Online ABSN Programs in CT: Key Insights and Best Degrees

Profiling Three of Connecticut’s Top Accelerated BSN Programs

Fast-track your path to a nursing career in Connecticut with an accelerated BSN program that makes the most of your existing bachelor’s degree. Since you’ve already completed the general education requirements in your first degree, you can focus exclusively on nursing-specific coursework, making your journey to becoming a nurse significantly shorter. This streamlined approach is a good fit for both those looking to change careers as well as licensed nurses who have accumulated general education credits and nursing experience but haven’t yet earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

At EduMed, we’ve identified three outstanding programs in Connecticut that offer a mix of in-person and online components. It’s important to note that given the hands-on nature of the nursing field, considerable in-person coursework and clinicals are required. But online lectures and/or coursework allow accelerated BSN students added flexibility.

Get Answers: Accelerated BSN Student FAQs

While the spotlights above provide a holistic look at what an accelerated BSN program looks like, they can’t answer all your questions. Admittedly, this FAQ section can’t either, but it does answer the five of the most frequently asked questions, covering the length of an accelerated BSN program, financial aid options, how much of an online program can be completed online, and more.

Are there any accelerated BSNs in Connecticut that are completely online?

In a word, no. While several programs offer online components, you won’t find a fully online accelerated BSN program. That’s because the nature of the career requires technical and soft skills that can only be acquired via hands-on learning, labs, and clinicals. You can think of accelerated BSN programs as fast-track options to a nursing career, acknowledging that you’ve already built some transferable skills in your previous academic coursework. However, you’ll still need to complete in-person program components.

How much does an accelerated BSN cost in Connecticut?

The cost of an accelerated BSN varies greatly from school to school. In fact, tuition and fees at the schools highlighted here range from $38,520 to $83,499. Factors that can influence costs include in- vs. out-of-state residency, program format, additional fees, prerequisites, and whether the school is a public or private institution. However, there are many online BSN programs with financial aid, including, student loans, scholarships, grants, and fellowship programs. Plus, if you’re employed while getting your degree, you may be able to access an employer tuition reimbursement program, especially if you currently work in healthcare.

How long does it take to complete an accelerated BSN online in Connecticut?

Most accelerated BSN programs can be completed in 12 to 15 months. Additionally, if you didn’t complete a specific school’s prerequisites—such as anatomy, statistics, physiology, biology, etc.—in your previous undergraduate coursework, completing them will take additional time. Some accelerated programs are also designed for registered nurses who want to go back to school for their BSN. If you’re already an RN and you want to obtain a BSN degree, the timeframe for the RN to BSN transition is often three semesters.

What are the prerequisites for applying to nursing school?

While accelerated BSNs are open to students who have a previous bachelor’s degree in a wide variety of fields, they have some required prerequisites. Typical prerequisites include anatomy, biology, chemistry, and biochemistry, though the exact required courses for admission differ by institution. Once a student is in nursing school, they start coursework on nursing fundamentals, health assessment skills (most likely with lab requirements), nutrition (if needed), and the integration of pathophysiology and pharmacology. Education covering health policy and health systems may also be included.

What are the downsides of an accelerated BSN program?

An accelerated BSN program is a great option, but it’s not without its challenges. One downside to an ABSN is the short period in which students must adapt to nursing culture. Where traditional direct-entry BSN students are integrated over four years, ABSN students only have one year to transition. This difficulty can be mitigated if students are observant, open to learning, and willing to ask questions. Plus, if you’re already working in healthcare in some capacity, the transition can be much easier.

Career Pivot: Connecticut’s New Nurses

Completing an accelerated BSN program in Connecticut has many benefits, including a high return on investment and condensed timeline. To start, these programs offer a high return on investment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs are in high demand and the median salary for this position is $86,070. There’s also a growing need for nurses in Connecticut, making it relatively easy to find relevant roles and work your way into leadership positions. Plus, many find nursing to be fulfilling and impactful work. Nurses make a tangible difference in patients’ lives, and that level of impact can be difficult to find in many modern careers.