The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

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Author: Shannon Lee
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Freelance Writer, Editor, & Novelist
Shannon Lee has over 20 years of experience writing thousands of articles in the higher education sector, with a particular focus on medical and health topics. Drawing on her personal background as the daughter of two professionals who retired from major hospital systems, she specializes in nursing, healthcare, and allied health writing.
Areas of Expertise
Check HealthcareNursingHealthcare Admin
HealthcareNursingHealthcare Admin
Editor: Wes Ricketts
Wes Ricketts has created award-winning content in higher education and healthcare for nearly 20 years. He founded EduMed in 2018 to give future college students a go-to resource for information on degree programs in nursing and allied health. Wes’s research and writing interests include Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as caregiving for loved ones with degenerative conditions. Wes holds a master’s degree in history from Western Washington University, where he also led workshops focused on historical research and longform writing skills.
Areas of Expertise
Check EditorialSenior CareDementia Care
EditorialSenior CareDementia Care

Review the Best Online Accelerated BSN Programs

Some accelerated programs denote RN to BSN programs with faster-than-usual completion times; however, most accelerated online BSN programs are for students who hold bachelor’s degrees in other fields and want to become registered nurses quickly. Let’s take a look at these online accelerated BSN programs, how they work, which schools stand out, and what some of today’s most popular programs have to offer in this EduMed guide.

The following professionals lent their expertise to this article:

A smiling woman with long, wavy brown hair wearing glasses and a purple jacket over a plaid shirt. She appears joyful and is looking directly at the camera.
Author: Shannon Lee
A smiling woman with long, wavy brown hair wearing glasses and a purple jacket over a plaid shirt. She appears joyful and is looking directly at the camera.
Shannon Lee Arrow up right
Freelance Writer, Editor, & Novelist
Shannon Lee has over 20 years of experience writing thousands of articles in the higher education sector, with a particular focus on medical and health topics. Drawing on her personal background as the daughter of two professionals who retired from major hospital systems, she specializes in nursing, healthcare, and allied health writing.
Areas of Expertise
Check HealthcareNursingHealthcare Admin
HealthcareNursingHealthcare Admin
Editor: Wes Ricketts
Wes Ricketts has created award-winning content in higher education and healthcare for nearly 20 years. He founded EduMed in 2018 to give future college students a go-to resource for information on degree programs in nursing and allied health. Wes’s research and writing interests include Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as caregiving for loved ones with degenerative conditions. Wes holds a master’s degree in history from Western Washington University, where he also led workshops focused on historical research and longform writing skills.
Areas of Expertise
Check EditorialSenior CareDementia Care
EditorialSenior CareDementia Care

FIND THE PROGRAM FOR YOU

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Online ABSN programs cater to bachelor’s degree holders looking to enter nursing without repeating general education requirements, and, therefore, the curriculum focuses only on major courses to fast-track your degree. Coursework is completed entirely online with clinical experience gained at local hospitals, clinics, schools, and other healthcare-related facilities.

The right accelerated program will prepare you for entry-level nursing, help you pass the NCLEX-RN, and boast affordability for students like you. The three profiles below can give you an idea of what to expect before you apply.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Online – University of Indianapolis

The University of Indianapolis’s online ABSN program gives you a personalized approach to higher education with a fast and flexible path to graduation. Although coursework is 100% online, clinicals are completed via local placements as well as through a pair of four-day on-campus events. Each student meets with a success advisor and an academic advisor, with clinicals following a 1:1 model. The UIndy program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Duration: 15 months (4 semesters)

Mode: Online with local clinicals and four on-campus residencies

Cost: $860/credit

Admissions Requirements:

Curriculum: The University of Indianapolis offers four sample courses on its website to show prospective students what the 56-credit hour program entails. These courses include:

  • Nursing Health Assessment (3 credits) – How to perform a complete and holistic health assessment of individuals and families. Using clinical reasoning and physical findings to differentiate between normal and abnormal findings.
  • Transitional Care in Primary and Population Health (3 credits) – Population-focused nursing via theoretical and practical applications. Study of social and health policy and environmental issues, as well as community partnerships.
  • Complex Transitional Nursing Care (4 credits) – The study of professional nursing practice and its role in promoting health and injury prevention in complex patient populations. Looks at a more holistic approach to nursing as well as advanced technologies and the collaboration of health care teams.
  • Transition to Professional Nursing Practice (3 credits) – Taken in the final semester of the program, this course allows students to develop their professional roles under the guidance of a mentor. Strong focus on NCLEX-RN examination prep.

