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Nursing (Accelerated) ABSN

Earn your accelerated nursing degree in just 16 months. Manchester’s ABSN program is designed for students who have completed at least 60 college credits or hold a prior bachelor’s degree in any major. With hands-on lab training, clinical practice, and expert faculty support, you’ll be prepared to become a registered nurse—fast.

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Fast-Track Your Future with an Accelerated Nursing Degree

Manchester University’s accelerated nursing degree helps you become a registered nurse in just 16 months. Designed for students with at least 60 college credits or a previous degree in any major, this full-time ABSN program blends clinical training, simulation labs, and expert instruction to fast-track your entry into the nursing profession.

Course Catalog

Program Information:

Major | BSN

  • Accelerated 2nd Degree
  • 65 Credit Hours
  • 756 Clinical Hours

Learning Environment

  • Fort Wayne
  • Parkview Mirro Center
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One of the most rewarding things about working and going to school at Manchester was the fact that they were so interconnected. And that honestly helped me find the position that I’m in post-grad

Harold Kim, Class of 2023

Why Choose MU for an Accelerated BSN?

two female nursing and pharmacy students pose for a photo at a ceremony

Graduate in Just 16 Months

Manchester’s accelerated format helps you become a registered nurse quickly—with a full-time, in-person program that’s designed for second-degree students ready to launch a new health care career.

100% NCLEX Pass and Employment Rates

Manchester ABSN students achieve 100% NCLEX first-time pass rates and 100% job placement within two months of graduation—results that reflect strong preparation and support.

Hands-On Simulation and Clinical Training

Practice essential nursing skills in state-of-the-art labs and gain real-world experience at clinical sites across Fort Wayne and surrounding rural and urban communities.

Supportive, Small Cohort Environment

With small class sizes, the ABSN program fosters strong student-faculty relationships, collaborative learning, and personalized guidance from admission through licensure preparation.

Faculty Advising and Academic Support

Each student is assigned a dedicated faculty advisor, and additional support is available through the Student Success Center to help you thrive academically and clinically.

What You Can Do with Your ABSN Degree

Registered Nurse (RN)

Deliver patient care in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

Pediatric Nurse

Care for children in hospitals, schools, or pediatric specialty clinics.

Community Health Nurse

Promote wellness and disease prevention through outreach and health education.

Critical Care Nurse

Provide advanced care in intensive care and emergency departments.

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Average Starting Salary for Accelerated Nursing Degree Holders

Accelerated BSN graduates enter the workforce quickly and earn competitive salaries. On average, registered nurses with a bachelor’s degree earn around $89,000 annually. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median RN salary at $86,070, with a projected 6% job growth through 2032. Graduates of Manchester University’s 16-month ABSN program are well-prepared to meet this demand and begin their nursing careers with strong earning potential.

a group of female nursing and pharmacy students pose for a photo at a ceremony

How the Accelerated BSN Program Supports Your Success

Traditional BSN Overview and Key Differences

The Traditional BSN is a four-year undergraduate degree that includes Manchester Core requirements and progressive nursing coursework beginning sophomore year. Students participate in clinical rotations starting in the spring of year two.

In contrast, the Accelerated BSN is a full-time, 16-month second-degree program designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree. While the curriculum content is the same, the pace and structure differ significantly.

ABSN Application and Admission Requirements

Admission to Manchester University’s Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program is competitive and designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field or have completed at least 60 college credit hours. Applicants must meet both academic and professional readiness standards to be considered for admission.

