School of Nursing relaunches accelerated second-degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing program

Banner graphic with photo of three nursing students in a simulated hospital room session with manikin and text that reads 'Accelerated Second-Degree BSN, Learn More!'

July 16, 2021

Did you hear the good news? The School of Nursing is relaunching its accelerated second-degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

"The need for nurses is crucial right now. I'm so excited about the program relaunching at the School of Nursing. It's vital to help ensure the workforce needs are met across the state of Kentucky," School of Nursing Dean Sonya Hardin said.

"The need for nurses is crucial right now. I'm so excited about the program relaunching at the School of Nursing. It's vital to help ensure the workforce needs are met across the state of Kentucky."
- School of Nursing Dean Sonya Hardin

The accelerated BSN program, which is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), is designed to provide an expedited pathway into the nursing profession and ideal for those with a Bachelor's degree in another field who desire a career in nursing. The program will be offered in Louisville and the School of Nursing's extension in Owensboro, Kentucky.

The program makes it possible for students to earn a degree in as few as 15 months, or four semesters. The program will be offered in a hybrid format, allowing students a more flexible format to embrace the benefits of online education and in-person learning. Lecture content will be offered online, with in-person clinical experiences. The blended instruction will provide students flexibility in completing their coursework. Graduates will be prepared for taking the national licensure exam (NCLEX) upon graduation.

"The School of Nursing faculty possesses a wide variety of teaching and practice expertise and incorporates opportunities for students to provide care to diverse patient populations in hospital and community settings," Assistant Dean of Owensboro BSN Programs Dr. Amy Higdon said.

"The addition of the accelerated second-degree BSN program provides another avenue for expert faculty to educate the future nursing workforce in our communities," Assistant Dean of Louisville BSN Programs Dr. Heather Mitchell said.

Application deadline for the accelerated BSN program is in November 2021 for the first cohort and classes will begin in May 2022.

In addition to the second-degree BSN, the School of Nursing offers another option for individuals who already have a bachelor's degree in another field and are seeking an exciting new start in the healthcare profession. The accelerated Master's Entry into Professional Nursing program (MEPN) launched in 2015 and provides students with additional skills in the application of evidence-based practice and leadership in just six semesters.

"This program is an excellent opportunity for career changers and a great personal investment for students who are wanting to join the nursing profession," MEPN Program Director Dr. Said Abusalem said.

In this unique master's program (MEPN), graduates receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing. And students will be eligible to take the NCLEX and Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) certification exam upon graduation.

Find out more about our accelerated second-degree BSN and MEPN programs.