Online ABSN Programs in NC: Comparing Top Degrees

Program Profiles: Popular ABSN Programs in North Carolina

An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) might be the perfect way to switch to a nursing career without starting from scratch. If you already have a bachelor’s degree, this could be your fastest path to becoming a registered nurse (RN). And if you’re in North Carolina, now’s a great time—with a serious nursing shortage, future nurses can reap the benefits of strong job prospects and solid pay.

Some ABSN programs will be offered in hybrid learning formats. This means that online coursework will be available for flexibility, but hands-on clinical training will still be required to be completed in person. Online ABSN courses can be self-paced, but they will often take 12, 16, or 24 months to complete. The curriculum of these courses skips general education courses and focuses only on nursing. The in-person clinicals required for online students will cover the practical elements of your education, often incorporating real patients to prepare you for the field as you work in clinics, hospitals, schools, and other locations.

Figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming, but we’ve got you covered. Take a look at some reputable school programs below to get a sense of ideal school features to keep in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions from Accelerated BSN Students

Pursuing your accelerated BSN in North Carolina is an exciting step, but it can justifiably feel a bit overwhelming. You’re not the only one who might feel this way; a lot of students likely have the same questions during their search and are unsure what to expect.

To make things easier, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to help guide you. Find out all you need to know about admissions processes, clinical requirements, program structures and more by continuing on.

Are there accelerated BSN programs in North Carolina that accept students with a non-science bachelor’s degree?

Yes; although accelerated BSN programs in North Carolina accept students with bachelor’s degrees of any background, there are usually a few prerequisite courses—like anatomy or microbiology—that need to be completed first. Schools like East Carolina University and UNC-Chapel Hill welcome students from all fields. For those already licensed, RN to BSN no prerequisites options are also available for a faster path to a bachelor’s degree.

How competitive is the admission process for ABSN programs in North Carolina?

Getting into an Accelerated BSN program in North Carolina is a competitive process with limited spots and a fast-paced curriculum as schools look for a solid GPA, completed prerequisite courses, and good scores on entrance exams like the TEAS or HESI.

Beyond grades, admissions teams consider healthcare experience, personal statements, and recommendation letters. Some programs, like East Carolina University, accept as few as 20 students a year.

Having volunteer work or hands-on experience can help. If career growth is the goal, many students also look into RN to BSN programs as the next step after earning their RN license.

How do clinical hour requirements vary among North Carolina’s ABSN programs?

North Carolina’s ABSN programs usually need around 500 to 800 clinical hours, but the requirements will ultimately depend on the school. Some schools follow North Carolina’s minimum practice hours requirement for nurses at 640 hours, while others go the extra mile to give more hands-on experience.

You’ll typically get clinical hours in areas like medical-surgical, pediatrics, and mental health nursing. A few programs also throw in virtual simulations, especially those with a hybrid setup. If you’re comparing programs, make sure to check out their specific requirements.

If you’re thinking about your next move, understanding the RN to BSN route can also help you plan ahead once you’re licensed.

Are there opportunities for interprofessional education during the program?

Plenty of Accelerated BSN programs in North Carolina mix in interprofessional education (IPE), so you’ll get to work alongside future pharmacists, social workers, and physical therapists. It’s a solid way to sharpen teamwork and communication skills—both of which are non-negotiable in healthcare.

Some schools do this through joint classes, simulation labs, or clinical rotations, giving you a broader view of patient care.

Programs at Duke University and The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, for example, make sure grads are ready to hit the ground running in collaborative settings. If flexibility matters, one of the top online BSN programs can help you plan around your schedule.

What is the typical student-to-faculty ratio in these programs?

Student-to-faculty ratios in North Carolina’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs will vary depending on the school. For example, Duke University leads with a 6:1 ratio, offering more personalized instruction. Meanwhile, East Carolina University has an 18:1 ratio, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill follows closely at 17:1.

These numbers impact how much direct interaction students get with faculty, which can shape their learning experience. Smaller ratios often mean more individualized support, which some students may prefer. When choosing a program, it’s worth considering how these differences might affect your education and overall success in an intensive ABSN program.

Why Career Changers in North Carolina Are Choosing Nursing

For career changers, nursing offers a meaningful transition. North Carolina’s nursing shortage creates a prime opportunity for those seeking stability and purpose. According to calculations from NC Nursecast, the state will need about 12,500 more nurses by 2033, pushing demand higher and keeping salaries competitive—RNs in North Carolina average $75,000 annually.

Diverse education backgrounds can be a versatile bonus for those entering the medical field. Business professionals bring leadership skills, educators excel in patient education, and psychology majors apply their understanding of human behavior.

Furthermore, nursing isn’t limited to bedside care—opportunities extend to public health, research, and administration. Beyond job security, it’s a career that allows you to make a positive difference in the healthcare field and in people’s lives overall.

The Best Online Accelerated BSN Programs in NC