Accelerated BSN at Herzing: Fast-Track Your Nursing Career

What Is an Accelerated BSN Program?

An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is designed specifically for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and want to transition into nursing without starting from scratch. These programs recognize your previous academic achievements and focus exclusively on nursing-specific education.

Unlike traditional four-year nursing programs, accelerated options at institutions like Herzing University compress nursing curriculum into approximately 16-20 months of intensive study. This accelerated timeline is possible because general education requirements are typically waived based on your prior degree. The curriculum concentrates on essential nursing theory, clinical skills development, and healthcare fundamentals necessary for licensure and practice.

How Herzing's Accelerated BSN Works

Herzing University structures its Accelerated BSN program as a full-time, intensive learning experience that requires significant commitment. The program operates year-round with minimal breaks, allowing students to complete their nursing education in as little as 16 months. This condensed format includes both classroom instruction and clinical rotations that provide hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.

Admission requirements typically include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA (often 2.7 or higher), completion of prerequisite science courses like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry, and sometimes entrance exams such as the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills). Herzing's curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN examination, which is required for licensure as a registered nurse in all states.

Provider Comparison: Accelerated BSN Options

When considering accelerated nursing programs, several institutions offer competitive options with varying features. Here's how they compare:

When evaluating these programs, consider factors beyond just duration—location convenience, clinical placement assistance, NCLEX pass rates, and post-graduation employment support can significantly impact your educational experience and career prospects.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Accelerated Programs

Accelerated BSN programs offer several compelling advantages for career-changers. The most obvious benefit is time efficiency—completing nursing education in 16-20 months rather than 3-4 years represents significant time savings. Graduates also enter the job market sooner, potentially earning nursing salaries more quickly than traditional program students.

However, these programs come with notable challenges. The intensive pace means students experience a demanding schedule with limited breaks and heavy course loads. This intensity often makes outside employment difficult or impossible during the program. Additionally, accelerated programs typically have higher tuition costs compared to traditional options when calculated on a per-semester basis, though the overall cost may be comparable due to the shorter duration. Programs from institutions like American Association of Colleges of Nursing members maintain rigorous standards despite the compressed timeline.

Students should realistically assess their learning style, stress management capabilities, and financial resources before committing to an accelerated format. For those with strong academic backgrounds and the ability to focus exclusively on studies, these programs offer a valuable fast-track option.

Financing Your Accelerated Nursing Education

Accelerated BSN programs represent a significant financial investment, with total costs at Herzing University and similar institutions typically ranging from $40,000-$80,000 depending on the specific program and location. This investment covers tuition, fees, books, uniforms, equipment, and clinical supplies.

Several financing options exist for prospective students:

• Federal financial aid: Complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal loans and grants
• Scholarship opportunities: Many nursing organizations like the National Student Nurses Association offer scholarships specifically for accelerated program students
• Employer tuition assistance: Some healthcare facilities offer tuition support in exchange for work commitments after graduation
• Private loans: Financial institutions offer education-specific loan products, though interest rates may be higher than federal options

When calculating the return on investment, consider that registered nurses earn median annual salaries over $75,000 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, with strong projected job growth. Many graduates find that the accelerated path, despite its upfront costs, proves financially advantageous in the long term due to earlier entry into the nursing workforce.

Conclusion

Herzing's Accelerated BSN program offers a viable pathway for degree-holders seeking career transition into nursing. While the intensive format demands significant commitment, the compressed timeline provides substantial advantages for motivated students. Before enrolling, carefully evaluate your personal circumstances, learning style, and financial resources to determine if this accelerated approach aligns with your career goals. For those who can manage the rigorous pace, these programs represent an efficient route to nursing practice without sacrificing educational quality or clinical preparation. As healthcare continues experiencing nursing shortages, accelerated BSN graduates remain well-positioned for employment opportunities across diverse clinical settings.

Citations

• https://www.herzing.edu
• https://www.chamberlain.edu
• https://www.wgu.edu
• https://www.purdueglobal.edu
• https://www.aacnnursing.org
• https://www.nsna.org
• https://www.bls.gov

This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.