12-Month ABSN Programs in California: Accelerated Nursing Online

The best 12-month accelerated nursing programs in California offer competitive tuition rates, fast-track programs, and a mix of online and in-person formats for those seeking their nursing degree.

Whether you're changing careers or returning to school with a previous degree, a <a href="https://learn.org/articles/12_month_accelerated_nursing_programs.html">1-year nursing program online</a> offers one of the fastest ways to enter the nursing profession. These second-degree accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) options are designed for students with non-nursing bachelor's degrees who want to complete their nursing education in a year or less. Many programs in California offer hybrid formats, combining online coursework with local clinical training to accommodate busy students who still want to meet licensure requirements. For those needing additional flexibility, fast-track nursing programs online provide similar curricula through virtual instruction and community-based clinicals. Below, we'll explore programs that deliver the same quality of education as traditional BSN pathways, but in a compressed format that helps students graduate sooner. <h2 id="section---WhatIsA12MonthABSNProgram">What Is a 12-Month ABSN Program?</h2> A 12-month ABSN program is an intensive, full-time nursing degree designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree. These fast-track programs compress a traditional BSN curriculum (normally completed in four years) into just one year. By focusing solely on nursing coursework and clinicals, students can quickly build the skills and knowledge required to become licensed registered nurses. ABSN programs typically include a blend of classroom instruction, skills labs, and hands-on clinical rotations. Some California colleges and universities offer hybrid or online delivery for added flexibility, while others take place fully on campus. Despite the accelerated pace, graduates are fully prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam and begin working in a range of healthcare settings, from hospitals and clinics to community health organizations. For students interested in advancing further in the field, a 12-month ABSN can also serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_are_the_Requirements_to_Be_a_Certified_Registered_Nurse.html">certified registered nurse</a> or pursuing graduate-level nursing education. It's an ideal option for motivated learners ready to make a fast and meaningful career shift into nursing. <h2 id="section---AreThereAny12MonthABSNProgramsInCalifornia">Are There Any 12-Month ABSN Programs in California?</h2> If you're looking to transition into nursing quickly, the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/fastest_way_to_become_nurse.html">fastest way to become a nurse</a> is through a 1-year accelerated nursing program. There are some universities in California offering 12-month programs; however, these are less common. Other programs can still be completed at an accelerated rate, but may take closer to two years to finish. <h2 id="section---TopAcceleratedBSNProgramsInCalifornia">Top Accelerated BSN Programs in California</h2> Whether you prefer a fully immersive campus setting or a hybrid model with online flexibility, these programs allow qualified students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in a fraction of the time of traditional routes. Below, you'll find the top options, ranked by cost and program duration, all well-suited for second-degree students ready to enter the nursing profession. <h3 id="section---1.MountSaintMarySUniversity">1. Mount Saint Mary's University</h3> Mount Saint Mary's ABSN is one of California's most affordable 12-month nursing programs and is offered at the university's historic Doheny Campus in Los Angeles. This fast-paced, full-time program teaches patient-centered care, ethics, and leadership in nursing. Although the program is not online, students have access to digital resources that support independent study and test preparation. A cohort model ensures that students move through the curriculum together, fostering a supportive learning environment with personalized faculty guidance. Estimated tuition cost: $25,236 Program length: 12 months Financial aid: The university offers a variety of aid options, including federal loans, institutional scholarships, and grants for eligible students. Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) <h3 id="section---2.SamuelMerrittUniversity">2. Samuel Merritt University</h3> Samuel Merritt University's ABSN program is a powerhouse for hands-on training, located in both Oakland and Sacramento. The program runs year-round and includes intensive clinical experiences at leading California healthcare institutions. What sets Samuel Merritt apart is its use of immersive simulation labs and personalized support services—resources that help students thrive in this high-pressure program. Though most instruction is in person, supplementary online tools are integrated to reinforce classroom learning and clinical prep. This is a good fit for students who want a deep dive into nursing in just one year. Estimated tuition cost: $98,000 Program length: 12 months Financial aid: Samuel Merritt supports students through federal financial aid programs, scholarships, and interest-free tuition payment plans. Accreditation: CCNE <h3 