What Ohio Schools Offer Accelerated BSN Programs: Second Degree BSN

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.
2025 Best ABSN Programs in Ohio
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 Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP) is tailored for individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field aiming to transition into nursing. Offering two tracks, a 13-month and an 18-month option, the program blends online and on-campus learning to fit various lifestyles. With a focus on preparing students for the NCLEX-RN, the program boasts a 91.02% 5-year average pass rate. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, and 100% of graduates find employment within a year. Prerequisites include courses in psychology, anatomy, and microbiology, with a recommended GPA of 3.0. Financial aid options are available to support students through their rigorous journey into nursing.
- 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 offers a Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP) - Evening/Weekend, perfect for those balancing work and studies. This hybrid program blends online and face-to-face instruction, designed for busy adults. Complete your Bachelor of Science in Nursing in just 18 months. The program prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam, with eligibility for Ohio licensure. Enjoy personalized instruction and flexible scheduling with evening and weekend classes, labs, and clinical experiences. Admission requirements include a prior degree. Scholarships and financial aid may be available. Start your journey to a rewarding nursing career today.
- 18-month completion
- Hybrid learning format
- Evening/weekend schedule
- NCLEX-RN preparation
- Ohio licensure eligibility
- Personalized instruction
- Flexible for working adults
- Scholarships available
Ohio State University
Columbus, OH - Public 4-Year - osu.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (aBSN) at Ohio State University is designed for those with a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field seeking a fast-track to a nursing career. This full-time program can be completed in as few as 18 months, combining rigorous coursework with hands-on clinical experience at top healthcare facilities like the Wexner Medical Center. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN and pursue diverse nursing roles across various settings. The program is highly ranked, offering a blend of quality education and practical training to kickstart your nursing journey.
- 18-month full-time program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure.
- Combines coursework with clinical experience.
- Hybrid program type.
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 (A-BSN) program is designed for professionals with a bachelor's degree in another field, offering a fast track to a nursing career. This 15-month, campus-based program leverages your previous education, providing a seamless transition into nursing. With clinical experiences starting early, students gain hands-on practice in top healthcare facilities. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam, opening doors to rewarding nursing careers. The program emphasizes job placement and earning potential, making it a smart choice for career changers. Admission requires meeting specific criteria, and financial aid options are available to help manage costs.
- 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.
Mercy College of Ohio
Toledo, OH - Private 4-year - mercycollege.edu
Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at Mercy College of Ohio is designed for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor's degree seeking a fast track to a nursing career. This hybrid program combines online lectures with in-person clinicals at Mercy Health facilities across Ohio, offering flexibility for working students. The program spans four consecutive semesters, with clinicals and labs scheduled over extended weekends to accommodate professional commitments. Mercy Health employees can have their education expenses fully covered. The program prepares students for the nursing profession with a focus on hands-on experience and confidence-building.
- 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.
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
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) at The Christ College provides a fast-track pathway for non-nursing degree holders to launch a nursing career. Students can complete their degree in just 15-16 months through intensive coursework and hands-on clinical experiences. The program requires a bachelor's degree in another field, a minimum 2.75 GPA, and specific prerequisite courses. Aspiring nurses gain real-world skills through simulations and clinical rotations at top regional hospitals, with potential employment opportunities through the Career Pathways Program.
- 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
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 is designed for busy, working adults seeking a flexible yet structured path to a nursing career. This hybrid program combines online lectures with in-person weekend and evening clinical and laboratory experiences. Prerequisite courses are available in an accelerated 8-week format at a reduced tuition rate. The program prepares students for the NCLEX and offers seamless transition into advanced nursing degrees. Clinical experiences are integral, providing hands-on practice in state-of-the-art facilities. With a growing demand for nurses, graduates are well-positioned for employment in healthcare settings.
- 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
List of Ohio Accelerated BSN Programs
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.
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.
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.
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
2025 Affordable ABSN Programs in Ohio
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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Mercy College of Ohio |
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University of Toledo |
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Cleveland State University |
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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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