Whitson-Hester School of Nursing

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)/2nd Degree Program

If you already hold a bachelor's degree in another field, you do not need four more years. Our Accelerated 2nd-Degree BSN starts each Maymester and finishes 15 months later, with an August graduation — four consecutive full-time semesters, summers included, and eligibility for the NCLEX-RN at the end.

 This is an intensive program and a full-time commitment in all four semesters. Cohorts are small, admission is competitive, and most students find that outside work is difficult to sustain alongside the clinical schedule.

At a Glance

Credential: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Length: 15 months — four consecutive semesters, August graduation
Format: Full-time on campus, including summers
Start: Each Maymester
Applications Due: October 31st, for the following Maymester

ABSN Program Flyer

What the 15 Months Look Like

Summer 1, beginning in Maymester: 16 credit hours
Fall: 15 credit hours
Spring: 15 credit hours
Summer 2, ending in late July/early August: 17 credit hours

Admissions

You will need a completed bachelor's degree in any field, plus any of our science prerequisites you have not already taken.

Science Prerequisites

• Chemistry
• Anatomy and Physiology I and II
• Microbiology

Science courses must have been completed within the past 10 years, with a grade of C or better. American History may also required if it was not part of your previous degree or high school course content.  Science courses do not have to be complete to apply, but you do need to have a plan to have them done before program start.

How We Evaluate Applications

Admission is competitive. We review your overall academic record, your performance in science coursework, and your score on the HESI A2 admission exam.

When To Apply

Applications are open year-round and are due in October for the following Maymester start. HESI A2 testing dates for this program are held in September and October, so register early enough to test before the deadline — your score is part of the application.

Step-by-step instructions and the application form: How to Apply

Professional Licensure Disclosure 

The Whitson-Hester School of Nursing cannot guarantee licensure eligibility outside the state of Tennessee. Applicants are encouraged to contact the applicable licensure board(s) in their state of residence or in the state where they intend to obtain a license before beginning an academic program that results in licensure and prior to beginning any internship/practicum. For more information see Tennessee Tech’s Professional Licensure Disclosure web page or the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.