What is an Accelerated Nursing Program?
Accelerated nursing programs in Missouri are pathways for individuals with bachelor’s degrees in non-nursing disciplines to swiftly secure their BSN. Given that the nursing field is forecasted to be among the most rapidly expanding professions in Missouri, it’s unsurprising that individuals from diverse educational backgrounds are contemplating a shift to nursing.
This career not only promises job security and a competitive salary but also offers immense satisfaction and unique challenges. Nevertheless, the prospect of pursuing a second Bachelor’s degree, especially for those who have already achieved one in a non-nursing discipline, or for the LVN with some prior training, might seem overwhelming, possibly dissuading potential entrants. Thankfully, a variety of institutions in Missouri provide accelerated nursing programs and LPN to BSN courses tailored for these groups.
What are the Best ABSN Programs in Missouri?
#1 in Missouri
University of Missouri-Kansas City
School of Nursing and Health Studies
5000 Holmes St., Kansas City, MO - 64110
(816) 235-1000
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, BSN to PhD, Doctor of Nursing, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
University Information
Total Faculty: 601
In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $10,599
Book and Supplies: $770
Percent Received Aid: 92%
Average Grant or Scholarship: $8,046
Percent Admitted: 63%
Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 30%
Graduation Rate: 54%
About UMKC School of Nursing and Health Studies
The UMKC School of Nursing and Health Studies is a renowned institution with an impressive track record, boasting a 98.3% NCLEX-RN pass rate and ranking in the Top 20 best online graduate nursing programs by U.S. News & World Report. Located on UMKC's Health Sciences campus, it shares its location with three other life sciences and health professions programs, fostering a rich interprofessional development environment. The School has earned recognition for its rigorous curriculum, dedicated faculty, and a strong commitment to student success. The institution stands out as the first university in Missouri to offer the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree to APRN students already certified as advanced practice nurses.
About UMKC's Accelerated BSN Program
The Accelerated BSN program at UMKC is designed for students with a previous bachelor’s degree, allowing them to complete a BSN in less time than a traditional program. The program provides 1,050 clinical hours in less than two years, making it one of the most comprehensive in the Kansas City region. This extensive clinical experience ensures that UMKC BSN graduates are "job ready", a quality consistently appreciated by clinical partners. The program also offers a balance, with daytime classes allowing students free time in the evenings and weekends.
Key Student Takeaways
- The Accelerated BSN program offers the highest number of clinical hours in the Kansas City region, ensuring comprehensive practical experience.
- UMKC BSN graduates are highly valued by clinical partners for their readiness to embark upon successful careers as new graduate nurses.
- The program provides state-of-the-art experiential learning spaces, including a nursing skills laboratory and high-fidelity simulation center.
- The final semester includes a 300-hour capstone/internship experience in a specialized area, further enhancing practical knowledge.
- UMKC offers in-state tuition rates for all Kansas residents and discounted rates for residents of 15 regional Midwestern states.
#2 in Missouri
Truman State University
Department of Nursing, HS 3206
- 100 E Normal Avenue, Kirksville, MO - 63501-4221
- (660) 785-4000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor
University Information
- Total Faculty: 278
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $8,689
- Book and Supplies: $1,000
- Percent Received Aid: 100%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $8,772
- Percent Admitted: 72%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 26%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
About Truman State University's Nursing School
Truman State University's Nursing School is dedicated to molding future nursing professionals. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and fully approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing (MSBN), the school ensures a comprehensive, well-rounded education. Its curriculum, grounded in sciences and humanities, progresses towards advanced nursing theories and implementation. The liberal arts undertone enables students to provide safe, effective care across diverse healthcare settings. Truman's unique facilities, including the Nursing Simulation Center, provide a supportive environment where students refine their skills under faculty guidance before entering the clinical realm.
