Thinking of moving into a nursing career but have no experience in the field?
Many people transition into nursing from other industries, and with the right education and training, it is entirely possible to become a successful nurse.
In this article, we highlight 12 of the best online nursing programs for non-nurses: essentially, people with no nursing experience or education.
These programs are designed to provide the necessary foundation for you, an aspiring nurse, to succeed in your studies and ultimately your career.
The programs are flexible, convenient, and comprehensive enough to meet your needs.
Alright, enough talk! Here we go:
1. Distance Acceleration BSN from Emory University
Program Overview
Emory's Distance Accelerated BSN (DABSN) program allows you to earn a degree in one year. If you don't live in Atlanta, she can get your tests done at approved facilities near you.
To qualify, you must have a bachelor's degree in another subject from an accredited university. In addition, there are 48 credit hours and, to fulfill them, you enroll in 3 semesters.
The first semester covers the basics, the second your labs and clinical practice, and the third intensive clinical practice on the Emory campus.
Admission requirements
- non-nursing degree
- transcripts
- Resume
- previous requirements
- $50 application fee
Monthly payment
The cost of the program is approximately $78,000.
What we like
Just 3 semesters and you'll be ready for your NCLEX-RN exams! They also help you pay for the mandatory visits to Emory.
2. Kent State Accelerated High School BSN
Program Overview
Kent State's ABSN is one of the best partially online programs for non-nurses who already have a degree in a different field. It combines instruction in the classroom, laboratory, and supervised clinical setting to prepare you for professional nursing.
Kent State will award you the degree for 59 credit hours over 15 months. You will complete your labs and other hands-on exercises at nearby approved facilities.
Admission requirements
- High school GPA of at least 2.75 out of a possible 4.0 or an ACT score of 22 or an SAT score of 1100
- Prerequisites in Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Microbiology and Chemistry.
- A "C" or higher in algebra as well.
Monthly payment
Depending on how many credits you transfer from another university,monthly paymentIt's $12,000 for the course.
What we like
You will not be required to perform drug tests, fingerprinting, background checks or other invasive procedures.
3. Marymount University BSN Accelerated High School
Program Overview
This online nursing program for non-nurses prepares you for the deeper aspects of nursing, including the mental health aspects of nursing.
You will do your clinical and residency portions of the course on the Virginia campus. Verifyhereto find out if your state participates in Marymount's online nursing programs.
You will have prepared your prerequisites with a "C" grade, a Bachelor's degree in anything, a 2.8 out of 4.0 GPA, a letter of recommendation, and a writing sample.
The program is 16 months for a total of 65 credit hours and 640 clinical hours.
Admission requirements
- transfer application
- transcripts,
- TEAS exam
- Resume
- Letter of recommendation
- an essay on nursing
- complete yourprevious requirements.
Monthly payment
The cost is approximately $71,000, which covers tuition, college fees, and nursing fees.
What we like
This university places its graduates in professional positions. In addition, the course is not long and it costs the same as in other universities.
4. Chamberlain University Online BSN
Program Overview
Chamberlain's BSN Online program combines a high-quality curriculum designed specifically for online delivery with opportunities to gain practical skills and experience through clinical rotations.
You will take your clinical exams in Iowa, Wisconsin, Virginia, Maryland, or Nebraska.
This online nursing program is 3 years in length and 122 credit hours, and includes nursing and general education courses.
Admission requirements
- 2.75 GPA from an approved school or institution of higher learning.
- A score of 73 or higher on a personalized HESI admissions assessment or A2 test.
- Drug test, background check, and fingerprint information within 120 days of course start.
Monthly payment
Costs vary depending on which campus you live near. If only the East Coast campuses are used, the tuition per credit hour is $675. Other fees and charges can be found in this PDFdiscrimination.
What we like
It's a fantastic convenience to be able to attend a university for their labs and clinics on a nearby campus. Unfortunately, he still has to travel to Illinois to assess his skills, but that's a minor consideration.
Furthermore, the admission requirements and tuition fees are comparable to other universities. You'll be licensed and ready to rock by the end of the course.
what we don't like
It takes much longer than most other online nursing programs for non-nurses. 3 years to be exact.
5. BSN High School Methodist
Program Overview
If you have a non-nursing bachelor's degree and want to be an RN, this 120 credit hour program is perfect for you.
