Is there an accelerated nurse practitioner program?

If you’re considering a second career and you want to become a nurse practitioner, you’ve already discovered the first step down the quickest path: Earn your BSN in an accelerated BSN nursing program in as few as 20 months (24 months for most students). Earn your master's degree through our online MSN FNP program in 20 months. Fully commit to starting your second career and Herzing University can help you become eligible to sit for the FNP certification exam in 3 years to become a certified family nurse practitioner in your state.

What are my alternatives to an accelerated nursing program?

If you’re considering a second career as a nurse but concerned about the workload in an accelerated program, there are several other paths you can take: You can first become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). In 1 year you can earn a diploma in Practical Nursing and become an LPN. From there you can determine if you want to become a registered nurse. Get an associate’s degree and become an RN. You can earn your associate degree in nursing and become a registered nurse in 20 months—this is the quickest way to become an RN outside of an accelerated program. A traditional BSN program. Enroll in our 3-year bachelor’s of science in nursing program, earn your degree and become a highly qualified registered nurse. It’s our goal to help you succeed in your second career. We’ll work with you to determine the best fit.

Accelerated BSN Nursing Program (ABSN)

Herzing’s Accelerated BSN nursing program in Orlando

CCNE accredited¹
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Program length: as few as 20 months; students who need to complete science prerequisites may require 24 months - 120 credits required for graduation
Transfer up to 90 approved credits; 120 credits required for graduation
Experience high-fidelity simulation to enhance learning opportunities
Rigorous clinical training experience with our community healthcare partners
Learn from credentialed faculty with real-world hospital and patient care experience

Waived enrollment fee Classes start March 7th

Program

Start a new second career as a nurse in Orlando

The Herzing University ABSN accelerated BSN option is designed for students with a non-nursing bachelor’s or master's degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college or university. You can transfer credit from your previous degree and accelerate your new career as an RN.).

How long does an accelerated BSN degree take vs. the traditional bachelor degree program?

Depending on the credits you’re able to transfer from your prior degree, you can potentially complete our ABSN program option in 20 months - faster than the standard Herzing Orlando BSN degree program.

Accelerated BSN Option

In as few as 20 months*
(pending transfer credit)

BSN Program

24 - 36 months
(pending transfer credit)

*Students who need to complete science prerequisites may require 24 months to complete the program.

As a graduate, you will be fully prepared for the National Council Licensure Exam for RNs (NCLEX).

Accreditation & Disclosures

The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Herzing University Orlando is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).

View Herzing University Accreditation and Approvals

Classes Start May 9th

Learn More Today

Become who you know you can be.

You’ve felt the itch and you aren’t alone. Many Herzing students and graduates have discovered nursing is the second career they’ve been seeking.

Curriculum

Orlando ABSN Program Classes

Herzing University’s accelerated BSN option is an accredited 120-credit second degree nursing program for students who already have a bachelor’s or master's degree in another area of study.

Program	Monthsⁱ	Credits
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Orlando	20	120

i. As few as 20 months. Students who need to complete science prerequisites may require 24 months to complete the program.

Required Courses in Nursing

All courses, 73.00 semester credit hours, are required. ^A dosage calculation exam is required for this course. Students unable to pass the exam will be issued a final grade of "F" and will be required to repeat the course in order to satisfy program requirements. Please review the course syllabus for more information

HC 101 - Medical Terminology 1.00

This course introduces common medical terms through the analysis of word components. Emphasis will be placed on the structure of terms-Greek and Latin roots, prefixes, and suffixes. A medical vocabulary will be developed through the study of the anatomical structures, physiological functions, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and pathologies of the body systems. Terminology will be practiced through the use of common abbreviations, spelling, pronunciation and definitions.

