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Launch your second career in nursing.


Enrolling in the online Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at Elmhurst University is your fast track to building a new and fulfilling career from a university that supports you and is grounded in intellectual growth, integrity and social justice. 

With your prior bachelor’s degree in any discipline as your foundation, you’ll earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree through our online Accelerated BSN program in just 16 months. You’ll be fully prepared to take the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) and be well positioned for your new role providing direct patient care.

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    Fast-Track BSN
    This full-time, 16-month online program leverages your experience and prior education.

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    Prepared for Success
    Elmhurst online ABSN graduates have a 86% NCLEX-RN pass rate (2023).

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    Academically Strong
    The online ABSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

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    Immersive Residency
    Gain confidence and skills in simulated scenarios led by faculty in our innovative Simulation Center.

Is the ABSN Program Right for Me?


The Accelerated BSN is a rigorous, full-time program requiring 100% of your commitment. It’s strongly advised that you don’t work, even part-time, but exclusively focus on the program for 16 months while you earn your second degree.

It is specifically tailored toward second-career professionals who want to enroll in a fast-paced, immersive program to change careers and become an Registered Nurse (RN).

You will use an online learning platform to complete your nursing courses and have direct access to your professors and fellow students. All coursework is done entirely online except for your clinical placements and two on-campus residencies that will take place on Elmhurst University’s campus, located just west of Chicago.

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Change Careers

No prior nursing experience required.*

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Exclusive
for students in:

Exclusive for students in: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin.

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Competitive Tuition

Our $50k tuition is more affordable than our competitor programs.**

Clinical Placement FAQs


Our clinical placement team will work closely with you to ensure your placements meet university and national guidelines. These frequently asked questions will help you better understand the clinical placement services we provide in this accelerated nursing program.

Clinicals are very similar to an internship or being an apprentice; you provide care for real patients, but you benefit from the supervision and guidance of an experienced RN. During your clinicals you’ll practice what you learned in the online classroom on real patients with the supervision of a licensed RN.

The clinical placement team identifies and secures quality placement sites as close as possible to your local community. We manage this process for you so that you’ll have time to focus on your coursework and the core competencies you’ll need to succeed and graduate fully prepared.

Nursing clinicals can require you to work shifts as long as 12 hours. You’ll work under an experienced RN who will coach you throughout the process. During your clinical placements, you’ll gain practical experience by learning assessment skills, care coordination, patient advocacy and much more.

Your placement coordinator will be with you through the entire process by answering your questions, verifying your clearance requirements and walking you through the nursing clinicals checklist. The checklist details the dress code, clinical tools and professional expectations to ensure your success throughout each placement.

Get a Free Guide

Learn More About Tuition, Admission, Financial Assistance & More.
I have or will have at least a bachelor’s degree. 
Step 1 of 2
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  • Step 2
  • Complete
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3.0 Minimum GPA

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Apply with Any Bachelor's

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60 credits and 450+ clinical hours

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National Accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education

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No. 12 Best Value School
2025 U.S. News & World Report

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No. 7 Best Regional Universities in the Midwest
2025 U.S. News & World Report 

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No. 20 Best Undergraduate Teaching (Midwest)
2025 U.S. News & World Report 

Admission Requirements

 - Bachelor’s degree in any field

 - Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA

 - Personal statement

 - Prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or better

 - Live in an approved state

 

Student Spotlight

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* 3.0 minimum GPA, Bachelor's degree in any field & certain pre-requisite courses are required.

** Competitor data based on data from 5 Illinois-based schools with tuitions ranging from $50,900 to $63,380.

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