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Become a registered nurse (RN) in under 2 years

Help fill the growing need for registered nurses in your community by enrolling in one of Elmhurst University’s online accelerated nursing programs. For those with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, Elmhurst offers two full-time second-degree nursing program options:

  • Online Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
  • Online Master’s Entry in Nursing Practice (MENP)

Through our hybrid nursing programs, you'll complete all coursework entirely online while gaining valuable hands-on experience through one or two on-campus residencies and clinical placements in your local community.

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Academically Strong
Accredited by the CCNE* and ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a leading Midwest university

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Integrated Support
Dedicated student advisors will be by your side from application to graduation

Get Started Now

Submit your information to access a comprehensive digital program guide. One of our dedicated enrollment advisors will contact you shortly to discuss next steps.

I have or will have at least a bachelor’s degree. 

Step 1 of 2

"My enrollment advisor was so helpful. I felt like she really cared and wanted me to succeed in the program."

Elysa Katz

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • With your bachelor’s degree in any non-nursing discipline as your foundation, you’ll earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and be prepared to take the NCLEX-RN examination.

  • Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
    Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
    • 16 months to complete
    • 600+ clinical and lab hours
    • Two on-campus residencies
    • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university
    • 3.0 minimum GPA
    • Prerequisite courses

    Now accepting applications for Fall 2025

    Fall 2025 Start:

    August 25, 2025

Master's Entry in Nursing Practice
  • Our online direct entry MSN program provides a fast-paced pathway from a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to earning your Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree.

  • Master's Entry in Nursing Practice
    Master's Entry in Nursing Practice
    • 20 months to complete
    • 1,000+ clinical and lab hours
    • One on-campus residency
    • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university 
    • 3.2 minimum GPA 
    • Prerequisite courses

    Now accepting applications for Fall 2025

    Fall 2025 Start:

    August 25, 2025

Comparison of our online nursing programs for non-nurses

Both of our fast-track nursing programs offer a convenient path to a new and meaningful nursing career. If you’re undecided about which program to choose, this comparison chart may help you select the path that’s right for you. 

  ABSN MENP
Degree upon Completion Bachelor's Degree Master's Degree
Program length 60 credits/16 months 71 credits/20 months
Clinical hours 450+ 850+
Program cost $50,000 $60,000
Exam(s) NCLEX-RN NCLEX-RN, CNL
Credentials** RN RN, Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL)
Ideal student

Students who want to enter nursing to follow their passion for caring for others

Students who want to enter nursing and advance to leadership roles to improve patient safety and quality outcomes


*The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and the master’s degree program in nursing at Elmhurst University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 K Street, NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791

**Upon successful completion of the relevant licensure examinations

Kickstart Your Second Career in Nursing

The online Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program will help you solidify your skills and knowledge for a career in nursing while teaching you the required competencies in just 16 months. Work alongside registered nurses through a variety of hands-on experiences in Elmhurst’s state-of-the-art Simulation Lab, and examine the factors that influence the well-being of diverse communities. Earning an accelerated BSN is the perfect opportunity for those looking for a second career as a BSN-prepared RN.

The online Master’s Entry in Nursing Practice (MENP) program prepares you with the foundations, skills and clinical experience to begin your career as a clinical nurse leader. Enroll with a bachelor’s degree in any field and graduate with an MSN degree. You’ll also have the ability to advance your education after graduation by bridging to a nurse practitioner through post-graduate certification programs or a doctor of nursing practice program.

Are you looking for fast-track nursing programs?

Are you ready to start your journey toward a rewarding career in nursing? Access your free digital program guide and schedule a call with one of our enrollment advisors to learn how you can start your application—and take the first steps toward changing lives.

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Mary Katherine Howard
Mary Katherine Howard
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Amanda Zelin
Amanda Zelin
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