Classes are taught online, except on weekends (Saturday afternoon to Sunday afternoon) face-to-face classes and clinics, physically held at the school's facilities in Peoria.
Synchronous and asynchronous online classes are offered on Tuesday and Thursday nights.
Admission requirements
- Proof of a bachelor's degree in another field
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale)
- transcripts,
- Personal statement and reference letters.
- Forprevious requirements,you will need Anatomy and Physiology I and II and Microbiology - all with labs of 4 credits each.
Monthly payment
$677 per credit hour. Other fees and charges are listedhere.
What we like
The admission process is relatively simple. In addition, you complete the course in two years (if you work full time). In addition, laboratory and clinical tests are carried out on weekends, which we hope will not interfere with your work during the week.
what we don't like
You must live nearby to participate in this program. Even if you can attend online, you must be available for the weekend face-to-face classes.
Observation: If you do not have a bachelor's degree and want to become an RN and still intend to pursue further career opportunities or doctoral study in nursing, you should also considerMethodist Master of Science in Nursing Prelicensing.
6. Marian University Accelerated BSN Program
Program Overview
Designed specifically for students with a bachelor's degree other than in nursing, Marian's high school ABSN program combines online coursework with hands-on skills training, simulation labs, and in-person clinical experiences, and is completed in four semesters of study time. comprehensive study.
Locations include Nashville, TN, Indianapolis, IN, and Oklahoma City, OK. You can start in January, May or August.
At the end of the course, you will be able to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
Admission requirements
- Proof of a non-nursing bachelor's degree
- Minimum cumulative overall GPA of 2.8 or GPA of 3.0 for the last 60 completed credit hours.
- Complete all ABSN prerequisites
- Complete drug tests, a background check, immunizations, and other evaluations as needed.
Monthly payment
You will pay $880 per credit hour formonthly payment, $250 for your clinical exams and $415 per credit hour for your prerequisites.
What we like
Marian University is a religious institution that teaches holistic healing (mind, body, and spirit), and this may be a positive for some students.
In addition, we like that you have 3 campuses to do your face-to-face work. Lastly, the monthly fee is also quite reasonable.
Did you get this far? Excellent! Here is a short video about ABSN programs. Leverage!
7. Northeastern University Online Accelerated BSN Program
Program Overview
Northeastern University's ABSN program provides a fast track for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree to become a registered nurse.
With locations near Boston, MA and Charlotte, NC, the program is a hybrid, combining online courses with hands-on clinical experiences.
It can be completed in just 16 months, with three start dates available each year: January, May, and September. If you are a transfer student with a minimum of 62 non-nursing college credits and are interested in a career in nursing, the ABSN program at Northeastern University in Charlotte is right for you.
Admission requirements
- A 3.0 GPA in a field other than nursing
- A personal statement, an updated resume, a video essay, 3 letters of reference
- Complete your prerequisites with a "C" or higher. Other instructions arehere.
Monthly payment
Tuition for Northeastern's online accelerated BSN program is $1,222 for each of the 67 credit hours. Other fees and charges are listedhere.
What we like
The program promises to have you ready to practice in 16 months!
8. Thomas Edison State University Accelerated BSN Program (BSNA)
Program Overview
Like most ABSN courses, this one is also a hybrid. You will spend the majority of your 15 months attending a mix of online and on-campus courses, as well as clinics held in the local New Jersey area.
To participate in this program, you must have a bachelor's degree in nursing or have earned at least 60 college credits in nursing.
You can start in winter, spring or fall in 8-week courses and four 16-week terms.
Admission requirements
- A student in the accelerated BSN program will first enroll in the Pre-Nursing track option ofBachelor of Science (BS) with an Area of Study (AOS) in Health Studies. This general and nursing prerequisite study is required before you can be admitted to the accelerated BSN program.
- transcripts
- ATI TEAS Exam Score Report – Minimum scores of 70% preferred in each of the subcategories
- Personal statement and 2 references
Monthly payment
Once accepted into the BSNA program, you will pay a non-refundable fee of $500 to retain your seat. It will be placed in the registration of the first term. Tuition for the entire program is $38,824 with a lab fee of $500.
What we like
9 credits earned in this program can be applied toward an MSN degree. Also, there are 2special scholarshipsavailable to you: the Helene Fuld Health Trust Scholarship and the Janssen Pharmaceuticals Scholarship.