About Truman State University's ABSN Program
Truman State University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is an intensive course designed to equip students with a bachelor's or associate's degree, or those looking to change majors, to become a nurse in as few as 15 months. The program combines classroom instruction, training in nursing simulation facilities, research opportunities, and extensive clinical exposure. Graduates are prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN®). Furthermore, they gain foundational knowledge in various nursing practices, making them eligible for beginning positions in maternal, child, mental, adult, and community health nursing. The ABSN program also sets a robust foundation for graduate study in nursing.
Key Student Takeaways
- With a first-time NCLEX exam pass rate of 94.4%, the Truman ABSN program ensures a high probability of becoming a licensed RN.
- The program guarantees an impressive 100% employment rate, with notable employers including Barnes-Jewish Hospital, Mayo Clinic, and Missouri Baptist Medical Center.
- The ABSN program offers personalized instruction at the Nursing Simulation Center, allowing students to hone their nursing and decision-making skills in a controlled environment.
- Varied clinical experiences are provided, including adult and obstetric acute care, geriatric and mental health experiences, and pediatric experiences in community and school settings.
- Students are encouraged to engage in leadership development and professional networking through participation in organizations like the Nursing Student Association and Sigma Theta Tau International.
#3 in Missouri
University of Missouri-Columbia
- 105 Jesse Hall, Columbia, MO - 65211
- (573) 882-2121
- Programs: Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, Doctor of Nursing, MSN, MSN to DNP, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 2160
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $11,475
- Book and Supplies: $1,032
- Percent Received Aid: 93%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $10,270
- Percent Admitted: 82%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 31%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
About Sinclair School of Nursing
The Sinclair School of Nursing at the University of Missouri, housed in a $30 million state-of-the-art facility, has a rich history dating back to 1901. Over the years, the school has evolved and adapted, introducing various programs such as the RN to BSN option in 1999 and an Accelerated BSN program in 2003. Proud of its mission to improve health through discovery, teaching, practice, and scholarship, the Sinclair School has grown into a leading academic institution. The school's commitment to innovation and quality education is reflected in its state-of-the-art Simulation Center, enhancing the clinical learning experience for students.
About Sinclair's Accelerated BSN Program
The Accelerated BSN program at Sinclair School is a rigorous 15-month, on-campus program designed for students with a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. Integrating professional, theoretical, and liberal-arts knowledge, the program prepares nurses to provide both direct and indirect care to diverse populations. Graduates are equipped to function as providers, designers, and coordinators of care and as members of the nursing profession. The program, which starts each year in May and concludes the following July, is intended for highly motivated individuals who can manage a fast-paced and intense learning environment.
Key Student Takeaways
- Sinclair's ABSN program offers comprehensive professional and theoretical knowledge, equipping students to provide direct and indirect care to patients.
- The 15-month, on-campus program provides an immersive and rigorous learning experience.
- The school's state-of-the-art facilities and Simulation Center provide a supportive environment for practical learning.
- Sinclair's ABSN program boasts a strong track record, preparing graduates for diverse roles within the nursing profession.
- International students are welcomed, with TOEFL or IELTS requirements ensuring language proficiency
#4 in Missouri
Research College of Nursing
- 2525 E. Meyer Boulevard, Kansas City, MO - 64132
- (816) 995-2800
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor, MSN, RN to MSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 34
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: N/A
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: N/A
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $2,013,249
- Percent Admitted: N/A
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
- Graduation Rate: N/A
About Research College of Nursing's Nursing School
With a rich history extending over 115 years, the Research College of Nursing (RCoN) in Kansas City is a leading institution for nursing education, preparing nurses to excel in complex healthcare environments. RCoN, part of the HCA Midwest Health system, offers both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN). The school has its roots in the German Hospital founded in 1886 and has grown and evolved into a thriving institution, playing an instrumental role in introducing the Accelerated BSN program in 1991, among the first 30 in the country. RCoN's commitment to empowering people is reflected in its vision to be the college of choice for nurses who aspire to lead in practice, service, and advocacy.
