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.

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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:
- Bachelor’s degree in any field
- Minimum GPA of 2.82
- HESI A2 test score (proctored)
- Completion of all prerequisite courses
- Qualified based on state authorization 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.
Explore Online Accelerated BSN Programs in Popular Areas
What to Consider Before You Apply
Before you start applying for online ABSN programs, consider the following questions closely.
- Am I ready for an accelerated program that involves full-time study?
- Do I have a career path in mind?
- Am I ready to do all my academic coursework online?
- 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 Name | Program Type | Tuition & Fees |
---|---|---|
Arkansas State University | Online | $18,894 total |
Cleveland State University | Online | $434.60/credit (in-state), $619.70/credit (out-of-state) |
Holy Family University | Online | $857/credit |
The University of Indianapolis | Online | $860/credit |
The University of Tulsa | Online | $458/credit |
Career & Salary: Registered Nurses with BSNs
Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
---|---|---|---|
U.S. | $63,720 | $86,070 | $132,680 |
Alabama | $50,310 | $65,900 | $92,870 |
Alaska | $82,980 | $106,410 | $132,090 |
Arizona | $70,060 | $88,310 | $109,750 |
Arkansas | $45,200 | $72,920 | $96,040 |
California | $83,510 | $133,990 | $194,240 |
Colorado | $70,790 | $86,900 | $112,800 |
Connecticut | $78,370 | $100,620 | $127,150 |
Delaware | $73,800 | $93,200 | $122,670 |
Florida | $63,520 | $80,960 | $105,580 |
Georgia | $63,450 | $83,620 | $124,330 |
Hawaii | $81,070 | $129,210 | $145,940 |
Idaho | $62,210 | $80,130 | $105,300 |
Illinois | $63,900 | $82,470 | $105,140 |
Indiana | $61,710 | $78,530 | $103,710 |
Iowa | $61,250 | $71,570 | $90,800 |
Kansas | $58,760 | $75,780 | $94,900 |
Kentucky | $61,520 | $77,830 | $101,770 |
Louisiana | $60,720 | $76,650 | $101,650 |
Maine | $64,600 | $81,610 | $107,240 |
Maryland | $66,880 | $89,340 | $114,440 |
Massachusetts | $74,010 | $99,730 | $166,100 |
Michigan | $67,450 | $81,710 | $101,610 |
Minnesota | $73,050 | $97,300 | $120,420 |
Mississippi | $54,580 | $69,370 | $100,160 |
Missouri | $56,690 | $77,190 | $99,330 |
Montana | $64,530 | $79,170 | $104,970 |
Nebraska | $61,770 | $78,100 | $99,410 |
Nevada | $77,160 | $96,210 | $132,010 |
New Hampshire | $66,620 | $86,620 | $109,930 |
New Jersey | $77,700 | $100,160 | $127,750 |
New Mexico | $68,120 | $83,970 | $124,800 |
New York | $69,450 | $104,570 | $136,780 |
North Carolina | $62,980 | $79,580 | $104,190 |
North Dakota | $63,920 | $74,930 | $95,680 |
Ohio | $64,480 | $79,940 | $105,380 |
Oklahoma | $61,360 | $78,760 | $101,390 |
Oregon | $86,730 | $110,940 | $136,950 |
Pennsylvania | $64,820 | $82,780 | $109,740 |
Rhode Island | $69,350 | $94,840 | $116,510 |
South Carolina | $60,780 | $78,380 | $98,980 |
South Dakota | $54,780 | $67,030 | $85,400 |
Tennessee | $55,510 | $76,200 | $98,090 |
Texas | $64,580 | $85,110 | $115,740 |
Utah | $64,950 | $79,790 | $102,000 |
Vermont | $65,390 | $81,900 | $110,680 |
Virginia | $63,710 | $84,100 | $115,120 |
Washington | $82,630 | $107,720 | $139,390 |
West Virginia | $50,650 | $78,730 | $99,440 |
Wisconsin | $69,240 | $83,300 | $105,110 |
Wyoming | $62,400 | $79,970 | $105,800 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
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.
University of North Alabama
Florence, Alabama
Why We Selected University of North Alabama:
- New online students automatically qualify for a waived application fee and complimentary first course.
