Can You Get a Nursing Degree in 3 Years?

Nursing education is one of the most commonly pursued fields in college and with good reason. The field has a thriving job market and features many career advancement opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses (RNs) have a median annual wage higher than the American average. Additionally, nursing careers have projected job growth over the next decade. More importantly, healthcare work offers the chance to care for others and promote community health.

There are many accredited degree options for nursing school, including associate, bachelor, and master programs. With so much variety, it can be hard to choose. But what about those who want to complete their degree and move into the job market as quickly as possible? It is possible to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, or BSN program, in three years. Let's explore how.

Is It Possible To Earn a Nursing Degree in Three Years?

Two to three paragraphs about earning a nursing degree in three years

Many prefer to pursue a bachelor's degree instead of an Associate Degree in nursing (ADN). The coursework of bachelor programs is more comprehensive, and having a Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degree is increasingly required for entry-level positions in many places. This degree will also leave you in a better position to advance in your healthcare career, and leave the option of completing a Master of Science in nursing (MSN) degree in the future, which will be needed to become a nurse practitioner.

A Bachelor of Science in nursing degree typically takes four years or more to complete. However, some avenues allow students to complete a BSN degree in only three years. A common way to do this is by completing an accelerated nursing program, which is a quicker program than a traditional program, allowing graduates to enter the nursing profession or move on to a master's degree faster.

For students straight out of high school, it may be better to complete a licensed practical nursing (LPN) program, potentially at a community college with financial aid, and become a licensed practical nurse. Then students can move on to an RN-to-BSN program. An RN-to-BSN program is a registered nurse to a Bachelor of Science in nursing program. These programs allow RNs to complete a BSN while working as a nurse, but will also take longer than three years.

How To Get a Nursing Degree in Three Years

After finding the right university and meeting admission requirements, students looking to complete a nursing degree in three years should enroll in an accelerated nursing program. Three-year BSN programs will likely have all the same prerequisites and nursing courses as a traditional program but require additional concentration and commitment. Many accelerated programs also require a previous bachelor's degree.

Enroll in an Accelerated Nursing Program

Enrolling in an accelerated BSN program is the first step toward earning a nursing degree in three years. Many accredited institutions offer programs like these, both on-campus and through online programs. Nursing students in these programs will get a comprehensive education, including hands-on clinical experience, and prepare to take the National Council Licensure Examination, or NCLEX-RN, the examination required to gain an RN license and work in the nursing field.

Don't Take Any Semesters Off

Completing an accelerated program in a college of nursing will require committed, full-time study. Students cannot complete their program in three years if they take semesters off or are enrolled part-time. A rigorous education experience is a good preparation for a career path in the nursing practice, which can often be a demanding field.

Create a Disciplined Schedule

A disciplined schedule can be the key to success in a fast-paced education program. The coursework and necessary studying students must complete will demand energy, time, and focus. A disciplined schedule can help students organize their schoolwork and stay on top of their studies.

Prioritize Your Studies

Students enrolled in a program with challenging education requirements must prioritize their studies to maintain a successful pace and GPA. Outside distractions can easily derail a student's education. However, it's also essential to prioritize physical health and mental health. Academic burnout is common, and schedules, study groups, tutoring services, and other resources can help avoid it.

Complete Clinical Rotations as Quickly as Possible

Completing clinical rotations comes at the end of completing a nursing degree, after completing all prerequisite courses, and it is one of the final steps in nursing education. It is the transition from classroom instruction to gaining real-world experience. Students will hone their skills and learn first-hand from practicing physicians. After completing clinical rotations, students will be prepared to work in many healthcare settings.

Top Online Accelerated Nursing Degree Programs

In-person degrees can provide an excellent education experience, but students can get a more convenient education of equal quality through an online accelerated degree program.

Holy Family University

Holy Family University's online accelerated BSN program is designed for students with a bachelor's degree. The admission requirements dictate that students must have a bachelor's degree, and a 3.0 GPA, and they must have completed the following prerequisite courses:

• Anatomy & Physiology I with Lab
• Anatomy & Physiology II with Lab
• Microbiology
• Nutrition
• Elementary Statistics

University of Wyoming

The University of Wyoming has a fully online BSN program, but its accelerated program will require some in-person classes. The program includes online courses, hybrid courses, and in-person courses. If students need to study online, they should enroll in the university's regular BSN program.

Wilkes University

Wilkes University's online accelerated BSN program is also designed for bachelor's degree holders. The program can be completed in just 15 months. Coursework is completed online, and students must also complete an on-campus residency and in-person clinicals to gain hands-on experience.

Louisiana State University Alexandria

Louisiana State University of Alexandria offers an online RN to BSN program, or registered nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The program is designed for registered working nurses and allows them to further their education for career growth and improved patient care.

Walden University

Walden University also offers an online RN to BSN program designed for working nurses. The rigorous curriculum is designed with flexibility for the RNs who are enrolled in the program. Students can easily transfer credits into the program. Graduates from an associate degree or another nursing program can transfer even more.

Baylor University

Baylor University offers an online accelerated nursing degree program exclusively for Texas residents. The fast-track program includes clinical rotations and boasts a 98% NCLEX-RN pass rate for graduates.

University of North Florida

The University of North Florida has an RN to BSN program available to registered nurses nationwide, regardless of the state they are licensed in. The degree has fast-paced online coursework before students move on to their clinical rotations and laboratory courses.