Quickest Accelerated BSN Programs Near Atlanta, GA

Peachtree Street traffic isn't the only thing moving fast in Atlanta. With Hartsfield-Jackson ranked the world's busiest airport and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) driving global health initiatives from its Midtown campus, the city thrives on speed and innovation—so it's no surprise Atlanta-area universities offer 12- to 16-month Accelerated BSN (ABSN) tracks that catapult career-changers into nursing at record pace. Whether you're pivoting from tech in Midtown or finishing a biology degree at Georgia State, an ABSN lets you earn a second bachelor's and sit for the NCLEX in about the time it takes to binge every season of Stranger Things.

If you're weighing your fastest path to the RN license, skim Accelerated Nursing Programs – Considering the Degree Levels & Options on RegisteredNursing.org for a national overview of program formats before zeroing in on Georgia schools.

Fastest Atlanta-Area ABSN Programs in 2025

#1

Clayton State University

Morrow, GA - Public 4-Year - clayton.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Clayton State University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Morrow, GA, is tailored for those aiming to enter the nursing profession. This campus-based program emphasizes a robust curriculum that integrates critical nursing skills, patient care strategies, and essential medical knowledge. Designed for individuals beginning their nursing careers, it requires applicants to meet specific academic standards, including potential ACT or SAT scores. Tuition fees are subject to change, urging prospective students to verify current costs. The BSN program stands as a foundational path toward RN licensure, merging theoretical education with hands-on clinical experiences to prepare graduates for the dynamic healthcare environment.

• Campus-based program.
• Comprehensive nursing curriculum.
• Prepares for RN licensure.
• Focus on patient care.
• Blend of theory and practice.

#2

University of West Georgia

Carrollton, GA - Public 4-Year - westga.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of West Georgia's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is a CCNE-accredited pathway for students aiming to excel in the nursing field. Offering flexible six or seven-semester options, the program is available at both Carrollton and Newnan campuses, with admissions in summer and fall. It's designed as a pre-licensure track, equipping students with the necessary skills to pass the NCLEX-RN and embark on a fulfilling nursing career. A minimum Program GPA of 2.75 is required for admission, highlighting the program's commitment to academic excellence. Graduates are prepared to take on leadership roles in healthcare, making a significant impact in communities worldwide.

• CCNE accredited program.
• Six or seven-semester options.
• Pre-licensure track for NCLEX-RN.
• Minimum Program GPA 2.75 required.
• Campuses in Carrollton and Newnan.
• Summer and fall admission.
• Prepares for healthcare leadership.

#3

Emory University

Atlanta, GA - Private 4-year - emory.edu

Bachelor's - Distance Accelerated BSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Emory University's Distance Accelerated BSN (DABSN) program is a rigorous one-year hybrid program tailored for individuals holding a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field. It uniquely blends online coursework with clinical rotations near students' residences and mandatory on-campus intensives in Atlanta, offering three start dates each year to accommodate diverse schedules. The program stands out for its small cohort sizes, ensuring personalized mentorship and a collaborative learning environment. Clinical placements are customized to students' geographic locations, supported by dedicated faculty and preceptors. Emphasizing clinical proficiency and analytical thinking, the curriculum is designed to equip graduates for success on the NCLEX-RN. Prerequisites include foundational courses in sciences and mathematics, all requiring a minimum grade of C. Notably, the program does not mandate an ACT or SAT for admission, aligning with its accelerated, post-baccalaureate nature.

• One-year accelerated program.
• Hybrid online and on-campus format.
• Three start dates annually.
• Small class sizes for individual attention.
• Clinical rotations near student homes.
• Intensive on-campus sessions in Atlanta.
• Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
• Requires previous bachelor's degree.
• Prerequisites in sciences and math.
• Team-based learning community.

#4

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, GA - Public 4-Year - kennesaw.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated B.S. in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Kennesaw State University offers an Accelerated B.S. in Nursing program tailored for individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field, seeking a swift transition into nursing. This intensive four-semester program combines theoretical knowledge with clinical practice, preparing students for professional nursing roles. Admission prerequisites include a minimum 3.0 GPA, completion of specific prerequisite courses, and a passing score on the ATI TEAS test. The curriculum is comprehensive, integrating humanities, biological, and social sciences to ensure a well-rounded education. Located in Kennesaw and Marietta, GA, this program is ideal for those committed to accelerating their nursing career through a rigorous and competitive academic pathway.

