What Massachusetts Schools Offer Accelerated BSN Programs: Second Degree BSN

The Accelerated BSN at Regis College is a 16-month, full-time program for career changers and non-nurse college graduates. The curriculum builds on prior undergraduate coursework, diving directly into nursing courses. Students benefit from small classes, individual faculty mentorship, and immersive clinical placements at elite Boston hospitals like Massachusetts General and Brigham and Women's. High-fidelity simulation and standardized patient scenarios sharpen clinical skills. NCLEX-style exams are embedded in every clinical course, and a comprehensive predictor exam ensures readiness for licensure. With a 94% NCLEX pass rate and 90% industry-active faculty, graduates are well-prepared to become registered nurses. The program offers fall and spring starts, with rolling admissions after preferred deadlines.

• $77,100 total program tuition
• $1,285 per credit
• 16-Month program
• 60 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Starts fall/spring
• 94% licensure pass rate
• Prerequisite courses required
• Prepares for NCLEX
• Financial aid available

Designed for career changers and college graduates, Regis College's Accelerated 24-Month BS in Nursing lets you build on your previous bachelor's degree to become a registered nurse faster. The hybrid format combines 100% online coursework with hands-on simulation labs on campus and clinical placements at top Boston hospitals. You'll focus on nursing fundamentals, patient care, and NCLEX preparation, with exams embedded in every clinical course. The program features 12-week semesters, a clinical preceptorship in your final term, and small cohorts supported by faculty who are active nurses. Graduates emerge ready to sit for the NCLEX and pursue careers as registered nurses in diverse healthcare settings. Regis's ABSN program has been ranked #1 in Massachusetts, reflecting its strong reputation and outcomes.

• $77,100 total program tuition
• $1,285 per credit
• 24-Month program
• Complete in less than two years
• 60 total credit hours
• Rolling admissions
• Starts fall
• Prepares for NCLEX
• 100% online coursework
• 12-week semesters

Northeastern University's Accelerated BSN program offers a fast track to nursing for those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree or at least 62 college credits. In just 16 months, students complete a rigorous hybrid curriculum that blends online coursework with hands-on nursing labs and clinical rotations at top healthcare facilities. The program emphasizes experiential learning, preparing graduates to become practice-ready nurses. With three start dates per year and locations near Boston, Providence, and Charlotte, it provides flexibility for career changers. The curriculum covers nursing fundamentals, theory, and practical skills through state-of-the-art simulation labs. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN and pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. Northeastern's strong reputation and scholarship opportunities make this an attractive option for aspiring nurses.

• 16-Month program
• Full-time enrollment
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts winter/spring/fall
• Prerequisite courses required
• Scholarships available
• Blended online learning model
• Nursing labs in three locations
• Clinical rotations at top facilities
• Second-degree and transfer tracks

The Accelerated B.S. in Nursing (ABSN) at UMass Amherst is a rigorous, full-time, in-person program designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. In just 16 months, you'll earn a second bachelor's degree and be prepared for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. The curriculum blends classroom instruction with extensive hands-on learning through clinical placements at leading healthcare facilities and state-of-the-art simulation labs. You'll develop critical thinking, evidence-based decision-making, and problem-solving skills while mastering new technology. Faculty serve as mentors, fostering a supportive environment that encourages leadership and community service. Graduates are equipped for diverse nursing careers in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings, with a strong foundation for advanced nursing education. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing, ensuring a quality education that meets professional licensure requirements.

• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing accredited
• 16-Month program
• Financial aid available
• Learn from renowned, caring faculty
• Clinical placements at leading facilities
• Simulation labs with real-life scenarios
• Volunteer at wellness fairs and Boston Marathon
• Master new technology in simulation
• Faculty facilitators and mentors
• Prepare for nursing leadership

UMass Boston's Accelerated BSN program is a 12-month, hybrid option designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. The curriculum combines online concept-based learning with face-to-face simulation and live clinical experiences in the greater Boston area. Students complete 54 credits over three semesters, covering nursing concepts, pathophysiology, pharmacology, health assessment, and evidence-based practice. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN and pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, community health centers, and beyond. The program features small cohorts of around 48 students, dedicated faculty trained in online instruction, and a state-of-the-art simulation center. Financial aid and scholarships are available. With a first-time NCLEX pass rate of 93%, the ABSN program provides a fast, rigorous pathway to nursing practice.

• $700 per credit
• 12-Month program
• 54 total credit hours
• 12 total courses
• 3 start dates per year
• Starts fall/spring/summer
• 93% licensure pass rate
• Cohort-based structure
• 3.0 GPA minimum
• Prerequisite courses required

Simmons University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is a rigorous campus-based program designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field. The curriculum covers essential nursing areas including pharmacology, medical-surgical nursing, psychiatric and mental health nursing, maternity nursing, pediatric nursing, and nursing leadership. Students gain hands-on experience through laboratory hours and clinical placements in diverse healthcare settings. The program culminates in a clinical capstone practicum, where students apply their skills in real-world environments. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and pursue careers as registered nurses in hospitals, community health centers, and other healthcare facilities. The ABSN pathway offers an intensive, immersive experience, requiring 46 credits over four terms. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, Simmons provides a supportive learning environment for career changers eager to enter nursing.

• 46 total credit hours
• Capstone required
• 56 laboratory hours in fundamental skills
• 84 clinical hours in med-surg nursing
• 168 clinical hours in advanced care
• Clinical capstone practicum required
• Total 46 credits for degree