Why Earn an Accelerated BSN in Illinois?
Entering the world of nursing can often seem daunting, particularly if you’ve already secured a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. However, the allure of joining one of Illinois’ fastest-growing professions can be hard to resist. After all, a career in nursing offers not only job stability and a competitive salary but also the chance to make a profound impact on the lives of others.
But don’t let the idea of pursuing a second bachelor’s degree deter you from embracing this exciting career shift. Across Illinois, multiple universities have recognized the need for more accessible paths into the nursing profession. Accelerated BSN programs and LPN to BSN degree programs are being offered, providing faster routes to becoming a registered nurse.
These transformative programs are specifically designed for individuals who’ve demonstrated their commitment to academic success in their previous degrees. Now, they’re eager to channel their talents into a nursing career. Stay tuned as we explore the best ABSN programs in Illinois, uncovering the opportunities that can fast-track your journey into the rewarding world of nursing.
What are the Best ABSN Programs in Illinois According to a Nursing Researcher?
#1 in Illinois
Lewis University
College of Nursing and Health Professions
- One University Parkway, Romeoville, IL - 60446-2200
- (815) 838-0500
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 224
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,500
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: 100%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $18,202
- Percent Admitted: 66%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 14%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
Key ABSN Student Takeaways
- Fast-Track Your Career:Â Complete your BSN in as little as 22 months at Lewis University.
- Flexible Learning:Â The program offers courses in blended formats to accommodate working professionals.
- CCNE Accreditation:Â Count on a superior education with a program accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
- Robust Syllabus:Â Study a broad range of topics from health assessment to leadership and teamwork.
About Lewis University's School of Nursing
Lewis University's School of Nursing offers a compassionate, learner-centered, and strengths-based approach to education. With a deep respect for each patient's dignity, Lewis University instills an unwavering commitment to compassionate care in its students. The curriculum is continually updated to meet the demands of the healthcare system, ensuring graduates are ready to transform practice in an increasingly complex environment.
This institution is renowned for producing innovative leaders and expert practitioners, backed up by faculty with real-world experience. For over 40 years, Lewis University has been supplying nursing graduates to healthcare facilities throughout Chicago and its suburbs, establishing a vast network of healthcare partners. Learn more about Lewis University’s School of Nursing.
About Lewis University's ABSN Program
Lewis University's Accelerated BSN program is a perfect fit for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree who are serious about a career change. Through a comprehensive curriculum, you can fast-track your career as a Registered Nurse in as little as 22 months.
The program offers a blend of on-campus and online courses, providing flexibility for professionals. You'll study a wide range of courses, from Health Assessment Across the Lifespan to Leadership, Collaboration, and Teamwork. Upon graduation, career options include areas like Medical/Surgical Nursing, Critical Care Nursing, and more.
Exposure to various clinical sites will equip you with experience working with diverse patient populations. Enroll in the Lewis University ABSN program and make your move into one of the fastest-growing industries. Discover more about the ABSN program.
#2 in Illinois
Bradley University
- 1501 W BRADLEY AVE, Peoria, IL - 61625-0001
- (309) 676-7611
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursingg, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, LPN to BSN, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 326
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,200
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: 100%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $20,726
- Percent Admitted: 73%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 14%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
Key ABSN Student Takeaways
- Dynamic Learning Environment:Â Experience challenging classes and diverse clinical settings at Bradley's nursing school.
- Diverse Clinical Experience: Start your clinical experiences early, exploring a range of medical niches in Peoria’s thriving medical community.
- Impressive NCLEX-RN Pass Rates: Bradley nursing undergraduates typically boast one of the nation’s highest pass rates for licensure exams.
- Networking and Professional Development:Â Connect with the nursing community through student organizations and faculty mentorship.
About Bradley's Nursing School
With high standards and a deep commitment to healthcare excellence, Bradley's Nursing School equips students with confidence in their caregiver abilities. In Peoria's thriving medical community, students gain extensive clinical experience across major hospitals, public health facilities, and nursing homes. This early exposure enables students to find their preferred area of interest.
Guided by knowledgeable and experienced educators, students at Bradley are mentored both on campus and online. This inclusive education paves the way for excellent licensure exam results and an invaluable network of professional connections. Bradley's Nursing School is a reflection of their mission, vision, and core values, providing an excellent foundation for students seeking to meet the healthcare needs of a global society.
About Bradley's ABSN Program
If you're looking to make a career switch into nursing, look no further. Bradley's Accelerated BSN program is tailored for individuals who have already completed a bachelor’s degree and prerequisite courses. The 15-month program, taught by dedicated nursing faculty, prepares you for nursing licensure exams and equips you with the skillset to thrive in any healthcare setting.