Best For: Students who want to transition to a nursing program quickly and enter the workforce in the shortest amount of time possible.

Online Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Cleveland State University

The online ABSN from Cleveland State is a full-time program comprised of online coursework with two required residencies. Accredited by the CCNE, the program leverages past undergraduate work to accelerate nurse-related coursework and prepares students to deliver patient care in a wide range of healthcare environments. The program includes 764 clinical hours, 171 lab hours, clinical placement services, and NCLEX exam prep.

Duration: 16 months

Mode: Online coursework with two residencies

Cost: $434.60/credit (in-state), $619.70/credit (out-of-state)

Admissions Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • 2.5 cumulative GPA, 3.0 prerequisite GPA
  • Résumé
  • Interview
  • Essay
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts from all institutions attended

Curriculum:

  • Nursing Theory & Professional Practice – Covers theory development in nursing, nursing models, nursing attributes, values, ethics, and history. Fosters development of nursing communication skills and appreciation of cultural diversity.
  • Nursing Pharmacology – Covers drug classifications, especially those used to care for patients experiencing stressors. Focus on nursing implications.
  • Nursing Research – Introduces students to the research process and discusses the contributions of research to the advancement of nursing practice. Sharp focus on critical analysis and interpretation of research reports.
  • Nursing Leadership & Management – Concentrates on leadership theories and concepts related to the delivery of care within the community. Explores the roles of developing leader and consultant/collaborator.

Best For: Students who want a more personal approach to a program, with strong student support from start to finish. Also great for anyone looking for more affordable tuition.

Accelerated BSN Programs (Online) – The University of Tulsa

The ABSN online at the University of Tulsa is designed for working professionals and adult learners who already possess a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. The program waives 31 credits of general education requirements and hinges around 60 core nursing credits. Tulsa’s program includes the Roy Adaptation Model and prepares students to pass the NCLEX-RN.

Duration: 18 months (depending on schedule and transfer credits)

Mode: Coursework online, 5-day bootcamp on campus, and clinicals near you.

Cost: $458/credit

Admissions Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Professional CV
  • $150 enrollment deposit
  • Background check
  • All prerequisites completed with a C grade or better, including chemistry in medicine, human anatomy with lab, and human physiology with lab.

Curriculum:

The online ABSN at Tulsa includes courses in four primary categories:

  • Prerequisites (12 credits) – Four courses in chemistry, physiology, and anatomy.
  • Electives (6 credits) – Three general elective credits and three nursing major electives.
  • Nursing Foundation (11 credits) – Four courses in nutrition, microbiology, psychology, and research.
  • Nursing Major (60 credits) – Twenty-two courses across nursing fundamentals, acute and chronic care, public health, nursing science, and informatics. Includes a capstone.

Best For: Students who benefit from taking their clinicals near home via coordination with a current employer or nearby healthcare facility.

What to Consider Before You Apply

Before you start applying for online ABSN programs, consider the following questions closely.

  1. Am I ready for an accelerated program that involves full-time study?
  2. Do I have a career path in mind?
  3. Am I ready to do all my academic coursework online?
  4. Do I have the financial aid I need? Are scholarships available?

What Prospective Online ABSN Students Ask

We’ve put together answers to common questions from students exploring online RN to BSN programs. This section addresses a range of topics, including admissions, costs, financial aid, and accreditation, so be sure to review these essential Q&As before making your next move.

How long does it take to earn an ABSN online?

The time it takes to complete depends on how your school of choice handles transfer credits, and how many general education requirements they waive. In general, most accelerated BSN programs can be completed in 15-20 months. Also keep in mind that certain elements of online programs, e.g. self-pacing, can impact completion time as well.

What’s the minimum GPA needed for admission to an ABSN program?

Minimum GPAs for admission to these programs generally begin at 2.5, but some more lenient programs may allow enrollment with a 2.0 or lower. With those programs, make sure they hold the proper accreditation and therefore have high-quality academic standards. Also, look for programs that have different GPA requirements for their prerequisites. Some may ask for a 3.0 in these core classes. Check out our healthcare admissions student handbook for more information on admissions expectations.

How do you succeed in an ABSN?

We asked our ABSN readers what they thought fostered their success the most, and according to these students, the number one factor was time management. You may be taking three courses and balancing clinicals at the same time. Organizing and managing your time is critical. The second thing was the importance of a support group: peers, professors, and family/friends. Create strong bonds with these people so you always have someone to go to when you need help.

How Much Does an Online ABSN Program Cost?

