Spread the word: Accelerated nursing programs abound

Nursing, Oct 2002

According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), accelerated degree programs for nonnursing graduates are gaining momentum nationwide. Offered at both the baccalaureate (BSN) and master's (MSN) degree levels, these programs build on previous learning experiences and help people with undergraduate degrees in other disciplines move into nursing. In fact, they offer these people the quickest route to becoming an RN, as the BSN programs tend to run only 12 to 18 months. Accelerated MSN programs take about 3 years to complete; typically, the first year includes baccalaureate-level nursing courses, followed by 2 years of graduate study.

With more second-degree students turning to nursing, the demand for these programs is growing. And although they're not new to nursing education, they've proliferated over the past 12 years. For example, in 1990, 31 accelerated BSN programs and 12 MSN programs were offered nationwide, Today, 90 accelerated BSN programs and 27 accelerated generic master's programs are operating. And many more are in the works: According to the AACN, 24 new accelerated BSN programs are in the planning stages-a number that far outpaces all other types of entry-level nursing programs currently being considered at 4-year nursing schools. In addition, 13 new accelerated MSN programs are taking shape. As the AACN points out, these programs are ideal career transition vehicles for those segments of the labor force affected by recent fluctuations in the economy.

For a complete list of schools offering accelerated BSN and MSN programs, visit http://www.aacn.nche.edu/ Publications/Issues/Aug02.htm.