Online ABSN Programs in MD: Top Schools and Program Insights
For future nursing professionals that want to make a career change, online accelerated BSN programs in Maryland can offer you a new path that builds upon your existing degree in an unrelated field. With this EduMed guide, prospective students like you can find insights into licensure requirements, career prospects, and the nursing job market in the state, helping you to make an informed decision for your future.
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Inside Different Online ABSN Programs in Maryland
Online accelerated BSN programs in Maryland provide a flexible and intensive pathway for individuals with a prior degree to earn a BSN. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that these programs are not entirely online: much of the theoretic coursework can conducted online, but in-person clinical hours will be required to be completed at healthcare facilities within the state. ABSN options offer faster completion times but require greater self-discipline and effective time management compared to traditional RN to BSN program timeframes.
When selecting a top online BSN program, prospective students should consider factors such as accreditation, clinical placement opportunities, scheduling flexibility, and financial aid options. Take a look at these popular school options to know what to expect.
Marymount University
Marymount University’s Online Accelerated BSN Program offers a fast-track path for individuals who have a prior bachelor’s degree to become registered nurses. The program is designed for motivated career changers, providing flexibility while ensuring rigorous training. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue various nursing roles. Additionally, Marymount’s program is accredited, guaranteeing that students receive a quality education aligned with industry standards.
Duration: 16 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $434.60 per unit for in-state students and $619.70 per unit for out-of-state students
Admissions Requirements:
- Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and meet specific prerequisites, including courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology
- A competitive GPA
- Applicants may need to submit additional materials, such as letters of recommendation and a personal statement
Curriculum: The curriculum covers a broad range of nursing topics, including patient care, pharmacology, nursing theory, ethics, and leadership. It integrates hands-on clinical practice in settings such as hospitals and clinics. Students will complete courses like Health Assessment, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Pediatrics, and Community Health Nursing, all of which prepare them for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program emphasizes both technical skills and compassionate patient care.
Stevenson University
Stevenson University’s Accelerated Online RN-to-BS Program is tailored for RNs who wish to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) while managing their work and personal commitments. The program provides flexible online coursework covering topics such as nursing leadership, research, and healthcare policy. A student’s prior education and course load will affect how much time they will take in the program. Designed to build upon the knowledge and skills of practicing RNs, this program offers advanced nursing education that enhances career opportunities. Additionally, students can take advantage of personalized advising and support services throughout their studies.
Duration: 12 to 16 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $495 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Applicants must hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Have completed specific prerequisite courses in subjects such as biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology
- Have a GPA above 3.0
- Provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement as part of the application process
- Some clinical experience or a background in healthcare may be preferred
Curriculum: The curriculum focuses on essential nursing principles while offering advanced coursework. Students engage in subjects such as nursing research, healthcare ethics, leadership, community health, and patient care management. The program emphasizes critical thinking, clinical skills, and evidence-based practice. The clinical experience allows students to apply their learning in real healthcare environments. This comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and pursue various roles in the nursing field.
Notre Dame of Maryland University
Notre Dame of Maryland University offers an Accelerated BSN Program that is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and will help students prepare to sit for the nursing licensure exam (NCLEX-RN).
Dedicated admissions counselors work solely with prospective accelerated nursing students to assist with navigating enrollment. Students can choose from three different start dates every year. The 56 required nursing credits cover topics including (but not limited to) holistic health assessment, nursing informatics, pathopharmacology, nursing research, and nursing leadership.
NDMU has created a robust network of practice partners, offering students the chance to experience various nursing roles while in the program. Clinical experiences occur in diverse settings, including medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, obstetrics, psychiatric/mental health nursing, and community health.
Duration: 15 months
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: ~$62,000
Admissions Requirements:
- Applicants need a non-nursing bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Meet prerequisites in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology
- A minimum GPA of 3.0, but other factors may be considered for lower GPAs
- Submission of transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and proof of healthcare experience (if applicable)
Curriculum: The curriculum includes core courses like Nursing Research, Health Assessment, and Pharmacology, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for nursing practice. Clinical rotations offer hands-on experience in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community health centers, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
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All You Need to Know: ABSN Student FAQs
It’s normal to have questions crop up when looking into ABSN programs. With this in mind, we’ve included this section to address some common questions to help future students like yourself. We aim to guide you in selecting the best option for your educational and career goals by answering questions about NCLEX-RN preparation, pros and cons, in-person elements, and more.
