What Is an Accelerated Nursing Degree?
An accelerated nursing degree is a second-degree nursing program. It’s designed for students who wish to obtain a nursing degree while already having a bachelor's degree in another field. GMercyU’s accelerated nursing programs in PA are full-time, 16-month, 67-credit degree programs.
Professional Preparation for a Career that Cares
For more than 60 years, the Frances M. Maguire School of Nursing and Health Professions at Gwynedd Mercy University has been a hub for accelerated nursing programs in the Philadelphia area.
Our accelerated nursing programs help students become skilled practitioners who go on to provide superior patient care and serve as leaders in the field. Now, we offer innovative accelerated nursing programs in Philadelphia and Bensalem locations which can prepare you to make the change to a career with real meaning and purpose—a career as a registered nurse.
Our Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is an accelerated nursing degree designed for students who have a bachelor’s degree in another field. Learn more about GMercyU's admission requirements and financial aid and tuition for online and accelerated programs.
Benefits of a Second Bachelor's in Nursing and Accelerated Nursing Degree
Pursuing an accelerated second degree offers many advantages over a traditional nursing program. You can complete a second bachelor's degree in nursing in 16 months, rather than 4 years, which means you can enter the workforce much more quickly.
Another key benefit of getting your accelerated nursing degree as a second degree BSN is that students who do so are viewed as more determined and driven. You can demonstrate to employers that you thrive in a fast-paced environment. In addition, your first degree provides evidence of experience in other fields, adding to your applicable skills.
Career Options for Graduates of a Second Degree Nursing Program
Earning your BSN as a second degree will help you achieve a career in the demanding field of nursing. Today's employers increasingly prefer to hire nurses who hold a BSN degree. Nurses who earn a second degree in nursing often offer additional marketable skills that can equip them for future roles in nursing management, education and other areas - even medical journalism or legal consulting.
Most new BSN graduates will need to put in clinical time before specializing or moving to administrative roles. However, if you want to become a school nurse, family nurse practitioner, or a psychiatric mental health nurse, an accelerated second degree BSN program from accelerated nursing schools is the first step towards achieving your goals.