What North Carolina Schools Offer Accelerated BSN Programs: Second Degree BSN

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs in North Carolina provide an intensive pathway for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another discipline and wish to transition into professional nursing. These second-degree options are designed to condense traditional nursing curricula into a streamlined format, allowing motivated students to build on their prior academic foundation. With the state's ongoing demand for highly trained nurses in both urban medical centers and rural communities, such as the Appalachian Mountains of the West and the Sandhills in the South, ABSN programs play a crucial role in preparing graduates for licensure and practice. For students seeking a rigorous, career-focused route into nursing, these programs represent an academically challenging yet rewarding opportunity to enter the profession with speed and confidence.
2026 Best ABSN Programs in North Carolina
Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, NC - Public 4-Year - uncfsu.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Track (ABSN)
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Fayetteville State University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) track is a hybrid program designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field aiming to transition into nursing. This accelerated curriculum blends online learning with face-to-face sessions, state-of-the-art simulation, and live clinical experiences, preparing students for the NCLEX exam. The program emphasizes fundamentals of nursing, offering a fast-track to becoming a registered nurse. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, bachelor's degree, and includes an interview. The curriculum covers health assessment, pharmacology, and specialized nursing areas, ensuring graduates are ready for diverse healthcare settings.
- Hybrid learning format.
- Prepares for NCLEX exam.
- For bachelor's degree holders.
- 3.0 GPA requirement.
- Includes live clinical experiences.
- Covers health assessment.
- Teaches pharmacology.
- Specialized nursing areas covered.
- Fast-track to nursing.
- Requires professional statement.
Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC - Public 4-Year - wcu.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Carolina University's Accelerated BSN program offers a dynamic pathway for career-changers to enter nursing. Designed for second-degree students, this intensive 16-month program provides comprehensive nursing education at the Biltmore Park campus in Asheville. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum with 100% NCLEX pass rate, hands-on clinical rotations across diverse healthcare settings, and holistic admissions approach. With competitive in-state tuition and potential financial aid, the program prepares motivated professionals for impactful nursing careers through immersive learning experiences and comprehensive academic support.
- 16-month accelerated program
- 100% NCLEX Pass Rate
- Clinical rotations in NC
- Located in Asheville, NC
- Second degree program
- Multiple clinical specialties
- Holistic admissions approach
- 4 semester curriculum
- Minimum 3.0 GPA required
- Prerequisites include sciences
Gardner-Webb University
Boiling Springs, NC - Private 4-year - gardner-webb.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Gardner-Webb University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is a 16-month, on-campus journey designed for those with a previous bachelor's degree. It blends 60 credit hours of nursing courses with your existing education, totaling 120 credit hours. The program emphasizes clinical competence, therapeutic relationships, and social awareness, all through a Christian values lens. Students gain real-world experience through clinical hours in local healthcare agencies. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and embark on rewarding nursing careers. The program also offers a seamless transition into advanced nursing degrees. Financial assistance options are available, including forgivable loans and university scholarships.
- 16-month program.
- On-campus learning.
- 60 nursing credit hours.
- Christian values foundation.
- Real-world clinical experience.
- NCLEX-RN preparation.
- Seamless MSN/DNP transition.
- Financial aid available.
- Focus on clinical competence.
- Therapeutic relationships emphasis.
Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
Concord, NC - Private 4-year - cabarruscollege.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Cabarrus College of Health Sciences in Concord, NC, offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program for individuals with a prior bachelor's degree. This 18-month program combines immersive learning on a hospital-based campus with hands-on clinical experience starting in the first semester. Students benefit from small class sizes, high-tech simulation labs, and a pathway to employment within Atrium Health. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 2.5 and specific prerequisite courses. Financial aid options include a $10,000 Atrium Health Forgivable Loan.
- 18-month program duration
- Hospital-based campus learning
- Hands-on clinical experience early
- Small class sizes
- High-tech simulation labs
- Pathway to Atrium Health employment
- $10,000 forgivable loan available
- Requires prior bachelor's degree
- Minimum 2.5 GPA for admission
- Specific prerequisite courses needed
Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte
Charlotte, NC - Private 4-year - jwu.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte offers an Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) designed for career changers. This hybrid program blends online coursework with in-person clinical experiences over four semesters. Students gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, enhancing critical thinking and clinical judgment. The program includes simulation labs and clinical rotations in top Charlotte hospitals. Costs cover uniforms, stethoscopes, textbooks, and malpractice insurance. Scholarships are available. Admissions require a completed application via NursingCAS, official transcripts, and an application fee. The program starts in Fall 2025, with applications due by June 30.
