Pre-Nursing Society

Nursing Programs

Getting Into Nursing: The Different Programs: Associate Degree in Nursing

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Second Degree Baccalaureate Program

Accelerated Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

Master’s Entry Program in Nursing

Masters Degree in Nursing

Diploma Hospital School nursing program

Associates Degree in Nursing (ADN)

Once pre-requisites are completed, nursing requirements take ~2 years
Available in Community Colleges
Balances content with general studies and nursing education
Prepares nurses for staff positions in hospitals and other in-patient facilities
Bridge to Baccalaureate degree programs or Registered Nurse to masters completion programs: RN-BSN or RN-MSN

Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing (BSN)

Usually a 4-5 year program completed with a Nursing Major (BSN)
Offered in Colleges and Universities
Prepares nurses for positions in both in-patient and community settings
Theory and the practice of nursing with general education in the humanities and behavioral, biological, and physical sciences.
Offers experience in settings where healthcare is delivered
Prepares graduates for graduate study at Masters degree level

Second Degree Baccalaureate Program

Usually 2 years or less
For non-nurses with a bachelor’s degree in another field
The program gives you credit for the liberal arts requirements and prerequisites you have already taken to earn your degree in another field

Accelerated Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

Program is approximately 12-15 months long. (Most schools discourage outside employment while being enrolled in the rigorous coursework for the program)
Designed for those who already hold a baccalaureate degree in another field and want to pursue a BS in Nursing degree (variation to the Second Degree Bachelor’s Program)
Provides a sound foundation for you to obtain leadership skills, utilizing nursing research in the clinical setting, and for pursuing graduate education in nursing.
Must have the Pre-Nursing requirements in the physical and social sciences, mathematics, and humanities completed by the start of the program. (See Pre-Requisites section)
Good for those thinking of a career change? made without you having to enroll in a 2-year associate degree program, a 3-year diploma program, or go the full four years in a traditional baccalaureate program.
BSN to MSN pathways also available

Masters Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN)

Usually a 2-3 year program
For students with a bachelors degree in a non-nursing field
Fast-paced and rigorous program
Must choose a speciality (see the types of Nursing Specialities
First year is devoted to intense basic nursing coursework and clinical training in preparation to take your boards and become a RN
You then spend the next 2-3 years working towards your Masters Degree

Masters Degree in Nursing (MSN)

RN to MSN
RN to MSN with portfolio (those with a Bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field can take this path as well e.g. CAL students)
BSN to MSN

Diploma Hospital School nursing program

Based in hospitals and often include courses at nearby colleges or universities
Offer a variety of clinical nursing experience
Graduates of program may receive credit if interested in further pursuing a BSN.