9. Olivet Nazarene University BSN Accelerated Program
Program Overview
This is another full-time program that combines online courses with in-person clinics. The program lasts 16 months with 59 credit hours. You can participate in the ABSN program with a bachelor's or associate's degree other than nursing. Plus, you can start with zero credit hours.
Most of the learning is online, but you will need to complete the clinical practicum at the school located in Oak Brook, Illinois, and at other local facilities in the Chicagoland area.
Admission requirements
- A "C" or higher on your prerequisites.
- 2.75 GPA and scored a 75 percent overall in English math, reading, and writing and a 64 percent A&P on the HESI test.
- Complete a criminal background check, show evidence of good health, pass a drug test, and complete all prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or better.
Monthly payment
Monthly paymentfor the entire ABSN program is approximately $54,000.
What we like
Depending on your GPA and HESI score, you could qualify for a scholarship between $1,000 and $6,000.
10. Gwynedd Mercy University Accelerated Nursing Program (ABSN, High School)
Program Overview
Tucked away in a beautiful field outside of Philadelphia, GMercyU is all about integrity and service to individuals, families, and communities.
The GMercyU ABSN program is designed for students with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field. You will complete the 67 credit degree in 4 semesters or 16 months. Upon completion of the program, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
If you prefer a slower pace, you can seeGMercyU Part-Time Weekend BSNprogram in place - takes about 3 years to complete.
However, if you would like to gain advanced nursing knowledge, consider enrolling in theGMercyU Direct Inbound MSN (DEMSN)program, which is completed in 24 months.
Admission requirements
- Complete prerequisite courses online with home lab kits
- Submit transcripts with a 2.0 GPA or "C" grade
- Background check, drug test, FBI fingerprints, a bill of health from your primary care physician, proof of health insurance, CPR certification, and liability insurance. When you are accepted into the ABSN program, you will need an annual flu shot and PPD exam.
Monthly payment
As an ABSN student, you will pay $670 per credit and $350 of prerequisite fees per credit. Other fees and charges can be foundhere.
What we like
We really like that the school, through home lab kits, allows you to complete the prerequisites online.
11. Notre Dame University of Maryland Accelerated High School BSN Program
Program Overview
With a non-nursing degree, you can participate in Notre Dame of Maryland's ABSN program, which promises to transition you into the nursing profession in 15 months.
The online option provides the convenience of completing the course from anywhere with an Internet connection. You'll engage in interactive exercises, participate in class discussions, and connect with your instructors online.
However, you will need to attend labs and clinics in person to gain hands-on experience.
Admission requirements
- Proof of a non-nursing bachelor's degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Complete ABSN prerequisites
- Updated resume, personal essay and 2 letters of recommendation.
- Minimum Composite Score of 65% on TEAS
Monthly payment
Tuition for the full ABSN program is $60,666. The breakdown of fees can be foundhere.
What we like
Some of Baltimore's health facilities, such as the Johns Hopkins Hospital, are world-renowned and you'll be lucky to get your medical exams there.
12. Rockhurst University Online Accelerated BSN Program
Program Overview
This 60-credit, 100% online course program, coupled with a unique 10-day residency on campus, makes you a qualified nurse in just 16 months. He must have a non-nursing bachelor's degree to be eligible.
Their clinical rotations (complete 582.5 clinical hours) will be guided by a dedicated placement consultant.
These are the states authorized to participate in the Rockhurst Accelerated BSN Program:
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Mississippi
- Measurements
- Nebraska
- New Mexico
- Vermont
Admission requirements
- Bachelor's degree in another field with a GPA of 2.7 or higher
- Complete your prerequisites
- Resume
Monthly payment
Ocostof the entire ABSN program is $46,980, including fees.
What we like
Just going to campus for ten days sounds good; otherwise, the program is completely online.
Conclusion: Online Nursing Programs for Non-Nurses
The online nursing programs reviewed above for non-nurses are some of the best options available if you want to transition into the nursing field.
They stood out to us because of their strong reputation and high-quality online teaching.
It is important to note that nursing programs, especially at the baccalaureate level, often require face-to-face clinical care.
If you are interested in learning more about these programs, we encourage you to contact the schools and an admissions officer.
Disclaimer:
- Information about these programs may change without notice. Therefore, we cannot guarantee its authenticity and accuracy. You would have to check with the school and do more research. Our review list is for guidance only and cannot be relied upon solely without investigation on your part.
- Before applying, check with your state for licensing rules or that the desired program meets your home state's certification and licensing requirements.