NF 111 - Nursing I 7.00

This course introduces basic concepts necessary for the provision of safe, patient-centered nursing care to diverse populations. The nursing process, communication techniques, and legal and ethical responsibilities of the nurse are introduced. Basic nursing skills and health assessment are integrated and applied in the nursing laboratory. Upon successful completion, the student will be able to provide quality nursing care, incorporating the concepts identified in this course.

NF 112 - Nursing II^ 6.00

This course introduces additional basic concepts necessary for the provision of safe, patient-centered nursing care to diverse populations across the life span. A nursing process approach is used to emphasize evidence-based practice, quality improvement, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, technology, and skills. Nursing skills and medication administration are integrated and applied in the nursing laboratory. Upon successful completion, the student will be able to provide quality nursing care in the clinical setting.

NF 113 - Nursing III^ 6.00

This course is designed to further develop and enhance concepts related to the nursing management of ill clients. A nursing process approach is utilized to emphasize critical thinking, teaching & learning, and managing care. Upon successful completion, the student will be able to provide safe, patient-centered nursing care to developmentally and culturally diverse populations in the acute care or community settings.

NF 214 - Nursing IV^ 6.00

This course is designed to broaden concepts related to nursing management of ill clients. The nursing process is used to expand upon previously learned concepts for the provision of safe, patient-centered nursing care to developmentally and culturally diverse populations. This course emphasizes evidence-based practice, critical thinking, teaching/learning, professional behaviors, communication, collaboration, and managing care. Upon successful completion, the student will be able to provide safe, holistic nursing care for one or more ill clients in the acute care of community settings.

NF 215 - Nursing V^ 6.00

This course is designed to augment previously learned concepts, introduce care of the family unit, and incorporate concepts related to leadership and professionalism. The nursing process is utilized to emphasize the concepts of family, health promotion, critical thinking, teaching/learning, communication, and advocacy. Upon successful completion, the student will be able to provide safe community and acute nursing care to the family unit.

NF 216 - Nursing VI^ 6.00

This course is designed to integrate previously learned concepts, life span development, and the promotion of critical thinking skills while applying the nursing process. Nursing management focuses on complex nursing care of the child and adult. Upon successful completion, the student will be able to provide safe nursing care to complex clients in the community and acute care setting.

NF 310 - Nursing Pathophysiology 3.00

This course focuses on alterations of selected physiological functions that occur in response to a disease process or compensate for common stressors like inflammation or pain. The content builds upon previous understanding of anatomy, physiology, microbiology, basic chemistry, and the usual manifestations of common diseases. Alterations in pathophysiological functions of cells and the interrelationships of body systems are explored. Physiological theory and treatment are discussed using case situations and discussion questions that exemplify the content.

NF 317 - Nursing VII^ 6.00

This course teaches concepts underlying professional career development in nursing. The role as a nurse manager, an integral part of a healthcare institution hierarch, is explored. Emphasis will be placed on the role of the nurse as a frontline manager, utilizing interprofessional communication skills and collaboration. The goal of these conceptual applications is to achieve excellence in the administration of healthcare organizations and in the provision of healthcare. Concentration on the acquisition of leadership behaviors, values, and the roles of planner, coordinator, provider, and evaluator of care are emphasized. The course focuses on concepts and tools required to provide safe care with evidence-based leadership. Focus of the nurse as educator, including principles and theories of teaching and learning, will be identified. Strategies for nurses to teach in staff development, as well as their role as a preceptor and in academic programs, will be explored. Students are introduced to quality improvement, case management, utilization review, staff development, peer review, and competency evaluation in healthcare.

NF 319 - Nursing IX^ 6.00

This course analyzes public health concepts, trends, theories, and issues for advanced community health nursing practice. Aggregates, stakeholders, high-risk populations, public health functions, domestic and international healthcare delivery systems, and conceptual and scientific frameworks for community/public health nursing practice are incorporated. Guided practice in the development and refinement of specific assessment knowledge, techniques, and skills are explored to assist in recognizing normal and deviated health patterns and at-risk behaviors in multicultural clients and populations across the life span.

