Online ABSN Programs in OH: Your Guide to Find Top Schools
Curious about accelerated BSN programs in Ohio? EduMed has the information you need to get started in the guide below. You’ll discover top program options, admission requirements, and how online learning can fits into your schedule. Whether you’re looking to switch careers or advance your current one, an online accelerated BSN program can help you reach your goals.
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Program Profiles: Popular ABSN Programs in Ohio
If you want to become a nurse but don’t want to start from scratch with a four-year degree, an accelerated BSN (ABSN) could be the solution. These programs usually take 12, 16, or 24 months and focus directly on nursing courses, skipping general education requirements.
If you already have a bachelor’s in another field, this could be a great way to leverage your previous education and experience to enter nursing faster.
Many ABSN programs are available online or in hybrid formats, offering flexibility for busy schedules. This means you can work at your own pace while still getting the hands-on training needed to become a registered nurse (RN).
Ohio has a variety of these programs, often at a more affordable cost than traditional options. Wondering if it’s the right fit for you? Keep reading to learn about the timeline, benefits, challenges, and how to decide if an ABSN program is the right path.
Cleveland State University – ABSN Program
Cleveland State University’s ABSN program is designed for those who want to dive into nursing without spending years in school. Accredited by the CCNE and HLC, it blends challenging coursework with hands-on clinical training to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam.
One of its biggest perks? Flexibility. With online coursework, students can balance studies with work or family life. The program is structured to fit different learning styles while maintaining a solid nursing foundation.
CSU goes beyond just convenience—it focuses on creating well-rounded nurses ready for anything, whether switching careers or leveling up in healthcare.
Duration: 16 months
Mode: Online
Cost:
In-State Students: $307.20 to $441.60 per credit hour
Out-of-State Students: $435.97 to $626.70 per credit hour
Admissions Requirements:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in the previous degree
- Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in prerequisite courses
- Complete prerequisite courses, including Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Chemistry I & II, Microbiology, Statistics, Psychology, and Health Care Ethics
- Have at least two of the five science prerequisites completed at the time of application
- Submit a current resume
- Provide two letters of recommendation
- Write and submit a personal essay
- Submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
Curriculum:
- Theory and Professional Practice
- Pathophysiology for Nurses
- Health Assessment
- Health Assessment Laboratory
- Nursing Pharmacology
- Fundamentals of Nursing Practice I
- Fundamentals of Nursing Practice I Clinical
- Medical-Surgical Nursing I
- Medical-Surgical Nursing I Clinical
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Clinical
- Medical-Surgical Nursing II
- Medical-Surgical Nursing II Clinical
- Nursing Leadership and Management
- Medical-Surgical Nursing III
- Medical-Surgical Nursing III Clinical
- Professional Role Preparation
- Community Health Nursing
- Community Health Nursing Clinical
- Pediatric Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing Clinical
- Maternal-Newborn Nursing
- Maternal-Newborn Nursing Clinical
- Professional Role Practicum
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Mercy College of Ohio – Fast-Track ABSN
Mercy College of Ohio’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is a fast-track option for those with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree looking to enter the nursing field. This 15-month program blends online coursework with hands-on clinical training at Mercy Health facilities in Northwest Ohio.
The hybrid format provides flexibility while ensuring students gain critical real-world experience. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and nursing licensure. It’s an efficient, structured path for career changers ready to make an impact in healthcare.
Duration: Four consecutive semesters (about 15 months)
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $630/credit hour + $325 in mandatory semester fees. Other one-time fees may also apply.
Admissions Requirements:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in a field other than nursing from a regionally accredited institution
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Complete the following college-level courses with a grade of “C” or better: Chemistry with lab (4 credit hours), Anatomy and Physiology I and II with labs (8 credit hours)
- Prerequisite math and science courses must have been completed within the past seven years
- Submit a completed application to Mercy College of Ohio
Curriculum:
- Introduction to Nursing
- Fundamental Nursing Concepts
- Pharmacology Nursing Concepts
- Professional Nursing Concepts I
- Clinical Nursing Concepts I
- Professional Nursing Concepts II
- Professional Nursing Concepts III
- Clinical Nursing Concepts II
- Professional Nursing Concepts IV
- Clinical Nursing Concepts III
- Professional Nursing Concepts V
Mount Carmel College of Nursing – ABSN
Mount Carmel College of Nursing’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is ideal for those with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree looking for a fast track into healthcare. The Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP) offers two formats: a 13-month full-time option (SDAP-13) and an 18-month part-time option (SDAP-18).
The SDAP-18 provides flexibility with evening, weekend, and online classes. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, the program blends classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training, preparing students for the NCLEX-RN. It’s a great choice for career changers seeking a high-quality, efficient pathway into nursing
Duration: Four semesters (15 months)
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $1,033 per credit hour
Admissions Requirements:
- Completion of a baccalaureate or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is recommended
- Successful completion of required prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or better
- Science courses must be completed within five years of enrollment
- Online application form
- Official college transcripts
- Essay (in 300 words or less) answering the question: “As a future nurse, what do you think you will contribute to nursing?”
