Accelerated BS in Nursing

Program Overview

Mount Saint Mary's University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field who wish to transition into nursing. The one-year, three-semester program provides the same curriculum as the traditional BSN program, preparing graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam and a variety of nursing careers. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork through a combination of lectures, simulations, and clinical rotations. Graduates have a high employment rate and above-average NCLEX-RN pass rates.

Program Outline

Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) at Mount Saint Mary's University (MSMU)

Degree Overview:

• Description: The ABSN program at MSMU is designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field and are looking to transition into nursing.
It is a fast-paced program that can be completed in one year (three semesters), offering the same curriculum and objectives as the traditional BSN program.
• Structure: The program consists of three consecutive semesters with intensive coursework and clinical rotations.
• Objectives: Graduates will:
• Be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed as a registered nurse.
• Demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors expected of entry-level RNs.

Outline:

• Content: The ABSN curriculum covers a broad range of nursing topics, including:
• Health assessment
• Pharmacology
• Pathophysiology
• Nursing care
• Leadership
• Ethics
• Communication
• Research
• Structure:
• The program consists of 228 quarter units organized into three 76-unit semesters.
• Students take courses and clinical practicals across a series of four sequences: Core Sequence, Fundamentals, Transition to Professional Practice, and Capstone in Professional Nursing.
• Clinical practicals take place in a variety of clinical settings under the guidance of experienced RNs.
• Course Schedule:

Assessment:

• Methods: Students' clinical skills and theoretical knowledge are assessed through various approaches:
• Written examinations
• Practical skills demonstrations
• Standardized patients
• Simulations
• Assignments and presentations
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Ability to integrate theory into practice
• Effective communication techniques
• Professionalism and ethical conduct

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: MSMU implements several teaching methods throughout the program:
• Lectures
• Small group discussions
• Case studies
• Simulations
• Labs
• Online learning resources
• Faculty:
• MSMU boasts experienced faculty with extensive clinical expertise and academic backgrounds who guide students in their learning journey.
• Unique Approaches: The ABSN program promotes student collaboration and teamwork during simulations and practical work to enhance learning experiences beyond traditional lecture formats.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates can pursue diverse nursing careers in numerous healthcare settings (hospital, clinic, community) across several specialties:
• Critical Care
• Emergency
• Oncology
• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Outcomes:
• Most MSMU ABSN graduates successfully become RNs, achieving a high 77% employment rate on their first RN application and above average pass rates on NCLEX-RN after completing their studies at MSMU.