Accelerated BSN program summary

Overview

The Accelerated BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) is an intense 12-month program for well-qualified students with a bachelor's degree in another field.

Program availability by campus

The Accelerated BSN program is offered on our Omaha, Lincoln, Kearney and Scottsbluff campuses. Class size is limited and admission is competitive.

Admission cycle

Students are admitted once annually for January program start.

Preparation coursework

Some/much of this coursework may already be satisfied by your existing bachelor's degree course of study. You first complete prerequisite courses totaling 58 credits. Prerequisite courses are NOT offered by the UNMC College of Nursing. You may take them through the University of Nebraska (on campus or online/distance) or from any accredited community college, 4-year college or university.  

UNMC nursing coursework

Students are admitted once annually for January program start. Required nursing coursework consists of 62 credits. Curriculum is predicated upon Traditional BSN plan of study, BSN learning structure and objectives progression but compresses the 2-year Traditional Program to 12 months, with key variations in class and clinical approach, as follows:

  • one 13-week summer session
  • two 16-week semesters (spring and fall)

Completion timeline

After prerequisites are completed, the Accelerated BSN is a full-time, one-year program. Clinical training rotations may include evenings and/or weekends.  

Accelerated student profile

  • very motivated and goal-oriented, with high self expectations.
  • values higher education and working closely with people.
  • previous GPA over 3.3 — with many over 3.6.
  • ethnically and culturally diverse — about 12% male.
  • ages trend to 20s and early 30s — some older students.
  • existing bachelor's degree.
  • high pass rate — 97% average, first attempt — on RN license exam.

An intense, challenging curriculum

With their strong academic profile, our accelerated students expect a challenging, learning-packed schedule of study heavy on critical thinking, clinical application, independent evaluation, patient-centered context and successful care outcomes. They also prize clear, concise communication and teachers as mentors. All these ingredients are integral to our Accelerated BSN Program.

Clinical education affiliations

In addition to its own clinical simulation/skills labs, UNMC has relationships with more than 100 health care institutions across Nebraska to provide students a convenient, diverse range of clinical learning.

Outside work not advised

The rigorous pace of this full-time program makes any outside work inadvisable. Thus you'll need adequate financial resources for a year's living expenses plus tuition, books, supplies and other educational expenses. We encourage you to apply for scholarships/financial aid.

Your first step

Contact Sarah Jones, the Kearney student services coordinator, for answers to your questions and for guidance on requirements, application and admission. Phone 308-865-8322 or email sjones1@unmc.edu.