Application Details:

  • Apply via NursingCAS between August 10 and June 1 (rolling admissions; apply early)
  • Submit a resume, personal statement, and 1–3 letters of recommendation
  • Interview required for qualified applicants

Academic Requirements:

  • Completed bachelor’s degree or ≥ 60 college credit hours from an accredited college or university
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (preferred)
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA in the following prerequisite courses, each completed with a grade of C or better:
  • Human Anatomy with lab
  • Physiology with lab
  • Microbiology with lab
  • Chemistry with lab
  • Statistics
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Human Growth and Development (Developmental Psychology)

Additional Requirements:

  • GRE not required
  • TEAS exam required only if the applicant has not earned a bachelor’s degree (minimum score of 58.7%)
  • Must complete:
    • A criminal background check
    • 10-panel drug screening
    • Health forms and immunization records
    • HIPAA and bloodborne pathogens training
    • Proof of health insurance

All materials must be submitted through NursingCAS and meet outlined program requirements. Because seats are limited and the accelerated program is intensive, early and thorough preparation is key to a successful application.

ABSN Tuition and Fees

Tuition for Manchester University’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is charged per credit hour. The current rate is:

  • $725 per credit hour for tuition
  • $75 per credit hour for nursing program fees

With 65 total credit hours required to complete the accelerated program, the base tuition and program fees amount to approximately $52,000. This does not include indirect costs such as books, uniforms, clinical supplies, background checks, transportation, or living expenses.

Additional costs may include:

  • Technology and access fees
  • Simulation and lab use fees
  • Health screening and immunizations
  • NCLEX preparation materials

Manchester University’s Student Financial Services team is available to help you understand the total cost of attendance and explore financial aid options. Scholarships, federal financial aid, and private funding sources may be available for qualified students.

For the most up-to-date tuition structure, visit the official Accelerated BSN Tuition and Fees page.

ABSN Courses and Curriculum

Manchester’s Accelerated BSN (ABSN) is a 65-credit, full-time, 16-month program designed to fast-track your career in nursing. The curriculum is carefully sequenced for comprehensive learning, blending theory, lab experience, and clinical practice.

Fall (Year 1 – 15 credits)

  • NURS 125: Introduction to Nursing (online, 3 credits) – Covers nursing roles, medical terminology, the nursing process, ethics, and APA writing.
  • NURS 210: Pathophysiology for Nursing (3 credits) – Focus on disease across the lifespan and system homeostasis.
  • NURS 216: Health Assessment (4 credits) – Teaches history, physical exam, cultural competence, and health promotion in lab.
  • NURS 220: Fundamentals of Nursing (5 credits) – Hands-on practice, documentation, infection control, and clinical reasoning.

January Session (2 credits)

  • NURS 200: Nursing Calculations – Medication math, legal/ethical concepts in drug administration.

Spring (17 credits)

  • NURS 300: Maternal Newborn & Women’s Health (4 credits)
  • NURS 305: Pharmacology for Nursing (3 credits)
  • NURS 320: Adult Health I (6 credits, 126 clinical hours)
  • NURS 400: Pediatric Nursing (4 credits)

Summer (17 credits)

  • NURS 325: Adult Health II (6 credits, 126 clinical hours)
  • NURS 330: Mental Health & Wellness (4 credits)
  • NURS 405: Research for Evidence-Based Practice (3 credits)
  • NURS 410: Community Nursing (4 credits, 42 clinical hours)

Fall (Year 2 – 14 credits)

  • NURS 430: Critical Care Nursing (4 credits)
  • NURS 440: NCLEX & Practice Preparation (3 credits)
  • NURS 450: Capstone Practicum & Leadership (7 credits, 168 clinical hours)

Program Requirements:

  • Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, with all core nursing courses requiring a grade of C or higher.
  • A 75% average on all course exams is mandatory.
  • The program includes 756 total clinical hours across multiple internsemesters.
  • 65 credit hours total.

This rigorous curriculum equips students with deep clinical insight, strong critical thinking, and professionalism—all culminating in a capstone experience and preparation for the NCLEX licensure exam.

International Student Eligibility

At this time, international students are not eligible to apply to Manchester University’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program. The ABSN has not received approval from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for F-1 visa sponsorship, which is required for international enrollment.

