13 Best (12-MONTH) Accelerated Nursing Online Programs – 2025


Written By: Editorial Staff @ NursingProcess.org

What’s the difference between an online accelerated nursing program and a traditional accelerated nursing program? Convenience! Online accelerated nursing programs offer curricula similar to their campus-based counterparts because educational requirements must all meet standards set by professional nursing organizations. But online coursework doesn’t force you to be in a specific place—and often, it won’t tie you to a particular schedule. You’re in control of your learning! Best of all, 12-month online accelerated nursing programs let you earn your degree quickly!

So, what are the best 12-month accelerated nursing programs online? The list below of the 13 best 12-month accelerated nursing online is bound to have one that will meet your criteria.



RECOMMENDED ONLINE NURSING SCHOOLS

WHAT ARE THE BEST (12-MONTH) ACCELERATED NURSING ONLINE PROGRAMS IN THE NATION?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the 13 best 12-Month Accelerated Nursing online programs for 2025. These online Accelerated Nursing programs are for students with a degree in a non-nursing field. You can complete these programs in 12 months or less.)


1. Emory University - Atlanta, GA


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete Emory University Accelerated Nursing Online Program: If you are keen on enrolling in one of the best 12-month accelerated nursing programs online, then Emory University’s accelerated nursing online program is an excellent choice. Here, you can graduate within just three consecutive semesters.

Program Details: Emory’s accelerated BSN provides a quick entry into the nursing workforce. The 12-month online accelerated nursing comprises 48 credits and starts three times a year in August, January, and May. The program covers topics such as the foundations of nursing science, health assessment, pathophysiology, pharmacology, acute & chronic care, maternity & reproductive health nursing, mental health nursing, women’s health, pediatric nursing, and population health.


Admission Requirements: Open to applicants with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, to be considered for Emory University’s online accelerated nursing program, you must have completed all the prerequisites with a minimum of grade C. The prerequisites include seven courses in physical sciences, Math, and social sciences. To apply, you must be prepared to submit your official transcripts, resume, and statement of purpose.


Why Choose Emory University Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• Emory University’s BSN program ranks among the nation’s best as per the U.S. News & World Report. Therefore, online accelerated BSN students can expect high-quality education.
• Emory University’s online accelerated nursing program requires the attendance of an on-campus intensive wherein students must visit the Emory campus along with their peers. The two-day intensive has the college pay for your travel and accommodations.
• Emory University’s online accelerated nursing program offers generous financial aid. In fact, you will be happy to know that over 92 percent of students at Emory receive some sort of financial aid.


2. Baylor University - Waco, TX


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete Baylor University Accelerated Nursing Online Program: Baylor University offers an accelerated path for students looking at entering the nursing workforce rather quickly. One of the best 12-month accelerated nursing programs online, Baylor’s BSN takes as little as 12 months to complete. This program is an intensive full-time track that requires students to be committed to their nursing studies.

Program Details: Baylor University’s accelerated nursing online program is a 62-credit curriculum that is grounded in Christian values. Graduates are prepared with a holistic approach to serving the health needs of the state’s diverse patient population, emphasizing the underserved communities. This 12-month online accelerated nursing program leverages your non-nursing undergraduate education and mainly includes courses in the nursing major. While all the didactic courses are offered online, the program requires students to attend two on-campus intensives. Also, students must complete 720 hours of clinical training at a healthcare site.


Admission Requirements: To qualify for Baylor University’s online accelerated nursing program, applicants must have a non-nursing bachelor’s with a GPA of at least 3.0. Further, to be able to complete the accelerated nursing coursework, it is required that you have 52 credits of prerequisites completed before the start of the program. Other admission requirements include the submission of official transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose Baylor University Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• Baylor University’s online accelerated BSN graduates report high first-time pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam.
• Baylor University’s online accelerated nursing program boasts an excellent placement rate, having over 90% of students receiving job offers upon graduation.
• Baylor University’s online accelerated nursing program provides students with the convenience of completing their clinical training at clinical sites that are close to home.


3. Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center - Lubbock TX


Program Length: 12 Months


How Fast Can You Complete Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Accelerated Nursing Online Program: If you are wondering whether there are any 12-month accelerated nursing programs online in Texas, then Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center’s online accelerated nursing program is a great choice. Not only can you complete the program within just 12 months, but you can also enjoy the flexibility of taking courses from the comfort of your home.

Program Details: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center accelerated nursing online program comprises 61 credits. This 12-month online accelerated nursing program offering an intensive coursework leads to the NCLEX-RN licensure. The program is aligned with industry standards, preparing nurses to meet the complex challenges of patient care.


Admission Requirements: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center accelerated nursing online program follows a holistic admission process, reviewing every aspect of your application. Foremost, to qualify for admission, applicants must have a BA or BS degree from an accredited college or university. The overall undergraduate GPA must be at least 2.5, preferably above 3.0. The program also requires applicants to have completed prerequisite courses in pathophysiology, microbiology, anatomy & physiology.


Why Choose Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center’s online accelerated nursing program provides clinical training at a variety of clinical affiliates that are within a student’s home community.
• Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center’s online accelerated nursing program offers several financial aid and scholarship opportunities that help reduce the cost of your education.


4. Mercer University - Atlanta, GA


Program Length: 12 Months


How Fast Can You Complete Mercer University Accelerated Nursing Online Program: Are you passionate about helping people? If are you seeking a career change through one of the best 12-month accelerated nursing online programs, then Mercer University is a great place to start. Its accelerated online BSN takes you from a non-nurse to a nurse within just 12 months.

Program Details: Mercer University’s online accelerated nursing program, although a quick route, provides students with a solid foundation in nursing basic and advanced concepts. Rigorous didactic courses are combined with extensive clinical training to offer a well-rounded education. Further, the flexibility of taking online classes at your convenient time allows adult learners to save time and money.

This 12-month accelerated nursing online program comprises a total of 56 credits. The program covers topics such as the fundamentals of nursing care, health assessment, mental health nursing, population health nursing, pharmacology, evidence-based practice, and adult nursing science.


Admission Requirements: Mercer University’s online accelerated nursing program is open to candidates who have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. Also, the program requires you to have completed prerequisites before the start of the program. To qualify, your undergraduate GPA must be at least 3.0. The admission process also requires the submission of a resume, an essay, and a TEAS score.


Why Choose Mercer University Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• Mercer University’s online accelerated nursing program is taught by dedicated faculty members who are highly accomplished.
• Mercer University’s online accelerated nursing program offers three start dates, in spring, summer & fall to allow students to start when they are ready.
• Mercer University’s online accelerated nursing program offers students extensive hands-on training at its state-of-art simulation lab in Atlanta.


5. University of Wisconsin Oshkosh - Oshkosh, WI


Program Length: 12 Months


How Fast Can You Complete University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Accelerated Nursing Online Program: University of Wisconsin Oshkosh’s accelerated nursing online program can help your graduate with a BSN sooner than you think. To complete this program all it takes is 12 months of study.

Program Details: If you’ve been searching for the best 12-month online accelerated nursing programs in WI, then the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh’s ABSN is an excellent choice. The program is designed for non-nursing baccalaureate degree holders who want to enter the field of nursing. The program comprises a total of 52 credits in nursing theory courses, on-campus residency, and clinical rotations. The nursing theory courses cover topics such as health assessment, pathophysiology, evidence-based practice, pharmacology, mental health, adult health, community health, and leadership & management.


Admission Requirements: To apply for Wisconsin Oshkosh’s 12-month online accelerated nursing program, you must have a prior non-nursing bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5. It is also preferred that you have some previous experience with direct patient care. To complete the application, you must be prepared to submit your transcripts, resume, and personal statement.


