Ohio offers a wide range of pathways for individuals seeking to transition into nursing through accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs. These second-degree options are designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field and want to fast-track their entry into nursing. Typically completed in 12 to 24 months, ABSN programs combine rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experiences to prepare graduates for professional practice. With a growing demand for skilled nurses across the state, these programs provide a strategic opportunity to enter the workforce quickly while building on existing academic and professional foundations.

2026 Best ABSN Programs in Ohio

When it comes to accelerated nursing programs in Ohio, RegisteredNursing.org has thoroughly analyzed and ranked the top Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs available in the state. Our comprehensive research helps prospective nursing students identify the most competitive and high-quality educational pathways to launch their healthcare careers quickly. Ohio offers several exceptional ABSN programs that provide rigorous academic preparation, clinical experiences, and innovative learning environments designed to transform career changers into skilled registered nurses in a compressed timeframe. These programs understand the unique needs of students seeking an efficient route into the nursing profession, balancing academic excellence with practical training. Learn about our ranking methodology.
#1

Mount Carmel College of Nursing

Columbus, OH - Private 4-year - mccn.edu

Bachelor's - Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP)

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Mount Carmel College of Nursing's Accelerated Second Degree Program provides a dynamic pathway for career changers seeking nursing credentials. Designed for bachelor's degree holders, this hybrid program offers 13 and 18-month tracks that strategically blend online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences. With an impressive 91.02% NCLEX-RN pass rate, students benefit from small class sizes and personalized faculty mentorship. The curriculum requires prerequisite courses in psychology, anatomy, and microbiology, targeting a competitive 3.0 GPA threshold. Graduates enjoy remarkable employment prospects, with 100% placement within their first year. The program's comprehensive approach ensures students are thoroughly prepared for professional nursing challenges across diverse healthcare settings.

  • 13 or 18-month tracks.
  • Hybrid learning format.
  • 91.02% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
  • Small 10:1 faculty ratio.
  • 100% employment rate.
  • Prerequisites required.
  • Financial aid available.
  • State-of-the-art facilities.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
  • Rolling admissions.

Bachelor's - Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP) - Evening/Weekend

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Mount Carmel College of Nursing's Evening/Weekend Accelerated Second Degree Program caters to working professionals transitioning into nursing. This innovative 18-month hybrid program accommodates busy adult learners through flexible scheduling, combining online instruction with evening and weekend classes. Designed for individuals holding prior bachelor's degrees, the program provides comprehensive NCLEX-RN exam preparation and Ohio licensure eligibility. Students experience personalized learning environments with strategic clinical rotations and laboratory experiences. The program's adaptable format allows participants to balance professional commitments while pursuing their nursing education, with potential scholarship and financial aid opportunities supporting their academic journey.

  • 18-month completion
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Evening/weekend schedule
  • NCLEX-RN preparation
  • Ohio licensure eligibility
  • Personalized instruction
  • Flexible for working adults
  • Scholarships available
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#2

Mercy College of Ohio

Toledo, OH - Private 4-year - mercycollege.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Mercy College of Ohio's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) offers a strategic pathway for non-nursing bachelor's degree holders to rapidly transition into professional nursing. Uniquely structured as a hybrid program, students benefit from online theoretical coursework complemented by intensive weekend clinical experiences at Mercy Health facilities. The four-semester curriculum prioritizes practical skill development and professional confidence, with a distinctive advantage for Mercy Health employees who qualify for full tuition coverage. By integrating flexible scheduling with comprehensive hands-on training, the program addresses the critical nursing workforce shortage while providing an accelerated, accessible educational model for career changers and working professionals seeking nursing credentials.

  • Hybrid format: online lectures, in-person clinicals.
  • Four consecutive semesters, full-time.
  • Clinicals grouped over extended weekends.
  • For non-nursing bachelor's degree holders.
  • Mercy Health employees eligible for full tuition coverage.
  • Prepares students for confident nursing career entry.
  • Flexible scheduling supports working students.
  • Hands-on experience in Mercy Health facilities.
#3

Capital University

Columbus, OH - Private 4-year - capital.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Capital University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) transforms professionals with existing bachelor's degrees into skilled nurses through an innovative hybrid program. Spanning just 20 months, students can choose between daytime and flexible online tracks, experiencing clinical rotations at premier Columbus hospitals. The curriculum uniquely integrates three master's-level courses, providing graduates advanced academic credit and exceptional professional preparation. Admission requires a competitive 3.0 GPA and current science prerequisites, ensuring students enter with strong academic foundations. The program emphasizes holistic nursing education, combining physical, mental, and spiritual care approaches while preparing students comprehensively for NCLEX examination and diverse nursing career paths.