id="section---3.CaliforniaStateUniversityStanislaus">3. California State University, Stanislaus</h3> Stanislaus State's ASBSN program is offered in a hybrid format. Students engage in online didactic content while attending in-person labs and clinicals in the Central Valley. This 17-month program is known for its structured learning path and consistency, with all students admitted as part of a single cohort. Designed for working professionals and adult learners, the format reduces commute time and increases accessibility for students across the region. Estimated tuition cost: $44,840 Program length: 17 months Financial aid: Financial assistance includes federal student loans, state-based grants, and CSU scholarship opportunities. Accreditation: CCNE <h3 id="section---4.CaliforniaStateUniversitySanMarcos">4. California State University, San Marcos</h3> California State University, San Marcos (CSU San Marcos) has tailored its ABSN program to those who want to pursue nursing without stepping away from family or part-time work. Spanning 2.5 years, this program delivers coursework in a hybrid model and schedules clinicals in convenient weekend and evening slots. Though longer in length, the structure is ideal for students who need a more flexible timeline while still maintaining the intensity and depth of a traditional nursing curriculum. Estimated tuition cost: $44,890 Program length: 2.5 years Financial aid: Students can access federal loans, institutional scholarships, and California state grants. Accreditation: CCNE <h3 id="section---5.SanFranciscoStateUniversity">5. San Francisco State University</h3> The 15-month ABSN program at San Francisco State University (SFSU) is a fast-paced, cohort-based option located in one of California's most diverse healthcare hubs. Students participate in traditional classroom settings, hands-on labs, and supervised clinicals across the Bay Area. Faculty bring real-world nursing expertise into the classroom, and the university's partnerships with local hospitals ensure access to modern, well-rounded clinical training. Though the program is campus-based, some materials and support are available online. Estimated tuition cost: $795 per unit Program length: 15 months Financial aid: The university offers financial support through FAFSA-based aid, CSU scholarships, and health profession loan programs. Accreditation: CCNE <h3 id="section---6.ConcordiaUniversityIrvine">6. Concordia University Irvine</h3> Concordia's ABSN program stands out with its mission-driven approach to nursing education. The 15-month program is built around a hybrid delivery model: Online coursework allows students to learn at their own pace while skills labs and clinical rotations take place across multiple Southern California locations. Faith and service are integrated throughout the curriculum to promote both ethical care and holistic healing. The structure supports adult learners and those seeking a career change who need a mix of flexibility and structure. Estimated tuition cost: $990 per unit Program length: 15 months Financial aid: Financial support includes access to federal loans, merit-based awards, and Christian service scholarships. Accreditation: CCNE <h3 id="section---7.CaliforniaStateUniversityNorthridge">7. California State University, Northridge</h3> CSU Northridge offers a hybrid ABSN program through its Tseng College of Graduate, International and Midcareer Education. This 15-month pathway delivers theory through a mix of online and classroom sessions, while clinicals take place at Southern California medical centers. The program offers small class sizes, evening coursework, and faculty with clinical expertise. It's a great fit for students who want a balance of online flexibility and in-person training. Estimated tuition cost: $1,086 per unit Program length: 15 months Financial aid: Students may apply for federal financial aid, CSU grants, and Tseng College's professional studies scholarships. Accreditation: CCNE <h2 id="section---OtherAcceleratedOnlineABSNPrograms">Other Accelerated Online ABSN Programs</h2> If you're located outside California or seeking greater schedule flexibility, several accredited universities offer fully online ABSN programs. <h3 id="section---UniversityOfMassachusettsBoston">University of Massachusetts Boston</h3> UMass Boston offers a compact, 12-month ABSN program that combines online lectures with local clinical experiences. The curriculum is known for its public health and equity focus, preparing graduates to serve diverse populations in a range of healthcare settings. Faculty use interactive virtual tools and real-time instruction to simulate hospital scenarios, while local preceptors supervise hands-on training. Estimated tuition cost: $650 per credit Program length: 12 months Financial aid: The university provides financial aid through federal loan programs, institutional nursing scholarships, and grant opportunities. Accreditation: CCNE <h3 id="section---ClevelandStateUniversity">Cleveland State University</h3> Cleveland State's accelerated BSN program is ideal for students who want flexibility without sacrificing quality. Over 16 months, students complete online coursework and engage in two on-campus residencies. Clinical placements are handled locally, making this program viable for students in multiple states. Estimated tuition cost: $307.20 to $441.60 per credit Program length: 16 months Financial aid: Financial support includes federal financial aid, in-state