Why Choose University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• University of Wisconsin Oshkosh’s online accelerated nursing program graduates report excellent pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam.
• University of Wisconsin Oshkosh’s online accelerated nursing program graduates are desired by employers for the excellent professional skillset they possess, little wonder that graduates report finding desirable placements soon after they graduate.
• University of Wisconsin Oshkosh’s online accelerated nursing program students explore international clinical learning opportunities in other countries.


6. University of Massachusetts Boston - Boston, MA


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete University of Massachusetts Boston Accelerated Nursing Online Program: If you are seeking a second degree in nursing, then University of Massachusetts Boston’s accelerated nursing online program can help you graduate within just one year. While the one-year program is full-time, you can also opt for the slower pace of part-time study. Further, with three start dates in fall, spring, and summer, the program allows you to enter as soon as you are ready.

Program Details: Among the best 1-year accelerated nursing programs online, Umass Boston’s ABSN is designed for self-motivated individuals who want to shift careers to nursing. The program offers courses in the seven-week format. The curriculum covers topics such as pathophysiology, pharmacology, health promotion, evidence-based nursing practice, concepts of health & illness, and professional nursing concepts. To graduate, you must complete a total of 52 credits.


Admission Requirements: To be considered for admission into University of Massachusetts Boston’s online accelerated nursing program, you must have an undergraduate degree in a non-nursing field. To apply, you must submit official transcripts, two short essays, two professional recommendations, and an optional TEAS score.


Why Choose University of Massachusetts Boston Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• University of Massachusetts Boston’s ABSN is one of the more affordable 12-month accelerated nursing programs online in the nation.
• University of Massachusetts Boston’s online accelerated nursing program offers an engaging learning experience under the mentorship of a highly dedicated faculty.
• University of Massachusetts Boston’s online accelerated nursing program students are provided with excellent simulation training at its high-fidelity simulation lab.


7. Wilkes University - Wilkes-Barre, PA


Program Length: 12 Months


How Fast Can You Complete Wilkes University Accelerated Nursing Online Program: If you’ve decided to change your career to nursing, then Wilkes University’s ABSN can accelerate your move by providing a study plan that can be completed within just 12 months or three terms.

Program Details: Another of the 12-month accelerated nursing programs online in the nation is offered by Wilkes University. The program comprises a total of 48 credits and seven courses. In addition to didactic courses, the program also includes two residencies, one on-campus and the other that is online. The program prepares graduates with evidence-based knowledge to provide culturally relevant care to diverse patient populations.


Admission Requirements: Wilkes University’s 12-month online accelerated nursing program requires minimal prerequisites, precisely only 6 courses to qualify for admission. However, an undergraduate degree in a non-nursing field is a must. Further, your GPA must be at least 3.0. To complete the admission requirements, you must be prepared to submit a statement of professional goals, two letters of recommendation, and your official transcripts.


Why Choose Wilkes University Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• Wilkes University has more than 80 years of experience in training competent nursing professionals. The online accelerated nursing program builds on this experience and offers an educational experience that yields a positive academic and professional outcome.
• Wilkes University’s online accelerated nursing program graduates perform exceedingly well in the NCELX-RN exam, with pass rates consistently exceeding the national averages.
• Wilkes University ranks among the nation’s best universities as per the U.S. News & World Report.


8. The College of St. Scholastica - Duluth, MN


Program Length: 12 Months


How Fast Can You Complete The College of St. Scholastica Accelerated Nursing Online Program: To complete the College of St. Scholastica’s accelerated nursing online program all it takes is 12 months of full-time study. Precisely, you’ll take three semesters to graduate.

Program Details: Among the well-known 12-month accelerated nursing online programs is the College of St. Scholastica’s online ABSN. Designed for career changers, the program comprises 45 credits in didactic courses, lab, and clinical courses. The coursework mainly comprises courses in lifespan nursing, professional nursing, and population-based healthcare. Graduates are prepared to offer holistic nursing care to individuals and families across the lifespan.


