The University of Providence’s undergraduate Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is a 12-month, accelerated nursing program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career as a registered nurse. The accelerated BSN program is designed for committed nursing applicants who have previously earned a bachelor’s degree in any field. Graduates of the program will be prepared to sit for the National Certification and Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses.
Explore questions about our Accelerated Nursing program today.
How long will it take to complete the accelerated nursing program?
The accelerated BSN program is designed for completion in 12 consecutive months. Students take their first program courses starting in January, with the program concluding in December of the same year.
Are there specific bachelor’s degree requirements for acceptance?
No. While the accelerated nursing program does require applicants to have a previously earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited university within the last 10 years, there are no restrictions on the type of degree. However, some degrees may not contain the necessary prerequisite courses. All potential applicants should review the application and admission requirements to make sure they meet them.
Can I directly transition into a Master’s in Nursing program after completing the program?
Yes. Students can directly transition into a Master of Science in Nursing program or pursue further education opportunities after completing the accelerated nursing program.
Is the accelerated nursing program accredited by a recognized accrediting body?
Yes, The University of Providence is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). In addition, all baccalaureate and master’s degree programs at the University of Providence are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The accelerated nursing program is also accredited by the Montana Board of Nursing.
Is previous healthcare experience required to apply?
No. While previous healthcare experience is noted during the application review process, it is NOT required for admission into the program. Examples of previous healthcare experience can include:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Medical Assistant (CMA)
- Laboratory Technician
- Phlebotomist
- Paramedic
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Where is the accelerated nursing program located?
The program offers two skill lab locations: Lewistown, Montana, and Anchorage, Alaska.
Are dormitories or housing options offered to students?
Housing for Lewistown and Anchorage locations varies. Upon acceptance into the program, students will be provided information on housing along with other housing assistance channels. Regardless of location, all incoming students are expected to secure their housing arrangements before the first day of classes.
- Lewistown: Dormitories are NOT available to students at our Lewistown, MT site. Students will need to find unaffiliated housing in the local community. Information on how to secure housing, including helpful links and tips will be provided following acceptance into the program.
- Anchorage: Providence Alaska currently offers reduced-price dormitories located on the medical center campus. Students who choose to reside in the Providence, Alaska campus dormitories will be required to reach out to the Anchorage Site Coordinator for more info.
Will transportation services be available to students?
No. Students will be expected to provide themselves with transportation to clinical locations, skill labs, and any in-person classes.
Can the accelerated BSN program be completed as a part-time student?
No. The accelerated BSN program is structured in a cohort model. Cohort-style programs offer a collaborative learning model where students in the program progress through each course together. As part of this model, students share the same curriculum, complete the same assignments along set due dates, and engage in discussions as a cohesive unit throughout the program’s duration.
Do students receive any breaks or holidays during the program?
No. The program is completed in 8-week accelerated blocks. Two accelerated blocks make up one semester – with students completing 3 semesters in total. 8-week accelerated blocks do not contain breaks. One session will end on Friday and the next will start on Monday.
How many classes are in the program and how are they structured?
Students in the accelerated nursing program enroll in 18 total courses. In total, students are required to complete 54 credit hours for graduation, or 18 credits per semester over 3 semesters.
What are skill labs?
Skill labs provide an opportunity for students to gather in person as a cohort to learn, practice, and test their clinical nursing skills in a controlled classroom environment. Skill labs are guided by skilled clinical nursing faculty and dedicated skill lab coordinators who are responsible for ensuring students command a strong understanding of all concepts. These labs provide a medium for students to practice skills before clinicals to ensure they are both comfortable and correct in their performance.
What support services are offered by the University and made available for students?
The University of Providence offers a variety of services available to online students. Support services include Accessibility and disability services, academic success center, writing and math center, library and research services, and more. A detailed list of services can be found on the Academic Support page.
Are there financial aid options or scholarships available for this program?
The University of Providence’s financial services department can guide students interested in pursuing financial aid opportunities. The financial services webpage can provide additional information on eligibility, applications, and requirements for scholarship programs, payment plans, federal aid options, and benefits for military and veteran students.
Do I need high-speed internet to complete this program?
Yes. Since the didactic portion of the curriculum is completed online, students are expected to have access to a reliable internet connection before the start of classes in January and throughout the program.
What factors are considered in my application being accepted?
Up-to-date criteria for program acceptance can be found on the Accelerated BSN page.
What are nursing clinicals?
Clinicals are a requirement for the accelerated nursing program. Through clinicals, students gain hands-on experience as they work in healthcare institutions, learning from supervisory staff and fellow nurses. Clinicals also provide the opportunity for nursing students to practice and apply their skills in a real-world setting.
How many clinical hours are required for graduation
Throughout the program, students will complete 18 clinical credits, wherein each credit translates to approximately 45 hours per 8-week accelerated term.
How are clinical placements arranged? Can students select their placement locations?
Clinical placements are decided based on the capacity of the clinical sites and the number of students requesting for each site. While nursing faculty and clinical coordinators try their best to match students with the clinical location of their choice, preferential selection is not always guaranteed.
Can students maintain outside employment while completing the accelerated nursing program?
Securing employment, whether full or part-time, is highly discouraged. The accelerated nursing program is a full-time, accelerated, intensive program that requires high levels of time and attention. Furthermore, class schedules may include evening and weekend requirements that can change on short notice.
How much do textbooks cost for the accelerated nursing program?
The estimated cost for textbooks based on previous cohorts is $1,500. A full breakdown of program costs, including costs for each semester and program fees can be found on the Accelerated BSN program page.
Will I be required to purchase scrubs or shoes for this program?
Yes. All incoming students are expected to purchase two pairs of scrubs and clinical-approved shoes.
Where can I find more information about the accelerated nursing program?
Additional information about the nursing program can be found on the Accelerated BSN program webpage. Questions regarding program eligibility, deadlines, and applications can also be directed to a member of our admissions team or faculty contacts at the bottom of the ABSN program page.
Can I enroll with an Associate Degree in Nursing but not a bachelor’s degree?
No. The accelerated nursing program requires that students retain a four-year degree of any kind issued within the last 10 years for acceptance. Nurses who are interested in obtaining a BSN and who have an Associate Degree in Nursing or a Nursing Diploma with licensure can enroll in the Online RN-BSN program.
What are the NCLEX-RN pass rates for the program?
As of 2024, the accelerated nursing program reported a 96.43% NCLEX pass rate.