In Peoria’s diverse medical landscape, you'll have clinical exposure to community health, critical care, surgeries, pediatrics, and more. By the time you graduate, your experiences will include networking and professional development opportunities, small clinical team participation, and faculty mentorship. Bradley's ABSN program is your chance to join the ever-growing field of healthcare and make a difference in people's lives.
#3 in Illinois
Loyola University - Chicago
Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing
- 1032 W. Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL - 60660
- (773) 274-3000
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Emergency Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, BSN to PhD, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
University Information
- Total Faculty: 994
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,200
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: 99%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $22,025
- Percent Admitted: 71%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 12%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
Key ABSN Student Takeaways
- Fast-Track Your Future:Â Earn your BSN degree in just 16 months with Loyola's ABSN program.
- Innovative Learning:Â Benefit from simulation labs and research-focused teaching to bolster your clinical skills.
- Hands-on Experience:Â Gain diverse healthcare experience through clinical rotations and community partnerships.
- Fulfilling Service:Â Ignite your passion for service through Loyola's commitment to treating the whole person and promoting social justice.
About Loyola's Nursing School
Loyola's Nursing School stands at the forefront of healthcare education, fostering a generation of nurses ready to serve humanity. The school's Ignatian heritage inspires a unique teaching model that integrates nursing education, practice, and research.
At Loyola, you will learn from faculty members who are leaders in their clinical specialties, actively engaged in improving health outcomes. The school's innovative approach, including the use of state-of-the-art simulation labs, provides a solid foundation for students to excel in nursing practice.
The school's strong commitment to Jesuit values guides students to become compassionate caregivers and ethical leaders. Through this, Loyola Nursing equips its graduates with skills beyond the conventional, preparing them to shape the future of healthcare.
About Loyola's ABSN Program
Loyola's Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program offers a fast-track pathway for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. This 16-month program combines theory and practice, resulting in a comprehensive nursing education.
The ABSN program offers an innovative curriculum, involving nursing skills labs and also immersive simulation labs. These labs replicate real-world clinical scenarios, thereby helping you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, and develop your critical-thinking skills.
The program also offers you early exposure to real-world healthcare settings through clinical rotations. With Loyola's robust network of clinical partners, you’ll get the chance to work with diverse patient populations across various healthcare facilities.
Completing the ABSN program at Loyola equips you not only with a top-tier nursing education but also with a sense of service, commanding respect in the healthcare community. Embark on your journey to become a part of Loyola's tradition of excellence today.
#4 in Illinois
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
- Il State Rte 157, Edwardsville, IL - 62026-1259
- (888) 328-5168
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 631
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $933
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: 93%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $7,865
- Percent Admitted: 85%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 21%
- Graduation Rate: N/A
Key ABSN Student Takeaways
- Accelerated Learning:Â Earn your BSN in three semesters plus one summer session with SIUE's ABSN program.
- Practical Experience:Â Get hands-on practice through diverse clinical experiences and an innovative simulation laboratory.
- Community Impact:Â Provide care to underserved populations through the WE CARE Clinic.
- Supportive Environment:Â Benefit from dedicated faculty and supportive staff committed to your success.
About SIUE's Nursing School
The Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) School of Nursing offers an environment that nurtures excellence in nursing leadership. By infusing teaching with innovation, quality research, and compassionate care, SIUE prepares its students to excel in the evolving healthcare field.
The School of Nursing prides itself on its WE CARE Clinic, a nurse-managed facility that serves underserved communities. This clinic presents an exceptional opportunity for students to gain interprofessional clinical experience. In addition, students enjoy meaningful clinical experiences across a variety of settings, including hospitals and community centers.
At SIUE, you'll learn from dedicated faculty who are committed to your success. They will mentor you into your career as lifelong learners, ensuring you're prepared for a future in the ever-evolving field of nursing.
About SIUE's ABSN Program
The Post-Baccalaureate Accelerated BSN program at SIUE is a fast-track route for students with a bachelor’s degree seeking to earn a second baccalaureate degree in nursing. This intense curriculum combines classroom instruction with clinical experiences, all delivered in an accelerated pace over three semesters and one summer session.
Upon completing the program, you'll be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed registered nurse. This ABSN program requires dedication and a willingness to devote time to studies, but the reward is a fulfilling career in nursing.
Even more, students in the accelerated BSN program have the opportunity to apply for accelerated graduate program options for Master of Science degrees in healthcare nursing administration or nurse educator, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree for the family nurse practitioner program. Your pathway to a rewarding career in nursing starts at SIUE.