About RCoN's Accelerated BSN Program
The Accelerated BSN program at RCoN is a renowned 12-month, full-time program designed for students who hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. Recognized as one of the nation's first accredited accelerated nursing programs, RCoN equips students to excel in the NCLEX-RN™, making them top contenders for competitive nursing roles. Through this program, students access high-quality clinical experiences, network within the region's largest healthcare organization, and get early clinical immersion through Kansas City's only Dedicated Education Units. RCoN's innovative curriculum prepares students to succeed in a complex healthcare environment, maintaining a strong NCLEX-RN™ pass rate.
Key Student Takeaways
- Research College of Nursing's Accelerated BSN program is one of the first accredited accelerated nursing programs in the nation.
- The 12-month, full-time program enables fast-track career paths for students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree.
- Students gain access to premier clinical experiences and a diverse college community, laying a strong foundation for their nursing career.
- The program prepares students to successfully pass the NCLEX-RN™, exceeding the national benchmark.
#5 in Missouri
Cox College
- 1423 N Jefferson, Springfield, MO - 65802-1917
- (417) 269-3401
- Programs: CNL, Family Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Associate, Bachelor, LPN to BSN, MSN, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty: 59
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $1,700
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: N/A
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $1,458,013
- Percent Admitted: 100%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 3,325%
About Cox College's Nursing School
Cox College in Springfield, Missouri, provides a holistic Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program that prepares students to make a valuable difference in the healthcare landscape. With an impressive first-time pass rate of 92.7% for the NCLEX-RN® examination, the college exceeds the national average. Cox College emphasizes personal training with an exceptional student-to-professor ratio (11:1), offering students one-to-one tutorship. The college boasts state-of-the-art facilities for real-world training. With 99% of students accepted for Financial Aid and a majority landing jobs before graduation, Cox College is an excellent choice for aspiring nurses.
About Cox College's Accelerated BSN Program
Cox College offers an Accelerated BSN program for individuals who have already earned a baccalaureate degree in another field from a regionally accredited college or university. This accelerated path allows students to complete their BSN degree in just 16 months, inclusive of three semesters and one summer session. Students progress through this program as part of a cohort, offering a supportive and unified learning experience. On completion of this track, graduates are prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN®) and start their career as a professional registered nurse.
Key Student Takeaways
- Cox College's Accelerated BSN program allows students with a previous baccalaureate degree to earn a nursing degree in just 16 months.
- The college offers an exceptional student-to-professor ratio (11:1), ensuring personalized attention and support throughout the program.
- Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities for practical, real-world training.
- The college's impressive first-time pass rate for the NCLEX-RN® examination represents the program's focus on preparing students for professional success.
- A majority of students secure jobs before graduation, highlighting the college's strong industry linkages and career support.
#6 in Missouri
St Luke's College of Nursing
- 624 Westport Road, Kansas City, MO - 64111
- 8169368700
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, LPN to BSN, MSN, Post Master's NP Certificate, RN to BSN
University Information
- Total Faculty:
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: N/A
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: N/A
- Average Grant or Scholarship: N/A
- Percent Admitted: N/A
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
- Graduation Rate: N/A
About St. Luke's College's Nursing School
Located in Sioux City, Iowa, St. Luke's College provides an opportunity for aspiring nurses to not only learn, but lead. Priding itself as the region's smallest, most unique higher education institution, this private, non-profit college has been dedicated to educating competent and compassionate healthcare professionals for nearly a century. With roots dating back to the late 1890s, St. Luke's College has a long-standing tradition of quality healthcare education. The college places an emphasis on student success with dedicated facilities, including practice laboratories, computer laboratories, and a Student Success Center. St. Luke's College continues to evolve, offering bachelor's degrees, associate degrees, and certificate programs, aligning with the ever-changing healthcare landscape.
About St. Luke's College's Accelerated BSN Program
St. Luke's College offers an Accelerated BSN program for students interested in becoming a registered nurse (RN). This full-time, 12-month program commences each Spring semester, providing immersive experience with real-life patient care in a hospital-based setting. Located on the campus of UnityPoint Health - St. Luke's hospital, the ABSN program ensures firsthand clinical exposure in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and community agencies. The program allows students to access the college's state-of-the-art Clinical Simulation Center, fostering a hands-on learning environment. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become a Registered Nurse.
