Many choices are thrown at you when looking for a nursing program and can leave you wondering, is an ABSN worth it? Is it the right choice for you? Dive deeper and learn more about the ABSN track at University of the Incarnate Word.
Earning a nursing degree through an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is an amazing opportunity if you want to earn a nursing degree fast by leveraging a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or previous college credits. So, when you ask, “Is an ABSN worth it?” the answer is yes.
ABSN programs are a great investment for your future. Nurses are in high demand, so you will have many job opportunities, and the ABSN will get you to that goal sooner. The University of the Incarnate Word offers the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) track for aspiring nurses with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or at least 60 college credits.
What is an ABSN?
An ABSN is an accelerated degree program designed for people who already hold a bachelor's degree or have college credits. Compared to traditional BSN programs, ABSN programs are shorter and more intensive, allowing students to complete their nursing education and graduate in a shorter timeframe.
See the top nursing skills and traits needed to succeed in your career.
How Long is an ABSN Program
ABSN programs generally range from 12 and 18 months in length, and the ABSN track at UIW can be completed in as few as 16 months. The exact timeline may vary based on several factors, including your start date, the number of prerequisite courses you need to complete and the amount of eligible transfer credits.
Speak with an admissions representative for more information on our admissions process requirements for UIW’s ABSN track.
Pros and Cons of ABSN Programs
Are accelerated nursing programs worth it? It’s important to understand your choices when deciding whether you want to commit to an ABSN program. Let’s explore some of the pros and cons of ABSN programs.
Pros of an ABSN Program
An accelerated BSN program allows you to become a registered nurse more quickly than a traditional four-year BSN program. At UIW, the ABSN track provides hands-on learning through skills and simulation labs, as well as clinical rotations in a variety of healthcare settings.
Most graduate programs, such as a Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice, require a BSN, so earning a BSN on a faster timeline means you can earn a graduate degree sooner, too.
ABSN programs are also an excellent option for individuals changing careers, as they build on previous college coursework and eliminate the need to repeat general education classes required in traditional BSN programs. With nurses in high demand and strong job stability, graduating sooner allows you to enter the workforce more quickly.
While accelerated in format, ABSN programs maintain rigorous academic and clinical standards to ensure graduates are fully prepared for professional practice.
Cons of an ABSN Program
Because ABSN programs are fast-paced, the workload can feel intense. This is because they typically do not take long breaks between semesters. The fast pace and intensive workload can sometimes lead to fatigue if you don’t take the steps to prioritize self-care.
At UIW, you will be supported throughout the ABSN track, so you can rise to meet these challenges and gain the knowledge and skills needed to become a practice-ready nurse.
Ready to Take the First Step?
ABSN programs offer students a chance to enter the nursing field faster than other programs. The sooner you take the first step and earn a BSN, the sooner you can become a registered nurse.
Contact an admissions representative at the University of the Incarnate Word today to learn more about our ABSN track.