• Four-semester program.
• Requires prior bachelor's degree.
• 3.0 GPA for admission.
• ATI TEAS test required.
• Covers humanities and sciences.
• Blend of theory and clinical.
• Campuses in Kennesaw and Marietta.
• Competitive admission process.
• Prerequisite courses required.
• Rigorous curriculum.

#5

Reinhardt University

Waleska, GA - Private 4-year - reinhardt.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing - BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Reinhardt University offers a BSN program designed to equip students with the skills necessary for a successful nursing career. This campus-based program in Waleska, GA, integrates scientific knowledge with compassionate care, focusing on critical thinking and evidence-based practice. With NCLEX pass rates surpassing state and national averages, the program ensures graduates are well-prepared as generalist novice nurses. A holistic admissions process considers the whole applicant, and financial aid options are available to support students. Accredited by CCNE, the program covers a broad spectrum of nursing specialties, from acute care to community health, without requiring an ACT or SAT for admission.

• Campus-based program.
• Focus on critical thinking.
• High NCLEX pass rates.
• Holistic admissions approach.
• Engages in multiple specialties.
• Financial aid available.
• Accredited by CCNE.
• Prepares generalist novice nurses.
• Emphasizes evidence-based interventions.

*Citation: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Why Choose an Accelerated BSN in Atlanta?

• Job market momentum: Atlanta's healthcare hub—anchored by Emory Healthcare, Piedmont, Wellstar, and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta—employs more than 150,000 healthcare workers. Employers routinely sign ABSN grads into residency programs months before graduation.
• Financial payoff: The average RN salary in Atlanta hit $77,700 in 2024, well above the state average of $75 K
• Speed to practice: Full-time ABSN cohorts at Mercer and Emory graduate in 12–15 months, shaving two years off a traditional BSN.
• Academic depth: Many Atlanta ABSN tracks share faculty and clinical sites with flagship MSN and DNP programs, so your credits align seamlessly if you choose graduate study later.

For campus comparisons across the state, read Nursing Schools in Atlanta, GA, and Best Nursing Schools in Georgia – ADN, BSN – Updated 2025.

Typical Accelerated BSN Curriculum

Accelerated tracks compress the final two nursing years of a traditional BSN into three to five intense semesters:

1. Foundational Sciences (bridge)
   • Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, Health Assessment
2. Core Nursing Blocks
   • Adult & Gerontologic Care, Maternal/Pediatric Nursing, Mental Health
3. Leadership & Community Health
   • Population Health practicum in metro-Atlanta agencies
4. Capstone Immersion
   • 300-hour preceptorship at Emory University Hospital, Piedmont Atlanta, or a similar site

Graduates are immediately eligible for the NCLEX-RN Exam—Georgia's Board of Nursing posts first-time pass-rate data annually, so check each school's numbers when comparing options.

Admission Requirements (What Makes the Cut?)

While exact criteria vary, Atlanta ABSN seats are competitive (Emory reports <20 % acceptance). Expect to submit:

• Non-nursing bachelor's degree with ≥60 transferable credits
• Prerequisite GPA ≥ 3.0 (A&P I & II, Microbiology, Statistics, Human Growth & Development)
• Two academic/professional references
• Résumé and 500-word goal statement
• TEAS or HESI A2 scores (some waive with GPA >3.5)
• Background check, drug screen, and current immunizations

Ensure your target school is CCNE- or ACEN-approved; use the quality checklist in Nursing School Accreditation.

Career Pathways After an ABSN

An Atlanta ABSN sets you up for:

• Nurse Residency Programs at Emory Healthcare or Wellstar (1-year paid transition)
• Critical-care fellowships in Piedmont's Level I trauma ICU
• Public health field nurse roles at Fulton County Board of Health—ideal if you plan an MPH
• Graduate pathways (MSN, DNP) at Emory, Mercer, or 2025 Best RN to BSN Programs in Georgia Online – Fast & Affordable Options for ADN-prepared peers

Salary & Job Outlook

Sources: BLS OEWS Metro tables and Occupational Outlook Handbook. trustedhealth.com | bls.govbls.gov

Paying for Your ABSN

• HOPE Career Grant & Zell Miller: Georgia residents with STEM credits can offset tuition at public schools.
• Hospital Sponsorships: Piedmont's "Earn-While-You-Learn" pays up to $10 K for a 2-year work commitment.
• Scholarships: Browse Nursing Scholarships & Grants—many target second-degree students.
• Federal Direct Loans & HRSA: Complete FAFSA; ABSN students may qualify for $12,500 in unsubsidized loans yearly plus HRSA Nurse Corps loan repayment post-licensure.

