Second Degree Nursing Programs Without Prerequisites

Last Updated on January 1, 2023

Earning a nursing degree is a major investment in education. Students who study nursing benefit by gaining problem-solving, critical-thinking, communication and technological skills. These skills may help them to find a job or qualify them for higher salaries compared to those who do not have the same level of education.

Not to scare you but nursing programs are indeed demanding and extremely rigorous. But they have to be because patient lives are at stake. If nursing school was easy, everyone would be applying. After all, nursing is one of the most rewarding, diverse and in-demand occupations today.

Are you in need of a comprehensive, detailed information on Second Degree Nursing Programs without prerequisites but can’t find any? Collegelearners affords you ample information on accelerated nursing programs, list of second degree nursing programs, second degree BSN accelerated programs, RN programs with prerequisites included, accelerated BSN programs with minimum prerequisites and so on.

How to Become a Nurse—Education, Licenses, and Other Qualifications

Less competitive accelerated nursing programs

According to US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the nursing profession is projected to grow at least 15% between 2016 and 2026. This is much faster than the national average of other professions. At last count in 2016, there were 2,955,200 RNs in the United States. By 2026, there is an expected growth of 438,100 nurses.  

Growth in the nursing profession will occur for a variety of reasons including,

  • An emphasis on preventative care,
  • Rapid growth of chronic conditions such as diabetes and obesity, and 
  • The need for healthcare services for the Baby Boomer population. 

While most nurses enter a traditional four year BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program, there are options for students who decide to become nurses after they have already completed their undergraduate degree. These programs are referred to as second-degree nursing programs or accelerated nursing programs. 

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FAQ: 

  • How long does it take to become a nurse if you already have a bachelor’s degree?
    • Fast-track baccalaureate nursing programs take between 11 and 18 months to complete.
  • What is a second degree nursing program (aka accelerated nursing program)?
    • A second degree nursing program is condensed nursing program that focuses solely on nursing classes and clinicals. It is for students that have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another field. 
  • What prerequisites are required to apply to a fast track BSN program?
    • Bachelor’s degree
    • GPA of 3.0 or higher
    • Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) if applicable
    • Resume
    • Prerequisite classes including Nutrition, Psychology, Anatomy and Physiology, and Pathophysiology
    • All science prerequisites completed within five years prior to the start of the program.
    • Recommendations
    • Personal Interview
    • Personal Essay
  • Can you become an RN in 2 years?
    • Yes! Second degree nursing programs can be accomplished quickly if the individual meets all of the prerequisite requirements including having a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA, and specific classes. 
  • How much do second degree nursing programs cost?
    • The cost for second degree nursing programs is between $30,000 and $120,000. Factors include length of program, private vs. public institution, instate vs. out of state, and number of credit hours.

Accelerated fast-track BSN programs are popping up all over the country; they offer the quickest route to licensure for students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing discipline and meet the educational requirements.

Accelerated Nurse Programs

Accelerated nursing programs are one of the fastest growing university programs in the country. In 1990, there were only 31 accelerated baccalaureate programs; as of Fall 2015, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) noted 282 active programs in 49 states, including the District of Columbia, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.

According to AACN’s database on enrollment and graduations, there are at least 30 new accelerated BSN programs now in the planning stages. Fast-track programs typically take 11-18 months to complete and depends on the institution. 

AACN’s 2014 survey found that 16,935 students were enrolled in accelerated baccalaureate programs, which represents only a slight increase from 2013 when 16,921 students were enrolled. The number of program graduates has increased from 10,584 in 2013 to 11,080 in 2014 (up 4.7%). Unfortunately, this is the most current information available from the AACN. 

The growth of these programs is astounding. In fall 2015, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) noted 246 active programs in 46 states, including the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. There is an ongoing need for second degree nursing programs and Universities are recognizing this and adapting their curriculums. 

How Long Does it Take To Complete an Accelerated Nursing Program 

For example, Villanova University in Villanova, Pennsylvania is a 14-month program, while Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania takes 11-months to complete. Villanova allows for holidays, spring break, and a summer recess, while Drexel continues straight through without breaks. 

Thomas Edison State University in New Jersey is a 12-month program while Indiana State University’s program is 15-months. Some programs will offer more than one length of time option. For example, Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania offers a 12-month and 16-month format. 

The length of time greatly differs amongst universities and some find that a longer program allows for better understanding of material and less student stress.

Benefits of Second Degree Nursing Programs

Becoming a nurse can be a daunting task for individuals that already have a bachelor’s degree in another field. These programs allow for this to become a reality. It also prevents students from having to take the same courses over again and wasting time and money. 