While the cost of online accelerated BSN programs is comparable to traditional on-campus accelerated programs, it is often higher than non-accelerated BSN programs, at least in the short term. To help prospective nursing students prepare, we’ve compiled a brief list of programs along with their tuition rates.

Keep in mind that the final cost can vary based on factors like financial aid, scholarships, and additional fees. Pursuing an accelerated BSN degree is a significant financial commitment, and the cost of an online degree can vary depending on certain factors.

School NameProgram TypeTuition & Fees
Arkansas State UniversityOnline$18,894 total
Cleveland State UniversityOnline$434.60/credit (in-state),
$619.70/credit (out-of-state)
Holy Family UniversityOnline$857/credit
The University of IndianapolisOnline$860/credit
The University of TulsaOnline$458/credit

Career & Salary: Registered Nurses with BSNs

Show entries
Search:
Area 10th Percentile Median 90th Percentile
U.S. $66,030 $93,600 $135,320
Alabama $53,360 $71,040 $98,840
Alaska $82,400 $110,690 $137,400
Arizona $69,930 $96,890 $123,480
Arkansas $57,380 $77,130 $99,960
California $100,120 $140,330 $208,880
Connecticut $78,660 $101,590 $132,840
Delaware $72,850 $92,610 $127,340
District of Columbia $81,880 $104,550 $135,620
Florida $66,670 $82,850 $110,530
Georgia $66,110 $86,560 $124,810
Hawaii $82,380 $136,320 $146,480
Idaho $65,690 $86,100 $118,460
Illinois $64,930 $86,410 $112,320
Indiana $63,720 $80,740 $103,820
Iowa $62,210 $76,960 $98,280
Kansas $60,630 $78,060 $97,870
Kentucky $63,180 $79,910 $104,430
Louisiana $62,830 $78,880 $111,810
Maine $66,330 $82,860 $104,870
Maryland $75,470 $96,830 $121,150
Massachusetts $76,950 $101,970 $173,590
Michigan $70,150 $85,670 $106,770
Minnesota $75,830 $100,870 $128,200
Mississippi $58,130 $74,470 $104,040
Missouri $58,510 $79,770 $103,140
Montana $67,720 $81,560 $109,450
Nebraska $63,290 $81,020 $101,500
Nevada $77,960 $101,990 $132,990
New Hampshire $69,250 $96,830 $120,120
New Jersey $81,670 $102,730 $130,540
New Mexico $70,630 $88,260 $121,200
New York $77,930 $105,600 $153,420
North Carolina $64,180 $81,860 $107,110
North Dakota $65,770 $78,260 $99,540
Ohio $66,060 $81,250 $103,650
Oklahoma $64,110 $81,160 $105,320
Oregon $95,040 $123,990 $143,410
Pennsylvania $67,410 $87,610 $116,590
Rhode Island $72,090 $99,960 $128,520
South Carolina $64,200 $79,900 $102,040
South Dakota $51,980 $69,510 $92,570
Tennessee $59,540 $79,030 $102,040
Texas $64,660 $90,010 $122,060
Utah $67,980 $82,270 $106,960
Vermont $70,840 $85,150 $117,310
Virginia $64,370 $88,820 $124,040
Washington $86,490 $112,180 $149,370
West Virginia $53,060 $79,990 $106,830
Wisconsin $74,970 $86,070 $109,270
Wyoming $64,660 $81,790 $108,350

Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.


