Review the Best Online Accelerated BSN Programs
Online accelerated 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 how these programs work, what they offer, and which ones stand out.
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Online ABSN programs accommodate people with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. The fast-track curriculum bypasses general education requirements and focuses on nursing material with online coursework and clinicals done at local healthcare facilities.
Is an ABSN right for you? To help you decide, we share three program profiles below.
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Online – University of Indianapolis
The University of Indianapolis offers a full-time, 15-month online ABSN program. Coursework is 100% online. Clinicals, which use a 1:1 model, are completed at local facilities and two on-campus skills events.
Each student meets with a success advisor and an academic advisor. 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: Below are four sample courses that show what the 56-credit hour program entails.
- 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, environmental issues, and 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. A holistic approach to nursing using advanced technologies and the collaboration of health care teams.
- Transition to Professional Nursing Practice (3 credits) – 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 nursing quickly and enter the workforce in the shortest 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 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
- NCLEX exam prep
Duration: 16 months
Mode: Online coursework with two residencies
Cost: $301-$339/credit (in-state), $429-$483/credit (out-of-state)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- 2.5 cumulative GPA, 3.0 prerequisite GPA
- Resume
- 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. Focuses 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 with strong support from start to finish. Ideal for those who need affordable tuition.
Accelerated BSN Programs (Online) – The University of Tulsa
The University of Tulsa’s online ABSN is designed for working professionals and adult learners. The program waives 31 credits of general education courses and requires 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: Online coursework, 5-day onsite boot camp, and local clinicals.
Cost: $625/credit hour
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 would benefit from completing clinicals near home via coordination with a current employer or a local healthcare facility.
Explore Online Accelerated BSN Programs in Popular Areas
What to Consider Before You Apply
Before applying for online ABSN programs, consider the following questions:
- 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
Want to know more about ABSN programs? Below, we answer the most common questions about admissions, costs, financial aid, and accreditation.
How long does it take to earn an ABSN online?
Most programs can be completed in 15 to 20 months. However, the actual timeframe depends on the school’s policy on credit transfers and your speed in the online coursework.
What’s the minimum GPA needed for admission to an ABSN program?
Most programs require a minimum 2.5 GPA, but some more lenient programs may allow enrollment with a 2.0 or lower. In those cases, make sure they hold the proper accreditation.
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?
The number one factor to success is time management. According to ABSN students, organizing and managing your time is critical, especially when balancing courses and clinicals.
The second most important thing is a support group – peers, professors, and family/friends. Create strong bonds with these people so you can get help when you need it.
How Much Does an Online ABSN Program Cost?
An online ABSN often costs more than non-accelerated BSN programs, and the final cost of an online degree can vary based on financial aid, scholarships, and additional fees. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a brief list of programs and tuition rates.
