Are ABSN programs worth it?
Guess that’s the question on your mind. This post will demystify every doubt and broaden your knowledge about the program. Let’s dive in!
Is Going For An Accelerated Nursing Program Worth The Time And Cost?
Perhaps you’ve earned a degree in a non-nursing course, considering a nursing program as a second program. Inevitably, you won’t want to spend four years bagging a degree in nursing.
Thanks to Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN), you can become a nurse within 16 months by leveraging your previous degree.
What is an Accelerated Nursing Program?
Accelerated nursing programs are a fast-track method of earning a bachelor’s degree.
Typically, ABSN is designed for students with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees who wish to switch careers to nursing pretty fast.
While the program lasts 16 months, students may require 25 months to complete it if they’re expected to do science prerequisites.
How Does an Accelerated BSN Program Work?
Like a traditional BSN program, you will promptly complete the nursing courses and clinical hours. The coursework is usually full-time and rigorous.
Students pursuing an associate degree in Nursing are taught the basics of nursing practice and patient care. Furthermore, they are exposed to hands-on learning, laboratory coursework, classroom learning, and clinical.
BSN degree programs seem like an extended version of ADN as students learn advanced theories, topics in nursing, and policies. In addition, students are prepared for leadership roles.
The ABSN program is an all-inclusive program that trains students in nursing fundamentals, knowledge of pharmacology, and nursing leadership.
It’s not advised for ABSN students to work full-time while enrolled in the program since it’s intensive and requires time and devotion. ABSN programs comprise classes, laboratory work, and clinical.
On-the-job clinical enable students to harness their skills in a care facility. Some of the courses ABSN students offer include Health Assessment, Anatomy, Physiology, Pathophysiology, etc.
After completing the program, students are conferred with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Having obtained a BSN degree, you can now get your license as a registered nurse.
You must take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to earn your nursing license.
What are the Benefits of Accelerated BSN Programs?
The nursing program can change your life trajectory, promoting career growth and personal development. Let’s consider the long-term benefits of opting for ABSN.
More opportunities
Compared to ADN (Associate Degree in Nursing), BSN offers more career opportunities in nursing. With an accelerated BSN, you can apply for leadership and managerial roles.
Due to the hospital’s stringent measures and the need for BSN certifications, BSN students are more eligible for RN job postings.
Since the BSN program covers a broad range of topics like pharmacology and public health, you have an increased chance of specializing in different areas.
Though an ABSN education is quite pricey, it’s a good return on investment considering the high earning potential and marketability.
Job security
Today, there’s a surge in demand for nurses.
According to The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses (RN) will be in high demand by 2029 due to a baby-booming population, improved medical treatments, and preventive care.
Many employers prefer to recruit nurses with BSN degrees in their workforce due to their leadership skills, expertise, and dedication to the profession.
Little wonder individuals must earn a BSN to serve as military nurses in the armed forces.
Increased earnings
BLS reports that as of May 2020, registered nurses earn $75,330 per year. Baccalaureate-educated nurses are more likely to get employment prospects than those with an associate degree.
Why? Nurses are needed in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, etc.
Flexibility
Flexibility is a massive perk of ABSN. The online curriculum is tailored to fit your schedule. You can study where and when it’s convenient for you.
Also, your instructional materials are readily available. Thus you can review whenever you’re uncertain or confused about a topic.
Better patient outcomes
Accelerated BSN nurses are well-grounded in leadership education, scientific-based clinical care, and community service, which increases patient outcomes.
Reports have shown that hospitals with many BSN nurses record lower mortality rates.
How Do You Evaluate an ABSN Program?
While a BSN is a good investment, you should consider your chosen programs. With various programs offered by several universities, how can you tell the right choice?
Here are some factors to consider when evaluating an ABSN program.
NCLEX pass rates
How does your prospective institution prepare students for NCLEX? Does the nursing school record NCLEX pass rates? Take this into account.
While the pass rate doesn’t indicate how successful graduates are, it’s a factor in choosing the right school.
Clinical rotations
Besides NCLEX, clinical rotations are another factor to consider when choosing an accelerated nursing program. A school affiliated with local hospitals will make your job search after graduation easy.
Furthermore, Clinical rotations increase your job chances in the future.
Accreditation and approvals
An accredited institution proves it’s highly reputable and has a quality standard. How important is a nursing school accreditation?
Students enrolled in an unaccredited school aren’t eligible to sit for NCLEX.
Also, students without the NCLEX certificate can’t practice nursing at any healthcare facility. In addition, graduating from an approved institution helps career growth as you pursue advanced studies.
You can’t transfer credits earned from an unaccredited program to an advanced nursing program.
Lastly, several healthcare organizations only hire graduates from accredited schools.
Student support resources
Consider ABSN programs with interactive resources and access to instructors and coaches, as this will help you navigate nursing school easily while ensuring your success.
Conclusion
At this point, you’re probably thinking, are ABSN programs worth it?
They are, considering the investment, career growth, and opportunities. The 16-month program equips you with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful nursing career.
Compared to the traditional nursing program, the ABSN program takes less time. From diverse clinical experiences to hands-on skills, an ABSN program has several perks.
We hope you make informed decisions. Good luck in all your endeavors.
