as you have the required high school diploma or GED, and follow all instructions when it comes to the application. Here are a few tips to help you pursue your ABSN program without much hassle:

Speak with your Admissions Advisor

Always discuss your concerns and expectations with your admissions advisor. You will work hand-in-hand to develop a personalized plan that will help you get started on the program as soon as possible. They will also guide you on different aspects of the application process, determination of goals, and various financial options available. No question is silly. You should have total clarity on what is required of you and what you can expect through the process.

Get Organized

Since accelerated BSN programs are rigorous and demanding, you need to organize yourself and learn as much as you can. Make financial arrangements beforehand, and if you have a family or small children, plan for things like babysitting ahead of time. Staying organized makes a huge difference in your success in an accelerated nursing program.

ECPI University Offers an Accelerated BSN

Are you interested in earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing without spending four years in college? At ECPI University, our accelerated, year-round program could help you reach your goals … faster! For more information on this exciting opportunity, connect with a resourceful admissions advisor today.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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For more information about ECPI University or any of our programs click here: http://www.ecpi.edu/ or http://ow.ly/Ca1ya.