  • 20 months to completion.
  • Hybrid program format.
  • Clinicals in Columbus hospitals.
  • Includes master's-level courses.
  • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • Science prerequisites needed.
  • Two track options available.
  • NCLEX exam preparation.
  • Holistic nursing focus.
  • Flexible for working students.

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Capital University's campus-based ABSN program offers an intensive nursing pathway for career changers, delivering comprehensive healthcare education in just 20 months. Located in Columbus, the program features two dynamic track options accommodating various student schedules. Clinical experiences in local hospitals provide hands-on learning, while the curriculum integrates master's-level coursework for enhanced academic depth. With a rigorous 3.0 GPA admission standard and focused prerequisites in sciences and lifespan development, the program maintains high academic excellence. Graduates benefit from 1:1 faculty advising, a 100% recent NCLEX pass rate, and a holistic nursing approach that prepares students for multifaceted healthcare challenges.

  • 20 months to completion.
  • Two track options: Daytime and Hybrid.
  • Clinicals in Columbus-area hospitals.
  • Includes master's-level courses.
  • 3.0 GPA requirement.
  • Holistic nursing focus.
  • 100% NCLEX pass rate in 2024.
  • 1:1 faculty advising.
  • Flexible for working students.
  • Accredited by CCNE.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Ohio State University

Columbus, OH - Public 4-Year - osu.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Ohio State University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (aBSN) offers a dynamic 18-month pathway for career changers with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. The hybrid program strategically blends intensive classroom instruction with immersive clinical experiences at the prestigious Wexner Medical Center. Students benefit from a comprehensive curriculum designed to rapidly transition professionals into skilled nursing roles. The program's competitive admissions process ensures high-quality candidates are selected. With a focus on preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN examination, students gain robust clinical skills and theoretical knowledge. Military-friendly and ranked prominently among public institutions, the program provides an exceptional educational environment for aspiring nurses seeking an accelerated professional transformation.

  • 18-month full-time program.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
  • Combines coursework with clinical experience.
  • Hybrid program type.
#5

Felbry College

Columbus, OH - Private 4-year - felbrycollege.edu

Bachelor's - RN to BSN Completion Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

Felbry College's RN to BSN Completion Program delivers a dynamic online pathway for registered nurses seeking academic advancement. Tailored for working professionals, this 16-month accelerated curriculum emphasizes critical nursing competencies including leadership strategies, patient safety protocols, and evidence-based practice methodologies. The program uniquely accommodates practicing nurses by offering flexible scheduling and advanced standing for those with existing nursing credentials. Admission requirements include a current nursing diploma or associate degree, with a preferred minimum 2.5 GPA. Graduates emerge prepared for enhanced professional opportunities, equipped with comprehensive skills to excel in increasingly complex healthcare environments.

  • 100% online program.
  • Flexible for working nurses.
  • Accelerated 16-month option.
  • No NCLEX required post-completion.
  • Advanced standing for RNs.
  • Focus on leadership and safety.
  • Enhances evidence-based practice skills.
  • Prepares for BSN-RN level jobs.
  • Admission requires nursing diploma.
  • Preferred 2.5 GPA.
#6

Cleveland State University

Cleveland, OH - Public 4-Year - csuohio.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN Program

Online Learning - Visit Website

Cleveland State University's Accelerated BSN Program offers a strategic pathway for career transitioners with a non-nursing bachelor's degree. Designed as a comprehensive four-semester curriculum, the program uniquely blends online and in-person learning modalities. Students navigate rigorous science prerequisites in anatomy, chemistry, and microbiology while maintaining competitive academic standards. The program's hallmark is its flexible approach, preparing students comprehensively for the NCLEX-RN examination. Military-friendly and financially accessible, this accelerated track enables rapid professional nursing entry with strategic academic support and a streamlined curriculum. Prospective students should anticipate a demanding but rewarding academic journey.