| School Name | Program Type | Tuition & Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas State University | Online | $19,564 tuition |
| Cleveland State University | Online | $21,684 + $8,432 fees (in-state), $30,885 + $8,432 fees (out-of-state) |
| Holy Family University | Online | $52,077 tuition |
| The University of Indianapolis | Online | $36,504/year + $610 program fee/semester |
| The University of Tulsa | Online | $625/credit hour (textbooks included) |
Career & Salary: Registered Nurses with BSNs
- Area ↕
- 10th Percentile ↕
- Median ↕
- 90th Percentile ↕
| U.S. | |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $66,030 |
| Median | $93,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $135,320 |
| Alabama | |
| 10th Percentile | $53,360 |
| Median | $71,040 |
| 90th Percentile | $98,840 |
| Alaska | |
| 10th Percentile | $82,400 |
| Median | $110,690 |
| 90th Percentile | $137,400 |
| Arizona | |
| 10th Percentile | $69,930 |
| Median | $96,890 |
| 90th Percentile | $123,480 |
| Arkansas | |
| 10th Percentile | $57,380 |
| Median | $77,130 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,960 |
| California | |
| 10th Percentile | $100,120 |
| Median | $140,330 |
| 90th Percentile | $208,880 |
| Connecticut | |
| 10th Percentile | $78,660 |
| Median | $101,590 |
| 90th Percentile | $132,840 |
| Delaware | |
| 10th Percentile | $72,850 |
| Median | $92,610 |
| 90th Percentile | $127,340 |
| District of Columbia | |
| 10th Percentile | $81,880 |
| Median | $104,550 |
| 90th Percentile | $135,620 |
| Florida | |
| 10th Percentile | $66,670 |
| Median | $82,850 |
| 90th Percentile | $110,530 |
| Georgia | |
| 10th Percentile | $66,110 |
| Median | $86,560 |
| 90th Percentile | $124,810 |
| Hawaii | |
| 10th Percentile | $82,380 |
| Median | $136,320 |
| 90th Percentile | $146,480 |
| Idaho | |
| 10th Percentile | $65,690 |
| Median | $86,100 |
| 90th Percentile | $118,460 |
| Illinois | |
| 10th Percentile | $64,930 |
| Median | $86,410 |
| 90th Percentile | $112,320 |
| Indiana | |
| 10th Percentile | $63,720 |
| Median | $80,740 |
| 90th Percentile | $103,820 |
| Iowa | |
| 10th Percentile | $62,210 |
| Median | $76,960 |
| 90th Percentile | $98,280 |
| Kansas | |
| 10th Percentile | $60,630 |
| Median | $78,060 |
| 90th Percentile | $97,870 |
| Kentucky | |
| 10th Percentile | $63,180 |
| Median | $79,910 |
| 90th Percentile | $104,430 |
| Louisiana | |
| 10th Percentile | $62,830 |
| Median | $78,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $111,810 |
| Maine | |
| 10th Percentile | $66,330 |
| Median | $82,860 |
| 90th Percentile | $104,870 |
| Maryland | |
| 10th Percentile | $75,470 |
| Median | $96,830 |
| 90th Percentile | $121,150 |
| Massachusetts | |
| 10th Percentile | $76,950 |
| Median | $101,970 |
| 90th Percentile | $173,590 |
| Michigan | |
| 10th Percentile | $70,150 |
| Median | $85,670 |
| 90th Percentile | $106,770 |
| Minnesota | |
| 10th Percentile | $75,830 |
| Median | $100,870 |
| 90th Percentile | $128,200 |
| Mississippi | |
| 10th Percentile | $58,130 |
| Median | $74,470 |
| 90th Percentile | $104,040 |
| Missouri | |
| 10th Percentile | $58,510 |
| Median | $79,770 |
| 90th Percentile | $103,140 |
| Montana | |
| 10th Percentile | $67,720 |
| Median | $81,560 |
| 90th Percentile | $109,450 |
| Nebraska | |
| 10th Percentile | $63,290 |
| Median | $81,020 |
| 90th Percentile | $101,500 |
| Nevada | |
| 10th Percentile | $77,960 |
| Median | $101,990 |
| 90th Percentile | $132,990 |
| New Hampshire | |
| 10th Percentile | $69,250 |
| Median | $96,830 |
| 90th Percentile | $120,120 |
| New Jersey | |
| 10th Percentile | $81,670 |
| Median | $102,730 |
| 90th Percentile | $130,540 |
| New Mexico | |
| 10th Percentile | $70,630 |
| Median | $88,260 |
| 90th Percentile | $121,200 |
| New York | |
| 10th Percentile | $77,930 |
| Median | $105,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $153,420 |
| North Carolina | |
| 10th Percentile | $64,180 |
| Median | $81,860 |
| 90th Percentile | $107,110 |
| North Dakota | |
| 10th Percentile | $65,770 |
| Median | $78,260 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,540 |