NF 320 - Nursing VIII 3.00

This course analyzes the impact of educational, legal, ethical, political, and social issues on health policy and healthcare as well as rising liability insurance costs and perspectives on American healthcare delivery-past, present, and future. The emphasis is on nursing at the microsystem level. Healthcare policies at the local, regional, state, national, and global levels will be discussed, including similarities and differences. Global differences and their relationship to American healthcare practice are explored. Issues of funding methods, resource allocation, access to care, and disparities impacting the healthcare system are addressed from a policy perspective. Emphasis will be placed on evaluation of the effects of practice and healthcare laws and policies related to practice, consumer health, and the profession of nursing associated with the cultural differences, current legislation, political and religious controversy, economic constraints, and technology. Factors will be defined that may influence a proactive response to achieve safety, prevention of errors, and quality patient outcomes.

NF 420 - Nursing X 5.00

This course will focus on healthcare information systems, database management, data quality, workload, quality improvement, resource utilization, and system design. General computer office applications and healthcare-specific technology applications are presented. Technology that supports patient care and the benefits of healthcare technology are emphasized. Students will learn about emerging information sources and communication technology and their impact on healthcare. Emphasis will be placed on trends and issues in clinical technology as well as security and the use of databases. Students collaborate with a faculty mentor to create a portfolio demonstrating the progress made toward individual and program goals and outcomes. The portfolio includes evidence of ability to conduct integral health assessments and to develop and implement service-learning projects. When completed, the portfolio will contain examples of papers, evaluations from faculty and self, and a reflective summary of the learning that occurred. The portfolio is designed to demonstrate evidence of mastery of program and course learning outcomes and serves as an assessment of student learning.

NF 421 - Nursing XI 6.00

This course introduces the methods of clinical and scientific inquiry, with a focus on research methodologies, nursing theory, and the application of an evidence-based practice approach to patient care. Emphasis is placed on the development of the decision-making skills Descriptions required to critically appraise published investigations and to utilize research findings to effect positive change in healthcare through evidence-based practice. Students will utilize various databases and enhance their ability to analyze and synthesize research findings appropriate to clinical practice.

NF 422 - Clinical Practicum^ 4.00

This is a clinical course that provides a practicum for the application of concepts learned throughout the program as the student engages in the full scope of professional nursing practice. The RN preceptor will provide the student with a guided clinical experience. Upon completion, the student should be able to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and behaviors necessary to provide safe, individualized entry-level nursing care.

NF 423 - Integration of Nursing Concepts 2.00

This course provides the student with the opportunity to evaluate his/her strengths and weaknesses in preparation for the NCLEX-RN® exam. Utilization of the nursing process, critical thinking, and integration of all previous concepts will be emphasized through the use of case studies, integrated testing, and directed study.

Note:

BSNF students cannot continue to progress in the Accelerated nursing option if they fail a nursing core course.
BSNF students (traditional pre-licensure option) must progress through the 100-400 level nursing courses sequentially.

Required Courses in General Education

Students enrolled in this bachelor's degree must complete a minimum of 33.00 semester credit hours in general education distributed among the following disciplines. A minimum of 9.00 semester credit hours must be upper level (300- to 400-level courses). Refer to the General Education section of the catalog for Herzing University courses that would satisfy these requirements. * 12.00 Semester Credit Hours in Communications 3.00 Semester Credit Hours in General Education Electives (students must take a 300-level course to fulfill this requirement) 6.00 Semester Credit Hours in Humanities (must include 3 semester credit hours of cultural diversity) 6.00 Semester Credit Hours in Mathematics (see Nursing Program Support Courses below for course requirements) 3.00 Semester Credit Hours in Science (see Nursing Program Support Courses below for course requirements) 3.00 Semester Credit Hours in Social or Behavioral Science (Psychology is required) * Transfer students may transfer courses that are within 1.00 semester credit hour of the courses listed above to meet these discipline requirements. Any resulting deficiency in the total of 33.00 semester credit hours required in general education may be made up with general education electives from any of the listed disciplines.