  • Full-time program duration.
  • Four consecutive semesters.
  • In-person and online options.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
  • Prerequisite GPA requirement.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Non-nursing bachelor's required.
  • Strong focus on science prerequisites.
  • Competitive admission process.
  • No waiting list for admission.

Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

Cleveland State University's campus-based Accelerated BSN Program provides an intensive nursing education pathway for bachelor's degree holders seeking career transformation. This four-semester program demands academic excellence, requiring a 3.0 GPA in prerequisite sciences and a 2.5 cumulative GPA. Combining robust theoretical instruction with hands-on clinical experiences, the curriculum comprehensively prepares students for NCLEX-RN licensure. The program's competitive selection process ensures admitted students possess the dedication and academic potential necessary for nursing excellence. With financial aid options and a military-friendly environment, this program represents a strategic, accelerated route into professional nursing practice.

  • Four consecutive semesters.
  • Full-time student status required.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
  • 3.0 prerequisite GPA needed.
  • 2.5 cumulative GPA requirement.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Competitive selection process.
  • Includes theory and clinical courses.
  • For non-nursing bachelor's holders.
  • On-campus program option.
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#7

The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences

Cincinnati, OH - Private 4-year - thechristcollege.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences offers a dynamic 15-16 month Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) designed for career changers holding a non-nursing bachelor's degree. This intensive program emphasizes immersive clinical experiences and advanced patient simulation technologies, preparing students for immediate nursing practice. With a competitive 2.75 GPA requirement, students benefit from extensive hospital partnerships and the unique Career Pathways Program. The curriculum integrates comprehensive theoretical learning with hands-on training across top regional healthcare facilities, ensuring graduates are thoroughly prepared for professional nursing roles and emerging healthcare challenges.

  • 15-Month Accelerated Program
  • Hands-on Patient Simulators
  • Clinical Rotations Top Hospitals
  • Career Pathways Opportunities
  • 2.75 GPA Admission Requirement
  • Non-Nursing Degree Accepted
  • Guaranteed Clinical Seat
  • Multiple Hospital Partnerships
#8

Walsh University

North Canton, OH - Private 4-year - walsh.edu

Bachelor's - Fast Track BSN

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Walsh University's Fast Track BSN program offers a dynamic hybrid pathway for aspiring nurses seeking a flexible educational experience. Designed specifically for working professionals, the program strategically blends online coursework with immersive weekend and evening clinical sessions. Students benefit from accelerated 8-week prerequisite courses at reduced tuition rates, enabling efficient degree progression. The curriculum rigorously prepares students for the NCLEX examination while providing comprehensive hands-on training in cutting-edge clinical laboratories. With a Roman Catholic foundation and military-friendly approach, the program emphasizes holistic nursing education, ensuring graduates are thoroughly equipped for diverse healthcare environments and potential advanced nursing degree transitions.

  • Hybrid program format
  • Flexible for working adults
  • Weekend and evening clinicals
  • Accelerated prerequisite courses
  • State-of-the-art clinical labs
  • Prepares for NCLEX
  • Seamless MSN/DNP transition
  • High employment potential
  • Reduced tuition for prerequisites
  • Clinical experience in every course
#9

Kettering College

Kettering, OH - Private 4-year - kc.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Kettering College's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing propels career-changing professionals into nursing through an intensive 15-month program. Tailored for individuals holding bachelor's degrees in alternative fields, this campus-based curriculum provides comprehensive nursing education with early clinical immersion. Students benefit from hands-on training in premier healthcare settings, preparing comprehensively for the NCLEX-RN examination. The program strategically bridges previous academic backgrounds into nursing, offering robust job placement support and financial aid options. Emphasizing practical skills and professional transformation, Kettering's A-BSN enables swift career transitions for motivated learners seeking rapid entry into the healthcare profession.

