Navigating Accelerated Nursing Programs: A Comprehensive Guide to Requirements and Curriculum

For individuals holding a bachelor's degree in a field other than nursing, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program offers an efficient pathway into a rewarding nursing career. These programs, designed for career changers, provide the necessary knowledge and skills to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and transition into the nursing profession. This article explores the requirements, curriculum, and what to expect from an accelerated nursing program.

ABSN Program Overview

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (ABSN) is tailored for non-RN students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. This allows individuals with prior academic achievements and experiences to efficiently change careers.

These programs are offered at various institutions, such as Samuel Merritt University (SMU) and UCLA, with varying structures and specializations. For instance, Cal State LA awards a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree upon completion of their program, which involves approximately 57 semester units of study in both didactic and clinical coursework over 15 months of study.

SMU's ABSN program is designed to be completed in 12 months, consisting of three semesters of intensive study. While differing from traditional BSN programs, the ABSN program shares the same goals, learning outcome objectives, and foundational concepts.

Admission Requirements

Admission to ABSN programs is competitive and based on several criteria. Applicants typically need to have graduated by the end of the preceding fall quarter or semester to apply for the subsequent summer's ABSN program. Here's a breakdown of common requirements:

Academic Prerequisites: Completion of a minimum number of semester units from an accredited institution is essential. For example, SMU requires a minimum of 75 semester units (or 112.5 quarter units). A grade of "C" or better is typically required in all prerequisite courses.
GPA: A competitive GPA is crucial. SMU recommends a GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 semester units (or 90 quarter units) of coursework and a GPA of 3.0 across the six required science prerequisite courses.
Entrance Exams: Many nursing schools require an entrance exam to assess a candidate's ability to successfully complete the program. Examples include the HESI A2 or TEAS. SMU recommends a HESI A2 score of 75% or higher in each subject area or a TEAS score of 65% or higher in each subject area.
Prerequisite Coursework: Specific prerequisite courses are mandatory, ensuring students have a foundational understanding of key concepts. These courses typically include:
- English Composition
- English Literature/Critical Thinking
- Communication or Speech Elective
- Introduction to Sociology OR General Sociology OR Cultural Anthropology
- Social Science Elective (Anthropology, Sociology, Psychology, Economics, Ethnic Studies, Political Science, History, etc.)
- Lifespan Developmental Psychology (covering birth to death)
- Nutrition (general, broad-based course)
- Statistics (research methods courses are unacceptable)
- Human Anatomy with Lab
- Human Physiology with Lab
- Chemistry with Lab
- Microbiology with Lab
- Pharmacology
- Pathophysiology
Transcripts: All admitted students are required to provide official, sealed transcripts for courses that were still in progress or planned at the time of application and were not updated in the Academic Update Process through the NursingCAS system.

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Criminal Background Check and Drug Screen: To participate in clinical rotations, students must undergo a criminal background check and drug screening.
Health Insurance: All students are required to have medical insurance coverage by their program’s first day of orientation. Students can choose the university’s plan or use their own.
Health Forms: All students must complete Student Health Forms, which list the health requirements for incoming students.

It is important to note that prerequisite courses cannot be taken concurrently with the ABSN program under any circumstances.

Prerequisite Course Articulation

To assist prospective students, tools like the Prerequisite Course Articulation Tool are available to determine which courses meet the prerequisite requirements for ABSN programs. Samuel Merritt University offers prerequisite coursework in Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Pharmacology, and Pathophysiology. These courses are taught in the fall, spring, and summer terms and are designed for prospective students.

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Curriculum Structure

The ABSN curriculum is rigorous and fast-paced, designed to impart a comprehensive nursing education in an accelerated timeframe. The curriculum generally includes:

Didactic Coursework: Classroom-based learning covering nursing theory, principles, and concepts.
Clinical Coursework: Hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, allowing students to apply their knowledge and develop essential skills.

Sequential Course Curriculum

The sequential course curriculum is designed to build upon foundational knowledge, progressing to more complex topics and clinical applications.

Financial Considerations

Pursuing an ABSN program is a significant investment. It's essential to understand the costs involved and explore available financial aid options.

Tuition and Fees: Tuition costs vary depending on the institution. A detailed summary of annual tuition, all fees for the program, and a cost estimator for the entire program are usually available on the university's Student Accounts page.
Application Fees: Application fees are payable to Nursing’s Centralized Application Service (NursingCAS).
Non-Refundable Deposits: Students offered admission typically pay a non-refundable tuition deposit to secure their seat in the class.
Financial Aid: ABSN students are generally eligible for scholarships and student loans, but federal and state grants may not be available for a second bachelor’s degree.
- Scholarships for ABSN students may include:
  - Sharon Clark Diaz Scholarship
  - Employee Campaign Scholarship
  - Alumni Scholarship
  - Highsmith Scholarship
  - Huber Scholarship
  - Steele Scholarship
  - Osher Scholarship
  - Lewis Scholarship
Indirect Educational Costs: In addition to tuition and fees, financial aid can also cover other indirect educational costs, including:
- Books and supplies
- Room and board
- Transportation
- Personal expenses
- Other fees as determined by program/college

Preparing for an ABSN Program

Complete Prerequisites: Ensure all prerequisite courses are completed with the required grades before applying.
Gain Healthcare Experience: Volunteer or work in healthcare settings to gain exposure to the nursing field. Shadowing a nurse is an excellent way to understand the profession's realities.
Prepare for Entrance Exams: Study and practice for the required entrance exams, such as the HESI A2 or TEAS.
Secure Letters of Recommendation: Request letters of recommendation from individuals who can speak to your abilities and potential as a nurse.
Financial Planning: Research tuition costs, fees, and financial aid options to create a realistic budget.

UCLA School of Nursing Programs

UCLA School of Nursing offers various programs, including:

Bachelor of Science (BS) Prelicensure Program: A traditional, four-year program designed to prepare students for a career in professional nursing practice. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX and may apply for the Public Health Nursing Certificate from the California Board of Registered Nursing.
Master of Science in Nursing - Master's Entry Clinical Nurse (MECN): A two-year pre-licensure program for individuals with a baccalaureate degree in another discipline. Graduates receive an MSN degree and are eligible to take the NCLEX.
Post BS (Nursing) - Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program: A three-year program designed to prepare registered nurses to become experts and leaders in advanced practice.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): A program focused on developing nurse scientists who can conduct research and generate theory to advance the nursing profession.
UC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Program: A competency-based program aligned with national standards, focusing on developing PMHNP roles.

Accreditation

Accreditation is a crucial factor when choosing an ABSN program. Accreditation ensures that the program meets specific quality standards and that graduates are eligible for licensure and certification. For example, Samuel Merritt University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Samuel Merritt University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The baccalaureate degree program in nursing, master's degree program in nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the UCLA School of Nursing are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

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