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Ali
Student
Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Can I get into an accelerated nursing program for BSN right out of high school?
can I get into an accelerated nursing program for BSN right out of high school?
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3 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
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California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
YES
Most Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) nursing programs have set curriculums, and you cannot graduate earlier. But some colleges will offer some flexibility, make sure to do your research. As a BSN student you'll have the greatest opportunity to complete a four-year degree program quicker. Though nursing courses and clinical rotations have a strict progression, you can complete nursing school prerequisites and gen ed courses ahead of time or at an accelerated rate.
Here are some tips that will get you out of the classroom and into your RN scrubs faster:
HIGH SCHOOL RN FAST TRACK
• HOSA: Consider joining a nursing club or student health organization, such as HOSA. This will allow you to network with other students, and it will look great on a future resume or nursing school application.
• AP CLASSES: consider taking Advanced Placement (AP) classes, by taking any college prerequisite courses that you can while you’re in high school. Many senior high school students take some of the college core classes while they’re still in high school, and many colleges and high schools work together to help students do this. For example, you may be able to take English courses, math courses, and other similar courses while you’re still in high school.
• CLEP: College Level Examination Program (CLEP). Consider taking CLEP exams to test out of courses you’d otherwise have to take in college. Most colleges or technical schools accept CLEP exam scores. When you pass a CLEP exam on a given subject (literature, math, science, etc.), you won’t have to take the course in college. You’ll get full credit on your college transcript, but you won’t have to take the actual class. This saves time and money.
• SUMMER SCHOOL CLASSES: Many programs will offer general education courses or even some non-clinical nursing courses, such as research, informatics, or ethics, during the summer months. Take advantage of the time off and take advantage of class offerings. This may help you graduate a little earlier or at least lighten your course load during the regular semesters.
COLLEGE RN FAST TRACK
• FIND A MENTOR
A mentor can be a professor, a clinical instructor, or even a nurse you met during your clinical rotation. This individual will help guide you throughout your nursing education and, ideally, through the process of getting your first job. Mentorships can create long-lasting relationships and provide you with the guidance to graduate with a nursing degree successfully.
Most Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) nursing programs have set curriculums, and you cannot graduate earlier. But some colleges will offer some flexibility, make sure to do your research. As a BSN student you'll have the greatest opportunity to complete a four-year degree program quicker. Though nursing courses and clinical rotations have a strict progression, you can complete nursing school prerequisites and gen ed courses ahead of time or at an accelerated rate.
Here are some tips that will get you out of the classroom and into your RN scrubs faster:
HIGH SCHOOL RN FAST TRACK
• HOSA: Consider joining a nursing club or student health organization, such as HOSA. This will allow you to network with other students, and it will look great on a future resume or nursing school application.
• AP CLASSES: consider taking Advanced Placement (AP) classes, by taking any college prerequisite courses that you can while you’re in high school. Many senior high school students take some of the college core classes while they’re still in high school, and many colleges and high schools work together to help students do this. For example, you may be able to take English courses, math courses, and other similar courses while you’re still in high school.
• CLEP: College Level Examination Program (CLEP). Consider taking CLEP exams to test out of courses you’d otherwise have to take in college. Most colleges or technical schools accept CLEP exam scores. When you pass a CLEP exam on a given subject (literature, math, science, etc.), you won’t have to take the course in college. You’ll get full credit on your college transcript, but you won’t have to take the actual class. This saves time and money.
• SUMMER SCHOOL CLASSES: Many programs will offer general education courses or even some non-clinical nursing courses, such as research, informatics, or ethics, during the summer months. Take advantage of the time off and take advantage of class offerings. This may help you graduate a little earlier or at least lighten your course load during the regular semesters.
COLLEGE RN FAST TRACK
• FIND A MENTOR
A mentor can be a professor, a clinical instructor, or even a nurse you met during your clinical rotation. This individual will help guide you throughout your nursing education and, ideally, through the process of getting your first job. Mentorships can create long-lasting relationships and provide you with the guidance to graduate with a nursing degree successfully.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Ali!