Key Student Takeaways
- St. Luke's College's Accelerated BSN program offers a rapid, immersive pathway to a nursing career.
- The program provides real-life patient care experiences within a hospital-based educational setting.
- Students gain access to the college's state-of-the-art Clinical Simulation Center, promoting practical learning.
- The program's location allows for diverse clinical rotations, exposing students to various healthcare environments.
- The college's track record for high-quality healthcare education implies a well-structured, comprehensive curriculum for accelerated BSN students.
#7 in Missouri
William Jewell College
- 500 College Hill, Liberty, MO - 64068-1896
- (816) 415-5979
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor
University Information
- Total Faculty: 70
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $800
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: 100%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $26,442
- Percent Admitted: 36%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 34%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
About William Jewell College's Nursing School
Located in Liberty, Missouri, William Jewell College's Nursing School makes a significant emphasis on the development of the mind, body, and spirit. The school stands out for its unique philosophy, focusing on the Nursing Hallmarks: Integrity, Compassion, Leadership, Scholarship, Excellent Practice, and Service to Others. Students start their clinical practice as early as the second semester of their sophomore year, allowing them to gain over 650 hours of hands-on experience. Recognizing the rigors of medical education, the school provides robust support to students through its designated NCLEX Success Coordinator and effective preparatory methods, resulting in an impressive 100% NCLEX pass rate in 2023. Outside academics, students can immerse themselves in various extracurricular activities promoting a well-rounded college experience.
About William Jewell College's Accelerated BSN Program
For individuals holding a bachelor's degree in a different field, William Jewell College offers a 12-month Accelerated BSN program. This program starts either in late May or January, providing flexibility to students. The program takes pride in its holistic approach, emphasizing mind, body, spirit, and the Nursing Hallmarks. This approach, coupled with premier clinical experiences in the best hospitals and care facilities in the nearby Kansas City region, prepares students for their future nursing careers. Moreover, the ABSN program boasts a 100% employment rate within three months of graduation and an 85% employment rate prior to graduation.
Key Student Takeaways
- William Jewell College's Accelerated BSN program offers a quick alternative to traditional BSN programs.
- The program provides an impressive 100% first-time NCLEX pass rate for all nursing programs in 2023.
- Students are provided with exceptional clinical experiences in some of the top hospitals and care facilities in the nearby Kansas City region.
- The college offers a unique partnership with Liberty Hospital, which includes guaranteed employment and a reduced fee for the BSN program.
- Given the school's impressive employment statistics, students can be confident about their career prospects post-graduation.
#8 in Missouri
University of Missouri-St Louis
- One University Boulevard, Saint Louis, MO - 63121-4400
- (314) 516-5000
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nursing, Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, APRN Certificate, Bachelor, BSN to DNP, BSN to PhD, Doctor of Nursing, MSN, MSN to DNP, Post Master's NP Certificate
University Information
- Total Faculty: 395
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $11,214
- Book and Supplies: $1,000
- Percent Received Aid: 96%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $7,752
- Percent Admitted: 58%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 21%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
About University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) College of Nursing
UMSL College of Nursing is renowned for nurturing a culture of academic opportunity, where all students are given the tools to thrive in both the classroom and the healthcare workplace. Located in Missouri, the College provides innovative programs to foster professional advancement. Notably, the college's mission centers on developing nurses dedicated to excellence and leadership, and it strives to generate and translate new knowledge into practice that advances healthcare globally. The College’s strategic priorities showcase its commitment to student success, research, community engagement, inclusive excellence, and best operations. With a history dating back to 1981, UMSL College of Nursing has evolved to meet changing healthcare needs, including introducing an Accelerated BSN program in 2000.
About UMSL College of Nursing’s Accelerated BSN Program
For students with a bachelor's or graduate degree in a non-nursing field, the Accelerated BSN program at UMSL College of Nursing provides an opportunity to gain a nursing degree in just 12 months. The program begins in the fall semester, with graduates ready to enter the healthcare field by the following summer. Course content is designed to avoid repetition and accelerate learning. With a strong emphasis on clinical reasoning, students learn how to integrate evidence-based concepts to provide comprehensive nursing care in a variety of settings. Due to its intense pace, the Accelerated BSN program fosters a sense of community among students, providing an enriching academic environment.
