Can You Get a Nursing Degree in 1 Year?

Nursing degrees typically take longer than one year to earn because of the course completion and clinical rotation requirements. However, accelerated BSN programs and transfer credits are some ways you can earn a nursing degree faster. There are various specialties and nursing professions that contribute to healthcare. Registered nurses (RN), licensed practical nurses(LPN), and certified nursing assistants (CNA) are some of the career paths available in the nursing field.

Is It Possible To Get a Nursing Degree in a Year?

Most bachelor's degrees prepare graduates for licensure so they can become qualified nurses. Because of that, they have extensive educational requirements that must be completed to earn an RN license.

Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) degrees take an average of four years to earn due to the comprehensive coursework and clinical rotations. BSN programs introduce students to different nursing specialties and strengthen their skills with hands-on experiences in clinicals.

You generally can't get a nursing degree in one year, but there are ways to speed up the process depending on the program. Attending accelerated programs, utilizing transfer credits, or taking another nursing route are ways to earn a nursing degree in a shorter time.

How Can I Earn My Nursing Degree Faster?

While you can't earn a nursing degree in a year, there are still opportunities to expedite the process. Transfer credits, accelerated programs, and alternative nursing routes are effective ways to earn your nursing degree faster.

Accelerated Nursing Programs

Accelerated programs like the ABSN and the RN-to-BSN allow students to complete their nursing degrees quickly.

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in nursing (ABSN) programs can benefit nursing students who have already completed a degree in another, unrelated field and want to change career paths. RN-to-BSN programs are designed for registered nurses to earn a bachelor's degree.

Even though completing an accelerated nursing program is faster, it requires more studying and concentration to handle the additional coursework and prepare for licensing exams. They have larger courseloads that include more credits per term to meet the nursing education requirements.

Transfer Credits

For students who have previously attended a college program, transfer credits are a great way to earn a degree faster. In addition to general education courses, students can transfer credits from other relevant courses like chemistry or anatomy.

When enrolling in nursing school or second-degree nursing programs, it is important to note that the accepted transfer credits will vary depending on the school. Nursing programs can have different prerequisites and course requirements which may affect the completion time.

Type of Nursing Program

Bachelor of Science in nursing degrees can take about four years to complete and usually result in RN licensure. By enrolling in a lower-level nursing program, you can start a career path in the nursing field without needing to earn a BSN.

Associate Degree in Nursing

An Associate Degree in nursing (ADN) takes about two years to earn and can lead to nursing licensure after passing the NCLEX-RN exam. ADN programs provide nursing students with a solid foundation in key healthcare practices through coursework and clinical experiences.

After earning an ADN, nurses can begin working as an RN or attend an accelerated program, such as the RN-to-BSN program, to advance their education and credentials.

Licensed Practical Nurse

Licensed practical nurses assist with patient care, health documentation, and medical procedures. Becoming an LPN can take about a year, sometimes 18 months. After completing the NCLEX-PN, licensed practical nurses are qualified to work under the supervision of healthcare professionals like RNs and nurse practitioners.

Certified Nursing Assistant

Another option is to become a certified nursing assistant. CNAs provide basic patient care and can work in various healthcare settings from hospitals to nursing homes. Some programs can take just a few weeks, while others may take a few months. Earning a certification doesn't provide the same credentials as LPNs or RNs, but it qualifies you for entry-level roles in the nursing field.

Top Accelerated Online Nursing Degree Programs

Many universities offer accelerated nursing programs, often referred to as ABSN degrees. They provide a comprehensive nursing education through coursework and hands-on experiences. Students can earn their degrees, prepare for licensing exams, and start their nursing careers in less time with full-time study.

Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University's accelerated nursing degrees require students to study full-time to complete program requirements. They provide an understanding of nursing practices and methods by combining online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. Additionally, registered nurses who have received an ADN from another university or community college can enroll in Rasmussen's RN-to-BSN program to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Baylor University

The accelerated BSN degree at Baylor University is an accredited program. This program includes online coursework, lab experiences, and in-person clinical rotations to provide a well-rounded nursing education. Students who already have a bachelor's degree in another field can complete the program in about a year, sometimes less, with transfer credits.

Wilkes University

Second-degree students with a bachelor's in any field can earn an ABSN from Wilkes University in about 15 months of full-time study. Students complete clinicals, lab work, and prerequisite courses like anatomy and physiology to prepare them for the NCLEX exam.

Holy Family University

Holy Family University's ABSN program is an accelerated bachelor's degree for those who want to become nursing professionals. During the 14-month program, students complete coursework and clinical hour requirements to gain a thorough understanding of nursing practices and key healthcare concepts.

Texas A&M University

The second-degree BSN at Texas A&M University is designed for students who have already completed a bachelor's degree in another field. The accelerated program spans four semesters and can be completed in 15 months. Students attend clinical rotations and can utilize transfer credits from their completed degrees to meet the educational requirements.