Getting Into an Accelerated BSN Program

Getting accepted into nursing school is the first step on a rewarding journey. You’re making a change in your life that will land you in a new career, helping people as a registered nurse. However, some prospective students fear that the process for getting into an Accelerated BSN program is too difficult and worry about going at it alone. Fortunately, the experience doesn’t have to be so daunting, especially with the ABSN program at Xavier University.

The ABSN at Xavier University

To show how the Accelerated BSN program at Xavier University is different from other nursing schools, let’s start by taking a look at the program details. Our ABSN program is a second-degree option for individuals who already have a BA or BS degree and want to quickly transition into nursing. For example, if you have a political science degree, you can leverage that education toward a nursing degree, so you won’t have to retake general education courses. Once your nursing prerequisites are met, you can complete the program in as few as 16 months.

Admission Requirements and Prerequisites

It is important to understand the admissions requirements and prerequisites needed to get into the nursing school you are applying to. At Xavier, we seek applicants who:

• Hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.70.
• Complete all prerequisite courses within the grade requirements.

If your existing bachelor’s degree is not in a science-related field, you will most likely be required to complete a series of prerequisite courses before you can apply to our ABSN program. Being a nurse requires a strong aptitude for science and math. You must complete or show you have already completed the following courses within the last five years:

• Microbiology, with a grade of "B-"or higher
• Human Anatomy or Anatomy & Physiology I, with a grade of "B-"or higher
• Human Physiology or Anatomy & Physiology II, with a grade of "B-"or higher
• Statistics, with a grade of "C" or higher

Getting Help Along the Way

There are forms to fill out and deadlines to meet, but at Xavier University, you are not alone in this process. Our admission counselors can help you at every point along the way, not only to make sure you are submitting the right paperwork when you need to, but also to:

• Answer your questions.
• Help you develop a personalized academic plan.
• Keep you on task during the application process.
• Help keep you motivated and moving toward your future career in nursing.

The best way to begin our admission process is to schedule a meeting with one of our admission counselors to discuss your credentials and career goals.

The Opportunity to Start Sooner

The ABSN at Xavier University is structured to provide access to quality nursing education for a greater number of qualified students. There is currently a high demand for nursing programs in several areas of the state and the nation, resulting in wait lists at many schools. This can be discouraging for students who have already made the decision to change careers but aren’t able to pursue their new path as quickly as they would like.

The ABSN program at Xavier University has removed this barrier by offering three start dates a year, so more qualified students are able to begin the program each year. There is no wait list, which means if you start the process now, you could be in the program in a matter of months.

A Beneficial Blended Curriculum

Another benefit of the ABSN program is the curriculum structure, which follows a blended format. Components of the program include:

• Online learning
• Onsite skills and simulation labs
• Clinical rotations

Each element offers numerous advantages to students, including support from faculty and nursing professionals. Instructors are available for questions and office hours. They also work with you during skills and simulation labs to ensure you are mastering the hands-on competencies introduced in your online courses. In clinical rotations, you are guided by practicing nurses and health care workers in real-world scenarios with real patients. The continuous support ensures students never feel they are on their own.

Additionally, upon graduation, you will have gained the knowledge and skills required to take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) with confidence. Plus, Xavier’s holistic approach to treating mind, body, and spirit will prepare you for all aspects of nursing practice, education and research as well as enhance your credibility with employers.

The ABSN Advantage at Xavier University

The ABSN at Xavier University is a program with a purpose. Our mission is to graduate nurse leaders who are prepared to improve and safeguard the health care needs of individuals, families, and entire communities. Our teaching is guided by five important objectives that aim to promote the value of holistic care and wellness in our society:

1. Teach critical thinking skills that are vital to professional judgment and ethical decision making.
2. Teach what it means to value the dignity and worth of every patient.
3. Teach the importance of providing thoughtful and compassionate care to those in transition.
4. Teach the value of leadership and collaboration in promoting the health and welfare of patients.
5. Teach the importance of ongoing personal and professional growth through continuous education.

The ABSN program at Xavier University is an accessible program with a strong reputation. We seek to establish cohorts of highly dedicated students who have the qualities that embody the true spirit of the Xavier nurse.

Your classmates, who like you will have already earned one bachelor’s degree, will bring a wide variety of experiences and perspectives to the program. And, upon completing the ABSN, you will join that network of more than 65,000 Xavier University graduates who are making a difference around the world.

Once you graduate from the ABSN program, you will be fully prepared to take the NCLEX and begin your career as a registered nurse. Contact our admission team to take the first steps toward that new career today.