Key Student Takeaways
- The Accelerated BSN program at UMSL College of Nursing offers a fast-track route to a nursing career for those with a non-nursing bachelor's or graduate degree.
- The program fosters a sense of community among students, setting a conducive environment for peer learning and collaboration.
- The curriculum integrates evidence-based concepts from various disciplines, preparing students to provide comprehensive nursing care in diverse settings.
- UMSL College of Nursing prioritizes student success, offering a supportive learning environment.
- The college is committed to diversity and inclusivity, promoting equity in learning, research, and nursing practice.
#9 in Missouri
Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing
- 4483 Duncan Avenue, Mailstop 90-36-697, Saint Louis, MO - 63110
- (314) 454-7055
- Programs: Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Adult Gerontology Primary Care 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: 52
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: N/A
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: N/A
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $1,184,417
- Percent Admitted: N/A
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: N/A
- Graduation Rate: N/A
About Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing
Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is renowned for its commitment to nursing education, community engagement, research, and scholarship. This commitment propels the school's vision to be a national academic leader in nursing education. The school is recognized for its proactive approach in enhancing student support services and providing a psychologically safe environment for student learning. With a strong legacy dating back to 1902, the Goldfarb School of Nursing is a top-ranked nursing school, boasting high enrollment, a commendable BSN completion rate, and a substantial alumni community. In line with its commitment to improving nursing education and practice, the school's commitment to research is evidenced by its Clinical Simulation Institute, recognized as a Center of Education Excellence.
About Goldfarb School of Nursing’s Accelerated BSN Program
The Accelerated BSN program at Goldfarb School of Nursing is an intensive, one-year program designed for highly motivated students who already have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field. This accelerated track offers an expedited path to a nursing degree, allowing students to transition swiftly into their nursing career. The program's interdisciplinary emphasis, situated on a medical campus, facilitates collaborations across multiple healthcare disciplines. Furthermore, the diverse curriculum covers a wide scope of nursing courses, providing students with a well-rounded education. With state-of-the-art simulation labs, students gain significant practical experience. Coupled with a successful program outcome, including a high NCLEX Pass Rate, the Accelerated BSN program prepares students not only for direct patient care but also for pursuit of higher degrees in nursing.
Key Student Takeaways
- Goldfarb School of Nursing's Accelerated BSN program provides a fast-track route for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree to enter the nursing field.
- Students gain a diverse experience with a curriculum covering various nursing aspects, including adult care, pediatrics, mental health, and community patient populations.
- The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, providing students with opportunities to interact with various healthcare fields.
- The school's state-of-the-art Clinical Simulation Institute allows students to practice their clinical skills in a safe and supportive environment.
- With a high NCLEX Pass Rate, the program ensures a successful pathway to becoming a registered nurse.
#10 in Missouri
Rockhurst University
- 1100 Rockhurst Rd, Kansas City, MO - 64110-2561
- (816) 501-4000
- Programs: Registered Nursing
- Award Levels: Accelerated BSN, Bachelor
University Information
- Total Faculty: 147
- In-State Undergraduate Tuition: $2,000
- Book and Supplies: N/A
- Percent Received Aid: 100%
- Average Grant or Scholarship: $29,770
- Percent Admitted: 73%
- Percent Admitted who Enrolled: 16%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
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Why Should I Complete an Accelerated Nursing Program In Missouri?
Accelerated nursing programs are particularly designed for individuals who have already obtained a bachelor’s degree in another field. If you’ve demonstrated your capability to manage time, study productively, and retain information, and now wish to transition into the nursing profession, this could be the ideal program for you. With a previous bachelor’s degree, you’ve likely completed most foundational courses typical of such a program.