Show entries
Search:
Area Curr. Jobs Proj. Jobs New Jobs Growth % Avg. Ann. Openings
United States 3,172,500 3,349,900 177,400 5.60% 193,100
Alabama 51,980 54,290 2,310 4.40% 3,090
Alaska 6,130 6,800 670 10.90% 420
Arizona 59,110 72,050 12,940 21.90% 4,820
Arkansas 28,750 30,920 2,170 7.50% 1,820
California 333,700 376,900 43,200 12.90% 23,420
Colorado 53,720 63,290 9,570 17.80% 4,100
Connecticut 35,420 38,310 2,890 8.20% 2,270
Delaware 11,720 13,570 1,850 15.80% 870
District of Columbia 11,110 11,750 640 5.80% 680
Florida 202,780 228,070 25,290 12.50% 14,110
Georgia 81,800 94,310 12,510 15.30% 5,990
Idaho 15,480 18,580 3,100 20.00% 1,230
Illinois 138,050 142,310 4,260 3.10% 7,960
Indiana 67,390 71,020 3,630 5.40% 4,090
Iowa 35,700 39,270 3,570 10.00% 2,370
Kansas 32,310 33,910 1,600 5.00% 1,940
Kentucky 47,300 50,400 3,100 6.60% 2,940
Louisiana 43,740 47,040 3,300 7.50% 2,770
Maine 14,840 15,040 200 1.30% 820
Maryland 48,810 52,370 3,560 7.30% 3,080
Massachusetts 30,060 32,600 2,540 8.40% 1,940
Michigan 104,150 106,910 2,760 2.70% 5,950
Minnesota 68,040 71,630 3,590 5.30% 4,120
Mississippi 29,980 31,910 1,930 6.40% 1,860
Missouri 76,960 84,580 7,620 9.90% 5,110
Montana 10,360 11,890 1,530 14.80% 750
Nebraska 22,900 24,670 1,770 7.70% 1,460
Nevada 24,290 28,810 4,520 18.60% 1,880
New Hampshire 13,690 14,600 910 6.60% 850
New Jersey 81,520 86,640 5,120 6.30% 5,030
New Mexico 19,020 21,940 2,920 15.40% 1,390
New York 204,040 256,080 52,040 25.50% 5,200
North Carolina 106,190 123,650 17,460 16.40% 7,930
North Dakota 11,500 12,700 1,200 10.40% 770
Ohio 131,390 135,860 4,470 3.40% 7,630
Oklahoma 37,490 39,290 1,800 4.80% 2,240
Oregon 42,720 47,680 4,960 11.60% 2,930
Pennsylvania 148,790 155,810 7,020 4.70% 8,890
Rhode Island 11,920 12,700 780 6.50% 740
South Carolina 45,140 49,610 4,470 9.90% 2,990
South Dakota 14,590 16,510 1,920 13.20% 1,030
Tennessee 60,020 67,720 7,700 12.80% 4,200
Texas 233,850 267,980 34,130 14.60% 16,900
Utah 25,300 31,710 6,410 25.30% 2,170
Vermont 7,030 7,650 620 8.80% 460
Virgin Islands 600 490 -110 -18.30% 20
Virginia 70,190 73,240 3,050 4.30% 4,160
Washington 61,030 69,180 8,150 13.40% 5,150
West Virginia 22,830 23,780 950 4.20% 1,350
Wisconsin 62,260 65,570 3,310 5.30% 3,770
Wyoming 5,130 5,740 610 11.90% 350

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

The Best Online ABSN Programs

EduMed.org is committed to providing accurate and reliable rankings, continually advancing its data collection and analysis efforts. Each year, we gather the latest information on degree programs from over 7,000 schools across the country. Using data from the U.S. Department of Education and the institutions themselves, we evaluate factors such as the number of online programs, tuition costs, institutional aid, and more to deliver trustworthy rankings. Below, you’ll find our most recent list of the best online ABSN programs.

# School Name Online Enrollment Tuition Students w/ Aid
1
95% Online Enrollment
$$$$ Tuition
69% Students w/ Aid
2
57% Online Enrollment
$$$ Tuition
97% Students w/ Aid
3
47% Online Enrollment
$ Tuition
98% Students w/ Aid
4
72% Online Enrollment
$$$ Tuition
97% Students w/ Aid
5
5

La Salle University

Philadelphia, PA
13% Online Enrollment
$$$$ Tuition
92% Students w/ Aid
6
6
17% Online Enrollment
$$$ Tuition
100% Students w/ Aid
7
65% Online Enrollment
$$$ Tuition
99% Students w/ Aid
8
51% Online Enrollment
$ Tuition
98% Students w/ Aid
9
68% Online Enrollment
$$$ Tuition
97% Students w/ Aid
10
64% Online Enrollment
$ Tuition
73% Students w/ Aid

Shannon Lee AUTHOR

Shannon Lee has over 20 years of experience writing thousands of articles in the higher education sector, with a particular focus on medical and health topics. Drawing on her personal background as the daughter of two professionals who retired from major hospital systems, she specializes in nursing, healthcare, and allied health writing.

Read More About Shannon Lee

Wes Ricketts EDITOR

Wes Ricketts has created award-winning content in higher education and healthcare for nearly 20 years. He founded EduMed in 2018 to give future college students a go-to resource for information on degree programs in nursing and allied health. Wes’s research and writing interests include Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as caregiving for loved ones with degenerative conditions. Wes holds a master’s degree in history from Western Washington University, where he also led workshops focused on historical research and longform writing skills.

Read More About Wes Ricketts
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