  • 15-month program duration.
  • Campus-based learning.
  • Early clinical experience.
  • NCLEX-RN exam preparation.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Strong job placement record.
  • For career changers.
  • Starts in August.
#10

Xavier University

Cincinnati, OH - Private 4-year - xavier.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Xavier University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) offers a dynamic 16-month pathway for career changers with non-nursing bachelor's degrees. This innovative hybrid program strategically blends comprehensive online coursework with immersive clinical experiences at prestigious healthcare networks like Cleveland Clinic and OhioHealth. Students benefit from a rigorous curriculum emphasizing hands-on learning, clinical preparedness, and NCLEX exam readiness. With multiple start dates, no waitlist, and flexible learning options in Cleveland and Columbus, the program accommodates diverse student backgrounds. Prospective students must maintain a minimum 2.7 GPA and successfully complete four prerequisite courses. Xavier's Roman Catholic mission and military-friendly approach further distinguish this accelerated nursing education experience.

  • 16-month program duration
  • Hybrid online and in-person
  • Clinical rotations at top facilities
  • Requires non-nursing bachelor's degree
  • Minimum 2.7 GPA required
  • Four prerequisites needed
  • Prepares for NCLEX exam
  • Locations in Cleveland and Columbus
  • No health sciences background needed
  • Full-time study commitment
*Official data: NCES IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

List of Ohio Accelerated BSN Programs

Ohio offers several accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs designed for career changers and students seeking a fast-track path into nursing. These intensive programs typically take 12-18 months and provide a comprehensive curriculum for individuals with a previous bachelor's degree in another field. Below is a comprehensive list of Ohio's accelerated nursing programs, highlighting their unique features, locations, and direct program links to help prospective nursing students make informed educational choices.
Jump to City:

Akron, OH

University of Akron

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four-semester program
    • Starts in May
    • RN licensure preparation
    • 2.75 GPA requirement
    • Full-time study required
    • Lab component prerequisites
    • Personal statement needed
    • Letter of recommendation

Alliance, OH

University of Mount Union

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month program duration
    • Affordable tuition in Northeast Ohio
    • State-of-the-art nursing facilities
    • Small class sizes
    • 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2020)
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Approved by Ohio Board of Nursing

Ashland, OH

Ashland University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Nursing (BSN), Second Degree

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month completion time.
    • 64 credit hours required.
    • 1:8 clinical instructor ratio.
    • State-of-the-art Simulation Center.
    • Clinical rotations in Ohio.
    • Minimum 2.7 GPA required.
    • Science prerequisites needed.
    • Leadership and management focus.

Ashtabula, OH

Kent State University at Ashtabula

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE-accredited program.
    • Completed in 15 months.
    • Flexible cohort options.
    • For career changers.
    • Hands-on experience.

Athens, OH

Ohio University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

    Campus Based - Website

    • 98.49% NCLEX-RN pass rate
    • Over 1,500 clinical hours
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • 1:18 faculty-to-student ratio
    • Comprehensive curriculum
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs
    • Experiential learning focus
    • Supportive student network

Berea, OH

Baldwin Wallace University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month program duration
    • Full-time, in-person format
    • 94% NCLEX-RN pass rate
    • Accredited by CCNE
    • Clinical rotations at top hospitals
    • Requires seven prerequisites
    • 3.0 prerequisite GPA needed
    • Comprehensive cost $42,644

Burton, OH

Kent State University at Geauga

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month completion time
    • 92% NCLEX pass rate
    • 99% job placement rate
    • Clinical rotations in NE Ohio
    • Previous bachelor's degree required
    • Minimum 2.750 GPA for admission
    • Focus on compassionate nursing practices
    • Evidence-based practice curriculum

Canton, OH

Malone University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Accelerated BSN program
    • Completed in five semesters
    • Campus-based learning
    • Christian values integrated
    • High NCLEX-RN pass rates
    • Strong job placement
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • For transfer students

Cincinnati, OH

Mount St. Joseph University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated 3-Year BSN Pathway

    Campus Based - Website

    • 3-year undergraduate nursing pathway.
    • Reduces tuition costs significantly.
    • Requires 3.5 GPA for admission.
    • ACT score of 21 or higher recommended.
    • Personalized advising and mentorship.
    • Faith-based liberal arts education.
    • Targets high school students with college credits.
    • Addresses healthcare workforce shortages.