| Ohio | |
| 10th Percentile | $66,060 |
| Median | $81,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $103,650 |
| Oklahoma | |
| 10th Percentile | $64,110 |
| Median | $81,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $105,320 |
| Oregon | |
| 10th Percentile | $95,040 |
| Median | $123,990 |
| 90th Percentile | $143,410 |
| Pennsylvania | |
| 10th Percentile | $67,410 |
| Median | $87,610 |
| 90th Percentile | $116,590 |
| Rhode Island | |
| 10th Percentile | $72,090 |
| Median | $99,960 |
| 90th Percentile | $128,520 |
| South Carolina | |
| 10th Percentile | $64,200 |
| Median | $79,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $102,040 |
| South Dakota | |
| 10th Percentile | $51,980 |
| Median | $69,510 |
| 90th Percentile | $92,570 |
| Tennessee | |
| 10th Percentile | $59,540 |
| Median | $79,030 |
| 90th Percentile | $102,040 |
| Texas | |
| 10th Percentile | $64,660 |
| Median | $90,010 |
| 90th Percentile | $122,060 |
| Utah | |
| 10th Percentile | $67,980 |
| Median | $82,270 |
| 90th Percentile | $106,960 |
| Vermont | |
| 10th Percentile | $70,840 |
| Median | $85,150 |
| 90th Percentile | $117,310 |
| Virginia | |
| 10th Percentile | $64,370 |
| Median | $88,820 |
| 90th Percentile | $124,040 |
| Washington | |
| 10th Percentile | $86,490 |
| Median | $112,180 |
| 90th Percentile | $149,370 |
| West Virginia | |
| 10th Percentile | $53,060 |
| Median | $79,990 |
| 90th Percentile | $106,830 |
| Wisconsin | |
| 10th Percentile | $74,970 |
| Median | $86,070 |
| 90th Percentile | $109,270 |
| Wyoming | |
| 10th Percentile | $64,660 |
| Median | $81,790 |
| 90th Percentile | $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.
- Area ↕
- Curr. Jobs ↕
- Proj. Jobs ↕
- New Jobs ↕
- Growth % ↕
- Avg. Ann. Openings ↕
| United States | |
|---|---|
| Curr. Jobs | 3,172,500 |
| Proj. Jobs | 3,349,900 |
| New Jobs | 177,400 |
| Growth % | 5.60% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 193,100 |
| Alabama | |
| Curr. Jobs | 51,980 |
| Proj. Jobs | 54,290 |
| New Jobs | 2,310 |
| Growth % | 4.40% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 3,090 |
| Alaska | |
| Curr. Jobs | 6,130 |
| Proj. Jobs | 6,800 |
| New Jobs | 670 |
| Growth % | 10.90% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 420 |
| Arizona | |
| Curr. Jobs | 59,110 |
| Proj. Jobs | 72,050 |
| New Jobs | 12,940 |
| Growth % | 21.90% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 4,820 |
| Arkansas | |
| Curr. Jobs | 28,750 |
| Proj. Jobs | 30,920 |
| New Jobs | 2,170 |
| Growth % | 7.50% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 1,820 |
| California | |
| Curr. Jobs | 333,700 |
| Proj. Jobs | 376,900 |
| New Jobs | 43,200 |
| Growth % | 12.90% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 23,420 |
| Colorado | |
| Curr. Jobs | 53,720 |
| Proj. Jobs | 63,290 |
| New Jobs | 9,570 |
| Growth % | 17.80% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 4,100 |
| Connecticut | |
| Curr. Jobs | 35,420 |
| Proj. Jobs | 38,310 |
| New Jobs | 2,890 |
| Growth % | 8.20% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 2,270 |
| Delaware | |
| Curr. Jobs | 11,720 |
| Proj. Jobs | 13,570 |
| New Jobs | 1,850 |
| Growth % | 15.80% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 870 |
| District of Columbia | |
| Curr. Jobs | 11,110 |
| Proj. Jobs | 11,750 |
| New Jobs | 640 |
| Growth % | 5.80% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 680 |
| Florida | |
| Curr. Jobs | 202,780 |
| Proj. Jobs | 228,070 |
| New Jobs | 25,290 |
| Growth % | 12.50% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 14,110 |
| Georgia | |
| Curr. Jobs | 81,800 |
| Proj. Jobs | 94,310 |
| New Jobs | 12,510 |
| Growth % | 15.30% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 5,990 |
| Idaho | |
| Curr. Jobs | 15,480 |
| Proj. Jobs | 18,580 |
| New Jobs | 3,100 |
| Growth % | 20.00% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 1,230 |
| Illinois | |
| Curr. Jobs | 138,050 |
| Proj. Jobs | 142,310 |
| New Jobs | 4,260 |
| Growth % | 3.10% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 7,960 |
| Indiana | |
| Curr. Jobs | 67,390 |