Benefits of a second degree nursing program include:

  • Flexibility
  • Accelerated time frame
  • Focus on essential courses
  • Accessibility 
  • Decreased tuition
  • Teaches leadership
  • Makes an individual more marketable
  • Stronger clinical skills
  • Increased maturity
  • Plethora of programs
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How Second Degree Programs Differ

Second degree BSN programs are typically geared toward older, ambitious, and extremely motivated students; expectations for these students is generally higher than the traditional undergraduate programs. Students take classes focused only on nursing while building on the fundamentals of biology and science from their undergraduate studies.

Students are encouraged not to work during the program; however, this does vary based on the individual. Universities recommend that if a student does need to work, it is best to work in a hospital or medical setting order to gain invaluable experience and build connections with other medical professionals. Second degree nursing programs are extremely fast-paced and students can not afford to fall behind. 

Second degree nursing programs can be a great option for some individuals. 

Prerequisites Required

One important piece of information to note when researching second degree programs is the list of prerequisites that each program requires. Typically, students with a prior degree are not required to take the liberals arts content included in a traditional four-year BSN program. The majority of programs have the same requirements in order to move forward in the program.

Usual prerequisite requirements:

  • Biology with lab component
  • Microbiology
  • Genetics
  • Nutrition
  • Pathophysiology
  • Anatomy and physiology with lab component
  • Developmental psychology
  • Human Growth and Development
  • Chemistry (including organic)
  • Statistics

These classes have to be taken within 5 years of application and a grade of B or higher is usually required. Universities do not require students to take the prerequisites at their University but some will offer a reduction in tuition. It is recommended, if possible, to take any needed classes online or at a community college as tuition is generally lower. 

For classes requiring a lab component, these must be done in the classroom. Only a handful of programs will allow students to take online virtual labs but these are rare. Johns Hopkins University allows students to take the lab component online but it has to be through their University. Furthermore, if a student decides to attend another University this class will not transfer. 

Prerequisites do depend on the university so it is important to consider the classes that were taken during undergraduate studies in order to find the best fit. Many students that need to take prerequisites or retake science classes will enroll in these classes at a local community college due to convenience and affordability.

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Common Program Classes

Students will focus on nursing classes during the second degree program. With a science heavy focus, students should be well versed in the basics of biology and chemistry. Students will take the following courses throughout the program:

  • Health Assessment
  • Nursing Care of Adults and Older Adults and Practicum
  • Concepts in Pharmacology
  • Nursing and Health Policy
  • Community Health and Practicum
  • Care Coordination
  • Epidemiology for the Health Professions
  • NCLEX Prep Course
  • Population Health
  • Nursing Informatics
  • Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing and Practicum
  • Pediatric Nursing and Practicum
  • Obstetrics Nursing and Practicum
  • Leadership and Management
  • Nursing Ethics
  • Research and Scientific Evidence

Post Application Process

After applying, applicants that pass the initial screening process will undergo a personalized interview with professors and university officials. The selection process is rigorous and there is often a waitlist at highly desired universities. Competition to gain acceptance to a program can be tough, and applying to multiple programs is generally suggested. You do not have to sit for the NCLEX in the state you complete a program. Applying to programs in neighboring states can be helpful.

Similar to traditional BSN programs, second degree nursing programs also have waitlists. This will vary state to state but California, New York, and New Jersey currently have the longest wait times. Every year, countless students are turned away because second degree programs have much smaller classes than traditional programs. Most programs accept between 20 and 50 students each year.

As the need for more BSN-educated nurses increases throughout the country, the popularity of these accelerated programs will only increase. Second degree nursing students bring a wealth of life experience, knowledge, and excitement to the nursing profession. 

There is a need for nursing schools to graduate more nurses more quickly due to the current nationwide nursing shortage. While most major colleges and universities already have second degree nursing programs, new programs are constantly in the works and are passing accreditation. 

Top 5 Second Degree Programs no prerequisites required

There are hundreds of second degree nursing programs but here are the top five programs based on NCLEX graduation rates, job placements, clinical assignments, and student satisfaction. 

1. New York University

  • New York, NY
  • Length of Time: 15 months
  • Start Dates: September or January
  • Cost: $24,531 per year 

2. University of Pennsylvania 

  • Philadelphia, PA 
  • Length of Time: 18 months
  • Start Dates: June
  • Cost: $122,450  

3. University of Nevada

  • Length of Time: 12 months
  • Start Dates: January
  • Cost: $15,653/per year

4. Villanova University 

  • Villanova, PA
  • Length of Time: 14 months
  • Start Dates: May
  • Cost: $46,400

5. University of Massachusetts

  • Boston, MA
  • Length of Time: 15 months
  • Start Dates: September
  • Cost: $695/credit

rNprograms without prerequisites

In order to qualify for accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC), also now know as the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), nursing schools must adhere to certain curriculum standards.

In addition to nursing classes, these curriculum standards include classes in the sciences, math, and liberal arts.