Admission Requirements: To be eligible for St. Scholastica’s 12-month online accelerated nursing program, you must have a non-nursing baccalaureate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. The program also requires the completion of prerequisites, including, psychology, general chemistry, microbiology, nutrition, and statistics. To complete the application, you must submit your transcripts, a resume, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose The College of St. Scholastica Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• The College of St. Scholastica’s online accelerated nursing program offers clinical training at its new state-of-art simulation lab where students receive ample clinical training in a safe environment.
• The College of St. Scholastica students are provided with a wide range of clinical experiences in acute care, ambulatory care, and community nursing.
• The College of St. Scholastica’s online accelerated nursing program is taught by experienced and distinguished faculty members who leave no stone unturned to ensure students reach their academic and professional goals.


9. Queens University of Charlotte - Charlotte, NC


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete Queens University of Charlotte Accelerated Nursing Online Program: It is possible to complete Queens University of Charlotte’s ABSN within just one year. The program starts in the summer and takes exactly three semesters to complete.

Program Details: As someone seeking to enroll in one of the well-known 12-month online accelerated nursing programs, Queens University of Charlotte’s ABSN offers an excellent option. The program comprises 58 credits of nursing courses and at least 450 clinical hours of practice. Whether you are a morning person or a night owl, you’ll be able to schedule the online classes at your convenience. Graduates are trained to provide nursing care for individuals across the lifespan, encompassing all areas of patient care, from the basics to advanced care in med-surgical nursing, pediatric nursing, women’s health, mental health, maternity to community health nursing.


Admission Requirements: To be considered for Queens University of Charlotte’s 1-year accelerated nursing programs online, applicants must have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, to qualify, you must complete prereqs in human anatomy, & physiology, microbiology, general psychology, nutrition, and statistics. Other admission requirements include the submission of transcripts, letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal statement.


Why Choose Queens University of Charlotte Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• Queens University of Charlotte’s online accelerated nursing program shares strong partnerships with several clinical agencies to provide students with a wide variety of clinical experiences within their home community.
• Queens University of Charlotte is close to premier healthcare organizations, offering graduates the advantage of exploring lucrative placements just around the corner.
• Queens University of Charlotte’s online accelerated nursing program boasts of an excellent pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam.


10. University of St. Thomas - Houston, TX


Program Length: 12 Months


How Fast Can You Complete University of St. Thomas Accelerated Nursing Online Program: If you are yearning to become a nurse, then the University of St. Thomas’s ABSN can make you one within just 12 months. With three start dates, the program adds flexibility to allow you to enroll when you are ready.

Program Details: For someone looking at enrolling in one of the sought-after 1-year accelerated nursing online programs in Texas, University of St. Thomas’s ABSN is a befitting choice. The 58-credit coursework is rigorous and provides students with a solid foundation in basic and advanced nursing concepts. Leading to the NCELX-RN exam, the program covers topics such as pathopharmacology, health assessment, foundations of holistic nursing practice, acute care nursing, behavioral health nursing, and community health nursing.


Admission Requirements: If you are interested in applying for St. Thomas's 12-month accelerated nursing online program, you must foremost have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Also, in addition to the completion of pre-requisite courses, the program requires the submission of documents, including your transcripts, resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.


Why Choose University of St. Thomas Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• University of St. Thomas’s online accelerated nursing program students gain real-world clinical training at some of Houston’s top clinical agencies, including the Texas Medical Center.
• St. Thomas’s online accelerated nursing program boasts consistently high pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam.
• St. Thomas’s online accelerated nursing program students are mentored by an expert faculty who have years of practice experience.


11. Idaho State University - Pocatello, ID


Program Length: 1 Year


How Fast Can You Complete Idaho State University Accelerated Nursing Online Program: Idaho State University’s accelerated nursing online program is a fast-paced coursework that takes just 12 months to complete. The program is structured to start with foundation courses in the first semester, followed by advanced nursing courses in the second and third semesters.

