If you’ve already earned your bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field and are considering a career pivot, you could be less than two years from working as a nurse through an accelerated BSN program. Baker College is proud to offer an ABSN program ideal for those who are ready to pursue a second degree in nursing and explore an entirely new career.
So, what exactly does an ABSN program entail, and what can you expect from these second-degree nursing programs?
ABSN Programs Can Help Make Your Career Change Possible
An accelerated BSN program is designed for people who already have bachelor’s degrees in another field. These programs allow students to build upon their existing education and transition to a career in nursing without having to completely “start over.” Instead, students can transfer up to 60 credits from their existing bachelor’s degree program to complete their BSNs efficiently.
In addition to holding a bachelor’s degree, applicants to an ABSN program may need to meet other criteria, such as maintaining a minimum GPA and completing some prerequisite courses in nursing and healthcare.
The exact curriculum for an ABSN can also vary from one program to the next. However, Baker College’s ABSN program consists of 62 credit hours in areas like:
- Healthcare informatics
- Pharmacology and medication administration
- Clinical experiences
Understanding Accelerated BSN Programs
How Long Is Nursing School with a Bachelor’s Degree?
The length of an ABSN program can vary depending on how many credits you end up transferring and whether you enroll part or full time, but many students can graduate in as little as two years.
The Appeal of Nursing as a Second Career
Nursing as a second career offers a unique set of advantages and opportunities for individuals seeking a meaningful change in their professional lives.
Growing Demand for Nurses
The nursing and healthcare industries continue to face a shortage of workers, resulting in high demand and high job security for dedicated nurses across various settings. This, combined with an aging population, underscores the ongoing need for skilled nursing care and further reinforces the demand for nursing professionals.
Diverse Career Opportunities
Nursing offers a wide range of specializations and diverse work settings along with varied career paths and environments. Graduates from an ABSN program can explore nursing roles in hospitals, nursing homes, pediatrician’s offices, and just about any other healthcare setting imaginable.
Competitive Salaries
The nursing field offers competitive salaries that can increase with specialization, advanced degrees, and years of experience. If you’re looking for a career path that offers financial stability and growth potential, making a career change to nurse can be an excellent choice.
Opportunities for Advancement
Nursing also presents numerous ways to pursue advanced degrees and other areas of specialization that can open doors of opportunity. This includes leadership positions with higher levels of responsibility as well as specialized clinical roles.
Work-Life Balance
Many nursing roles offer flexible schedules, including the possibility of working nights, weekends, or even part time. This makes nursing a great career choice for those who might prefer something less traditional than a 9-to-5 job.
Personal Fulfillment
At the end of the day, nurses make a profound impact on their patients’ lives. This can be immensely satisfying and rewarding, which is why many nurses consider their work to be a calling that provides a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment.
From Bachelor’s Degree to BSN – The Transition Process
Becoming a nurse with a bachelor’s in another field involves several steps and lots of planning, which is why it’s critical to do your research and create a game plan for yourself ahead of time.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Career changers may encounter several challenges, but recognizing and preparing for them proactively can help ease the transition and improve your chances for success in your new career path.
Prerequisite Coursework
Some career changers may need to complete prerequisite courses before they can start their ABSN programs, which can require additional time and resources beyond what you may have had in mind. These prerequisite courses are usually necessary for students whose previous bachelor’s degrees are not related to the healthcare field.
If this is the case for you, then you’ll want to plan to complete these courses (possibly through an online college or local community college as a flexible, cost-efficient measure) before enrolling in your ABSN program.
Intensive Coursework and Pace of Program
Another potential challenge to consider is that ABSN programs by nature are rigorous and fast-paced. This can be overwhelming for some students who may not be used to the more intensive nature of an accelerated program.
This is where it can really pay off to develop strong time management and study skills. Likewise, students should take advantage of the academic resources available to them, such as tutoring and study groups.
During your ABSN program, it’s also essential to prioritize and find time for self-care. Even though you’ll undoubtedly be busy with your studies, maintaining your mental and physical health will serve you well in the long run.
Adjusting to a Student Role
In addition, some students in ABSN programs may struggle with transitioning from being a working professional to taking on a student role. This can be especially tough for those who have been out of the academic setting for several years.
If this applies to you, the most important advice is to research and take full advantage of the academic services and resources your school offers. Resources such as writing centers, libraries, and study groups can make the transition much easier and help you feel more supported through every step of your journey.
Career Transition Anxiety
Doubts and fears about changing careers and succeeding in a new field are common. If you’re second-guessing your abilities to make a career change and pursue a new degree at this stage of life, it’s a good idea to connect and reach out to some mentors and trusted professionals in the nursing field. Faculty, professors, and other nursing professionals can help give you reassurance and guidance as you navigate this complicated career shift.
Balancing Responsibilities
Many career changers have other life obligations and responsibilities to prioritize. For example, some ABSN students may have families of their own to support. Others may have part- or full-time jobs. Regardless, making a career change and working on a new degree while still fulfilling those other responsibilities isn’t always simple.
This is where it can be crucial for ABSN students to have solid support systems in place to get help managing their responsibilities while maintaining a healthy work-life-school balance.
Choosing the Right ABSN Program
If you do a quick online search for accelerated BSN programs, you’ll find no shortage of options. However, it’s essential to understand that not all ABSN programs are created equal—and there are some key factors to take into consideration as you select the one right for you.
First, consider the length and cost of the program. How many credits can you transfer from your previous degree program, and how long will it take you to get your nursing degree? How much will your degree end up costing, and what kind of financial aid is available?
Consider, too, the location and format of the program. If the ABSN program is only available in person (not online or in a hybrid format), you will need to factor in time to commute to and from campus if you plan to live off-campus. At the same time, an in-person program may deliver a more connected learning experience than an online ABSN.
Lastly, don’t forget to research the accreditation credentials of any ABSN program. Ideally, the school you select should be accredited by a reputable authority, such as the Higher Learning Commission.
Learn More About Baker College’s Accelerated BSN
Becoming a nurse with a bachelor’s in another field will take a couple of years of your time (along with some careful planning and dedication). Still, if you’re serious about shifting to a rewarding and fulfilling career, nursing programs for bachelor’s degree holders are the fastest way to make it happen.
Still seeking an ABSN program to suit your needs? Baker College’s accelerated bachelor of science in nursing is an excellent choice, offering a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience to help you prepare for a successful career. Plus, with the ability to transfer up to 60 credits from a previous bachelor’s degree program, you can complete your ABSN in as little as two years.Get in touch today to learn more about what Baker College has to offer. If you’re ready, you can also get started with your online application.