Opting for a 4-year BSN program might result in revisiting many courses you’ve already undertaken. While certain science pre-requisites might still be necessary, the vast majority of courses in an accelerated nursing program are tailored exclusively to the competencies required for an RN. Upon completion, you’ll not only have your BSN but also be a highly desirable nursing candidate. Equipped with the necessary training and skills, you’ll be well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and be competent to work in virtually any clinical environment.
In a conventional BSN program, students usually devote the initial year or even two solely to foundational bachelor’s degree courses. Nursing-related courses often don’t commence until the sophomore or junior years, and even then, they’re frequently interspersed with other collegiate subjects. Contrarily, accelerated nursing program enrollees are immersed exclusively in nursing courses, considerably reducing the duration to obtain the degree. Most of these expedited programs span between 11 and 18 months. Clinical hours—a pivotal element of any BSN degree—are consistent for students in both standard and accelerated programs.
Furthermore, for LPNs in Missouri aiming to acquire their BSN, there’s no requirement to commit to a 4-year program. Accelerated programs tailored for LPNs, known as LPN to BSN programs, are available. Unlike the generic accelerated programs, entry into these does not necessitate a prior Bachelor’s degree. However, LPN licensure is mandatory. These programs are more concise than the standard 4-year ones but slightly more extended than the RN to BSN routes. Over the span of 4-5 semesters, participants undergo foundational courses vital for their BSN alongside advanced nursing modules.
Choosing Missouri for your accelerated nursing journey also has its distinct merits. Missouri’s multifaceted populace and specific healthcare challenges offer nursing students an all-encompassing clinical learning curve. Pursuing training in this state ensures exposure to a myriad of medical scenarios and healthcare infrastructures, guaranteeing comprehensive preparedness for future nursing endeavors. The state’s rich history and commitment to healthcare, coupled with its reputable institutions, make it a prime location for those keen on pursuing a rewarding career in nursing.
Entrance Requirements for a Missouri Accelerated Nursing Program
Bachelor’s degree: Just like in Arizona, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree to qualify for accelerated nursing programs in Missouri. The good news is that your degree can be in any discipline, not strictly nursing or health-related.
GPA: While testing might not be mandatory for all schools, many institutions in Missouri set a threshold for GPA, often around a minimum of 3.0. However, it’s crucial to verify the specific requirements of each school, as they can differ.
Complete pre-requisites: Regardless of your initial bachelor’s degree’s domain, there are prerequisite courses you’ll typically need to wrap up before applying. In most Missouri schools, these often encompass science subjects like biology, anatomy, physiology, chemistry, among others.
Letters of recommendation: As with most educational applications, letters of recommendation are essential. Plan ahead and liaise with your chosen recommenders early to avoid the last-minute rush.
Submit applications: Review the application procedures and forms well in advance. This preparation will give you a sense of the time needed for completion. Alongside the standard personal details and questions, be ready to craft essays, gather prior transcripts, offer an updated resume, and sometimes provide supplementary documentation.
Interview: While not universally required, some Missouri schools might necessitate an interview as part of the admissions process. Even if it’s not obligatory, being prepared for an interview is a wise strategy, as it can boost your chances of acceptance.
Researching and understanding these requirements in detail is crucial. Ensuring you meet all criteria will streamline your application process and increase your chances of securing a spot in a Missouri accelerated nursing program.
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How Long Does it Take to Complete an Accelerated Nursing Program in Missouri?
Duration can vary based on the specific institution, so it’s essential to research and compare various schools in Missouri. Typically, you can achieve your BSN via an accelerated nursing program in Missouri in around 18 months or even less. Some programs in the state might operate continuously throughout the year, whereas others could incorporate scheduled breaks. Alongside your academic coursework, you’ll also undergo necessary hands-on clinical training within this timeframe, ensuring you become proficient in your nursing competencies.
What Will I Study in My Missouri Accelerated Nursing Program?
While the specific classes and their titles might vary slightly depending on the institution, most accelerated nursing programs are structured to provide a comprehensive nursing education to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. Here’s a general overview of the courses you might encounter:
- Foundations of Nursing Practice: An introduction to the basics of nursing, covering the roles, responsibilities, and professional aspects of a registered nurse. It sets the foundation for clinical practice.
