Are you considering a career change to nursing but worried about the time it might take? An accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program could be your solution. 

A BSN degree can afford you a stable and rewarding career with a median annual salary of over $86K, and these accelerated programs allow career changers to quickly step into the healthcare field. 

But is an accelerated BSN program right for you? Let's take a deeper look and find out.

What is an Accelerated BSN Program?

An accelerated BSN program enables individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or significant coursework in another field to earn a BSN in a shortened timeframe. These programs offer a fast track to becoming a registered nurse (RN).

Unlike traditional BSN programs that typically take four years, accelerated BSN programs can be completed in 12 to 24 months. These programs are structured to cover the same curriculum as traditional BSN programs but at a much faster pace, often involving rigorous coursework and clinical rotations.

In my decade of working in higher education, I’ve seen many adults return to school to pursue an accelerated healthcare program. It’s intense and challenging, but the ability to quickly transition into a nursing role makes it worthwhile.

Advantages of an Accelerated BSN for Career Changers

Speed of Completion

One of the primary advantages of an accelerated BSN is the ability it gives you to quickly transition into a nursing career. Instead of spending years in school, you can be on the job in just over a year. 

The demand for registered nurses is expected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, which translates to about 193,100 job openings each year on average. The speed of an accelerated BSN allows you to take advantage of this growing demand more quickly.

Leverage Previous Education

Your prior education and work experience aren’t wasted in an accelerated BSN program. Many of your previous credits may transfer, allowing you to focus on nursing-specific courses. This not only shortens the program length but also makes the transition smoother. 

This is a huge advantage and one that isn’t always available to career changers in traditional programs. I’ve seen former paramedics and military personnel start their traditional nursing degree from square one, which repeats coursework they already have the practical skills for and wastes valuable time.

Career Opportunities

Nursing offers diverse career paths, from bedside care to advanced practice roles like nurse practitioner or nurse educator. Nurses with a BSN often have better job prospects, particularly in management, research, and specialized nursing roles. 

With a BSN, you’ll have the qualifications to explore specializations and career advancements like head nurse, director of nursing, quality assurance, or policy development. Plus, the demand for nurses continues to grow, providing job stability and numerous opportunities.

Financial Benefits

While the upfront cost of an accelerated BSN can be significant, the long-term financial benefits often outweigh the initial investment. Registered nurses typically enjoy competitive salaries, benefits, and job security compared to many other professions. 

The median annual wage for registered nurses was $86,070 in May 2023, with the top 10% earning more than $132,680. When you compare this to many other professions, the financial incentives for becoming a nurse are clear.

Steps to Transition into an Accelerated BSN Program

Research and Selection

Choosing the right program is crucial. Consider factors like program accreditation, location, length, and the school’s NCLEX-RN pass rates. Accreditation ensures that the program meets high educational standards, which is essential for licensure and employment. 

I also recommend talking to recent graduates of the programs you’re considering. Their insights can provide valuable information about the program’s organization, hands-on learning, and teacher support.

Meeting Prerequisites

Like all nursing programs, accelerated BSN programs usually have specific prerequisites, like courses in anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. If you haven’t completed these courses in your previous degree, you may need to take them before applying. 

When I evaluated transcripts for nursing transfer students in a college registrar’s office, I saw many students complete their science courses at a community college before they could start their nursing program. Be sure to verify your courses meet the program requirements via an articulation agreement between the two schools or something in writing from the program office or registrar’s office.

Application Process

The application process for accelerated BSN programs is competitive. You’ll need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Some programs may also require entrance exams like the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). 

I’ve seen students strengthen their applications by volunteering in healthcare settings or gaining their CPR or CNA certifications, which not only adds to their experience but also demonstrates their commitment to the field.

Financial Planning

Going back to school to change careers can be expensive, so it’s essential to plan financially. Look into financial aid options, scholarships, and loan forgiveness programs specifically for nursing students. Some hospitals offer tuition reimbursement in exchange for a work commitment after graduation. 

For example, a hospital in my city offers tuition reimbursement allowances of up to $10,500 per year for full-time employees. A combination of scholarships and tuition reimbursements can make paying for an accelerated BSN program much more manageable.

Overcoming Challenges

Time Management

Effective time management is key to balancing the intense coursework of an accelerated BSN program with personal responsibilities. Create a schedule that allows you to dedicate sufficient time to study, while also taking care of your well-being. 

I’ve seen students use assistive technology to record lectures and turn study guides and textbooks into an audio format to listen to while working out or cooking meals. Getting creative with study habits helped them keep up with the program’s demands.

Support Systems

Having a strong support system is vital. Reach out to family, friends, and academic advisors who can offer encouragement and practical help. Joining study groups or connecting with classmates can also provide mutual support. 

One of my friends leaned heavily on academic coaching and the disability support services office for support during her BSN program, and she credits them for helping her keep up during the toughest months.

Mental and Emotional Resilience

The fast pace and high expectations of an accelerated BSN program can be stressful. Techniques like mindfulness, exercise, and counseling can help you maintain your mental and emotional health. 

I’ve heard stories from students and friends who found that regular exercise and meditation helped them stay grounded during their BSN program.

Quick Pathway to Nursing

An accelerated BSN program offers a swift and effective pathway for those looking to transition into nursing. With careful planning, determination, and the right support, you can leverage your previous education to embark on a rewarding new career in healthcare.

Ready to start your journey into nursing? Take our healthcare quiz to find out if an accelerated BSN program is the right fit for you.