Are you looking to study accelerated nursing programs in USA?
This blog is designed to help you learn more about accelerated nursing programs in USA and other types of nursing schools.
There are over 100 accelerated nursing programs in USA. Looking for the right program for you may be very difficult.
But, on this list, we will only cover the top 50 accelerated nursing programs in USA. These are the best accelerated nursing programs in USA, according to reputation and rankings.
So, you will have no problem selecting the accelerated nursing programs in USA that suits what you are looking for in terms of tuition cost, location, and curriculum.
Let’s dive in.
Employment Outlook for Nurses in USA
If you’re looking to make a difference in the world, becoming a Registered Nurse may be the perfect way to do it.
Nursing is one of the fastest-growing professions, and nurses with BSNs are in high demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 194,500 RN jobs available each year—and that number is expected to grow as much as 9% by 2030.
But why does your degree matter? A BSN can help you achieve your career goals by giving you:
- greater job opportunities,
- better pay, and
- improved career advancement opportunities.
Requirements for Becoming a BSN-Certified Nurse
You must meet the following criteria to become a BSN-certified nurse:
- Graduated from a bachelor’s program in nursing.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam and have a current, unrestricted license to practice as a registered nurse.
List of the Top 30 Accelerated Nursing Programs in USA
If you are looking for the best-accelerated nursing programs in USA to study in, we have listed them here for you to make your choice.
Depending on what you are looking for, you will find that one of the accelerated nursing programs in USA meets your requirement:
Florida International University
- Location: Miami, Florida.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $6,270 per semester.
Florida International University, a public research university founded in 1965 and located in metropolitan Miami, Florida, is recognized by the U.S. News & World Report as the top-ranked public university in the South Florida metropolitan area.
The accelerated BSN program at FIU is a full-time, 15-month program that provides students with a high level of learning experience and practical application of knowledge through hands-on activities and clinical experiences.
Students who complete this accelerated BSN program are required to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX) for registration as registered nurses after graduation from their nursing program.
This is by far, one of the best-accelerated nursing programs in USA that you will find today.
University of North Florida
- Location: Jacksonville, Florida.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $3,197 per semester.
The University of North Florida is a comprehensive public institution, serving 21,000 students on its main campus in Jacksonville and four regional campuses.
The accelerated BSN program at the University of North Florida offers several options to students who have already earned an associate degree in nursing and wish to continue their education. Admission requirements include:
- Holding a current RN license with no infractions within the past three years.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
- Three letters of recommendation; essay explaining why you want to become a nurse leader.
- Copy of transcripts from all colleges attended.
- Resume listing work experience related to nursing (if any).
Graduates are eligible for licensure as Registered Nurses in Florida upon successful completion of the program and after passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
The nurses who complete this accelerated MSN program generally work in hospitals or private practice settings such as home health agencies after graduation from their respective programs.
Truman State University
- Location: Kirksville, Missouri.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $4,345 per semester.
Truman State University is a public liberal arts institution located in Kirksville, Missouri. The school’s nursing program was established in 1907 as one of the first colleges to offer training for registered nurses (RNs).
Today, it enrolls around 300 students each year who take advantage of small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty members who have an average of 15 years of teaching experience each.
There is no doubt about the quality of this school, hence the reason why it provides one of the best accelerated nursing programs in USA.
Florida Atlantic University
- Location: Boca Raton, Florida.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $719.84 per credit hour.
Florida Atlantic University has one of the most corrosive accelerated nursing programs in USA.
It is one of the top universities in USA and offers an accelerated nursing program that is designed to help students complete their course work within 2 years.
The average total cost of tuition in this program is $28,000 compared to other schools which charge upwards of $40,000 for the same degree. FAU is reputable as one of the best nursing schools in USA. Their curriculum covers the advanced clinical training needed to thrive in almost any workplace. This is highly recommended.
Montana Technological University
- Location: Butte, Montana.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $7,573.32 per semester.
The First Montana State school on the list, Montana Tech is a respected nursing school in USA.
Additionally, they offer a compressed BSN program that takes 2 years to complete. Students will find this program truly rewarding.
