The Benefits of Choosing an Accelerated BSN Program

Changing your career path can be intimidating. But choosing an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program can give you the confidence you need as you embark on a new career.

Overview of Accelerated BSN Programs

An accelerated BSN program gives students an opportunity to fast-track their nursing education. 

The program is for those who already have an associate and bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, and want to get their bachelor’s degree in nursing.  

Because students already have core arts and sciences classes completed, they can complete the accelerated nursing program in just 12 months at Nebraska Methodist College (NMC). 

This allows students to become bachelor’s-prepared nurses and start their career quickly.

What is an Accelerated BSN Program?

While a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program requires four years to complete, an accelerated program can be completed in one year. 

During the program, students develop the skills necessary to become confident nurses. 

Some of the courses students can expect to take are pathophysiology, population-based health, professionalism in nursing, pharmacology, healthcare policy, nursing care of specialized populations and public health.

In addition to lectures, homework, projects and studying, students are required to complete clinical experiences to get hands-on training in healthcare settings. Your clinical hours are completed at local healthcare facilities. 

NMC students also participate in a preceptorship. Students are assigned to a registered nurse preceptor who helps them develop confidence and competence in applying skills and knowledge to their nursing practice. 

The preceptorship gives students the opportunity to gain experience in an area of practice they’re interested in and network with a potential future employer. At NMC, nearly 99% of nursing students were placed in their top three choices for nursing preceptorships during the last academic year. 

One of the most important accelerated BSN program outcomes is that students are prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), which is required for nurses in the United States.

Key Benefits of Accelerated Nursing Programs

Fast-Track to Nursing Career:

Since students already have an associate or bachelor’s degree before starting the program, they’re typically ready to begin their careers. 

One of the career advantages of accelerated nursing degrees is that students have the skills they need to become a nurse in a short period of time.

Most NMC students secure jobs before they graduate, so they’re ready to begin their nursing careers right after graduation.

Intensive Learning Experience:

The comprehensive curriculum prepares students with the knowledge and skills they need to be a competent and compassionate nurse. 

The year-long program is rigorous and challenging, but students complete the program ready to take on their new careers.

Career Opportunities Post-Graduation:

After completing an ABSN, graduates have many career opportunities. 

Nurses are in demand with a projected growth of six percent from 2022 to 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The job growth for nurses is faster than the average for all occupations.

Why Choose Nebraska Methodist College for Your ABSN?

Unique Program Highlights:

When you enroll in NMC’s ABSN program, you begin your education journey with a cohort that ensures camaraderie and encouragement during the intensive program.

You’ll have support through academic coaching, counseling, study groups, test prep groups and peer-to-peer tutoring. 

Students at NMC experience a holistic culture of caring with a 14:1 student-faculty ratio. You’ll learn in state-of-the-art laboratories and by working in clinical settings, which will prepare you to pass your licensure exam. 

Success Stories and Alumni Testimonials: 

ABSN students often credit NMC’s faculty with being supportive, which helps students succeed in the program.

“The faculty that I encountered were great to me. I studied and tried hard, because that is my nature and the faculty noticed that. I am a very determined person that had a goal and that was to become a registered nurse, and NMC has done just that for me. I have learned an enormous amount of knowledge from professors that I will take with me throughout my career,” said Nina Eicke, an ABSN graduate.

Graduates of NMC’s accelerated nursing program say they were ready for their first job as a nurse and have been able to take on leadership roles quickly.

“I was well prepared to enter the workforce after graduation. The ABSN program made me a competent nurse and a good future preceptor and leader. On my last floor, I was trained to be a fill in core nurse after only being a nurse for a year and a half. I credit Nebraska Methodist College to a lot of my success,” said Megan Duden, an ABSN graduate.

Comparing ABSN with Traditional BSN Programs

Many nursing schools will offer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing that has two pathways: traditional and accelerated.

At NMC, students can pursue a BSN through either of these programs. 

The traditional BSN program takes four years to complete and students can begin the program after high school or as a transfer student without completed degrees.

During a four-year program, students can expect to have more free time and be able to manage a part-time job. 

The accelerated program is 12 months and for those who already have a non-nursing associate or bachelor’s degree.

Accelerated BSN Program Requirements and Admissions

Before you apply to an accelerated nursing program, you’ll want to meet with an admissions coordinator. 

They will discuss requirements and criteria for admission, and help you determine if you have the right transfer credits.

ABSN eligibility criteria and prerequisites are:

• Completion of prerequisite courses prior to August enrollment (use NMC’s Prerequisite Guide under “Criteria” on the ABSN program webpage).
• Having earned an associate or bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75.
• Success in previous math and science coursework.
• Ability to meet the technical standards of nursing practice.

When you’re ready to apply, take your time filling out your application. As part of your online application, you’ll submit a written statement. 

Your written statement is your opportunity to share why you want to become a nurse, how you’ve demonstrated resilience and how you plan to balance the program with your life.

Read more: 7 Tips for a Successful NursingCAS Application

Financial Considerations and Support

Since you’ve already attended college, you might be worried about the financial commitment of enrolling in college again. 

Even if you applied for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and utilized financial aid the first time you were enrolled in college, you can still qualify for loans and aid. 

NMC also offers scholarships specifically for accelerated nursing students. 

Students can receive up to $5,000 in Upfront Merit Scholarships. These scholarships are based on GPA. 

The Kathleen Montgomery Memorial ACE Scholarship provides $7,500 for the 12-month program. A selected number of scholarships are awarded to applicants who demonstrate academic merit or financial need.

Preparing for an Accelerated Nursing Education

As you begin your education journey, you’ll want to make sure you have the resources and support needed to succeed.

“Students who have completed an associate or bachelor’s degree understand the commitment that goes into completing rigorous coursework,” said Jillian Krumbach, director of undergraduate nursing at NMC. “I think it’s important for students to be prepared for the time commitment that comes with an accelerated program. This program is not only fast-paced, but has challenging content and demanding clinical experiences. A student must be prepared to adjust their life around the program.”

To prepare for the rigorous accelerated program, students must:

• Have strategies for effective and efficient studying.
• Utilize available resources on campus.
• Have a support system.
• Use time management skills.

Tips for prospective students to prepare for the intensity of the program.

Read more: How to Successfully Prepare for an Accelerated BSN Program

Career Pathways After Completing an ABSN

After you receive your BSN, you’ll be prepared to work as a registered nurse. There are many accelerated nursing career pathways. Nurses are needed in many settings, such as:

• Hospitals.
• Physician’s offices.
• Schools.
• Surgery centers.
• Oncology clinics.
• Home healthcare companies.
• Nursing care facilities.
• Government agencies.
• Aesthetic clinics.
• In the military.

After you’ve worked as a registered nurse, you may consider continuing your education. Many nurses choose to get their Master of Science in Nursing to take on leadership roles as a nurse executive, teaching future nurses as a nurse educator, focus on data as a nurse informaticist or coordinate patient care as a care coordinator.

Some nurses choose to get their Doctor of Nursing Practice to become a nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist. 

Read more: Transitioning to a Career in Nursing with an Accelerated BSN

Taking the Next Step

Why choose an accelerated bachelor’s in nursing? So you can quickly learn the knowledge and skills you need to have a successful and rewarding nursing career.

At NMC, you’ll get the support you need to find success in the accelerated nursing program.

Enroll in the ABSN Program at Nebraska Methodist College

Ready to advance your nursing career swiftly with Nebraska Methodist College? Explore our comprehensive Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree program for more details and embark on a rewarding future in nursing today!

Contact our admissions team to schedule a visit and get your questions answered.