The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15-Month Accelerated Program
    • Hands-on Patient Simulators
    • Clinical Rotations Top Hospitals
    • Career Pathways Opportunities
    • 2.75 GPA Admission Requirement
    • Non-Nursing Degree Accepted
    • Guaranteed Clinical Seat
    • Multiple Hospital Partnerships

Xavier University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 16-month program duration
    • Hybrid online and in-person
    • Clinical rotations at top facilities
    • Requires non-nursing bachelor's degree
    • Minimum 2.7 GPA required
    • Four prerequisites needed
    • Prepares for NCLEX exam
    • Locations in Cleveland and Columbus

Cleveland, OH

Cleveland State University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Four consecutive semesters.
    • Full-time student status required.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
    • 3.0 prerequisite GPA needed.
    • 2.5 cumulative GPA requirement.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Competitive selection process.
    • Includes theory and clinical courses.
  • Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • Full-time program duration.
    • Four consecutive semesters.
    • In-person and online options.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
    • Prerequisite GPA requirement.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Non-nursing bachelor's required.
    • Strong focus on science prerequisites.

Columbus, OH

Capital University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 20 months to completion.
    • Two track options: Daytime and Hybrid.
    • Clinicals in Columbus-area hospitals.
    • Includes master's-level courses.
    • 3.0 GPA requirement.
    • Holistic nursing focus.
    • 100% NCLEX pass rate in 2024.
    • 1:1 faculty advising.
  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 20 months to completion.
    • Hybrid program format.
    • Clinicals in Columbus hospitals.
    • Includes master's-level courses.
    • 3.0 GPA requirement.
    • Science prerequisites needed.
    • Two track options available.
    • NCLEX exam preparation.

Felbry College

  • Bachelor's - RN to BSN Completion Program

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program.
    • Flexible for working nurses.
    • Accelerated 16-month option.
    • No NCLEX required post-completion.
    • Advanced standing for RNs.
    • Focus on leadership and safety.
    • Enhances evidence-based practice skills.
    • Prepares for BSN-RN level jobs.

Mount Carmel College of Nursing

  • Bachelor's - Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP) - Evening/Weekend

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 18-month completion
    • Hybrid learning format
    • Evening/weekend schedule
    • NCLEX-RN preparation
    • Ohio licensure eligibility
    • Personalized instruction
    • Flexible for working adults
    • Scholarships available
  • Bachelor's - Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP)

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 13 or 18-month tracks.
    • Hybrid learning format.
    • 91.02% NCLEX-RN pass rate.
    • Small 10:1 faculty ratio.
    • 100% employment rate.
    • Prerequisites required.
    • Financial aid available.
    • State-of-the-art facilities.

Ohio State University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 18-month full-time program.
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
    • Combines coursework with clinical experience.
    • Ranked #1 among public institutions.
    • Hybrid program type.

Kettering, OH

Kettering College

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month program duration.
    • Campus-based learning.
    • Early clinical experience.
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation.
    • Financial aid available.
    • Strong job placement record.
    • For career changers.
    • Starts in August.

New Concord, OH

Muskingum University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month program duration
    • Hybrid online and campus format
    • No prior nursing degree needed
    • 68 semester hours required
    • Hands-on clinical practicums
    • State-of-the-art nursing lab
    • Experienced faculty
    • Financial aid available

New Philadelphia, OH

Kent State University at Tuscarawas

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-15 month accelerated program
    • For bachelor's degree holders
    • 92% NCLEX pass rate
    • Minimum 2.750 GPA required
    • Campus-based clinical experiences
    • 99% job placement rate
    • Comprehensive nursing curriculum

North Canton, OH

Walsh University

  • Bachelor's - Fast Track BSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Flexible for working adults
    • Weekend and evening clinicals
    • Accelerated prerequisite courses
    • State-of-the-art clinical labs
    • Prepares for NCLEX
    • Seamless MSN/DNP transition
    • High employment potential

Painesville, OH

Lake Erie College

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Dual-degree program
    • Small class sizes
    • Personalized mentoring
    • Fast-track completion
    • 3+1 and 4+1 tracks
    • Guaranteed seats for LEC students
    • Campus-based program
    • Financial aid available