- Activities/Interest resume
- World Education Services (WES) evaluation for international transcripts (if applicable)
- TOEFL scores (if applicable): 550 (paper-based), 213 (computer-based), or 79 (internet-based) for non-native English speakers
Curriculum:
- Physiologic Alterations I
- Cultural Competence in Healthcare
- Foundations of Health Assessment
- Nursing Seminar
- Pharmacological Foundations of Caring Health Practices
- Nursing Research
- Caring Health Practices for Mental Health
- Caring Health Practices for the Child and Family
- Caring Health Practices for the Adult I
- ATI Capstone
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Getting your BSN through an accelerated nursing program is an exciting step toward a rewarding career, but let’s be honest—it can also feel a bit overwhelming. If you’re wondering about the process, you’re not the only one.
Many students have had the same questions, and that’s exactly why we’ve put together clear and simple answers to some of the most commonly overlooked ones.
How do ABSN programs in Ohio accommodate students with previous non-nursing bachelor’s degrees?
Direct-entry BSN programs and Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs in Ohio provide fast-track options for individuals with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees to transition into nursing.
For instance, Baldwin Wallace University offers a 15-month ABSN program, while Cleveland State University’s online ABSN combines virtual classes with hands-on training. The Ohio State University requires a bachelor’s degree and a 3.0 GPA for admission.
With intensive coursework and clinical rotations, these programs leverage your existing education to get you into nursing faster—often in just 15 to 18 months. It’s a fast-track to a rewarding career!
What kind of clinical experiences can I expect in an ABSN program?
In an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, clinical experiences give you real-world practice in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. You’ll rotate through specialties like pediatrics, geriatrics, and acute care, applying classroom knowledge to real patients. Schools work with healthcare providers to ensure hands-on learning in diverse settings.
For example, Xavier University’s ABSN program offers clinicals across multiple patient care environments. This practical exposure is key to passing the NCLEX-RN and excelling in nursing. If you’re looking for a RN to BSN with no prerequisites option, some programs offer flexible pathways to help you advance your career faster.
Are there financial aid options specifically for ABSN students in Ohio?
Yes, there are financial aid options for Accelerated BSN (ABSN) students in Ohio. When it comes to BSN financial aid, students can apply for federal aid through Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which opens up options like Pell Grants, Federal Direct Loans, and even Federal Work-Study programs.
On top of that, there are state-specific scholarships and grants, such as the Ohio Nursing Scholarship, designed to support nursing students. There are also private scholarships—many organizations and foundations offer financial help to nursing students. Some ABSN programs also have their own merit-based scholarships or need-based assistance.
How do ABSN programs in Ohio assist with job placement after graduation?
ABSN programs in Ohio offer great support when it comes to job placement after graduation. Many schools have strong ties with local healthcare facilities, and clinical placements often turn into job opportunities.
On top of that, career services help with resume building, interview prep, and job searches. Networking events and career fairs are also common, giving students a chance to connect with potential employers.
If you’re interested in expanding your options, top online BSN programs can offer additional flexibility for landing a nursing job. All in all, these programs make it easier to transition from student to nurse in the workforce.
What is the average NCLEX-RN pass rate for graduates of ABSN programs in Ohio?
If you’re looking at ABSN programs in Ohio, NCLEX-RN pass rates can tell you a lot. Baldwin Wallace University has a solid 94% first-time pass rate, while Ohio University hit an impressive 98.5% in 2023.
These numbers matter because they reflect things like curriculum strength, clinical experience, and faculty support. Picking the right program isn’t just about convenience—it’s about setting yourself up for success. So, before you decide, take a close look at those pass rates and what they say about each school’s approach.
Why Switch to Nursing in Ohio?
Ohio’s nursing shortage means job opportunities, and the pay isn’t bad either—RNs earn around $71,640 a year. If you’re thinking of making a career change, there are some surprising transitions.
People from accounting, marketing, or IT are thriving in nursing! The detail-oriented nature of accounting helps with medication management, while IT professionals can dive into healthcare tech. And it’s not just bedside care—nurses are needed in research, public health, and specialties like pediatrics or oncology.
Moreover, the work is incredibly fulfilling—you’re making a real impact on people’s lives, all while enjoying a stable and growing career.
The Best Online Accelerated BSN Programs in OH
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,394 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Kent State University at Kent
- Kent State's Accelerated BSN program offers clinical placements at prestigious healthcare facilities like the Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, and Summa Health, providing exceptional hands-on training opportunities.
- The program is delivered in flexible formats, including weekday, evenings, and weekend options, allowing students to balance rigorous coursework and clinical experiences effectively.
