Second Degree and RN to BSN Accelerated Nursing Programs

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Accelerated nursing programs are quickly growing in popularity as a solution to help with the nursing shortage felt across the U.S. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 283,000 jobs have been added in the healthcare sector within the last year, and it is expected that most of those jobs require Registered Nurses to fill the open positions in hospitals, long-term care facilities and other medical organizations. Meeting this demand through accelerated nursing programs can not only increase the availability of quality health care, but also provide better career options for those already within the medical field or for other professionals seeking a new career entirely.

Students currently working as a Registered Nurse can qualify for accelerated RN to BSN nursing programs. Those with a completed degree in a non-nursing concentration, such as a Bachelor of Arts degree, can enter into "second degree" accelerated nursing programs. Through accelerated nursing programs, many of the general or core education requirements can be transferred and applied, eliminating much of the time involved in pursuing a new degree. These programs are fast-paced, building on prior education experience and offering the same amount of clinical instruction as with standard Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs; some "fast track" programs can even be completed in just under a year.

Since most students in accelerated programs are older, the success rate for employment as a well-rounded nurse is higher. Hospitals, clinics and other medical facilities take this trend into consideration, welcoming the life experience as well as academic and clinical knowledge of these graduates. Competition for accelerated nursing programs can be intense, and a high GPA and ability to learn in a challenging environment may be factors in the selection process.

Solving the nursing shortage is a multi-faceted problem that addresses issues of an aging population, health care practices and the ability of students and nurse educators to succeed within a nursing school program. Quickly building upon prior experience in school, career and life, accelerated nursing programs are rapidly introducing experienced nurses into the workforce.

Labels: accelerated nursing program, Bachelor of Science Nursing, RN to BSN Completion, second degree