#5 in Illinois
Lakeview College of Nursing
- 903 N Logan Ave, Danville, IL - 61832
- (217) 709-0920
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, LPN to BSN, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 16
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: N/A
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: N/A
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $894,938
- Percent Admitted: N/A
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
- Graduation Rate: N/A
Key ABSN Student Takeaways
- Fast-Paced Learning:Â Complete your BSN in four consecutive semesters through Lakeview's intense accelerated track.
- Preparation for RN Licensure:Â Become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam and kick-start your career as a Registered Nurse.
- Nurturing Environment:Â Benefit from a caring environment that encourages adaptation, growth, and evolution in your nursing role.
- Long-standing Tradition:Â Build on the college's 125-year tradition in preparing nurses for professional practice.
About Lakeview College of Nursing
Lakeview College of Nursing has been a beacon of nursing education for over 125 years. The College upholds values of adaptability, caring, excellence, integrity, and service, creating a nurturing space for students to grow as professional nurses.
Lakeview's history speaks for its commitment towards nursing excellence. From being approved to establish a baccalaureate nursing program in 1987, to expanding its facilities in the 2010s, Lakeview has constantly evolved to meet the changing needs of healthcare.
The College is accredited to grant the baccalaureate degree in nursing by The Higher Learning Commission, which testifies to the quality of its programs. By choosing Lakeview, you're joining a lineage of nurses known for their outstanding patient care.
About Lakeview's ABSN Program
Lakeview's Accelerated Track is a prelicensure program designed for intense, fast-paced learning. This track allows you to complete your nursing program in four consecutive semesters of full-time study, including a ten-week intense summer semester.
Upon graduating from the accelerated track, you'll be prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam for licensure as a registered nurse. This puts you in an advantageous position for entry-level nursing positions and forms the foundation for future career advancement.
Lakeview prides itself on creating a nurturing environment that aids students in their transition from learning to nursing practice. Here, you'll adapt, learn, grow, and flourish in your role as a professional nurse—a role that will empower you to make a difference in the lives of your patients, their families, and the broader community.
#6 in Illinois
Methodist College
- 7600 N. Academic Drive, Peoria, IL - 61615
- (309) 672-5513
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, MSN, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 40
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,400
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: 80%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $7,365
- Percent Admitted: 88%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 100%
Key ABSN Student Takeaways
- Fast-Paced Program:Â With a cumulative college GPA of 3.0 or higher, you can finish the BSN program in four semesters, including summers.
- Holistic Training:Â Benefit from both classroom instruction and practical training in state-of-the-art simulation centers.
- Strong Affiliations:Â Clinical experiences are offered in three Peoria area hospitals and various clinics thanks to the College's affiliation with Carle Health.
- Historic Excellence:Â Join a legacy with over 100 years of nursing education excellence under its belt.
About Methodist College of Nursing
Methodist College of Nursing, with its proud history of over 100 years, offers high-quality education for healthcare professionals in a state-of-art facility. Established initially as a nurse training program by the Methodist Episcopal Church, the College has now evolved immensely, offering various degrees in nursing, health science, and social work.
The College's affiliation with Carle Health enables nursing students to participate in extensive clinical experiences spread across Peoria's health facilities. And this is just the beginning! Methodist College's nursing program proudly boasts an excellent curriculum that meets the highest standards, preparing students to ace the national nursing licensure examination (NCLEX).
About Methodist College's ABSN Program
For those students who have finished all their general education requirements and maintained a strong GPA, Methodist College's ABSN program might be the perfect fit. This fast-paced program requires only four semesters of full-time study, including a summer term.
After completing the ABSN, you'll be ready to sit for the NCLEX-RN and become a registered nurse. This qualification can lead to some fantastic career opportunities. With Methodist College's excellent pass rate that surpasses both state and national averages, you are in good hands.
In the Spring of 2022, the college launched a streamlined curriculum for the ABSN program that aligns well with changes in nursing education. The new curriculum reduces the total required credit hours from 122 to 120, presenting a more efficient route to graduation. By choosing Methodist College's ABSN program, you will be a step closer to a rewarding career in nursing.