As these general education classes provide the basis for the nursing classes and clinical rotations, most schools require prospective students to complete them as prerequisites, before applying to the nursing program. This practice has the advantage of “weeding out” prospective students who are not fully committed to the nursing profession, as well as forcing students to space out intense classes. This course progression is very common, as it sets a nursing student up for success in his program.

However, some schools do offer nursing courses and general education courses simultaneously. Students who enroll in these schools do not need to complete any prerequisites.

Practical Nursing Certificate (LPN) Programs without prerequisites

Capital Area Career Center in Springfield, Illinois, through its School of Practical Nursing, accepts students who possess a high school diploma or GED into its nine-month practical nursing certificate program. Also in Illinois, Heartland Community College offers a Practical Nursing program that does not have prerequisites. The program does require some general education classes, which students can opt to complete simultaneously with the nursing classes.

In Uniontown, Pennsylvania, Fayette County Career and Technical Institute offers a year-long Practical Nursing Program without prerequisites. The Practical Nursing program at the College of Central Florida does not require prerequisites; incoming students only need a high school diploma or GED. The year-long Practical Nursing certificate program on the Community College of Baltimore’s Dundalk campus does not have any prerequisites, although students are strongly advised to take some, if not all, the general education courses before beginning. In the southwestern portion of the country, the College of Southern Nevada offers a four-semester Practical Nursing program, called the 50-credit, No Prerequisite Track Curriculum.

Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Programs without Prerequisites

Heartland Community College in Normal, Illinois offers a four-semester Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program without prerequisites, as long as the student does not need to take any developmental classes. Although the college encourages students to take general education courses before beginning the nursing courses, students do have the option of taking both general education and nursing courses simultaneously.

In Hickory, North Carolina, Catawba Community College offers a five-semester ADN program; the program has no prerequisites as long as the incoming student has completed high school biology and chemistry. In the western part of the country, Dakota Wesleyan University in South Dakota offers a two-year Associate of Arts in Nursing degree that does not require prerequisite classes. A student in this program does have to take general education classes; the program includes two summer semesters in addition to the traditional fall and spring semesters in order to accommodate these classes. In Crown Point and Fort Wayne, Indiana, St. Francis University offers a four-semester ADN program without prerequisites, provided that the incoming student does not need developmental classes and has taken high school chemistry. In Sioux City, Iowa, students can enroll in St. Luke’s College’s five-semester Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program without completing any prerequisites.

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Diploma Nursing Programs without Prerequisites

Hospital-based diploma nursing programs are less likely to require prerequisites than bachelor’s programs. As hospital-based programs were the traditional way of training new nurses in the past, these programs generally have a long history (often over 100 years old) and are mostly found in the eastern half of the county. In Pittsburgh, the University of Pittsburgh Shadyside School of Nursing offers a twenty-two-month-long diploma program that combines general education and nursing courses.

St. Joseph School of Nursing in North Providence, Rhode Island cooperates with Rhode Island College to offer a diploma nursing program that takes three years to complete. As long as a student has completed a high school chemistry class, the program does not have prerequisites. In Jersey City, New Jersey, students can complete both a diploma in nursing and an Associate of Science degree through Christ Hospital School of Nursing and Hudson County Community College. Students do not need to take any prerequisite courses other than the standard high school classes before beginning the cooperative program. Graham Hospital School of Nursing in Canton, Illinois does not require any prerequisites for its three-year diploma nursing program, as long as the applicant has completed the standard high school curriculum.

bachelor of nursing no prerequisites

Most traditional, four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs require students to enter the college or university as pre-nursing students, and spend one to two years completing general education requirements and nursing prerequisites before enrolling in nursing classes. Some BSN programs, however, do have built-in prerequisites. West Coast University, which is dedicated to healthcare education, has a BSN program that requires just a high school diploma or GED. According to the program documents, “Other courses, training, and experience are optional and may enable students to receive transfer credit or have the ability to receive course credit by ‘testing out’ in specific subjects.”

West Coast University’s program is available in Dallas, Texas, and Los Angeles and Anaheim, California. Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington, Illinois also has a BSN program without prerequisites. While the school has a strong emphasis on the liberal arts and has a substantial core requirement, students enter the school of nursing at the beginning of their freshman year. There is no separate admission process for the nursing school, and students spend their four years at Illinois Wesleyan University completing both liberal arts and nursing courses simultaneously.

In scenic Newport, Rhode Island, Salve Regina University offers a four-year pre-licensure BSN program that combines general education and nursing classes. Students on this track are accepted simultaneously to the university and the nursing department, and take their first nursing course in their first semester. In Cleveland, the Francis Payne Bolton School of Nursing at Case Western Reserve University boasts that clinical rotations begin in the very first semester of the BSN program. Incoming freshmen do not need to complete any prerequisites, other than the standard high school courses, and can begin the nursing program right away. In Indiana, the University of Evansville accepts high school seniors directly into its school of nursing; these students do not need to complete any prerequisites before beginning the coursework required for the BSN degree.

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