- Pharmacology: This class teaches students about various medications, their indications, mechanisms of action, side effects, and the appropriate dosing and administration techniques.
- Pathophysiology: This course delves into the study of diseases, understanding how they affect the body, and the body’s response to them.
- Medical-Surgical Nursing: A core area focusing on adult health and diseases, students learn about the care of adult patients in various stages of health and illness.
- Pediatric Nursing: Focused on the care of infants, children, and adolescents, this course dives into the unique challenges and needs of younger patients.
- Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing: This class covers the care of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, as well as other women’s health issues.
- Community Health Nursing: Students learn about public health principles and how nurses can work in community settings to promote health and prevent disease.
- Mental Health Nursing: This course addresses psychiatric disorders, therapeutic communications, and interventions to help patients achieve and maintain mental wellness.
- Geriatric Nursing: With an emphasis on the unique needs of the aging population, students learn about the physical and mental health challenges of older adults.
- Nursing Research: A crucial area that introduces students to research methodologies, evidence-based practice, and how research impacts nursing care.
- Nursing Leadership and Management: This class prepares students for leadership roles, focusing on management strategies, decision-making, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Clinical Practicum: Often spread across several courses, these are hands-on clinical experiences in various settings like hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. They provide real-world application of classroom learning.
It’s always a good idea to review the course list and descriptions provided by individual schools in Missouri to get a precise idea of their curricula. The above list is a general guide and may not encompass all courses offered in every program.
What Are the Clinical Requirements for an ABSN in Missouri?
While the requirements can vary based on state regulations and individual school standards, let’s focus on what you might expect in Missouri for an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program.
Clinical hours are a crucial component of any nursing program, ensuring students gain hands-on experience and translate theoretical knowledge into practical skills.
- Number of Hours: The specific number of clinical hours required can vary, but Missouri, like many states, typically expects nursing students to complete around 500 to 700 supervised clinical hours to qualify for their BSN and be eligible for the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Nature of Clinical Experiences: These hours are hands-on experiences in a clinical setting, such as hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and long-term care facilities. They allow students to experience diverse aspects of nursing care, from pediatrics and obstetrics to geriatrics and mental health.
- Supervision and Mentorship: During these clinical hours, students are paired with experienced nurses, known as preceptors. These mentors guide students, offering valuable insights, feedback, and supervision to ensure that skills are practiced correctly and safely.
- Skill Development: Clinical hours help students become proficient in a wide range of nursing skills. This includes patient assessment, medication administration, wound care, communication, critical thinking, and working as part of a healthcare team.
- Licensing Preparation: These hands-on experiences are not just crucial for skill mastery, but they’re also a vital requirement to ensure eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam and subsequent licensure as a registered nurse.
- Documentation: Students must ensure that they accurately log their clinical hours and get the necessary signatures or validations from their preceptors or supervising faculty. This documentation is crucial when applying for the NCLEX-RN and for some job positions post-graduation.
It’s essential for prospective students to check with specific ABSN programs in Missouri for detailed clinical hour requirements and to understand the structure and expectations of their clinical experiences.
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!
Guide to ABSN and MSN Accelerated Nursing Programs
List of Accelerated BSN Nursing Programs in Arizona
| University | Offered as | City/State |
|---|---|---|
| Cox College | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Springfield, MO |
| Barnes-Jewish College Goldfarb School of Nursing | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Saint Louis, MO |
| University of Missouri-Columbia | Campus, Online | Columbia, MO |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Kansas City, MO |
| University of Missouri-St Louis | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Saint Louis, MO |
| Truman State University | Campus | Kirksville, MO |
| Research College of Nursing | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Kansas City, MO |
| St Luke’s College of Nursing | Campus, Hybrid, Online | Kansas City, MO |
| William Jewell College | Campus | Liberty, MO |
| Rockhurst University | Campus | Kansas City, MO |
| Saint Louis University | Campus, Hybrid, Online | , MO |
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.
