What is an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing?
What is an ABSN?
An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field but want to pursue a career in nursing. These programs allow students to apply their previous educational achievements toward completing the nursing requirements in one to two years. ABSN graduates have the flexibility to pursue a wide range of nursing roles, from bedside nursing to advanced careers in education, informatics, forensic nursing, or clinical research.
ABSN programs, such as those offered by University of Pennsylvania's School of Nursing, provide a fast track into the nursing profession, with an emphasis on practical skills and clinical experience.
What will you learn in an ABSN program?
ABSN programs are tailored to students who already have a degree in another discipline. These programs bypass general education requirements, allowing students to focus solely on nursing coursework. The curriculum includes critical subjects such as:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Chemistry
- Community Health
- Ethics in Nursing
- Gerontology
- Leadership
- Microbiology
- Nursing Fundamentals
- Pharmacology
- Research
Students also gain valuable clinical experience in healthcare settings. Many ABSN programs, including those offered by Rush University Medical Center, provide an immersive learning environment, preparing graduates for a wide range of nursing roles.
What are the requirements and prerequisites for ABSN programs?
Each ABSN program has specific prerequisites that may include courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics. If these courses were part of your prior education, you should confirm their acceptance with the program. Entrance exams such as the ATI TEAS or HESI, which cover English, math, reading, and science, are commonly required.
GPA requirements generally range from 3.0 to 3.5, depending on the program. It's advisable to apply to multiple programs to increase your chances of acceptance. Many programs also encourage candidates to submit strong career statements and professional references.
For example, New York University Rory Meyers College of Nursing provides detailed guidance on their prerequisites and admissions process, ensuring that applicants are well-prepared for success.
What are the popular certifications for nurses with an ABSN?
After completing an ABSN and passing the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN), nurses can pursue additional certifications to specialize in specific areas of nursing. These certifications often require a certain number of hours worked in a specialty and continuing education. Notable certification organizations include:
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)
- American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
Popular certifications include:
- Critical Care Nursing (CCRN)
- Nurse Practitioner Certification
- Informatics Nurse Certification
These certifications can increase earning potential and provide opportunities for career advancement.
How much does an ABSN cost?
ABSN programs can be costly, with the tuition varying depending on whether the school is public or private. According to NursingLicenseMap.com, ABSN programs in the U.S. can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the institution. Public universities generally offer more affordable options, while private universities may have higher fees.
Financial aid, scholarships, and low-interest loans are often available to help cover the costs. For example, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing offers scholarships for students pursuing advanced nursing degrees, including those in the ABSN program.
Are nursing school waitlists for ABSNs common?
Due to the growing demand for nursing professionals and limited spots in ABSN programs, waitlists are common. Applicants should ensure their GPA meets the program’s minimum requirements and submit a strong career statement. Recommendations from professionals in healthcare can also enhance your application.
Waitlists can vary by program, so applicants are encouraged to check specific programs such as The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Nursing, which offers ABSN program details and admissions updates on its website.
What are the job and salary outlooks for nurses with ABSNs?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that Registered Nurses (RNs) earn a median annual salary of $82,750. The demand for nurses is expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, offering strong job security for ABSN graduates.
Nurses with specialized certifications or experience in leadership roles may see higher salaries. For instance, nurse educators and informatics nurses often earn higher wages due to their advanced expertise.
If you're considering a career in nursing, explore the possibilities and learn about new job openings by visiting GoodWork.