The following are the admission requirements for this program:
- A Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or equivalent out-of-state program.
Applicants must have completed at least 15 credits of prerequisite coursework in math and science with a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent).
- You will also need to take the GRE and have at least one month between taking your admissions test and submitting your application to be considered for financial aid, which includes loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study programs that may help pay for school expenses.
West Virginia University
- Location: Morgantown, West Virginia.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $5,868 per semester.
West Virginia University offers an 18-month accelerated nursing program from the BS/BA to BSN. The program is designed for those who have completed a previous degree education, but now want to become registered nurses without having to go through another 4-year undergraduate study.
The RN-BSN Program is a two-year, part-time curriculum for registered nurses who want to earn their bachelor’s degree.
The accelerated track allows you the flexibility of taking courses on your schedule and earning your degree without disrupting your current career goals or family obligations.
If you complete this program successfully, you will be awarded a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from West Virginia University.
California State University
- Location: Turlock, California.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: Approximately $32,000 in total (15 months).
Cal State University is a public university that has 23 campuses across California. It is one of the most prestigious universities in America, hence the reason why it is populated.
As a result, competition in this school is usually high. Cal State University has a 100% NCLEX pass rate, making it one of the top accelerated nursing programs in USA.
The university offers both a Bachelor of Science (BSN) and Master of Science (MSN) degree programs for accelerated nursing students interested in a BSN or MSN degree.
Phillips School of Nursing
- Location: New York, New York.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $14,468 per semester.
You can become a nurse in less than 2 years by enrolling in an accelerated nursing program in USA.
For example, Phillips School of Nursing (Mount Sinai) has one of the top-rated accelerated nursing programs in USA. However, it is also one of the most expensive. The cost of attending this school is almost $60,000 for four semesters.
Studying in Phillips School of Nursing will require the following:
- Admission Requirements: 3.0 GPA on a 4-point scale or higher.
- ACT score above 17 or SAT score above 1020.
- Completion of all prerequisites with at least a C grade in each course (excluding electives), which may include courses such as psychology, sociology, biology, anatomy, and physiology.
- Submit an essay about why you want to become a nurse and any extracurricular activities related to health care.
Drexel University
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $13,803 per semester.
This accelerated BSN program is designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in another discipline.
Students must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and complete a minimum of 90 credit hours to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Drexel University.
The accelerated BSN program at Drexel University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), one of six national nursing accrediting agencies, who requires that all nursing programs meet certain standards for student selection, instruction, and learning experiences. Interestingly, this program lasts only 11 months to complete.
However, you will receive an excellent education from an institution that has been recognized by its peers as being among the best in its field.
In addition, graduates are eligible to take part in voluntary certification examinations through ASCP or ACNP-BC certification boards which also require coursework as well as graduation from an accredited school or college before they can sit for any given exam series.
George Mason University
- Location: Fairfax, Virginia.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $546.50 per credit hour.
George Mason University is a public research university located in Fairfax, Virginia, United States.
This school features an RN-BSN accelerated nursing program in USA that focuses on students who already have a history in the health sciences sector, but now want to become certified nurses.
The program is one of the best-reviewed accelerated nursing programs in USA, credited for its corrosive curriculum, small class sizes, and beautiful scenery in its location.
Stony Brook University
- Location: Stony Brook, New York.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $4,629 per semester.
Stony Brook University is a university with a long-standing commitment to excellence in teaching and research.
Located on 200 beautiful acres on the north shore of Long Island, Stony Brook supports an active student population of over 25,000 undergraduate and graduate students from more than 100 countries.
Stony Brook University has both Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs for Registered Nurses (RNs) who want to earn a higher degree in their field. It offers the accelerated BSN program, which may be completed full-time (12 months).
It also offers RN-to-BSN completion programs that can be completed in two years or less depending on previous background and experience.
Students interested in pursuing accelerated nursing degree options should consider applying during their senior year of high school so they can begin taking courses at Stony Brook before graduation.
University of Cincinnati
- Location: Cincinnati, Ohio.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $7,127.5 per semester.
- Program Length: 5 semesters.
- Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field.