#7 in Illinois
Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences
- 2122 25th Avenue, Rock Island, IL - 61201-5317
- (309) 779-7700
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Associate, Bachelor, LPN to BSN, MSN, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 12
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $2,450
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: N/A
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $884,294
- Percent Admitted: N/A
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
- Graduation Rate: N/A
#8 in Illinois
Mennonite Nursing at Illinois State University
- North and School Streets, Normal, IL - 61790-1000
- (309) 438-2111
- Programs: CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, Doctor of Nursing, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 915
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $15,319
- Book and Supplies: $830
- Percent Received Aid: 94%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $8,840
- Percent Admitted: 81%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 27%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
Key ABSN Student Takeaways
- Fast-Track Learning:Â Achieve a second bachelor's degree in nursing within just 15 months.
- Exceptional Resources:Â Access over 100 private scholarships through a single application process.
- Innovative Training:Â Experience hands-on learning in a highly advanced Nursing Simulation Laboratory.
- Renowned Faculty:Â Learn from award-winning educators and researchers committed to student success.
About Mennonite College of Nursing
Mennonite College of Nursing at Illinois State University, with its rich heritage dating back to 1919, carries a longstanding tradition of excellence in nursing education. The College thrives on its vision to establish itself as a premier nursing institution and is fueled by a commitment to student success.
Renowned for its distinguished faculty, the College offers students the opportunity to learn from experienced nurses, leaders, and researchers. The faculty's recognition at both college and university levels for their teaching expertise is a testament to the quality of education you can expect here.
Beyond classroom learning, the College is set to open a new, state-of-the-art 20,000 square-foot simulation lab in 2024. This cutting-edge facility will offer enhanced clinical training opportunities, further enriching the learning experience.
About Mennonite College's ABSN Program
Graduates interested in a rapid transition into the nursing profession should consider the Accelerated BSN (BSN-A) program at Mennonite College. This program is your pathway to earning a second bachelor's degree in nursing within just 15 months.
Introduced to cater to ambitious students willing to commit to full-time study, this program starts in the summer term and completes the following summer. It offers you an efficient route to join a career filled with opportunities to make a significant difference in healthcare.
The ABSN program, designed with a strong emphasis on practical learning, leverages the Nursing Simulation Laboratory - an innovative platform for students to gain hands-on clinical experience. It's not just about speed - the quality of nursing education you receive will equip you to excel as a Registered Nurse in a variety of healthcare settings.
See our Ranking Methodology
Why Should I Complete an Accelerated Nursing Program In Illinois?
Accelerated nursing programs are specifically geared toward students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in something else. If you have already proven you ability to manage time, study effectively and retain knowledge, and are hoping to become a nurse, this may be the program for you. If you have your bachelors you likely already taken most foundational courses in a bachelor’s degree program.
This means that if you complete a 4 year BSN program, you will repeat a lot of classes. While there may be some science pre-requisites to complete, almost all courses in an accelerated nursing program are focused specifically on the skills needed to be an RN. When you finish the program you will have your BSN and be a highly sought after nurse. You will have the training and skills to complete the NCLEX-RN exam and work in almost any clinical setting.
In a standard BSN, students spend at least the first year, and sometimes the first two years, taking only foundational bachelor’s degree courses; nursing courses do not typically begin until the sophomore or junior year, and even then, they are often mixed in with other college courses. The student in an accelerated nursing program takes only the nursing courses, significantly shortening the time it takes to complete the degree. Most programs take between 11 and 18 months. A key component of any BSN degree is the clinical. Students in accelerated programs receive the same number of clinical hours as do their standard BSN counterparts.
Additionally, if you are an LPN and are hoping to earn your BSN you do not need to take 4 years of classes. There are accelerated programs for you too! These are called LPN to BSN programs, but unlike the accelerated programs we’re discussing here you DO NOT need to have your Bachelor’s degree to enter them, but you do need to be licensed as an LPN. These programs are shorter than 4 years but slightly longer than RN to BSN programs. During 4-5 semester program you will complete the foundational courses to earn your BSN as well as additional nursing courses.
Entrance Requirements for a Illinois Accelerated Nursing Program
- Bachelor’s degree: You need to have your bachelor’s degree to be eligible for accelerated nursing programs, but it can be in any subject.
- GPA: You do not need to take a test for eligibility but most schools will require that you have a minimum GPA of 3.0. These can vary by school so check before applying.
- Complete pre-requisites: While your bachelor’s degree can be in anything, you may need to complete certain courses before you can apply to an accelerated nursing program. Usually these will be science courses such as biology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and more.
- Letters of recommendation: Like any application you need letters of recommendation. Make sure to reach out ahead of time to the people you want to write your letters so that you are not scrambling at the last minute.
- Submit applications: You should look over the applications in advance so you know how much time you will need to complete them. In addition to demographics and basic questions, you may have essays to write. You will also need to collect past transcripts, submit and updated resume, and possibly additional paperwork.