International applicants interested in other health science programs may be eligible to apply to the Doctor of Pharmacy, Master of Athletic Training, or MBA programs. For a full list of approved programs and application instructions, please visit the International Admissions page.

Student Community, Advising, and Support Resources

Manchester’s ABSN program fosters a strong learning community through small, collaborative cohorts, frequent faculty interaction, and personalized advising. Each student is assigned a faculty advisor and meets regularly for academic planning. Additional support is available through the Student Success Center. While there are no formal ABSN student groups, teamwork and peer support are built into the program. Info sessions and program events help students stay connected and informed.

Clinical Experience, Lab Resources, and Learning Technology

Students train in simulation labs on both the Fort Wayne and North Manchester campuses using high-tech manikins that simulate realistic patient responses. Clinical experiences occur at regional hospitals, clinics, and rehab centers in both urban and rural settings. Coursework is delivered through Canvas, supported by 24/7 tech assistance.

Meet the Faculty

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FAQs About Manchester University’s Accelerated BSN Degree

What are the admission requirements for the Accelerated BSN program?

To be considered for Manchester University’s Accelerated BSN program, applicants must already hold a completed bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited college. 

In addition to the degree, students must complete the following prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of C: 

  • Human Anatomy with lab, 
  • Physiology with lab,
  •  Microbiology with lab,
  •  Chemistry with lab, 
  • Statistics, 
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Human Growth and Development (Developmental Psychology). 

Prerequisites must be completed prior to August 1 for fall admission.

A cumulative GPA of 3.0 is preferred, and students should also have a 3.0 GPA or higher in the science-based prerequisites like Physiology and Microbiology.

Manchester University does not require the GRE for admission into this accelerated nursing program. One letter of recommendation is required, though applicants may submit up to three. Official transcripts are also required during the admissions process. Applications are submitted through NursingCAS, with the cycle typically opening in mid-August and closing in mid-June. 

This full-time program is competitive. Students applying should begin early and follow the application process closely. Successful candidates demonstrate readiness for intensive nursing education and a commitment to a second-degree baccalaureate degree program focused on clinical instruction and nursing practice.

Who is the ABSN program designed for, and what will I be able to do with this degree?

Manchester University’s ABSN program is an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing designed for prospective students who have already completed a non nursing bachelor’s and are pursuing a career change into the nursing profession. This program is ideal for individuals with a strong academic background and the desire to make a positive impact in health care.

The curriculum emphasizes nursing education, critical thinking, health promotion, and hands-on clinical instruction. Students will prepare for RN licensure through classroom learning, nursing practice labs, and clinical placement at hospitals and community health centers. Program completion enables graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.

Graduates of the ABSN program are prepared for immediate employment in a wide range of settings—such as medical centers, long-term care facilities, schools, and public health agencies. Whether you aspire to work in pediatrics, critical care, or community outreach, this baccalaureate degree offers a fast and effective pathway into the nursing career you’re passionate about.

What is the structure and timeline of the ABSN program?

This accelerated nursing program is a full time program completed over 16 months. Designed for students holding a completed bachelor’s, the ABSN follows a cohort model. This means students advance through the curriculum in a specific, fixed sequence. The ABSN includes 65 credit hours divided among lecture-based learning, on campus labs, and clinical hours across various health care settings.

Students begin with foundational content in nursing theory, pharmacology, and communication skills before progressing into advanced topics such as mental health, adult health, and maternal-child nursing. Clinical experiences are introduced early in the program and continue throughout, helping students build clinical reasoning and nursing practice competencies.

Because of the accelerated format, students must commit to the program full time. Part-time study is not allowed, and students are not permitted to take breaks except in limited, case-reviewed situations. This structured timeline ensures program completion within four semesters and supports full readiness for nursing licensure.

What does a typical week look like for an ABSN student at Manchester?

