The journey to becoming a registered nurse (RN) is an exciting and rewarding one, and for those who are eager to jumpstart their nursing careers without spending years in school, accelerated Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs are the answer. These programs, offered in online or hybrid formats for maximum convenience, offer a faster route to earning an ADN, which is the minimum educational requirement to become an RN. Read on to learn more about five of the shortest ADN programs you can enroll in for 2024, each offering a quick path to launching your nursing career. You may even want to consider an LPN to RN program if you are currently an LPN.

1. Moberly Area Community College

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Type: Hybrid

While Moberly Area Community College offers a typical two-year ADN, they also offer an accelerated online ADN program that can be completed in just 12 months. This program is designed for individuals committed to an intensive and fast-paced nursing education. Students will engage in classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical experiences to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to start a successful nursing career and become eligible for taking the NCLEX-RN.

Prospective students should be prepared for a rigorous schedule and a full-time commitment during the 12-month program duration. However, the payoff is the opportunity to enter the nursing workforce quickly and start making a positive impact on patient care. Classes are conducted online, however, there are many opportunities for hands-on, lab, and clinical experiences.

Read more about the Moberly Area Community College’s ADN program here.

2. Valencia College

Program Length: 12 Months

Program Type: Hybrid

Valencia College offers a swift and intensive AS program that can be completed in just 12 months. This program is ideal for individuals looking to expedite their entry into the nursing profession. It combines online and in-person components to provide a comprehensive nursing education.

Valencia College’s AS program prioritizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the responsibilities of nursing practice. You’ll be able to take some prerequisites online, however, students should be prepared to spend most of their time learning in central Florida healthcare facilities.

Learn more about Valencia College’s ADN program here.

3. Rasmussen College

Program Length: 21 Months or less

Program Type: Hybrid

Rasmussen College, with multiple campuses and an online learning option, offers an accelerated ADN program that can be completed in as little as 18 months. This program is designed for individuals eager to enter the nursing field quickly and prepared to commit to an intensive curriculum. Their curriculum emphasizes patient care, critical thinking, professional confidence, and a well-rounded perspective.

Rasmussen College’s program offers hands-on learning and practical experience, ensuring that graduates are ready to provide high-quality patient care. The combination of online courses, classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical rotations prepares students for the demands of the nursing profession.

Read more about Rassmussen College’s ADN program here.

4. University of Charleston

Program Length: 16 Months

Program Type: Hybrid

The University of Charleston offers a hybrid ADN program designed to be completed in just 16 months. This accelerated program provides a well-rounded nursing education, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field.

With a combination of online coursework and in-person clinical experiences, this program ensures that you receive a comprehensive nursing education in a relatively short timeframe. One of the most notable aspects of the University of Charleston’s ADN program is that classes and clinicals are held every other weekend which is perfect for those who are already in the healthcare field and struggle to balance work and education.

Find out more about the University of Charleston’s ADN program here.

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