Nursing is a rewarding and fast-growing career. In the pandemic’s aftermath, registered nurses have become some of the most in-demand professionals in the country. If you’re thinking about pursuing nursing as a career, now is a great time to start.
Becoming a registered nurse requires extensive skill and practice. But spending years in a nursing program might give you pause — especially if you already have a degree in another field. Luckily, there’s a way you can speed up the process.
Accelerated nursing programs are designed to fast-track your progress toward a nursing degree. Here’s how they measure up against traditional programs.
How Do Accelerated Nursing Programs Work?
Those with degrees and established careers in non-nursing fields typically use an accelerated BSN program. Rather than earning their degree in 4 years, accelerated students can complete it in less than 2 years.
When you enroll in an accelerated program, you’ll learn the nursing fundamentals taught in associate degree programs, plus the advanced topics that make up a bachelor’s degree. For this reason, accelerated programs require focused time and attention. It’s generally recommended that you focus on your coursework full-time, though some programs offer flexible scheduling. Once you’ve completed the program, you can move on to exams and licensing.
Accelerated vs. Traditional Programs: Some Key Differences
The main difference between a traditional and accelerated program is the time you spend earning your degree. A traditional nursing education takes 4 years or more to complete, while accelerated programs last less than 2 years. This reduced timeframe is a major draw for those looking to enter nursing from a career in a separate field.
Additionally, traditional programs only require students to have a high school diploma to enter, while accelerated nursing programs ask that students have some credits under their belt. This is mainly because accelerated programs focus on nursing-specific courses rather than the general education you’d earn at typical nursing schools.
Why Choose an ABSN Over Other Nursing Programs?
An accelerated nursing program might be right for you for a few reasons. If you want to switch careers entirely, it’s an ideal way to earn your bachelor’s degree without undergoing 4 years of schooling. And with no need to pay for general education courses, these programs are often more cost-effective.
An ABSN program is a quick way to build on your knowledge base. For some, it is a great way to qualify for more advanced roles that boost their career opportunities.
Are Accelerated Nursing Programs a Full-Time Commitment?
An accelerated BSN program covers a lot of ground. It covers associate-level basics and builds on these with advanced policies and theories. Students in these programs may learn as much information as they would in 4-year programs, but they do so in half the time. That can mean more intense study and work during the program.
Ideally, you’ll be able to focus on your accelerated nursing program full-time. But this is not feasible for everyone. Fortunately, some programs feature greater flexibility even with an accelerated timeline. For example, Aceso Nursing offers an online program for those who can’t make it to campus each day.
Is an Online Accelerated Nursing Program Right for You?
If you want to start a nursing career, an online program might be the best way to get your BSN. For those who can only commit to a part-time class schedule, online coursework allows you to earn your degree on your timetable.
When you enroll in an online nursing program, you’ll have access to course materials from the comfort of your own home. With an online program like Aceso’s, all materials — including library services and required texts — are included in the program’s cost, giving you easy access to everything you need to earn your RN-BSN from wherever you choose.
Are Online Programs Available?
Plenty of options exist if you decide an online accelerated course is right for you. Online courses like Aceso’s can help you grow your understanding of nursing theory from the ground up, fully preparing you for a career as an advanced registered nurse (you must be an RN already to take our program).
A hybrid program might be the best choice for those who prefer learning in person but need the flexibility of online classes. Aceso also offers NCLEX hybrid remediation programs to support you during your accelerated nursing program.
How Does the NCLEX Fit Into an ABSN Program?
The National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX, is a test that all students must pass before their nursing practice can begin if you have not taken an RN program. Preparation for the exam requires extensive studying to ensure you have the knowledge needed to pass. For this reason, students often opt for additional training programs tailored to the test.
Enrolling in an NCLEX remediation program will reinforce your knowledge of nursing theory and patient care. Courses like those at Aceso cover specific topics like clinical skills, body systems and pharmacology. These programs are often available online, making them valuable additions to any online accelerated nursing program.
Aceso’s Nursing Courses | Designed By Nurses for Nurses
For an RN-BSN program that will help you meet your educational goals, look no further than Aceso. Our program was designed by registered nurses specifically for those looking to take their nursing skills above and beyond. With online programs and flexible tuition, Aceso can help you start your new career on the right foot.
It’s always possible to start your nursing journey, and we can help you take the first step. Visit Aceso to enroll in our accelerated program and make a difference today.