| Proj. Jobs | 71,020 |
| New Jobs | 3,630 |
| Growth % | 5.40% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 4,090 |
| Iowa | |
| Curr. Jobs | 35,700 |
| Proj. Jobs | 39,270 |
| New Jobs | 3,570 |
| Growth % | 10.00% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 2,370 |
| Kansas | |
| Curr. Jobs | 32,310 |
| Proj. Jobs | 33,910 |
| New Jobs | 1,600 |
| Growth % | 5.00% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 1,940 |
| Kentucky | |
| Curr. Jobs | 47,300 |
| Proj. Jobs | 50,400 |
| New Jobs | 3,100 |
| Growth % | 6.60% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 2,940 |
| Louisiana | |
| Curr. Jobs | 43,740 |
| Proj. Jobs | 47,040 |
| New Jobs | 3,300 |
| Growth % | 7.50% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 2,770 |
| Maine | |
| Curr. Jobs | 14,840 |
| Proj. Jobs | 15,040 |
| New Jobs | 200 |
| Growth % | 1.30% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 820 |
| Maryland | |
| Curr. Jobs | 48,810 |
| Proj. Jobs | 52,370 |
| New Jobs | 3,560 |
| Growth % | 7.30% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 3,080 |
| Massachusetts | |
| Curr. Jobs | 30,060 |
| Proj. Jobs | 32,600 |
| New Jobs | 2,540 |
| Growth % | 8.40% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 1,940 |
| Michigan | |
| Curr. Jobs | 104,150 |
| Proj. Jobs | 106,910 |
| New Jobs | 2,760 |
| Growth % | 2.70% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 5,950 |
| Minnesota | |
| Curr. Jobs | 68,040 |
| Proj. Jobs | 71,630 |
| New Jobs | 3,590 |
| Growth % | 5.30% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 4,120 |
| Mississippi | |
| Curr. Jobs | 29,980 |
| Proj. Jobs | 31,910 |
| New Jobs | 1,930 |
| Growth % | 6.40% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 1,860 |
| Missouri | |
| Curr. Jobs | 76,960 |
| Proj. Jobs | 84,580 |
| New Jobs | 7,620 |
| Growth % | 9.90% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 5,110 |
| Montana | |
| Curr. Jobs | 10,360 |
| Proj. Jobs | 11,890 |
| New Jobs | 1,530 |
| Growth % | 14.80% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 750 |
| Nebraska | |
| Curr. Jobs | 22,900 |
| Proj. Jobs | 24,670 |
| New Jobs | 1,770 |
| Growth % | 7.70% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 1,460 |
| Nevada | |
| Curr. Jobs | 24,290 |
| Proj. Jobs | 28,810 |
| New Jobs | 4,520 |
| Growth % | 18.60% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 1,880 |
| New Hampshire | |
| Curr. Jobs | 13,690 |
| Proj. Jobs | 14,600 |
| New Jobs | 910 |
| Growth % | 6.60% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 850 |
| New Jersey | |
| Curr. Jobs | 81,520 |
| Proj. Jobs | 86,640 |
| New Jobs | 5,120 |
| Growth % | 6.30% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 5,030 |
| New Mexico | |
| Curr. Jobs | 19,020 |
| Proj. Jobs | 21,940 |
| New Jobs | 2,920 |
| Growth % | 15.40% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 1,390 |
| New York | |
| Curr. Jobs | 204,040 |
| Proj. Jobs | 256,080 |
| New Jobs | 52,040 |
| Growth % | 25.50% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 5,200 |
| North Carolina | |
| Curr. Jobs | 106,190 |
| Proj. Jobs | 123,650 |
| New Jobs | 17,460 |
| Growth % | 16.40% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 7,930 |
| North Dakota | |
| Curr. Jobs | 11,500 |
| Proj. Jobs | 12,700 |
| New Jobs | 1,200 |
| Growth % | 10.40% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 770 |
| Ohio | |
| Curr. Jobs | 131,390 |
| Proj. Jobs | 135,860 |
| New Jobs | 4,470 |
| Growth % | 3.40% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 7,630 |
| Oklahoma | |
| Curr. Jobs | 37,490 |
| Proj. Jobs | 39,290 |
| New Jobs | 1,800 |
| Growth % | 4.80% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 2,240 |
| Oregon | |
| Curr. Jobs | 42,720 |
| Proj. Jobs | 47,680 |
| New Jobs | 4,960 |
| Growth % | 11.60% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 2,930 |
| Pennsylvania | |
| Curr. Jobs | 148,790 |
| Proj. Jobs | 155,810 |
| New Jobs | 7,020 |
| Growth % | 4.70% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 8,890 |
| Rhode Island | |
| Curr. Jobs | 11,920 |
| Proj. Jobs | 12,700 |