- Hybrid program format.
- Four-semester duration.
- Includes simulation labs.
- Clinical rotations in Charlotte.
- Scholarships available.
- Uniforms and stethoscopes provided.
- Malpractice insurance included.
- Application via NursingCAS.
- Fall 2025 start date.
- June 30 application deadline.
North Carolina A & T State University
Greensboro, NC - Public 4-Year - ncat.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
North Carolina A&T State University offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, perfect for second-degree students aiming for a nursing career. This intensive 12-month program requires 64 semester hours in nursing, delivered in a block format. Prerequisites include courses in microbiology, human nutrition, and psychology, with a preference for first-attempt 'C' or better grades. Admission is competitive, requiring a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA, TEAS test scores meeting national means, and a CNA I listing. The program prepares students for professional nursing through rigorous coursework and clinical experiences.
- 12-month intensive program.
- 64 semester hours in nursing.
- Bachelor's degree required for admission.
- 3.0 minimum GPA for admission.
- TEAS test scores must meet national means.
- CNA I listing required.
- Prerequisites include microbiology, human nutrition.
- First-attempt 'C' or better grades preferred.
- Full-time study, may include nights and weekends.
- Competitive admission process.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - Public 4-Year - unc.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is designed for students seeking a fast-track to a nursing career. This intensive program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and a rewarding future in healthcare. With a focus on hands-on experience, students gain the skills needed in today's dynamic medical environments. The program is campus-based, offering direct access to UNC's renowned faculty and facilities. While specific costs and admissions details vary, prospective students are encouraged to explore this opportunity to join a legacy of excellence in nursing education.
- Fast-track nursing degree.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Campus-based program.
- Access to top faculty.
Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem, NC - Public 4-Year - wssu.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Winston-Salem State University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree in any discipline, offering a fast-track to a nursing career in just 15 months. This rigorous, full-time program emphasizes practical clinical experiences and interprofessional collaboration, mirroring the traditional BSN curriculum but at an accelerated pace. Applicants must complete all nursing prerequisite courses before applying, with flexibility to transfer credits from accredited institutions. The program prepares graduates to meet the dynamic needs of the healthcare community, ensuring they emerge as competent, critical-thinking nurses ready for various specialties.
- 15-month full-time program
- For bachelor's degree holders
- Practical clinical experiences
- Interprofessional collaboration
- Prerequisite courses required
- Transfer credits accepted
- Prepares for nursing licensure
- Competitive, critical-thinking focus
- Accredited by CCNE
- Accepted in all states
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC - Public 4-Year - uncw.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at the University of North Carolina Wilmington is designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree looking to fast-track their nursing career. This intensive, on-campus program can be completed in just four semesters, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills under the guidance of experienced faculty. Ideal for career changers, the program prepares students for the nursing profession with a focus on essential competencies. While specific cost and admissions details vary, prospective students are encouraged to explore this opportunity to join the healthcare field with a solid educational foundation.
- Four-semester completion.
- On-campus program.
- For bachelor's degree holders.
- Intensive nursing education.
- Experienced faculty guidance.
- Prepares for nursing licensure.
- Focus on practical skills.
- Ideal for career changers.
- Blend of theory and practice.
- Fast-track to nursing career.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, NC - Public 4-Year - charlotte.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte is a fast-track program for individuals holding a degree in another field. Designed to be completed in four semesters, it prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program features high-fidelity simulation and dedicated tutoring. Admission requires a previous bachelor’s or associate degree, with specific prerequisite courses needing a B or higher. Scholarships may be available. Graduates are ready for diverse healthcare settings, from hospitals to public health.
- Four-semester completion
- High-fidelity simulation training
- Dedicated student success tutors
- Requires previous degree
- B or higher in prerequisites
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Scholarships available
- Campus-based program
- Hands-on immersive experience
- Diverse healthcare settings preparation
List of North Carolina Accelerated BSN Programs
Boiling Springs, NC
Gardner-Webb University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month program.
- On-campus learning.