University of Cincinnati requires that applicants score 3.0 (out of 4.0) or higher on the last 60 credits of undergraduate school coursework taken at an accredited college or university.
There is no minimum GPA required for admission to the accelerated program; however, each application will be reviewed on an individual basis by the Admissions Committee and may require additional documentation to substantiate your academic performance and suitability for accelerated study in nursing.
East Carolina University
- Location: Greenville, North Carolina.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $7,239 per semester.
East Carolina University is known as the “mother of nursing education” and has been educating nurses since its establishment in 1889.
ECU offers an accelerated bachelor’s degree nursing program that takes 2 years to complete instead of 4 years.
The accelerated BSN program at East Carolina University requires applicants to have completed 60 credit hours with a minimum GPA of 3.0 from an accredited college or university before enrolling in the program.
Applicants also need to pass a test called COMPASS (computerized adaptive test for placement in academic studies) which can be taken at any Pearson Vue testing center throughout the country.
University of Delaware
- Location: Newark, Delaware.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $14,822 per semester.
The University of Delaware offers the Accelerated Nursing Program (ABSN), a 17-month program designed for bachelor’s degree holders who want to become registered nurses.
It is one of the top accelerated nursing programs in USA, and easily one of the best nursing programs in Delaware.
Students who choose the ABSN to earn their BSN degree in 17 months, and can complete their entire coursework on-campus.
Students will be required to complete an RN licensure exam at the end of the program.
Mount Carmel College of Nursing
- Location: Columbus, Ohio.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $6,721 per semester.
Mount Carmel College of Nursing offers an accelerated bachelor in nursing program that results in the completion of a bachelor’s degree in nursing within 16 months. This program is designed for students who wish to complete their degree and enter the workforce as registered nurses with less time spent on campus than in traditional programs.
Furthermore, the curriculum at Mount Carmel emphasizes clinical training and teaches students how to apply critical thinking skills while working with patients.
Students will receive instruction from instructors who are experts in their fields and have experience working as nurse practitioners or in other roles within the health care setting.
Graduates from this program are prepared for entry-level positions upon graduation, allowing them to immediately begin working as registered nurses after finishing their clinical rotations at local hospitals or healthcare facilities around Central Ohio.
Northeast Alabama Community College
- Location: Jackson County, Alabama.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $1,428 per semester.
NACC offers over 40 associate degrees (including nursing), as well as four certificate programs. They also offer online classes and flexible class schedules to make it easier for busy professionals to graduate on time with their BSN degrees.
NACC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
University of Miami
- Location: Coral Gables, Florida.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $42,000 total + $1,400 nursing fees.
The University of Miami is a private research university with a student body of over 14 000. The institution was founded in 1925.
The accelerated nursing program at The University of Miami consists of 55 credits for students enrolled full-time. It takes two years to complete the degree on a full-time basis or three years of part-time study schedule with summer sessions included every year until graduation day arrives.
The program is one of the best accelerated nursing programs in USA, and arguably, it is one of the most difficult accelerated nursing programs in USA to get into.
This is due to the rigorous admission requirements that you will find here. However, it makes a great choice for anyone looking to study in one of the prestigious accelerated nursing programs in USA.
Westfield State University
- Location: Westfield, Massachusetts.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: Under $11,000.
- Specialty: Accelerated BSN program.
- Duration: 12, 15, or 24 months.
Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).
Westfield’s accelerated nursing program in USA is one of the cheapest in the world, compared to other accelerated nursing programs in USA. Any student enrolled in this truly will find it truly amazing, despite the cost being on the low side.
Some requirements for studying an accelerated nursing program in Westfield are:
- You must have an associate degree in nursing from an accredited school of nursing.
- You must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 on college/university courses completed before admission.
- Interested students should possess an unencumbered license to practice as a registered nurse in the United States by the start of the program.
- Students will submit official transcripts from all universities/colleges attended.
- At least one academic or professional recommendation is required.
Allen College
- Location: Waterloo, Iowa.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $38,063 for completion.
The mission statement of Allen College is to provide a quality baccalaureate nursing education (with an option to accelerate your program) that is affordable and accessible for students from diverse backgrounds.