tuition discounts, and installment payment plans. Accreditation: CCNE <h3 id="section---WilkesUniversity">Wilkes University</h3> Wilkes University's ABSN program involves asynchronous online coursework and supervised clinical training in students' home regions. With multiple start dates per year and personal coaching, you'll have the support you need to work through your degree program successfully. Students complete the program in 15 months and benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that includes pharmacology, pathophysiology, and nursing leadership. Estimated tuition cost: $31,138 to $40,308 Program length: 15 months Financial aid: Wilkes offers a mix of federal aid, employer tuition reimbursement partnerships, and nursing-specific scholarships. Accreditation: CCNE <h2 id="section---HowWeRankSchools">How We Rank Schools</h2> To help students identify the most efficient and affordable paths into nursing, we reviewed dozens of ABSN programs in California and across the U.S. The programs on this list were chosen using the following criteria: <ul><li>Accreditation: We included only programs accredited by recognized bodies such as the CCNE or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), ensuring graduates are eligible for RN licensure. </li><li>Online format: While many of the programs featured in this list are only offered in person, we highlighted several options that offer fully online or hybrid classes. </li><li>Program reputation: ABSN programs were evaluated based on factors such as faculty credentials, clinical partnerships, NCLEX pass rates, and student support services. </li></ul><h2 id="section---FAQsAboutAcceleratedOnlineABSNPrograms">FAQs About Accelerated Online ABSN Programs</h2> Accelerated online BSN programs are a fast, flexible way for students with a non-nursing bachelor's degree to transition into the nursing field. Below, we've answered some of the most common questions to help you decide if an online ABSN program is right for you. <h3 id="section---HowMuchDoesAnOnlineABSNProgramCost">How Much Does an Online ABSN Program Cost?</h3> Online ABSN programs vary widely in cost, typically ranging from $25,000 to $65,000 depending on the school, location, and whether you qualify for in-state tuition. In addition to tuition, students should plan for expenses like lab fees, textbooks, and licensing exams. To keep costs manageable, many students seek out <a href="https://learn.org/articles/cheap_online_colleges_that_accept_fafsa.html">cheap online colleges that accept FAFSA</a>, which provide both affordability and access to federal financial aid. Learn More: <a href="https://learn.org/articles/cheapest_absn_programs.html">Cheapest Accelerated Nursing Programs</a> <h3 id="section---WhatEducationDoYouNeedToBeANurse">What Education Do You Need To Be a Nurse?</h3> There are a few key <a href="https://learn.org/articles/what_education_do_i_need_to_become_nurse.html">educational requirements for nurses</a> to consider if you'd like to pursue an ABSN degree. To become a registered nurse, you must complete an accredited nursing program—either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing—and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. ABSN programs are specifically designed for individuals who already have a non-nursing bachelor's degree. They allow you to earn a second bachelor's in nursing without repeating general education courses. <h3 id="section---WhatAreTheAdmissionsRequirementsForOnlineABSNPrograms">What Are the Admissions Requirements for Online ABSN Programs?</h3> Most online ABSN programs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and meet a minimum GPA (usually between 2.75 and 3.0). In addition, students must complete prerequisite coursework in areas such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics. Some programs also require TEAS or HESI test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining your career goals. <h3 id="section---CanIGetABSNWithoutBecomingAnRNFirst">Can I Get a BSN Without Becoming an RN First?</h3> Yes, you can get your <a href="https://learn.org/articles/can_i_get_bsn_without_rn.html">BSN without being an RN</a>. ABSN programs are intended to help students earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing as a first step toward becoming a licensed nurse. Once you complete your degree, you'll be eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and apply for RN licensure. <h3 id="section---AreOnlineABSNProgramsRespectedByEmployers">Are Online ABSN Programs Respected by Employers?</h3> Accredited online ABSN programs are widely accepted and respected by healthcare employers, as long as they meet state board standards and include required clinical experiences. Employers are more focused on accreditation status, NCLEX pass rates, and clinical preparedness than on whether the coursework was completed online or on campus. Graduates of these programs are eligible for licensure and fully qualified for entry-level RN positions in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. <h2 id="section---FindAnOnlineNursingDegree">Find an Online Nursing Degree</h2> If you're ready to take the next step toward beginning your career as a nurse, explore accredited online nursing programs on Learn.org and contact a school with a degree that fits your budget and timeline.

12-Month ABSN Programs in California: Accelerated Nursing Online

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