Wondering how to become an RN with a bachelor’s degree? If you already have a completed non-nursing bachelor’s degree, you may be eligible for an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This can allow you to graduate with a nursing degree in as few as 16 months.
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree but wish to change careers to become a nurse, you might be wondering how to make that transition. Lucky for you, the process is straightforward, particularly if you decide to pursue your second degree in nursing through Marian University's Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program.
Designed with career changers and second-degree seekers in mind, Marian’s ABSN program follows a rigorous 16-month curriculum comprised of online theory courses, in-person skills and simulation labs, and clinical experiences with leading healthcare providers in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Nashville, Tennessee.
The online component makes our program an ideal choice for career changers like you, as it allows you to listen to lectures and complete assignments from anywhere, at any time. Additionally, since the program is tailored for adult learners in similar situations, you’ll receive plenty of support along the way.
Why Transitioning to Nursing Is a Smart Choice
Switching careers to nursing can be a good choice for you if you’re dissatisfied with your current career and interested in one that would allow you to serve your community. As a nurse, you’ll be able to help people navigate tough medical situations, providing the empathy and compassion they need during difficult times.
In addition, nurses enjoy strong job prospects. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the estimated job growth rate for registered nurses is expected to be 6%, faster than average, from 2023 through 2033. The BLS also reports that the median annual salary for RNs as of May 2023 was $86,070.
Hear from Marian ABSN program graduates as they share their nursing school experiences.
How to Become an RN With a Bachelor’s Degree in Another Field
It’s helpful to have a roadmap to follow when preparing for nursing school and having already obtained a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. The following overview will guide you through what to expect from the process.
1. Find a Program
The first step toward becoming a nurse with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree is to find a nursing program that allows you to leverage your prior college credits, such as the ABSN program at Marian. An accelerated nursing program can enable you to graduate much more quickly than a traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing, which typically takes four years to complete.
2. Meet Requirements and Apply
Next, you’ll need to verify that you meet the admission requirements. An admissions advisor will review your qualifications and help you put together your application. To qualify for the Marian University ABSN program, you must hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. If you have a degree in another field, then your admissions advisor will work with you to make an admissions plan unique to your needs. Additionally, they will also determine which prerequisites you need to take.
Here’s a breakdown of the requirements you’ll need to meet before applying:
Admission Requirements
- Hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Cumulative college GPA of 2.8 or a 3.0 for the last 60 credit hours completed
- Complete all ABSN prerequisite courses within the GPA requirements
Prerequisite Courses
- Introductory Microbiology
- Human Anatomy
- General Human Psychology
- Elements of General and Biological Chemistry
- Abnormal Psychology
- Human Growth and Development
- 12 Hours in Humanities
Prepare yourself to succeed in your nursing education, and discover how long nursing prerequisites take before enrolling as a Marian ABSN student.
3. Graduate With Your BSN
The ABSN program offers a hybrid approach to learning. You’ll complete online coursework, which teaches nursing concepts. You’ll also attend in-person nursing skills and simulation labs at a program site in either Indianapolis or Nashville. In these labs, you’ll learn crucial nursing skills and practice working through patient care scenarios.
Lastly, you’ll complete clinical rotations at nearby healthcare facilities. Under the supervision of your nursing instructors and preceptor, you’ll gain hands-on experience providing direct patient care. Our clinical rotations can introduce you to a range of nursing specialties, which may include adult health, acute care and mental and behavioral health.
4. Pass the NCLEX
After graduating with your BSN, you’ll need to pass the licensure exam. The NCLEX tests both your nursing knowledge and your ability to form appropriate clinical decisions given various patient care situations. Upon passing the test, you can obtain a state-issued nursing license.
How an ABSN Program Supports Your Transition
The ABSN program at Marian is a second-degree program that accepts students with a completed non-nursing bachelor’s degree. You might also be eligible if you’re a transfer student from Marian’s Associate of Science in Health Sciences program. Regardless, the ABSN program can support your transition to nursing with the following benefits:
Program Speed
The idea of returning to school for a second career can be a smart decision, but many people can’t afford the time commitment of a traditional four-year degree. The 16-month duration of an ABSN program is appealing because it means graduates will enter the workforce much sooner.
Program Quality
Although Marian’s ABSN program can be completed in as few as 16 months, the curriculum doesn’t cut corners. You’ll receive the same breadth and depth of nursing education as a four-year BSN student would, and you’ll graduate ready to sit for the NCLEX and tackle modern challenges in nursing.
FAQs About Becoming a Nurse With a Non-Nursing Bachelor’s Degree
If you’re thinking about pursuing a nursing degree, you probably have some questions. The following answers may be helpful.
What If I Already Have a Bachelor’s and Want to Be a Nurse?
If you already have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field, you can leverage your prior education toward earning a nursing degree sooner. With an ABSN program, you could graduate in as few as 16 months.
How Long Is Nursing School With a Bachelor’s?
If you already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, online-based accelerated options like the one Marian University offers allow you to earn a BSN in as few as 16 months. Keep in mind that you might need to complete some prerequisites before beginning the program. In addition, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX after graduating.
Can I Become a Nurse With a Liberal Arts Degree?
Although having a science background can be advantageous to aspiring nurses, it’s possible to become a nurse with a liberal arts degree. The prerequisite courses will help you build a foundation for success in nursing school, and the nursing curriculum will teach you everything you need to know.
Can I Become a Nurse With a Previous Bachelor of Science Degree?
Having a previous science degree is probably the fastest track to enrolling in Marian University’s second-degree ABSN program. Not only will you have likely already completed your general education prerequisites, but you may also be able to skip some of your science prerequisites, as well.
See how you apply a bachelor's in biology toward earning your BSN degree.
Get Started Toward Your Nursing Degree Today
Now that you understand how to become an RN with a bachelor’s degree, are you ready to get started? Marian’s admission advisors are here to help you. Contact our admissions team today to learn more and take the next step toward applying.