Online Accelerated BSN Programs in Chicago: What You Need to Know

Six Months Before

After choosing where to pursue your ABSN, you should prepare by focusing on completing prerequisites and ensuring you meet admission requirements. You should also become familiar with the program curriculum, review foundational concepts in healthcare, and consider shadowing or volunteering in clinical settings to gain exposure to the nursing profession. Additionally, you can begin organizing your schedule, obtain necessary immunizations, and mentally and emotionally prepare for the intensive nature of the ABSN program.

First Six Months

During the initial six months of an ABSN, you’ll likely be concentrating on adjusting to the demanding pace of coursework and clinical rotations. Prioritizing effective time management will be necessary, as will your ability to pay active attention in classes and establish healthy study habits. Seeking support from peers and faculty, actively participating in clinical experiences, and maintaining self-care practices to handle stress are also crucial.

Last Six Months

In the final six months of your Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, you’ll be putting more effort into preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam, applying for nursing positions, and participating in clinical rotations with increased autonomy and leadership. It is essential to focus on refining clinical competencies, networking with healthcare professionals, and solidifying post-graduation plans, including applying for licensure and continuing professional development.

Six Months After

Upon completing your ABSN, you’ll shift your focus to successfully passing the NCLEX-RN examination, obtaining licensure, applying for nursing positions, and transitioning into the workforce. During the six months following graduation, it is highly recommended that you pursue professional development opportunities, network and join professional organizations, and continue to enhance your clinical skills and knowledge through ongoing education and training.

Benefit: High Return on Investment

An ABSN program is shorter, offering you a high return on investment. Once completed, the program can lead to earlier entry into the nursing workforce and higher earning potential. ABSN graduates often secure well-paying jobs quickly, which helps offset the initial program cost and provides long-term financial stability.

Benefit: Fast Track to Nursing Career

This type of nursing program is designed to provide a fast track to a nursing career by condensing the curriculum into a shorter timeframe, usually 11 to 18 months. If you’re a student with a non-nursing degree or you didn’t earn your BSN to become an RN, you can quickly transition into the healthcare field as a registered nurse and meet the high demand for nursing professionals after you receive your degree.

Benefit: Preparation for Advanced Degrees

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs provide students with the knowledge and skills required for immediate entry into nursing practice and act as a foundation for pursuing advanced degrees in nursing. The comprehensive curriculum and extensive clinical experiences offered by ABSN programs equip graduates with strong foundations, making you well-suited for pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in specialized nursing fields such as Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Anesthetist.

Challenge: Adaptation to Nursing Culture

If you’re a nursing student pursuing an ABSN, you might face difficulties adjusting to the complex nursing environment, which includes ethical dilemmas, interdisciplinary teamwork, and patient advocacy. Students must develop skills such as clinical judgment, workload management, and navigating the hierarchy of healthcare settings. In addition, effective communication, cultural competence, and resilience are vital in ensuring successful integration into the nursing profession.

Challenge: Intensive Pace

One of the primary difficulties experienced by ABSN students is the program’s fast-paced nature. The shortened timeline necessitates the rapid acquisition of significant quantities of nursing knowledge and expertise, which requires excellent time management, commitment, and the capacity to manage high-stress levels while maintaining academic achievement and clinical competence.

Challenge: Transition & Preparation for Licensing Exams

One of the biggest challenges for students pursuing an accelerated BSN is the fast-paced transition into the nursing field. The condensed curriculum requires quick adaptation to complex nursing concepts, clinical skills, and exam readiness. You’ll also be expected to take part in the intense preparation required for licensing exams like the NCLEX-RN. This necessitates strong time management skills, effective study strategies, and an adequate support system — which includes peers/family as well as the resources provided by your college — to help you succeed.