Program Details: The nation’s reputable 1-year online accelerated nursing programs not only expedite your entry into the nursing field but also make you a desirable candidate in the nursing job market. Similarly, Idaho State University’s ABSN produces high-quality nursing professionals who are well-equipped with employable skills. The 52-credit coursework offers 100% online didactic courses and includes clinical experiences that are closer to home. Some of the topics covered include the nursing fundamentals of health assessment, mental health nursing, evidence-based nursing practice, child health nursing, women’s health, adult health, population health, and leadership & management in nursing.


Admission Requirements: Admission into Idaho State University’s 12-month online accelerated nursing program is a competitive process. To qualify for admission, applicants must have an accredited bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Acceptance into the program is mainly based on the prerequisite GPA, TEAS score, and personal interview.


Why Choose Idaho State University Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• Idaho State University’s online accelerated nursing program offers excellent simulation training at its human simulation lab that replicates patient scenarios just like they happen in a real-world hospital setting.
• Idaho State University’s nursing graduates play a significant role in improving patient care for diverse and rural populations across the state and beyond.
• Idaho State University’s online accelerated nursing program emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and evidence-based knowledge.


12. MidAmerica Nazarene University - Olathe, KS


Program Length: 12 Months


How Fast Can You Complete MidAmerica Nazarene University Accelerated Nursing Online Program: As the demand for nurses continues to rise, MidAmerica Nazarene University prepares you to join the field in no time. You can complete its accelerated nursing online program within as few as 12 months.

Program Details: MidAmerica Nazarene University’s 12-month accelerated nursing online program provides you with the perfect launchpad to a fulfilling nursing career. The accelerated path is designed for career changers who have a previous bachelor’s degree. Leading to the NCLEX-RN exam, the program offers online courses with some on-site visits. The program includes courses in pathophysiology, ethics, quality & safety in nursing, pharmacotherapy, health assessment, gerontological nursing, health restoration, mental health, pediatric nursing, and maternal and women’s health nursing. Also, topics such as population health, nursing leadership, and nursing research & evidence-based practice are covered.


Admission Requirements: If you are interested in applying for MidAmerica Nazarene University’s 12-month accelerated nursing online program, then you must have a BS or BA degree with a cumulative GPA of at least 2.7. The program takes in promising candidates who have not failed any nursing courses at any other nursing school. Also, pre-requisite courses must be completed with a minimum grade of C.


Why Choose MidAmerica Nazarene University Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• MidAmerica Nazarene University’s online accelerated nursing program includes a class in biblical perspectives to integrate faith-based values into nursing practice.
• MidAmerica Nazarene University’s online accelerated nursing program graduates perform exceedingly well on the NCLEX-RN exam.
• MidAmerica Nazarene University ranks among the top in the nation for the social mobility of its graduates, according to the U.S. News & World Report.


13. University of Providence - Great Falls, MT


Program Length: 12 Months


How Fast Can You Complete University of Providence Accelerated Nursing Online Program: The University of Providence’s accelerated nursing online program is an intensive coursework that takes just 12 months to complete.

Program Details: University of Providence’s 1-year online accelerated nursing program offers a blend of online courses and in-person skills training. The coursework is demanding and requires students to avoid working while enrolled. The program spans three semesters and on average most students take three classes each semester. Upon completion of this program, you’ll be equipped with skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, and interprofessional collaboration.


Admission Requirements: To apply for University of Providence’s 1-year online accelerated nursing program, you must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.75. To submit your application, you must attach your transcripts, a resume, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.


Why Choose University of Providence Online Accelerated Nursing Program

• University of Providence’s online accelerated nursing program offers a close-knit learning environment where individualized attention is allowed.
• University of Providence shares robust clinical partnerships with several healthcare agencies. Students are provided with diverse clinical experiences in all areas of nursing.
• University of Providence’s online accelerated nursing program takes pride in the impressive performance of its graduates on the RN licensure exam.


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