ABSN students should expect a schedule resembling real-world nursing practice. Most classes, labs, and clinical rotations occur Monday through Friday, typically from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Clinical placement may start as early as 6 a.m., depending on the assigned health care site. This immersive structure simulates the demanding schedules nurses often face.

For every classroom hour, students should expect to dedicate 2–3 hours of independent study. For example, a 3-credit nursing course may require 6–9 hours of homework or review per week. The workload reflects the intensive nature of nursing education and prepares students for responsibilities in fast-paced medical environments.

Coursework combines in-person instruction with high-tech nursing simulation labs and community-based clinical experiences. This model supports critical thinking, effective communication, and hands-on learning in both acute care and community health settings. Due to the program’s intensity, students are strongly advised not to work while enrolled.

What academic and technical support is available to ABSN students?

Manchester University offers a wide range of resources to support student success in this accelerated nursing program. Each ABSN student is assigned a faculty advisor who provides ongoing academic advising and guidance throughout program completion. These advisors help students set goals, monitor progress, and adapt to the challenges of a full-time program.

Students also benefit from the Student Success Center, which offers tutoring, academic coaching, and workshops on study strategies and test-taking. These services empower students to overcome academic challenges and develop habits that contribute to success in the nursing profession.
For technical needs, Manchester’s Information Technology Services (ITS) Help Desk operates during standard business hours, and the university’s learning management system, Canvas, offers 24/7 support for online courses and assignments. Canvas is central to nursing education delivery, housing syllabi, grades, and course materials. This robust network of academic and tech support allows ABSN students to focus on their nursing practice program with confidence.

Can I transfer credits or take outside courses while enrolled?

Nursing students may transfer prerequisite courses completed prior to enrollment, as long as those courses meet Manchester’s academic standards and are completed with a minimum grade of C. These include prerequisite courses in Human Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Statistics. Once students begin the ABSN program, however, no transfer credits are accepted for nursing coursework.

Because this is an accelerated bachelor program with a tightly sequenced curriculum, students must complete all nursing courses at Manchester University. Taking outside courses during enrollment is not allowed. The ABSN is a full time program that builds on previous learning each term, and attempting to take additional coursework may compromise program completion and student performance.

This policy ensures consistent academic quality, clinical instruction, and readiness for RN licensure. Students with questions about course equivalencies, program requirements, or unique circumstances should consult their nursing office or academic advisor.

Where do classes, labs, and clinicals take place, and what are the learning environments like?

Manchester University’s ABSN program is delivered primarily at the Fort Wayne campus, with additional instruction held at the Parkview Mirro Center for Research and Innovation. These facilities provide access to modern learning environments, including high-fidelity nursing simulation labs equipped with interactive manikins for realistic practice scenarios.
Clinical instruction occurs in partnership with medical centers, community health centers, rehabilitation facilities, and clinics across Fort Wayne and surrounding rural regions. These clinical placements ensure each nursing student gains exposure to a range of patient populations, care settings, and nursing practice techniques.

The program’s small class sizes support a collaborative, student-centered environment. This close-knit learning model encourages effective communication among students and faculty, which enhances critical thinking and professional development. Students also benefit from lab practice, simulation, and real-time feedback before transitioning to live patient care during clinical hours.
The diverse learning environments in our accelerated program prepare students for the realities of the nursing profession and help ensure graduates are confident, compassionate, and well-equipped to provide quality health care in today’s complex clinical settings. The ABSN also lays a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing a future master’s degree program or contributing to broader health equity efforts in nursing and beyond.

Non-Discrimination in the Admission Process

Manchester University is committed to non-discrimination in campus life. The University does not discriminate on the basis of national origin, ancestry, race, color, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, familial status, religion, disability or veteran status in admissions or any area of campus life, including its educational programs, scholarships and loan awards, residence life programs, athletic programs, extracurricular programs, promotion and tenure policies and practice, and alumni affairs.

Manchester University is committed to carry out the provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans With Disabilities Act, which provide for accessibility of University programs to the physically disabled.