| New Jobs | 780 |
| Growth % | 6.50% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 740 |
| South Carolina | |
| Curr. Jobs | 45,140 |
| Proj. Jobs | 49,610 |
| New Jobs | 4,470 |
| Growth % | 9.90% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 2,990 |
| South Dakota | |
| Curr. Jobs | 14,590 |
| Proj. Jobs | 16,510 |
| New Jobs | 1,920 |
| Growth % | 13.20% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 1,030 |
| Tennessee | |
| Curr. Jobs | 60,020 |
| Proj. Jobs | 67,720 |
| New Jobs | 7,700 |
| Growth % | 12.80% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 4,200 |
| Texas | |
| Curr. Jobs | 233,850 |
| Proj. Jobs | 267,980 |
| New Jobs | 34,130 |
| Growth % | 14.60% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 16,900 |
| Utah | |
| Curr. Jobs | 25,300 |
| Proj. Jobs | 31,710 |
| New Jobs | 6,410 |
| Growth % | 25.30% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 2,170 |
| Vermont | |
| Curr. Jobs | 7,030 |
| Proj. Jobs | 7,650 |
| New Jobs | 620 |
| Growth % | 8.80% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 460 |
| Virgin Islands | |
| Curr. Jobs | 600 |
| Proj. Jobs | 490 |
| New Jobs | -110 |
| Growth % | -18.30% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 20 |
| Virginia | |
| Curr. Jobs | 70,190 |
| Proj. Jobs | 73,240 |
| New Jobs | 3,050 |
| Growth % | 4.30% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 4,160 |
| Washington | |
| Curr. Jobs | 61,030 |
| Proj. Jobs | 69,180 |
| New Jobs | 8,150 |
| Growth % | 13.40% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 5,150 |
| West Virginia | |
| Curr. Jobs | 22,830 |
| Proj. Jobs | 23,780 |
| New Jobs | 950 |
| Growth % | 4.20% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 1,350 |
| Wisconsin | |
| Curr. Jobs | 62,260 |
| Proj. Jobs | 65,570 |
| New Jobs | 3,310 |
| Growth % | 5.30% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 3,770 |
| Wyoming | |
| Curr. Jobs | 5,130 |
| Proj. Jobs | 5,740 |
| New Jobs | 610 |
| Growth % | 11.90% |
| Avg. Ann. Openings | 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.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $18,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected D’Youville University
- D'Youville’s Accelerated BSN program features strong regional healthcare partnerships, providing students with extensive clinical placements at top-ranked hospitals across Western New York, enhancing real-world experience and employability.
- Students benefit from learning in the state-of-the-art Health Professions Hub, a modern facility designed to integrate labs, clinical training, and community health resources in one immersive environment.
- Employers highly value program graduates for their advanced maturity, strong clinical skills, and ability to quickly adapt on the job, reflecting the program’s design with direct input from healthcare partners to meet workforce needs.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $18,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $16,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Madonna University
- Madonna University’s Accelerated BSN program offers flexible online coursework combined with hands-on skills and simulation labs, allowing students to balance education with personal commitments effectively.
- The program provides clinical placements at prestigious healthcare facilities like Henry Ford Health, enabling students to gain valuable real-world experience alongside top medical professionals in metro Detroit.
- Dedicated admissions representatives support students throughout a streamlined entry process, ensuring personalized guidance to help manage the accelerated program’s demanding pace for higher success.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $16,629 Avg. Aid Amount
- 64% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $3,543 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Salem State University
- The Accelerated BSN program at Salem State offers hands-on clinical training across diverse healthcare settings in the North Shore and Boston areas, including one-on-one preceptorship in the final semester.
