12-Month ABSN Programs in Pennsylvania: Accelerated Nursing Online

Do you want to become a registered nurse (RN) but have a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field? Schools across Pennsylvania offer accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs to prepare learners for nursing careers. Some schools even offer 12-month accelerated nursing programs.

If you're ready to pursue an ABSN, keep reading. Below, we'll highlight schools offering fast track nursing programs online and on-campus.

What Is a 12-Month ABSN Program?

Students interested in becoming a certified registered nurse in a year can pursue a 12-month ABSN degree. These programs offer similar coursework as traditional programs; however, courses are typically delivered in an accelerated format.

Some schools even deliver these fast-track nursing programs online, providing coursework that students can access from anywhere with an Internet connection. Still, in these programs, clinical experiences often take place in person.

Are There Any Online ABSN Programs in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, Holy Family University's second-degree ABSN offers 100% online courses with an in-person residency. Carlow University's second-degree nursing program delivers a mix of on-campus and online coursework. Pursuing online degrees is often the fastest way to become a nurse since they provide flexible scheduling and the ability to navigate coursework at the student's desired pace.

Top Accelerated BSN Programs in Pennsylvania

Students interested in pursuing an ABSN can find accredited programs throughout Pennsylvania. Explore the list below to discover schools helping students become nurses in as little as 12 months.

1. Carlow University

Carlow University's accelerated second-degree BSN is a 15-month campus-based program providing some online coursework. This degree, accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), includes nursing support courses, nursing courses, hands-on clinical experiences, and National Council Licensure Examination for RNs (NCLEX) seminars.

To enroll, students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.85 or better in college-level courses. Upon completion, graduates can start an RN career or pursue a master's degree or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to work as an advanced practice registered nurse (e.g., nurse practitioner).

• Estimated tuition cost: $695 per credit
• Program length: 15 months
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and other student aid make learning at Carlow University more affordable.
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

2. Gwynedd Mercy University

Gwynedd Mercy University's ABSN second degree is a hybrid, full-time nursing program. Accredited by the CCNE, this degree prepares learners for licensure necessary for RN careers or entry into a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.

While enrolled, learners study health assessment in nursing, management in professional nursing, pathophysiology, and evidence-based practice in nursing. Clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities are also required. Classrooms and labs feature state-of-the-art simulation equipment. This 67-credit program is designed for completion in 16 months.

• Estimated tuition cost: $732 per credit (ABSN); $382 per credit (nursing prerequisites)
• Program length: 16 months
• Financial aid: Scholarships and grants help enrollees save. Nursing students receive up to $40,000 in loan repayment funds when working at one of several partnership health systems.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

3. Misericordia University

At Misericordia University, the accelerated BSN provides online and on-site learning experiences with benefits, such as multiple start dates, no entrance exam, and no current waitlist. This program is designed for applicants who have at least 30 non-nursing college credits.

Students take courses over four full-time semesters (16 months) in functional health patterns, physical assessment, nursing research for evidence-based practice, and principles of pharmacology. Nursing simulation and skills labs enable students to practice realistic patient care skills in a safe learning environment.

• Estimated tuition cost: $980 per credit
• Program length: 16 months
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, student employment, and loans are available to help students lower costs.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

4. Pennsylvania State University

Pennsylvania State University's Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing offers a second-degree nursing program that prepares graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN in just 16 months. While enrolled in this program, which is delivered in a full-time, cohort-based format, students take 14 to 17 credits per semester for a total of 60 credits.

Learners can pursue the degree at Penn State Altoona, Harrisburg, and Erie campuses. To gain admission, students must complete a baccalaureate degree and all prerequisite coursework (e.g., Anatomy & Physiology I and II, Microbiology with lab, Introductory Nutrition, etc.).

• Estimated tuition cost: Starting at $15,388 per year (in-state); Starting at $26,374 per year (out-of-state)
• Program length: 16 months
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, student employment opportunities, and loans increase affordability.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

5. University of Pittsburgh

The University of Pittsburgh offers an accelerated second-degree BSN for students with a baccalaureate degree who want to secure their nursing degree in just one year. When enrolled in this CCNE-accredited program, learners study therapeutics across the lifespan, healthcare finance and policy, nursing care of older adults, and nursing informatics.

Students bring 31 credits from a previous degree and must complete 36 to 38 prerequisite credits and 54 curriculum credits to complete their studies. Upon completion, enrollees qualify for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam.

• Estimated tuition cost: $12,940 per term (in-state); $25,459 per term (out-of-state)
• Program length: One year
• Financial aid: Upon admission and commitment to begin studies, enrollees can receive a guaranteed total scholarship of $8,333.00, split into three terms (Term 1 - $3,000; Term 2 - $2,333; and Term 3 - $3,000).
• Accreditation: MSCHE

6. Duquesne University

Students seeking 1-year accelerated nursing programs in Pennsylvania can find fast-track second-degree BSN programs at Duquesne University. The 12-month track lasts three semesters (fall, spring, and summer), while the 16-month track takes four semesters to complete (fall, spring, summer, fall).