- Interview: Most schools will not require an interview but it always helps to check.
How Long Does it Take to Complete an Accelerated Nursing Program in Illinois?
This all depends on the school of course so take some time to shop around. In general you will be able to earn your BSN through an accelerated nursing program in 18 months or less. Some of these programs will be non-stop year round, while others may factor in a break. You will complete not only course work but also required hands on clinical experiences during this time so that you can master your new nursing skills.
What Will I Study in My Illinois Accelerated Nursing Program?
Curricula will vary a little but they are all designed to prepare you to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. Most schools will have course lists available online of what you will take during your program. In general you can expect to take courses similar to the following curriculum:
- Transitions into the Nursing Profession
- Foundations of Health Assessment
- Pathophysiology
- Pharmacology 1 and 2
- Introduction to Perioperative Nursing
- Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 1: Adult and Aging Acute and Chronic Illness
- Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 2: Advanced Adult Medical-Surgical
- Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 3: Psychiatric Mental Health
- Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 4: Maternity/Women Health
- Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 5: Children and Families
- Nursing Practice and Clinical Reasoning 6: Epidemiology and Community Health
- Patient Safety and Health Care Quality
- Health Information and Technology
- Evidence-Based Practice for Health Care Researchers
- Global Health for Healthcare Professionals
- Health Policy, Quality, Political
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What Are the Clinical Requirements for an ABSN in Illinois
The number of supervised clinical hours you will be required to complete will depend on the state you live in. In general however, most states require about 500 clinical hours for you to earn your BSN and sit for the NCLEX RN exam. Clinical hours are experiences where you are paired with an experienced nurse (called your preceptor) and get to practice your clinical skills on real patients. Having someone to supervise you as you master these skills helps you be prepared to be a safe new nurse when you become licensed.
Guide to ABSN and MSN Accelerated Nursing Programs
4 Steps To Register for the NCLEX
Be sure to talk to your school about the requirements for signing up for the NCLEX. They can help you with timing and steps. The process can take some time, so don’t wait until the last minute. Here are some important steps you need to take to register for the big day:
- Check out your state’s Board of Nursing (BON) website to sign up so that you are eligible to take the NCLEX. The NCBSN website has information you need on your state’s BON.
- Your NCLEX eligibility requirements can be found through your BON.
- After this you should register for the test through Pearson VUE. Don’t forget to find your program code when doing this! If you’re not sure where to find it, contact your school.
- The last step is to use our NCLEX tips and practice exams to study!
List of Accelerated BSN Nursing Programs in Illinois
University | Offered as | City/State |
---|---|---|
Bradley University | Campus, Online | Peoria, IL |
Mennonite Nursing at Illinois State University | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Normal, IL |
Lakeview College of Nursing | Campus | Danville, IL |
Lewis University | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Romeoville, IL |
Loyola University – Chicago | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Chicago, IL |
Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences | Campus | Rock Island, IL |
Methodist College | Campus, Online | Peoria, IL |
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Edwardsville, IL |
List of Accelerated MSN Nursing Programs in Illinois
University | Offered as | City/State |
---|---|---|
DePaul University | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Chicago, IL |
Elmhurst University | Campus | Elmhurst, IL |
University of Illinois at Chicago | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Chicago, IL |
Millikin University | Campus, Online | Decatur, IL |
Can I Work During My ABSN?
Students are expected to not work during their year of nursing study and clinicals so that they can devote all their time fully towards exam preparation and gaining experience in nursing with a goal of taking the NCLEX-RN, which is required to become a registered nurse.
How Long Are Accelerated Nursing Programs in Illinois?
The typical duration for an Accelerated BSN program is 11 to 18 months, depending on the prerequisites. Master’s degrees in accelerated programs generally take around three years.
Are There Accelerated Nursing Programs for LPNs or RNs?
How Hard Is an Accelerated Nursing Program
Since ABSNs are only 11-18 months long, ABSN students often struggle with staying ahead of their coursework as well as keeping up with clinical rotations . The need to balance academics while working towards practical experience can place great strain on ABSN students who want to excel academically but also maintain a high standard during clinical rotations. Therefore it is often advised for ABSN students not to work while attending school.
What Are the Best Ranked Nursing Programs in Illinois
Find a list of best ranked nursing programs in Illinois.
Best Ranked Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Programs in Your State
We rigorously identify the highest-ranked ABSN programs to accelerate nurses into purposeful practice. These intensive 11-18 month courses combine demanding classwork with clinical training. We’ll guide you to top-tier programs in your state, kickstarting your journey of compassionate care.