Are you wondering if you can join an accelerated BSN nursing program straight after high school?
ABSOLUTELY
Let's Break Down Accelerated Nursing Programs
Accelerated nursing programs, especially those leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), are tailored for individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree in a different field and want to switch to nursing. These programs are quite intensive, covering the same content as traditional BSN programs but in a shorter timeframe, typically 12 to 18 months.
What You Need to Get into Accelerated Nursing Programs
Education: Most accelerated BSN programs need applicants to already have a bachelor’s degree. This means high school graduates usually don't meet this basic requirement.
Coursework: Besides having a bachelor’s degree, applicants often need to have completed specific prerequisite courses like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics, which high school students usually haven't.
GPA and Tests: Many programs also set minimum GPA requirements and may need standardized test scores (such as the TEAS or HESI) for the application process.
Healthcare Experience: Some programs may prefer or require applicants to have some experience in healthcare settings, which is typically not possible for recent high school graduates.
Options for High School Graduates
While high school graduates can't directly enter an accelerated BSN program, there are other paths:
Traditional BSN Programs: Many universities offer regular four-year BSN programs that accept students straight from high school. These programs let students finish their nursing education over four years while completing all necessary prerequisites.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Another route is to get an ADN at a community college, which usually takes about two years. After getting an ADN, graduates can take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses (RNs). They can then pursue a bridge program (RN-to-BSN) to get their bachelor’s degree.
Dual Enrollment Programs: Some schools offer dual enrollment options where high school students can take college-level courses that count toward both their high school diploma and future nursing degrees.
Post-Baccalaureate Options: If you're set on entering an accelerated program eventually, you could think about getting any bachelor’s degree first and then applying for an accelerated BSN program.
In summary, while you can't get into an accelerated nursing program for a BSN straight after high school due to educational prerequisites and other requirements, there are several other paths available that can lead you to a nursing career.
Chances this answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used to Answer this Question
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN): This organization offers extensive information on nursing education paths and accreditation standards for nursing schools across the U.S.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN): The NCSBN provides information on licensure requirements and educational standards necessary to become a registered nurse.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS gives detailed information on job outlooks, educational requirements, and different career paths in the nursing profession.
Stay Blessed!
JC.
Are you wondering if you can join an accelerated BSN nursing program straight after high school?
ABSOLUTELY
Let's Break Down Accelerated Nursing Programs
Accelerated nursing programs, especially those leading to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), are tailored for individuals who already have a bachelor’s degree in a different field and want to switch to nursing. These programs are quite intensive, covering the same content as traditional BSN programs but in a shorter timeframe, typically 12 to 18 months.
What You Need to Get into Accelerated Nursing Programs
Education: Most accelerated BSN programs need applicants to already have a bachelor’s degree. This means high school graduates usually don't meet this basic requirement.
Coursework: Besides having a bachelor’s degree, applicants often need to have completed specific prerequisite courses like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics, which high school students usually haven't.
GPA and Tests: Many programs also set minimum GPA requirements and may need standardized test scores (such as the TEAS or HESI) for the application process.
Healthcare Experience: Some programs may prefer or require applicants to have some experience in healthcare settings, which is typically not possible for recent high school graduates.
Options for High School Graduates
While high school graduates can't directly enter an accelerated BSN program, there are other paths:
Traditional BSN Programs: Many universities offer regular four-year BSN programs that accept students straight from high school. These programs let students finish their nursing education over four years while completing all necessary prerequisites.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): Another route is to get an ADN at a community college, which usually takes about two years. After getting an ADN, graduates can take the NCLEX-RN exam to become registered nurses (RNs). They can then pursue a bridge program (RN-to-BSN) to get their bachelor’s degree.
Dual Enrollment Programs: Some schools offer dual enrollment options where high school students can take college-level courses that count toward both their high school diploma and future nursing degrees.
Post-Baccalaureate Options: If you're set on entering an accelerated program eventually, you could think about getting any bachelor’s degree first and then applying for an accelerated BSN program.