Accredited by the CCNE, this program explores genetics in nursing and health, contemporary professional nursing and technology, clinical ethics, population health, and more. Hands-on learning opportunities are available through the school's clinical sites and state-of-the-art Learning and Simulation Center.

• Estimated tuition cost: $21,980 per term (one-year track); $16,487 to $21,980 per term (16-month track)
• Program length: As few as 12 months
• Financial aid: All admitted second-degree students receive up to $30,000 in scholarships. Learners can also reduce costs with grants, loans, and work-study jobs.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

7. DeSales University

The ABSN at DeSales University is a campus-based program designed for completion in 15 months. Coursework focuses on mental health nursing, pharmacology, leadership, and surgical nursing. To graduate, learners must meet laboratory and clinical hour requirements.

Students seeking enrollment must have a non-nursing bachelor's degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA and complete prerequisite coursework (e.g., Anatomy & Physiology I with lab, Anatomy & Physiology II with lab, and Microbiology with lab). CCNE-accredited nursing programs at DeSales have a high NCLEX first-time pass rate of 92%.

• Estimated tuition cost: $48,800 total
• Program length: 15 months
• Financial aid: Students can use federal aid (grants, work-study, loans, etc.), state grants, and $5,000 scholarships to save. DeSales undergraduate alumni receive one free three-credit course in the ABSN program.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

8. Holy Family University

At Holy Family University, the second-degree distance hybrid BSN (ABSN) prepares students to sit for the NCLEX-RN in as little as 14 months. Students take 100% online courses, participate in an in-person residency, and receive clinical placement support.

Nursing courses explore the foundations of nursing practice, medical-surgical nursing, transition to the professional nursing role, and more. This program is accredited by the CCNE and approved by the PA State Board of Nursing.

• Estimated tuition cost: $52,077 total
• Program length: 14 months
• Financial aid: Students enrolled at Holy Family University can apply for federal and state aid to lower costs.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

9. Villanova University

At Villanova University, students seeking a second-degree accelerated BSN can choose from a 14-month express track or a 23-month flex track. The express track begins in May and finishes in August of the following year, while the flex track provides more time for completion, enabling students to work part-time while enrolled.

Coursework focuses on population and community health, clinical ethics, and nursing care of children and adolescents. To learn more about this program and receive an application fee waiver code, students are encouraged to attend a virtual information session.

• Estimated tuition cost: $52,500 total
• Program length: As few as 14 months
• Financial aid: Second-degree accelerated BSN students who meet GPA requirements will be considered for multiple scholarships.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

10. Thomas Jefferson University

Thomas Jefferson University is home to the campus-based accelerated BSN plus (ABSN+) one-year pathway. Meeting prerequisite course requirements and engaging in intensive full-time study helps enrollees complete their BSN degree in 12 consecutive months.

In addition to securing a second bachelor's degree, learners earn nine credits towards an MSN in the same academic year. Accredited by the CCNE, this nursing program is delivered at the Center City Philadelphia Campus and the Dixon campus in Horsham.

• Estimated tuition cost: $55,588 total
• Program length: 12 months
• Financial aid: Federal student aid, state grants, private scholarships, and other assistance help learners save.
• Accreditation: MSCHE

How We Rank Schools

Our team rigorously vetted the schools in this ranking list, ensuring each meets the following criteria for providing a quality academic experience:

• Accreditation: Each institution is accredited by the MSCHE, a nationally recognized organization.
• Program reputation: These colleges and universities have good reputations and nursing programs accredited by the CCNE.
• Program cost: The schools of nursing above offer low tuition rates or scholarships and other financial aid to make learning more affordable.

FAQs About Accelerated Online ABSN Programs

If you're ready to enroll in an ABSN program, keep reading. Below, we'll answer frequently asked questions about online fast-accelerated nursing degrees.

How Much Does an Online ABSN Program Cost in Pennsylvania?

The cost of an online ABSN program in Pennsylvania varies by program and other factors, such as residency and whether a student attends part-time or full-time. One of the state's most affordable programs is available at Carlow University, which offers a second-degree nursing program for $695 per credit.

To enjoy affordable costs at other schools, consider applying to cheap online colleges that accept FAFSA.

Who Should Consider a 12-Month ABSN Program?

The best candidates for 12-month ABSN programs are students with non-nursing bachelor's degrees who are eager to start new careers in nursing. One-year programs often have short courses (e.g., eight weeks) and multiple start dates to expedite degree completion. Accelerated clinical experiences in simulation labs and partner health facilities also prepare students to secure licensure and provide real-world patient care in less time.

Learn More: Can You Get A BSN Without An RN?

What Are the Admissions Requirements for Online ABSN Programs?

Students interested in earning an online ABSN degree must meet specific educational requirements for nurses. Admission requirements often include showing proof of a non-nursing bachelor's degree, prerequisite course credits, and a minimum GPA. To graduate, students complete online nursing courses, on-site lab hours, and clinical experiences at real-world health facilities.

Find an Online Nursing Degree

Begin your journey toward an exciting nursing career by exploring the accredited degree programs on Learn.org. Contact schools of interest to learn ways they can help you achieve your goals.