Work-Life-Study Balance Tips

• Plan 40–50 study hours weekly. Students liken ABSN pace to "drinking from a fire hose."
• Leverage MARTA & podcasts. Review pharmacology flashcards on the Gold Line commute.
• Use employer flexibility. Many Atlanta tech firms grant leave for career pivots into healthcare.
• Join peer cohorts. Form study squads through Emory's Canvas shell or Mercer's Slack community.

Accreditation & Clinical Quality

The fastest route isn't always the safest—confirm that each ABSN carries CCNE or ACEN accreditation and meets Georgia Board of Nursing clinical-hour mandates. Review the checklist in Nursing School Accreditation and verify simulation versus direct-patient ratios.

Networking & Professional Development

Atlanta's vibrant nursing circles offer:

• Georgia Nurses Association (GNA) Metro Chapter monthly socials
• Emory Sigma Theta Tau (Epsilon Alpha) mentorship for second-degree students
• CDC Student Intern Days—competitive, but ABSN cohorts often land public-health internships

Choosing Your Quickest-Fit Program

1. Length vs. life commitments: 12-month tracks demand 60-hour weeks; 16-month options allow part-time work.
2. Clinical placement guarantees: Ask how many preceptor sites each school secures within 30 miles of home.
3. NCLEX pass rates: Target ≥90 % first-attempt success; compare on state board site.
4. Cost transparency: Factor in tuition, fees, relocation (if outside Atlanta), and lost wages.
5. Graduate pipeline: Some schools reserve MSN seats for high-performing ABSN alumni, which is huge if you plan to study APRN.

Ready to Fast-Track Your Nursing Career?

Atlanta needs agile, tech-savvy nurses to keep pace with the city's booming healthcare system. An Accelerated BSN can launch you from bachelor's holder to bedside clinician in just over a year. Map your prerequisites, attend a virtual info session, and submit those applications—your RN license (and a host of job offers) could be only 54 weeks away.

Sources

• Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics — Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA.
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. Registered Nurses: Occupational Outlook Handbook (updated May 2025).
• Bureau of Labor Statistics. Nurse Practitioners: Occupational Outlook Handbook (updated May 2025).
• Mercer University. Accelerated BSN Track Overview (accessed June 16 2025).
• Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing. Distance Accelerated BSN Program Details (accessed June 16 2025).
• Kennesaw State University Wellstar School of Nursing. Accelerated BSN Curriculum (accessed June 16 2025).

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Jessica Guzzetti, MBA, BSN, RN, CCHP-RN

Jessica is the Employee Health and Education nurse for a FQHC in Idaho. Jessica started her medical career as an Army medic, serving a tour in Afghanistan. Upon returning home she worked nights as a home health aide while starting college. While in school she also worked as a Nursing Assistant in the Emergency Room at the local VA Medical Center. A fellow medic turned her onto a per diem job as a Correctional Medical Specialist in the local state prisons. Jessica ultimately earned an Associate of Science at Boise State University and went on to complete her LPN, RN, BSN, and most recently, her MBA. She continued to work at the state prisons in various capacities to include providing nurse sick-call, emergency response, Hepatitis C and chronic disease management, QA/QI, behavioral health, auditing, labor management, and more, for over fourteen years. Jessica had the opportunity to work in a variety of facilities as a Director of Nursing, Health Services Administrator, and held the Regional Director of Nursing position for close to a year prior to leaving correctional healthcare in search of a new adventure. Her yellow brick road led to a local FQHC where she worked as a clinic RN Supervisor for a little over a year before being offered her current position. Jessica is also an adjunct Professor for a local nursing program where she teaches BSN and master’s prep level students. She has two dogs, no idea how many plants, loves to cook and loves to eat even more, enjoys writing, and never stops moving, doing, and seeking new adventures and knowledge.