- The program is completed in an intensive 15-month, full-time cohort format, enabling rapid transition into the nursing workforce without extended time enrollment.
- ABSN students learn from faculty who are active real-world practitioners, enriching education with current clinical expertise and professional insights.
Program Details
- NECHE Accreditation
- $3,543 Avg. Aid Amount
- 56% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,583 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing & Allied Health
- Nebraska Methodist College's Accelerated BSN program boasts an impressive 96%-100% NCLEX exam success rate, reflecting strong graduate readiness for nursing careers.
- The program is completed in only 12 months, enabling students with a prior bachelor's degree to enter the nursing workforce much faster than traditional routes.
- Students benefit from a learning environment emphasizing teamwork and professional collaboration, mirroring real healthcare settings to build strong interpersonal and clinical skills.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,583 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $21,967 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected La Salle University
- The Accelerated BSN program at La Salle University allows completion in as little as 18 months, providing a fast track for career advancement dependent on transfer credits, summer sessions, and challenge exams.
- The program offers flexible online learning specifically designed for adult learners, combining convenience, quality, and cost-effectiveness to accommodate professional and personal obligations.
- Students benefit from personalized support through a dedicated program director available to discuss progression options and individual advancement pathways within the ACHIEVE and RN-BSN program.
Program Details
- MSCHE Accreditation
- $21,967 Avg. Aid Amount
- 60% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $24,006 Avg. Aid Amount
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 8/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Union University
- The University of Utah's Accelerated BSN offers a direct entry pathway for high-achieving students, bypassing competitive admissions to ensure secure placement in the program.
- Students benefit from personalized academic advising combined with enriched opportunities such as research, honors, service learning, and global experiences.
- The program integrates nursing prerequisites with tailored academic plans, enabling students to maintain high academic standards and graduate within an accelerated 4 to 5 semester timeline.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $24,006 Avg. Aid Amount
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 8/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $15,022 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Lincoln Memorial University
- The Accelerated BSN program at Lincoln Memorial University offers a streamlined pathway for individuals with a prior degree to become eligible for RN licensure quickly.
- It features a supportive learning environment designed to prepare students as nursing generalists capable of caring across the health continuum, enhancing readiness for NCLEX-RN success.
- Students benefit from access to experienced faculty and resources that facilitate clinical competence, although specific details like tuition discounts or clinical placement guarantees are not explicitly stated on the webpage.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $15,022 Avg. Aid Amount
- 57% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $4,160 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Radford University
- The Accelerated BSN program offers a 16-month completion timeline with four consecutive semesters, including summer coursework, enabling students to enter the workforce faster than traditional programs.
- Students benefit from over 500 clinical hours conducted in state-of-the-art simulation centers and hands-on training facilities, enhancing practical skills and clinical readiness.
- The College of Nursing has strong regional partnerships with community colleges and healthcare organizations, providing students extensive clinical placement opportunities and networking advantages.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $4,160 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 12/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $19,625 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Providence
- The Accelerated BSN program offers a highly selective and personalized learning environment by admitting only up to 20 students per cohort, ensuring tailored faculty attention and peer collaboration.
- It combines intensive 12-month online and in-person learning with inclusive skill labs and specialized regional clinical placements, providing enhanced hands-on training and strong community healthcare connections.
- Graduates gain accreditation-backed qualifications enabling them to sit for the National Certification and Licensure Exam, supported by a curriculum focused on nursing leadership, compassionate care, and evidence-based practice.
Program Details
- NWCCU Accreditation
- $19,625 Avg. Aid Amount
- 41% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $11,408 Avg. Aid Amount
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Mississippi
- The University of Mississippi Medical Center’s Accelerated BSN program is Mississippi’s first accelerated second-degree BSN program offered in two distinct learning environments, providing unique educational settings for students.
- UMMC’s program features a continuous, intensive three-semester curriculum allowing students to complete the BSN in just 12 months, enabling rapid career transition and faster workforce entry.
- Students receive personalized, hands-on clinical training with faculty known for close mentorship and reportedly small class sizes, enhancing individual attention and preparation for the NCLEX licensing exam.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $11,408 Avg. Aid Amount
- 68% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 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 and career counseling 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*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
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 2025
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