Getting your ABSN: Top things to Consider when Choosing an ABSN Program
If you have the will to become a nurse and the prerequisites to apply to an accelerated program, getting into a nursing program is entirely doable. An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is one of the most well-liked fast-tracks to nursing school. You can complete an accelerated BSN program in less than two years by making use of your prior college credits or non-nursing degree.
What is an Accelerated BSN Program
The backbone of all healthcare providers worldwide is comprised of nurses. In contrast to the typical four or five years of study for a nursing program, an accelerated BSN program is a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) undergraduate degree program for registered nurses (RNs).
Wherever it is needed, BSN offers the general public essential medical care. They need to finish a nursing program that has been approved by the state in order to be ready for challenges. A better learning environment and a more flexible schedule are offered by accelerated nursing programs.
Effective Study Techniques for the ABSN Program
1. Do clever study.
No last-minute cramming is allowed in the Accelerated BSN program. Starting with your first online course, you will need to comprehend the subject and be able to use it in practical settings. Fortunately, our online coursework is made to fit all learning preferences, but your success will depend on your ability to prioritize your time effectively and review effective study techniques.
In order to learn your course information successfully, try these strategies:
- Make a topical study guide: Ask questions and solve issues based on the readings, then write detailed responses. This can be accomplished by designing your own quiz.
- Own your own education: Get together a study group to work on principles in a supportive setting, or speak the knowledge out loud in your own terms as if you were the teacher and teaching the concepts to a class.
- Make it your own: Think about examples that are relevant to your personal experience.
- Visualize it: Make diagrams or concept maps to help explain the subject.
2. Discover what drives you.
What made you decide to study nursing? If you haven’t already, you probably will ask this question soon, so it’s crucial that you know how to answer.
It’s acceptable if your motivation differs from that of your peers. For instance, you might be driven by the desire to care for patients, whereas another classmate might be motivated by the chance to work in a variety of locations and specialties. Your motivations for wanting to become a nurse should reflect your unique personality just like any other aspect of who you are.
3. Gain knowledge from your cohort mates.
You will be surrounded by like-minded peers of all ages and backgrounds as you progress through the ABSN program. These people will be your main sources of assistance, so it’s critical that you seek their support and counsel when you need it.
4. Be Organized.
Your success in the Accelerated BSN program depends on finding balance. This is due to the program’s blended curriculum, which consists of three parts: online education, practical laboratories, and clinical rotations inside hospitals.
Planning ahead and being organized will enable you to actively study for your classes.
5. Approach the program as if it were a full-time job.
Your performance as a student will be greatly influenced by how you approach the ABSN program, so make sure to give it your complete attention. By doing this, you can create enduring habits that will benefit you in every aspect of your life.
Successful ABSN students are prepared to devote a significant amount of time and effort to their studies because they are aware of the intensity that comes with a four-semester accelerated nursing program. They often devote up to 40 hours per week to reading assignments, online learning materials, writing papers, and other tasks outside of practical laboratories and clinicals.
Qualifications Required for Nursing School Applications
You possess the drive. You have the personality qualities. But do you possess the prerequisites for admission to an Accelerated BSN school?
The following are the general qualifications needed for ABSN admission:
- Possess a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing or have finished at least 60 credits at a university with regional accreditation.
- Own a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75. (based on all transferable credit).
- Finish all necessary courses with the required grade range.
Things to Consider when Choosing an ABSN Program
Things to Consider when Choosing an ABSN Program, before you get your ABSN program, you need to ask yourself these questions:
1. Does the state board of nursing accredit the program?
Reason: You should confirm that a program is accredited before devoting time, effort, and financial resources to it. To be qualified to take the NCLEX, you must complete a program that has been accredited by the state board of nursing (National Council Licensure Examination).
2. How many people pass the NCLEX?
Higher pass rates indicate that the school is adept in preparing students for the NCLEX and for employment as registered nurses (RN).
3. In which location will the clinicals be held?
This is one of the things to Consider when Choosing an ABSN Program:
Reason: Your clinical experience is the practical training you receive as a nursing student. Ensuring you are making the most of your time at the clinical location is important. When you start working as a nurse, you’ll be more prepared the more practical experience you have.