Pepper Pike, OH

Ursuline College

  • Bachelor's - Second Degree Accelerated Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15 or 24-month nursing program
    • High-tech skills simulation labs
    • Teams STEPPS certified
    • Flexible program formats
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Excellent NCLEX pass rates
    • Designed for bachelor's degree holders

Salem, OH

Kent State University at Salem

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month program duration
    • Campus-based learning
    • Hands-on clinical experiences
    • Focus on compassionate care
    • Evidence-based practice curriculum
    • Life-span and diversity issues
    • Requires bachelor's degree
    • Minimum 2.750 GPA for admission

Springfield, OH

Wittenberg University

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully-online program.
    • 16-month completion.
    • 63 credit curriculum.
    • Flexible asynchronous learning.
    • Hands-on clinical experiences.
    • Accredited by CCNE.
    • Experienced faculty.
    • Non-nursing bachelor's required.

Toledo, OH

Mercy College of Ohio

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid format: online lectures, in-person clinicals.
    • Four consecutive semesters, full-time.
    • Clinicals grouped over extended weekends.
    • For non-nursing bachelor's degree holders.
    • Mercy Health employees eligible for full tuition coverage.
    • Prepares students for confident nursing career entry.
    • Flexible scheduling supports working students.
    • Hands-on experience in Mercy Health facilities.

University of Toledo

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Two admission pathways
    • Hands-on learning opportunities
    • Interprofessional education focus
    • Support from advisors
    • Financial aid available
    • High school GPA requirements
    • Standardized test scores option

Warren, OH

Kent State University at Trumbull

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 15-month program duration
    • Campus-based learning
    • High NCLEX pass rate
    • Clinical experiences in NE Ohio
    • State-of-the-art simulation labs
    • Minimum 2.750 GPA required
    • Prerequisite courses needed
    • Focus on compassionate care
*Based on: NCES IPEDS 2023 data collection. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

2026 Affordable ABSN Programs in Ohio

Ohio's nursing landscape offers promising opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals seeking affordable nursing education. With several excellent accelerated nursing programs across major regions like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati, students can find high-quality bachelor's degree options that won't break the bank. Cost-effective programs help make nursing careers more accessible, allowing motivated individuals to enter the healthcare field without overwhelming financial burden. These accelerated programs provide rigorous training, preparing students quickly for critical nursing roles while maintaining reasonable tuition rates. Prospective students can explore diverse programs that balance academic excellence with financial practicality, ensuring that dedicated learners can pursue their professional goals without excessive student debt.
School NameHighlightsAnnual Estimated Tuition & Fees
Mount Carmel College of Nursing
  • 18-month completion
  • Hybrid learning format
  • Evening/weekend schedule
  • NCLEX-RN preparation
  • Ohio licensure eligibility
  • Personalized instruction
  • Flexible for working adults
  • Scholarships available
  • $21,900 - $32,800 (Undergraduate)
Mercy College of Ohio
  • Hybrid format: online lectures, in-person clinicals.
  • Four consecutive semesters, full-time.
  • Clinicals grouped over extended weekends.
  • For non-nursing bachelor's degree holders.
  • Mercy Health employees eligible for full tuition coverage.
  • Prepares students for confident nursing career entry.
  • Flexible scheduling supports working students.
  • Hands-on experience in Mercy Health facilities.
  • $15,100 - $22,600 (Undergraduate)
Cleveland State University
  • Four consecutive semesters.
  • Full-time student status required.
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
  • 3.0 prerequisite GPA needed.
  • 2.5 cumulative GPA requirement.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Competitive selection process.
  • Includes theory and clinical courses.
  • $10,100 - $15,100 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $14,400 - $21,600 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*Data source: NCES, IPEDS 2023 institutional survey.

If you're exploring nursing schools in Ohio, our comprehensive state guide serves as a trusted resource for understanding the full spectrum of educational pathways, from entry-level programs to advanced degrees. Whether you are beginning your nursing journey or seeking to advance your credentials, this guide provides clear, up-to-date information on Ohio nursing program options, licensure requirements, and career opportunities. With Ohio's growing demand for qualified nurses, it equips you with the knowledge needed to make confident and informed decisions about your future in the profession.

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Providence, Rhode Island, blends a rich history with a modern healthcare system that continues to expand and evolve. The city…