Related Nursing Readings:
How to Write a Nursing School Personal Statement: Steps, Tips, and Samples
13 Best Books for Nursing Students to Read - Revised
Is the nursing course worth it? Explore the benefits
Absolute's Top 5 NCLEX Prep Books
FAQs
What is the easiest nursing degree program? ›
- RN-to-BSN Capella University. ...
- Bachelors: Social Work Simmons University. ...
- BS - Business Administration: Human Resource Management Southern New Hampshire University. ...
- BBA Human Resources UMass Global.
If you are aiming towards becoming a registered nurse, an associate degree in nursing (ADN) is one of the fastest paths to get there. This undergraduate degree is the minimum educational requirement for becoming a registered nurse and usually takes two to three years depending on the credits.
Can you get your BSN without being an RN? ›Earning a BSN without an RN:
Possess a high school diploma or GED. Submit to a criminal background check through American Databank. Apply for a BSN program at an accredited college or university. Apply for financial aid, if desired.
- Maine: 1-2 weeks.
- Maryland: 2-3 days.
- Missouri: 2 weeks.
- Nevada: 1-2 weeks.
- North Carolina: 1-2 weeks.
- North Dakota: 1-2 weeks.
- Texas: 2 weeks.
- Vermont: 3-5 business days.
- Pathophysiology. In this course, students learn how different anatomical systems work and how diseases or injuries affect these systems. ...
- Pharmacology. ...
- Medical Surgical 1 (also known as Adult Health 1) ...
- Evidence-Based Practice.
- MAINE. ...
- ALASKA. ...
- Georgia. ...
- Alabama. ...
- Hawaii. ...
- South Carolina. ...
- Kentucky. ...
- Summary. There are a few cases when temporary licenses can be obtained through the state board of nursing.
- Degree from an accredited registered nursing program.
- Current Registered Nurse license in the US and the state where they live.
- Two years of full-time work experience as a Registered Nurse.
And while some people might feel that becoming a nurse later in life isn't possible, that's simply not true. Thanks to a variety of diverse nursing programs, it's 100% possible to follow your heart and become a nurse at any age. In fact, it's even easier if you already have a bachelor's degree.
How to pass nursing school easily? ›- Follow the nursing exam study guide. ...
- Focus on the material covered in class. ...
- Think in terms of action, not facts. ...
- Form a study group. ...
- Skim-read first. ...
- Use outside sources. ...
- Know your learning style. ...
- Use downtime as study time.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistic's Occupational Outlook Handbook: ”Generally, registered nurses who have a bachelor of science degree in nursing (BSN) will have better job prospects than those without one.” Increasingly, a BSN degree is becoming the degree of choice for other reasons as well.
Is an ADN the same as an RN? ›
Is an ADN the same as an RN? An ADN is a two-year nursing degree that leads to becoming an RN. The RN credential is more than holding the degree: It includes earning an RN diploma, ADN, or BSN degree, passing the NCLEX, and completing state licensing requirements.
What does ADN stand for? ›As you've been looking into pursuing a nursing career, you've likely noticed a number of options to acquire the credentials you need. One that stands out is an associate degree in nursing (ADN) since you can finish a program in two years or fewer.
Is 60 too old to go to nursing school? ›The answer is that going back to school to earn your nursing degree is an incredibly rewarding experience; you're never too old to become a nurse!
What state pays nurses the least? ›The lowest-paying states are South Dakota ($60,540), Alabama ($61,920), Mississippi ($63,130), Iowa ($64,990), and Arkansas ($65,810).
What state is the fastest to get a nursing license? ›Obtaining a nursing license can be as quick as two days in states like Hawaii or as long as six months in California or Ohio. (California and Ohio currently have the longest wait times for a permanent license.) Travel nurses may have to take contracts in other states while they wait for their license to be approved.
What is the lowest GPA for nursing? ›While most nursing schools set their minimum GPA requirements at 3.0, there are accelerated nursing programs out there that accept students with 2.7 and 2.8 GPAs. Keep in mind that this doesn't mean you'd receive a lesser nursing education with these programs.
Is it too late to go to nursing school at 30? ›When you think of nursing school, you likely envision young people 18–24, but there are actually many nurses who don't get their RNs until their 30s, 40s, or 50s! You're not too old just because you're older than the average student. In fact, there are a lot of benefits to becoming a nurse later in life.