How are students who take the online accelerated BSN program in Maryland prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam?
Students enrolled in the online accelerated BSN program in Maryland receive comprehensive preparation for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program combines online coursework, clinical experiences, and specialized NCLEX review sessions to ensure thorough training. The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in nursing theory, critical thinking, and hands-on patient care.
Students engage in virtual simulations to gain practical experience, while in-person clinical rotations help them develop essential clinical skills. Additionally, the program includes dedicated NCLEX-RN preparation courses, practice exams, and study resources. These tools help students become familiar with test formats and content, ultimately boosting their confidence and readiness for the licensing exam. Be sure to take a look at our beginner’s guide to the NCLEX to get a better idea of how preparation should look.
What are the benefits and challenges to the online accelerated BSN Programs in Maryland?
The online accelerated BSN programs in Maryland offer flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. This fast-paced format enables students to earn their degree in relatively less time. Online learning provides access to high-quality education from various locations.
However, there are some challenges. Limited in-person interaction can impact networking opportunities and hands-on learning experiences, though it’s still possible for online nursing students to network successfully. Clinical rotations require careful coordination, and the self-motivation needed for online learning can be demanding. Additionally, students may face difficulties with time management due to the intensity of the accelerated pace, making this a rigorous yet rewarding option.
What are the in-person clinical requirements are for the online accelerated BSN Programs in Maryland, and how are they scheduled?
In-person clinical requirements for online students typically involve hands-on experiences in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. These rotations allow students to apply nursing theory in real-world environments and gain practical skills in patient care. Clinical hours are scheduled according to the program’s curriculum and the availability of placement sites. While some programs may offer flexibility in scheduling, students usually complete their clinical requirements during weekdays, with specific shifts determined by the healthcare facility. Clinical placements are coordinated by the program, but students may need to travel to various locations within the state to meet these requirements.
What are the scholarship and financial aid opportunities available for the online accelerated BSN Programs in Maryland?
Students enrolled in online accelerated BSN programs in Maryland have access to various scholarship and financial aid opportunities. These options include federal aid through FAFSA, which can provide grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Many universities also offer merit-based and need-based scholarships specifically for nursing students. Additionally, some programs partner with healthcare organizations that provide tuition reimbursement or scholarships in exchange for a work commitment after graduation. Private scholarships from nursing associations or foundations can also help offset costs. Students are encouraged to explore all available options through their program’s financial aid office for personalized guidance.
What technology or support services are offered to students in the online accelerated BSN Programs in Maryland?
Students enrolled in Maryland’s online accelerated BSN programs have access to a variety of technology and support services. Learning management systems (LMS) enable seamless access to course materials, video lectures, and assignments. Virtual clinical simulations and practice tools help build essential nursing skills. Technical support ensures students can navigate the online platform without issues. Academic support services include tutoring, writing assistance, and virtual office hours with instructors. Additionally, career services offer job search resources, resume help, and networking opportunities with healthcare organizations, preparing students for successful careers in nursing after graduation.
Why Maryland’s Career Changers Are Choosing Nursing
Nursing is an appealing career choice for those looking to change careers or pursue a second degree for various reasons. For one, nurses in Maryland perform an essential role in innovating healthcare solutions. Furthermore, the demand for nurses in Maryland is high due to an aging population, increased healthcare needs, and workforce shortages. Hospitals, long-term care facilities, and outpatient centers actively seek qualified nurses, particularly in specialties like geriatrics, critical care, and primary care, making nursing a stable career option for job seekers.
Maryland’s nurses can also enjoy strong salary potential that surpass the national average, with average annual salaries in the state landing between $70,000 and $90,000, with higher salaries often found in metropolitan areas. Factors such as advanced practice roles, specialized certifications, and the high cost of living in the state can contribute to these competitive wages.
