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Nursing (Accelerated BSN)

Accelerated Second degree Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (ABSN PROGRAM—Pre-licensure)

The NEW Nursing Program at Chestnut Hill College offers students an intellectually rigorous program of study to become skilled and compassionate providers of nursing care through a transformative holistic nursing curriculum rooted in the charism of the Sisters of Saint Joseph and devoted to the College mission and service of the needs of the “Dear Neighbor.”

COMPLETE ABSN APPLICATION

Program Requirements and Prerequisites

This 15-month 56 -credit program is designed for individuals interested in a career in nursing who hold a Baccalaureate degree another discipline.  Students will begin their course of study in the Fall semester and complete course work in 4 continuous semesters (Fall—Spring—Summer—Fall).

Acceptance to the program REQUIRES completion of at least two science courses at the time of application (see below). Additional courses in progress will be reviewed to determine eligibility.

Courses

  • General Chemistry (B or higher) (4 credits)
  • Anatomy and Physiology I (B or higher) (4 credits)
  • Anatomy and Physiology II (B or higher) (4 credits)
  • Microbiology (B or higher) (4 credits)
  • Nutrition (3 credits)
  • Developmental Psychology (3 credits)

Additional Requirements 

The program features a modern, hands-on curriculum delivered in beautiful, state-of-the-art facilities, designed with the flexibility to meet the needs of a wide range of both traditional and non-traditional students. Upon graduation, students will receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and will be eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

Resilience and self-care serve as integral, unique components of the CHC program, providing nurses with tools and strategies to care for themselves so that they may effectively take care of others—a key differentiator from other programs in the market today.

Having experienced a multi-faceted approach to holistic care, Chestnut Hill College nursing graduates will be able to:

  • INITIATE and adapt to change
  • ENGAGE in critical thinking in health care innovation
  • PRACTICE bold leadership in pursuit of individual, family, community, and environmental and professional advocacy
  • SEEK knowledge wherever it presents itself in pursuit of a global culture of health

FAQ

What is an Accelerated BSN (ABSN)?

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) is designed for individuals who hold a Bachelor’s degree in any discipline who want to become Registered Nurses. The program is an intensive, rigorous, 15 month program that begins in the Fall semester and ends at the conclusion of the following Fall semester.

 

What is the difference between an ABSN and BSN?

Both programs confer a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN). The traditional four-year degree is for students pursuing a career as a registered nurse. As well, the confers Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing (BSN). The ABSN differs from the traditional Undergraduate program in that individuals who already hold a Bachelor’s degree in another discipline can complete the Accelerated program in 15 months. All credits from their Undergraduate program are eligible to be accepted into the ABSN program.

How long does it take to receive an ABSN?

The ABSN program is a 15-month, full-time program that runs across four semesters. It begins in the Fall and continues through the Spring, Summer, and the following Fall semester. For example, a student starting in Fall 2025 would graduate in Fall 2026.

What can I do with an ABSN?

Successful completion of the ABSN program enables the graduate to be eligible to take the National Council Licensing Examination for RNs (NCLEX-RN).

How much money can I make with an ABSN?

Graduates of the ABSN program, after obtaining licensure as a Registered Nurse (see above) will be able to practice as Registered Nurses anywhere in the United States. According to Zip Recruiter, starting salaries for Registered Nurses in the Philadelphia are approximately 80,000.00 per year.

 

How much does it cost to get an ABSN?

The cost to complete the ABSN program at Chestnut Hill College is 35,000.00 plus books, laboratory fees and NCLEX-RN preparatory materials.

 

Can I become an R.N. (registered nurse) if I receive an ABSN?

The ABSN is the credential necessary to have in order to be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN examination which is the licensing examination for Registered Nurses.

 

How long does it take to become an R.N. with an ABSN?

The program is a 15 month program. Graduates apply to take NCLEX at the completion of the program and can become licensed within 30 days of graduation.

 

I have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing science-related field. Do I need to retake my science courses to receive an ABSN?

CHC recommends that all science pre-requisites be completed within 5 years of starting the ABSN program. Prerequisites are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, considering the student’s grades and the timeframe in which they were completed.

 

Are there any scholarships or discounts offered?

There is a 10% discount offered to CHC Alumni.

Do I have to wait until I finish my pre-requisites to apply to the ABSN program?

No, you can start your application even if your prerequisite courses are still in progress.

What is the TEAs Exam?

The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) is a multiple-choice exam that assesses a student’s readiness for nursing and allied health programs. It’s a standardized test that’s similar to the ACT or SAT. The TEAS test measures Reading, English and language usage, Math, and Science.

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