In addition to being part of a larger university system, Allen College is known for its on-campus housing options and a great deal of financial aid available to students.
Allen College has an acceptance rate of 75% with an average class size of 16 students per class (as compared to many other schools which have much higher rates).
If you’re interested in attending this school, it’s important to note that there are no SAT/ACT requirements needed – just apply by filling out the application.
University of Houston
- Location: Houston, Texas.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $361.86 per credit hour.
Located in Houston, Texas, the University of Houston is a public research university with over 40 000 students across its 10 colleges.
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs including nursing, business administration, and engineering among others.
The accelerated BSN program at the University of Houston is a 12-month-long degree program designed to prepare graduates for licensure as registered nurses (RNs). Students will complete their Bachelor’s degree in Nursing within 12 months instead of 4 years by taking summer sessions and evening classes during the fall and spring semesters.
University of Wyoming
- Location: Laramie, Wyoming.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $10,098 per semester.
For students who are interested in an accelerated nursing program in USA, the University of Wyoming is probably one of the top choices.
The university offers a four-year BSN program that can be completed in 15 months (for ABSN). Tagged “BRAND,” UW provides a program that is designed for high-achieving students who want to complete their undergraduate studies and continue to become practicing nurses.
The advantages of completing an accelerated bachelor’s degree include:
- A lower cost than traditional programs.
- More flexibility for working adults who cannot attend full-time classes.
- An opportunity for students who have been out of school for many years to complete their degrees.
University of West Florida
- Location: Pensacola, Florida.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $13,717 yearly (average).
The University of West Florida is a public university with an open-door admission policy.
Their accelerated nursing program has been ranked one of the best in the nation and offers a wide range of course options, including community health, leadership, management, and administration.
The University of West Florida’s fast-paced accelerated nursing program will prepare you to become an RN within 18 months. In order to be eligible for this program, you must have:
- an Associate’s degree in Nursing or equivalent experience,
- transferable college credits from another accredited institution (including military),
- a minimum GPA of 3.0 on your last 60 semester credit hours earned at an accredited college/university (or its equivalent),
- submit 3 letters of recommendation which may include one letter that supports your current academic ability along with 2 other recommendations from people who know you well enough to comment on your character about being able to handle yourself well under stress while caring for others,
- you will complete an online application process which includes uploading transcripts from all colleges attended.
Duke University
- Location: Durham, North Carolina.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $24,147 per semester.
Duke University offers an accelerated BSN program that is ranked as one of the best accelerated nursing programs in USA and North Carolina.
The cost of tuition, however, is expensive; and students may find it difficult to afford this school without aid.
Furthermore, students must take a minimum of 33 credit hours each year to graduate on time. Additional costs may include fees charged by individual schools or colleges within Duke University; these fees vary according to the academic program.
Western Illinois University
- Location: Macomb, Illinois.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $,8,350 per semester.
Western Illinois University offers one of the best online accelerated nursing programs in USA, which is accredited by the CCNE.
The program is offered on the Macomb campus and may be taken as a second degree for those who already hold an Associate’s degree in another field.
The RN-BSN program at WIU has received many awards for its quality of education.
This accelerated nursing program at Western Illinois University will allow you to earn your bachelor’s degree in just two years while completing two semesters each of general education coursework and upper-level nursing courses per year.
The accelerated BSN option also allows students who have previously earned their associate’s degrees or other professional certifications within healthcare fields such as LPNs without having had prior RN training experience prior – a perfect option if this sounds like yourself.
So, if due to your schedule, you may not commit fully to an on-campus accelerated program, then WIU delivers one of the best accelerated nursing programs in USA that you will find worth your time. And money!
University of Washington
- Location: Seattle, Washington.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $11,704 paid quarterly.
The University of Washington is a public research university located in Seattle, Washington. The school has been ranked one of the best universities for nursing programs, but it’s also recognized as an excellent undergraduate program.
The School of Nursing offers an accelerated BSN program with cohort start dates every quarter from January to August.