- Face-to-face clinical components are delivered two weekends a month, making it more accommodating for working students.
- Professors at UNA prioritize having strong connections with online students and offering them guidance in their future careers.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$9,600
- Average Institutional Aid$7,366
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course70%
- % of Students Receiving an Award47%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Indiana University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, Indiana
Why We Selected Indiana University-Indianapolis:
- The program offers an accelerated completion option, allowing students to finish in just four semesters.
- The IU School of Nursing provides strong clinical placement opportunities, enhancing practical experience for students.
- Prospective students benefit from expert faculty guidance and mentorship throughout the program.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$8,883
- Average Institutional Aid$4,758
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course62%
- % of Students Receiving an Award50%
- Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
Wheeling University
Wheeling, West Virginia
Why We Selected Wheeling University:
- The MSN program offers an affordable online pathway with clinical rotations in the student's local community.
- Wheeling University's FNP program is ranked in the top 10 nationally by Intelligent.com for its rigorous curriculum.
- The program allows students to remain employed while pursuing their degree, enhancing work-life balance.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$29,090
- Average Institutional Aid$9,728
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course96%
- % of Students Receiving an Award89%
- Student/Faculty Ratio12/1
University of Providence
Great Falls, Montana
Why We Selected University of Providence:
- The program offers a unique blend of online and in-person learning with clinical immersions.
- The University of Providence provides a strong focus on relationship-based care and professional accountability.
- The program is supported by a conceptual framework emphasizing vigilance and evidence-based practice.
Program Details
- AccreditationNWCCU
- Average In-State Tuition$26,462
- Average Institutional Aid$17,186
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course100%
- % of Students Receiving an Award38%
- Student/Faculty Ratio8/1
Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, Indiana
Why We Selected Purdue University Global:
- The ExcelTrack program allows students to accelerate their degree completion in as few as 12 months.
- The program offers flexible learning, enabling students to control their pace and focus on new skills.
- Students work directly with nursing faculty to ensure mastery of course material.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$10,080
- Average Institutional Aid$15,195
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course100%
- % of Students Receiving an Award27%
- Student/Faculty Ratio27/1
University of South Florida
Tampa, Florida
Why We Selected University of South Florida:
- The program offers an accelerated completion option, allowing students to earn a BSN in just 16 months.
- The program provides a strong foundation for advanced nursing degrees, including MSN, DNP, and PhD programs.
- Graduates are well-positioned for impactful careers in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and research institutions.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,559
- Average Institutional Aid$3,166
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course71%
- % of Students Receiving an Award74%
- Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Why We Selected Fayetteville State University:
- The program offers a hybrid learning model combining online and hands-on clinical experiences.
- The ABSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring rigorous standards.
- Fayetteville State University's ABSN program provides state-of-the-art simulation technology for enhanced learning.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$2,982
- Average Institutional Aid$2,719
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course91%
- % of Students Receiving an Award34%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
Walsh University
North Canton, Ohio
Why We Selected Walsh University:
- The program offers high clinical placement rates, leading to job opportunities after graduation.
- Walsh University provides state-of-the-art clinical labs mirroring real hospital environments for hands-on experience.
- Students can transition smoothly into Walsh's Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$30,205
- Average Institutional Aid$20,657
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course77%
- % of Students Receiving an Award61%
- Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
Madonna University
Livonia, Michigan
Why We Selected Madonna University:
- The program offers an accelerated completion option, allowing students to earn a BSN in as few as 16 months.
- Madonna University's ABSN provides strong employer partnerships through clinical placements with Ascension Michigan.
- The program fosters a supportive learning environment with a cohort model, enhancing camaraderie and networking opportunities.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$24,900
- Average Institutional Aid$13,817
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course74%
- % of Students Receiving an Award59%
- Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
Marion, Indiana
Why We Selected Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global:
- The program offers expert faculty mentors who integrate faith into healthcare education.
- Students benefit from a Christ-centered environment that encourages spiritual growth alongside academic success.
- The program provides a full system of student services, including tech support and tutoring, to ensure student success.
Program Details
- AccreditationHLC
- Average In-State Tuition$8,453
- Average Institutional Aid$1,093
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course96%
- % of Students Receiving an Award35%
- Student/Faculty Ratio17/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2024