- 60 nursing credit hours.
- Christian values foundation.
- Real-world clinical experience.
- NCLEX-RN preparation.
- Seamless MSN/DNP transition.
- Financial aid available.
Chapel Hill, NC
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Fast-track nursing degree.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Campus-based program.
- Access to top faculty.
Charlotte, NC
Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program format.
- Four-semester duration.
- Includes simulation labs.
- Clinical rotations in Charlotte.
- Scholarships available.
- Uniforms and stethoscopes provided.
- Malpractice insurance included.
- Application via NursingCAS.
Queens University of Charlotte
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor's in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- One-year program duration.
- 61 credit hours required.
- Campus-based learning.
- Financial aid available.
- 3.0 GPA prerequisite.
- TEAS exam required.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- NCLEX preparation included.
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-semester completion
- High-fidelity simulation training
- Dedicated student success tutors
- Requires previous degree
- B or higher in prerequisites
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Scholarships available
- Campus-based program
Concord, NC
Cabarrus College of Health Sciences
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 18-month program duration
- Hospital-based campus learning
- Hands-on clinical experience early
- Small class sizes
- High-tech simulation labs
- Pathway to Atrium Health employment
- $10,000 forgivable loan available
- Requires prior bachelor's degree
Cullowhee, NC
Western Carolina University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month accelerated program
- 100% NCLEX Pass Rate
- Clinical rotations in NC
- Located in Asheville, NC
- Second degree program
- Multiple clinical specialties
- Holistic admissions approach
- 4 semester curriculum
Durham, NC
Duke University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Campus-based program
- Fast-track to nursing
- Fully accredited
- Credits toward master’s
- Focus on health disparities
North Carolina Central University
- Bachelor's - Nursing, Accelerated Option, B.S.N.
Campus Based - Website
- 14-15 month program duration.
- Campus-based learning.
- Minimum 3.2 GPA required.
- TEAS score of 70 needed.
- Prior bachelor's degree mandatory.
- Focus on professional nursing skills.
- Competitive admissions process.
- Physical health requirements apply.
Elon, NC
Elon University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 16-month intensive program
- 65 credit hours
- 540 clinical hours
- Focus on health equity
- Community-based care emphasis
- Health informatics included
- Bachelor's degree required
- 3.0 minimum GPA
Fayetteville, NC
Fayetteville State University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing Track (ABSN)
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid learning format.
- Prepares for NCLEX exam.
- For bachelor's degree holders.
- 3.0 GPA requirement.
- Includes live clinical experiences.
- Covers health assessment.
- Teaches pharmacology.
- Specialized nursing areas covered.
Greensboro, NC
North Carolina A & T State University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month intensive program.
- 64 semester hours in nursing.
- Bachelor's degree required for admission.
- 3.0 minimum GPA for admission.
- TEAS test scores must meet national means.
- CNA I listing required.
- Prerequisites include microbiology, human nutrition.
- First-attempt 'C' or better grades preferred.
Greenville, NC
East Carolina University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Second-Degree BSN
Campus Based - Website
- 12-month program duration
- Full-time, on-campus learning
- Prepares for RN licensure
- For career changers
- Intensive, hands-on curriculum
- Financial aid available
- Prior degree required
Wilmington, NC
University of North Carolina Wilmington
- Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Four-semester completion.
- On-campus program.
- For bachelor's degree holders.
- Intensive nursing education.
- Experienced faculty guidance.
- Prepares for nursing licensure.
- Focus on practical skills.
- Ideal for career changers.
Winston-Salem, NC
Winston-Salem State University
- Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN
Campus Based - Website
- 15-month full-time program
- For bachelor's degree holders
- Practical clinical experiences
- Interprofessional collaboration
- Prerequisite courses required
- Transfer credits accepted
- Prepares for nursing licensure
- Competitive, critical-thinking focus
2026 Affordable ABSN Programs in North Carolina
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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North Carolina Central University |
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East Carolina University |
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Gardner-Webb University |
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Queens University of Charlotte |
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Fayetteville State University |
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Are you considering nursing schools in North Carolina? With the state's increasing need for highly qualified healthcare professionals, now is an opportune moment to pursue a career in nursing. To support your decision-making process, our state-specific guides provide comprehensive information and resources to help you navigate available pathways with clarity and confidence.
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