4. Can I talk to any Current Students about the Course?
Reason: Graduates of the program and those who have gone through the nursing curriculum are the best sources of knowledge. They can offer useful advice on how to study, what to expect during clinicals, and characteristics of successful program participants. Typically, colleges host Open Houses, information sessions, or on-campus chats where you can ask students about their experiences as nurses.
Related Read: Top 20 Accelerated BSN Programs For Non-Nurses
5. How might a normal nursing program week look?
This is one of the things to Consider when Choosing an ABSN Program:
Reason: It’s critical to have realistic expectations for potential nursing students. Knowing the weekly time commitment required for testing, skill labs, lectures, and clinicals is crucial when deciding whether the program will work with your schedule.
6. What is the program’s cost, both overall and per credit hour?
Reason: Also among the things to Consider when Choosing an ABSN Program, it’s critical to understand both the program’s total cost and the price per credit hour. Some institutions charge less per credit hour but demand that you earn more credits. There may be fewer credits required to graduate from schools with higher cost per credit hour, resulting in lower overall costs. The duration of the program is another important consideration. Is it worthwhile to pay more if you can graduate quickly and start working (and earning money) in your field? Check some of best 10 Cheapest Online Universities per Credit Hour
Frequently Asked Questions on ABSN
What are the Advantages of BSN?
Selecting an accelerated BSN program to obtain your nursing degree has a number of benefits. Here are a few of the greatest benefits for you to think about.
1. Finish your nursing degree more quickly:
Depending on the program you pick, you might complete your ABSN in as little as eleven months.
2. Cost-effective compared to other nursing programs:
The duration of accelerated BSN programs is reduced, and you can transfer a large number of credits from a prior degree. This frequently results in lower out-of-pocket costs for obtaining a degree.
3. Practical instruction:
Despite the fact that ABSN programs are shorter than conventional BSN programs, you will still gain from hands-on training with skilled nursing teachers and preceptors in a clinical setting.
4. Upon graduation, you will hold a dual degree:
What could be superior to receiving one degree? Why not two? When they complete this program, students who entered ABSN programs with a prior bachelor's degree will possess two degrees.
5. You can boost your chance of earning money:
Nurses with a BSN make good money. Furthermore, having two degrees puts you in a position to use your knowledge and abilities to bargain for greater pay.
6. Additional chances to advance
You have more opportunities to advance in your profession and career the more education you have.
7. A feeling of achievement
Leaving all other benefits aside, graduating from an accelerated BSN program will provide you a genuine reason to feel pride in your academic and professional accomplishments
Accelerated BSN Programs Disadvantage
1. ABSN programs can take a lot of time: Even if you can complete an accelerated BSN program quickly, you might feel like school is taking up all of your time while enrolled in one. Even though it could seem like a drawback, keep in mind that you'll soon complete the program and register as a nurse!
2. Strict, demanding curriculum: Because ABSN programs are shorter than other BSN programs, they frequently have a hefty course load and a demanding curriculum. Never give up! You are capable of completing this.
3. Relationships frequently seem strained: Because of the program's time restrictions, it might be simple to overlook the people and things that are important to you. Even though this has drawbacks and can be difficult, if you are upfront and honest with the people you care about, you can make this work.
Can someone with a 2.5 GPA enroll in a Nursing Program?
The majority of programs demand a GPA of 2.5 or better. Some people limit themselves to a 3.0 GPA. This is essential knowledge to acquire throughout the research stage of your quest for an accelerated nursing school.
How can I make my Application for Accelerated BSN Programs for Non-nurses stand out?
Here are some tips on how to make an impression during the application process: Excellent pre-requisite grades, a strong academic background, a passion for learning and for the field, and adherence to the application process.
Conclusion
When considering your educational alternatives, think about whether the prospective programs will help you, get you ready, and put you in a successful position. Keeping those things in mind will help you position yourself for success. We hope you find this article on things to Consider when Choosing an ABSN Program helpful.
TOP PICKS FOR YOU:
- 30 Best Universities in Manitoba You Would Love
- 20 sites to read free books online
- 22 Scholarships for Elementary & Middle School Students
- Written communication skills 2022