In summary, while you can't get into an accelerated nursing program for a BSN straight after high school due to educational prerequisites and other requirements, there are several other paths available that can lead you to a nursing career.
Chances this answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used to Answer this Question
American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN): This organization offers extensive information on nursing education paths and accreditation standards for nursing schools across the U.S.
National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN): The NCSBN provides information on licensure requirements and educational standards necessary to become a registered nurse.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS gives detailed information on job outlooks, educational requirements, and different career paths in the nursing profession.
Stay Blessed!
JC.
Charanpreet Walia
Public Health Nurse
47
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Charanpreet’s Answer
Hello Ali
You can enroll in a BSN program directly after finishing high school. This is not an accelerated program but follows a regular admission process, similar to applying to engineering or law school straight out of high school. A strong GPA (ideally 3.5 and above) and a good ACT or SAT score are also important for your application. Additionally, it is beneficial to volunteer at hospitals or senior facilities as soon as possible to make your application stand out. It is a common misconception that having a CNA or healthcare experience is necessary for applying to nursing schools. While healthcare experiences can be helpful, you can also stand out with other work experiences. If you do not have a strong GPA in high school, another option is to gain admission to a community college, complete 2 years of general education courses, and then transfer to a 4-year nursing school. This path does not require ACT or SAT scores, but you will need an excellent cumulative GPA and a strong GPA in science.
When standing out among candidates, seeking guidance from a college counselor is so important. They are the key to navigating the complex process of choosing the right college and understanding its requirements. Please list state-level and private colleges and delve into their specific requirements for high school graduates and students transferring from a community college to a four-year program. Some nursing schools have unique requirements, such as entry-level exams or specific classes.
Let me take you through my journey towards becoming a BSN as an example.
I took a four-month ROP course in high school to become a CNA. After graduating, I enrolled in a community college due to financial constraints and received financial aid. I worked closely with a counselor to create a transfer plan and spent three years as a full-time student at the community college due to certain class unavailability. In the third year, I transferred to a four-year university, where it took an additional 2 years to complete the BSN.
The path to a BSN demands unwavering dedication and commitment. It may require you to make sacrifices in your social life and find yourself hitting the books even on weekends. But remember, do not let hard work deter you from achieving your aspirations.
Keep your focus firmly on your end goal - the BSN.
You can enroll in a BSN program directly after finishing high school. This is not an accelerated program but follows a regular admission process, similar to applying to engineering or law school straight out of high school. A strong GPA (ideally 3.5 and above) and a good ACT or SAT score are also important for your application. Additionally, it is beneficial to volunteer at hospitals or senior facilities as soon as possible to make your application stand out. It is a common misconception that having a CNA or healthcare experience is necessary for applying to nursing schools. While healthcare experiences can be helpful, you can also stand out with other work experiences. If you do not have a strong GPA in high school, another option is to gain admission to a community college, complete 2 years of general education courses, and then transfer to a 4-year nursing school. This path does not require ACT or SAT scores, but you will need an excellent cumulative GPA and a strong GPA in science.
When standing out among candidates, seeking guidance from a college counselor is so important. They are the key to navigating the complex process of choosing the right college and understanding its requirements. Please list state-level and private colleges and delve into their specific requirements for high school graduates and students transferring from a community college to a four-year program. Some nursing schools have unique requirements, such as entry-level exams or specific classes.
Let me take you through my journey towards becoming a BSN as an example.
I took a four-month ROP course in high school to become a CNA. After graduating, I enrolled in a community college due to financial constraints and received financial aid. I worked closely with a counselor to create a transfer plan and spent three years as a full-time student at the community college due to certain class unavailability. In the third year, I transferred to a four-year university, where it took an additional 2 years to complete the BSN.
The path to a BSN demands unwavering dedication and commitment. It may require you to make sacrifices in your social life and find yourself hitting the books even on weekends. But remember, do not let hard work deter you from achieving your aspirations.
Keep your focus firmly on your end goal - the BSN.