Want to learn “what is an accelerated nursing program?” An accelerated BSN is a shortened program that provides you with the same knowledge as a traditional BSN on a faster timeline. At Averett University, you can receive a quality nursing education in only 16 months.
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs are unique from other nursing school tracks, and it can be difficult to understand all the learning components.
You might be asking questions like, “What is an Accelerated BSN program?” and “How long is an accelerated nursing program?” While you may have many questions about this type of nursing degree program, we are here to provide answers.
Averett University’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is based on a unique hybrid curriculum blending online and in-person learning. With the support of faculty and fellow cohort members, students have the resources needed to earn a nursing degree on a more intensive timeline.
In this post, we will answer your questions about the ABSN program so you can decide if it is the right choice for you.
ABSN Programs Explained
Accelerated BSN programs are distinct from most traditional four-year, entirely in-person BSN degree paths. ABSN programs are designed for second-degree seekers and people who want to pursue nursing but for whom a traditional nursing degree path is inaccessible.
While a typical BSN program takes four years, an accelerated BSN takes significantly less time. At Averett University, you can complete the program in as few as 16 months.
Our hybrid program is comprised of three components:
- Online coursework
- In-person simulation labs
- In-person clinical rotations
Another important factor of the ABSN program is that it is condensed rather than reduced. With an ABSN curriculum, you will receive the same coursework and application practice as a traditional BSN program but on an accelerated timeline.
To learn more about the differences between an ABSN program and a BSN, read this blog on Accelerated BSN vs. Traditional BSN.
What to Expect
While an ABSN program will differ from a traditional BSN path, it is absolutely achievable. You can expect to put hard work and dedication into nursing school. Because you are condensing so much material into a 16-month timeframe, it will require a higher level of commitment.
However, you can also expect immense support from your peers and professors. At Averett, our instructors are highly accessible and willing to help with any issues you may run into with online-based coursework. You will also experience face-to-face mentorship with faculty during simulation labs and with nursing professionals during clinical rotations.
Reasons to Enroll
There are numerous options available to those seeking a nursing degree. From associate degrees to bachelor’s, master’s or even doctorates, knowing what best fits your needs can be challenging.
If you seek a quality education to launch your career while building the foundation for future advancement, an ABSN program might be just the fit for you. Here are several advantages of enrolling in an Accelerated BSN program.
Flexibility
The ABSN program at Averett University is a hybrid program, meaning you will complete your coursework online and your simulation labs and clinical rotations in person. This allows more freedom to work around your schedule and personal needs. Many who enter the ABSN program balance their education with parenthood or other personal responsibilities.
For some students, this also means having geographic flexibility. Because the coursework is online, you will only need to commute to the ABSN Learning Center and hospitals for your in-person components instead of commuting daily.
Having the flexibility to complete the coursework at any time without sacrificing your dreams for the future sets the ABSN program apart from any other nursing pathway.
Accelerated Timeline
For many people, the accelerated timeline is one of the most attractive features of the ABSN program. If you have a previous degree or significant college education, the idea of another four years in school can be a deterrent to becoming a nurse.
Luckily, there are other options. Once you have completed the prerequisites, you can be on the fast track to becoming a nurse, partly because the program is full-time for 16 months. You will learn and apply your knowledge to labs and clinicals simultaneously.
Quality Education
If you choose an accelerated BSN program, you will not have to sacrifice quality for the sake of the fast-track component. Averett University’s ABSN program supplies the same caliber of education as a traditional BSN program.
The program is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These accreditations ensure you will receive the same preparation for a nursing career as any other accredited BSN program.
It is also essential that the program you choose prepares you to sit for the NCLEX-RN® examination. This will be the final step in your journey to becoming a nurse, so you must be equipped to pass it with flying colors.
Advantage Over an Associate’s Program
Another alternative worth mentioning is an associate program in nursing. While both benefit from a shortened timeline over a traditional bachelor’s program, a BSN allows a broader range of opportunities after graduating.
More and more hospitals require nurses to attain a BSN to be hired, not to mention that a BSN is required to pursue graduate-level education. If time is an important factor in choosing a nursing school, an ABSN program is worth considering.
In addition, a BSN provides leverage in that you will spend more time getting comfortable in a medical facility during your clinical rotations. The city of Norfolk boasts a high-quality legacy of healthcare with the Sentara healthcare network, which maintains magnet status.
This recognition makes it an ideal place for nurses to work and thrive. As an ABSN student at Averett’s Norfolk Learning Center, you will have the opportunity to learn and network within quality facilities in the area.
Why Should You Choose Averett?
If you choose to attend the ABSN program at Averett, you will receive all the help you need to enter the workforce as a fully qualified and competent nurse. Our ABSN Learning Center in Norfolk, VA, is ideal for veterans looking to serve the community and others pursuing a second career.
You can also rest assured that you will have support throughout the admissions process. From the moment of your first phone call to submitting your application, your admissions advisor will support you in making the best decisions every step of the way.
For more information about what makes Averett University’s ABSN program stand out, read about why Averett is a leading school in Virginia.
Now that you have a better understanding of what an accelerated nursing program is, it’s time to take a step toward your future career and contact an admissions advisor today.