What Is an Accelerated BSN Degree?

An accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is a fast-track educational program that allows current and aspiring nurses to earn bachelor's degrees much faster than normal. Typically, a person can expect to spend at least three or four years working to earn a bachelor's degree in nursing. Often, however, a person who is accepted into an accelerated program can earn this degree in as little as 12 to 18 months. These programs are available to people who want to become registered nurses with bachelor's degrees as well as those who are already registered nurses but are hoping to advance in their careers and earn higher pay.

The average bachelor of nursing student will need about three or four years to earn his degree. Some people, however, would prefer not to spend this much time working toward this degree. An accelerated BSN degree program allows extremely motivated students the option of earning their degrees in a much shorter time period. For example, many accelerated BSN degree programs allow students to earn their degrees in as little as a year to a year and a half. Additionally, there are some accelerated Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs that a person might consider if he wants a fast-track approach to earning an advanced nursing degree.

Accelerated BSN degree programs are available to both registered nurses and those who have yet to become registered nurses. A registered nurse is already licensed to work as a nurse but may choose to enroll in this type of program for further education. In such a case, earning a bachelor's degree in nursing may give a registered nurse the opportunity to apply for more advanced jobs or secure higher pay. An individual who is not yet a registered nurse may benefit as well. For instance, a person who already has a bachelor's degree in another field can take this shorter route to a nursing degree and possibly a career change instead of spending another four years on schooling.

While accelerated BSN degree programs can prove attractive for current nurses looking to advance and aspiring nurses who hold bachelor's degrees in other subjects, they are not always the best option for every nursing student. These programs are usually considered challenging for even the brightest and most dedicated students. As such, they might prove most suitable for students who are self-motivated, have lots of time to commit to studying, and are willing to work intensely for a 12- to 18-month period.