The curriculum includes courses such as family-centered care, evidence-based practice techniques, and more relevant topics such as addiction medicine, health disparities research methods, and longitudinal/health systems theories that are designed to prepare you for a career in nursing after graduation from this program.
Clemson University
- Location: Clemson, South Carolina.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $7,558 per semester.
Clemson University has a well-rounded accelerated nursing program in USA that guides you to become a professional healthcare giver in less than two years. The school is located in Seattle, and it has one of the best nursing programs in USA.
Admission Requirements to Study at Clemson University:
- You must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have a Bachelor’s degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university.
- You must complete prerequisite courses before your application to Clemson University.
If you don’t have these things, the school will review your application to determine if you can still be admitted.
Binghamton University
- Location: Vestal, New York.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $2,950 – $3,883.50 per semester.
The program is offered through a collaboration between the School of Nursing and the Department of Biology at Binghamton University.
The accelerated nursing program requires a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA or higher, completion of a statistics course, completion of a course in human physiology and anatomy, and completion of a course in microbiology.
Applicants must also complete an online application and submit three letters of recommendation to apply for admission into this program.
Applicants must complete their Bachelor’s degree before applying for entry into the accelerated nursing program at Binghamton University.
Michigan State University
- Location: Eric Lansing, Michigan.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $817 per credit.
MSU offers an accelerated BSN program that can be completed in just 24 months by taking classes at MSU’s main campus or online.
Los Angeles Harbor College
- Location: Wilmington, California.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $225 per credit.
The LA Harbor College is a well-respected college in California. It will not win many awards but, it offers one of the best accelerated programs in USA.
If you are looking at cost, quality, delivery, and opportunities as your motivation to study any of these accelerated nursing programs in USA, then Harbor College may stand a decent chance.
Augustana University, Sioux Falls,
- Location: Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
- Estimated Tuition Cost: $533 per credit.
Ranking number 30 on this list of top accelerated nursing programs in USA is Augustana University. But don’t let this fool you.
This Accelerated Track program easily rivals many other nursing programs ranked higher on this list. Augustana University is a decent choice for studying nursing.
The List of the Top MSN Programs in USA
Now that you have learned about our recommended 30 accelerated nursing programs in USA, you should also find out what your choices are when you want to take your studies further. MSN refers to a Masters of Science in Nursing, and it is a program that you can choose to enter after you have completed your accelerated nursing program in USA.
While some of the schools mentioned above are the top schools for accelerated nursing programs in USA, these schools listed below offer the best MSN programs in USA:
University of Pennsylvania:
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The University of Pennsylvania has a rich history that dates back to the early 1700s when it was founded as an academy. It is one of the few schools in the United States that offers both an accelerated Bachelor’s (BSN) and Master’s program in nursing (MSN). The accelerated BS-MSN program allows students to complete their bachelor’s degree within two years, while lifelong learners can earn a master’s degree in just 12 months by taking courses online or on campus.
Emory University:
Location: DeKalb County, Georgia.
Emory University is a private research university in Georgia. Emory has 15,000 students (including 10 percent who are graduate and professional students), with over half attending graduate or professional schools. The admission page for studying an MSN in this school can be accessed here.
Other Schools Include:
Online MSN programs in USA
Similarly, if you want to study for an MSN, but have no time to do so, why don’t you just study in one of these online programs?
- Full Sail University
Wrapping It Up
As you can already tell, you have a lot of options when it comes to your nursing career.
Whether you want to pursue a traditional 4-year program or accelerate the process by graduating in 2 years, the choice is yours.
Accelerated nursing programs in USA provide a useful pathway for students who need less than 2 years to complete their degree. The accelerated option allows students to enter the workforce sooner and start making money right out of school.
This can be especially helpful if you’re looking for a job as soon as possible after graduation.
In addition, many accelerated programs also offer specialized tracks that allow students to further specialize their education and prepare them for specific jobs within the industry.
For example, there are degrees available focusing exclusively on cardiac care or neuroscience care which will give graduates an advantage over other new nurses entering the field who may not have had this specialized training during their schooling phase.
However, accelerated nursing programs are hectic compared to the traditional nursing programs, as a bulk load of school work is being compressed into a shorter time.