- Students benefit from integrated cutting-edge simulation technology in nearly every course, enhancing practical skills and clinical readiness before entering real-world nursing environments.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $7,394 Avg. Aid Amount
- 66% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 21/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $22,663 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Walsh University
- The Accelerated BSN Fast Track program at Walsh University offers a hybrid format with online lectures and weekend/evening in-person clinical labs, providing flexibility for working adults.
- All prerequisite courses are available in an accelerated 8-week hybrid format at a reduced tuition cost, making it more affordable for students to complete requirements efficiently.
- The program admits qualified students twice yearly (Spring and Fall), allowing potential students flexible start options and timely progression to degree completion within six semesters.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $22,663 Avg. Aid Amount
- 67% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,551 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Akron
- The Accelerated BSN program allows students to complete their nursing degree in just four semesters, enabling faster entry into the nursing workforce.
- Students admitted to the Accelerated BSN program earn a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration concurrently after completing 29 nursing credits, effectively graduating with two degrees in about four and a half years.
- The program begins in the summer and requires maintaining a minimum 2.3 nursing GPA with successful completion of each course, ensuring strong academic progression and readiness for RN licensure.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,551 Avg. Aid Amount
- 49% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $23,855 Avg. Aid Amount
- 48% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Kettering College
- Kettering College’s Accelerated BSN program allows students to finish their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in just 15 months, supporting career changers with an intensive yet fast-paced schedule.
- The program provides personalized academic advising with coaching and support to help students stay on track and successfully complete their coursework.
- Located on the main campus of Kettering Health, the program offers enhanced clinical learning opportunities and increases job candidate availability for nursing positions within a major health system.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $23,855 Avg. Aid Amount
- 48% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $9,198 Avg. Aid Amount
- 55% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Mercy College of Ohio
- Mercy College’s Accelerated BSN program offers a unique hybrid format with mostly weekend clinicals and labs, enabling working students to balance jobs while completing hands-on training efficiently.
- Students employed by Mercy Health during the ABSN program are eligible for 100% tuition coverage, allowing them to earn their nursing degree debt-free while they learn and work.
- The program features multiple start dates throughout the year and statewide site options, plus 3+1 partnerships with other universities, enabling students to complete both their BSN and bachelor’s degrees in just four years.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $9,198 Avg. Aid Amount
- 55% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $26,523 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Ursuline College
- Ursuline College’s Accelerated BSN program offers two flexible tracks—a full-time 15-month option and a part-time 24-month evening/weekend option—allowing students to choose based on their schedules.
- The program consistently achieves NCLEX pass rates above the national and Ohio averages, demonstrating strong preparation for nursing licensure and career success.
- Ursuline’s Breen School of Nursing is nationally recognized as a Center of Excellence by the National League for Nursing and ranks among the nation’s top nursing programs by U.S. News & World Report, highlighting exceptional faculty expertise and program quality.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $26,523 Avg. Aid Amount
- 47% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 7/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $27,952 Avg. Aid Amount
- 61% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Capital University
- Capital University's Accelerated BSN program offers two flexible tracks—a traditional daytime cohort and a hybrid option—allowing students to balance education and life commitments effectively.
- The program integrates three graduate-level nursing courses into the BSN curriculum, providing students with graduate credit and a head start toward advanced nursing degrees.
- Students gain 660 clinical hours at leading healthcare institutions in Columbus, ensuring robust hands-on experience and strong employer networks for future job placement.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $27,952 Avg. Aid Amount
- 61% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Mount Carmel College of Nursing
Columbus, OHProgram Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $5,140 Avg. Aid Amount
- 82% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Mount Carmel College of Nursing
- The Accelerated BSN program at Marymount University offers a high NCLEX first-time pass rate of over 90%, demonstrating strong student success in licensure exams.
- Students gain access to extensive clinical placements across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC, ensuring valuable hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings.
- The program provides flexible full-time and part-time options, allowing students to complete the degree in as few as 15 months to accommodate different schedules and commitments.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $5,140 Avg. Aid Amount
- 82% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 9/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,016 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Cleveland State University
- The Accelerated BSN program at Cleveland State University offers a full-time intensive curriculum that enables students to earn a BSN degree in just four consecutive semesters, significantly shortening the time to become a registered nurse.
- Students benefit from a flexible online option that combines online coursework with on-site residencies and clinicals, allowing them to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities while still fast-tracking their nursing career.
- The program provides strong faculty support, hands-on clinical experiences, and built-in networking opportunities that help students build professional connections essential for successful job placement after graduation.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $6,016 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $29,201 Avg. Aid Amount
- 75% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Xavier University
- Xavier’s Accelerated BSN program offers clinical rotations at top healthcare facilities like Cleveland Clinic and OhioHealth, enhancing real-world experience and job readiness.
- The program features three annual start dates with no waitlist, enabling students to begin their nursing education promptly without delay.
- Students receive personalized support from a dedicated admissions adviser throughout the application process, ensuring guidance and competitive application submission.
Program Details
- HLC Accreditation
- $29,201 Avg. Aid Amount
- 75% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 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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