Nursing Support Course

11.00 semester credit hour is required.

The following nursing support courses must be completed with a grade of "B" (80%) or better. Only two attempts are permitted for each course and a student who fails to successfully complete in the maximum attempts is subject to dismissal from the nursing program.

SC 154 - Anatomy and Physiology I for Nurses 4.00

The first anatomy and physiology course in a two-term sequence will provide nursing students with information and practical experience regarding anatomical and physiological concepts related to the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and endocrine systems, as well as, special senses. Biochemistry, cellular biology, and histology are integrated into each body system. Emphasis is on interrelationships among systems and regulation of physiological functions involved in maintaining homeostasis.

SC 254 - Anatomy and Physiology II for Nurses 4.00

The second anatomy and physiology course in a two-term sequence will provide nursing students with information and practical experience regarding anatomical and physiological concepts as related to the circulatory system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, and the male and female reproductive systems. Biochemistry, cell biology, and histology are integrated into each body system. Emphasis is on interrelationships among systems and regulation of physiological functions involved in maintaining homeostasis.

The following nursing support courses must be completed with a grade of "C" (70%) or better for a student to continue in the nursing program.

SC 166 - Microbiology 3.00

This course provides an introduction to the study of microorganisms. It covers normal microbiota and pathogenic microbes. Select topics include function, metabolism, genetics, growth, and relationships to humans and the environment. Topics related to human infectious diseases include transmission, host defense mechanisms, growth processes, and the spread of infectious agents. This course also includes a practical component.

SC 186 - Chemistry 3.00

This course presents the basic concepts of chemistry. Topics to be presented include: matter, atoms, molecules, and atomic structure; chemical bond theory; molecular geometry and properties; writing chemical equations; the conservation of matter in chemical reactions; oxidation and reduction reactions; pH and acid-base chemistry; buffer, and solutions; and equilibrium. Students will also be provided with an overview of organic chemistry and biochemistry. This course includes a practical component.

MA 109 - College Algebra 3.00

This course covers topics of algebra including linear functions, equations, inequalities, systems of equations in two variables, polynomial functions, quadratic equations, and rational and radical equations.

MA 320 - Statistics

A student who is dropped from the nursing program for failing to achieve the minimum grade specified in the Nursing Program Support Courses, but who otherwise meets the academic standards of the University may transfer to another Herzing degree program and/or may reapply to the BSN nursing program in a future cycle.

Personal and Professional Development Courses

2.00 semester credit hours are required.

PD 121 - Professional Development I 1.00

This course is designed to introduce students to methodologies that will prepare them for academic and professional success. Topics include but are not limited to Canvas support, student support services, e-books, university policies, resumes, self-reflection, time management, goal setting, and strategies for anxiety reduction.

PD 202 - Professional Development II 1.00

This course provides an opportunity for students to critically examine their skills and develop a plan to further their career and own financial literacy. Topics include research, job searching, developing career documents, refining interview and communication skills, and creating a personal budget.

Open Electives

1.00 semester credit hours is required.

Requirements

Enrollment requirements

To be considered for admission into the Accelerated BSN program in Orlando, you must:

Hold a high school diploma or equivalent (Diploma, HSED or GED)
Have earned a bachelor's degree from a postsecondary institution that is accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or from a foreign college or university recognized as equivalent to a U.S. bachelor's degree

You must also meet the following criteria based on your cumulative GPA:

Cumulative GPAⁱ	Science Requirement	TEASⁱⁱ
3.50–4.00	None	None
3.00–3.49	3.00 GPA in college scienceⁱⁱⁱ	None
2.50 and higher	None	Composite TEAS of 66
i. Cumulative GPA may be calculated from all credits earned, including those in addition to the earned bachelor's degree. ii. The Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) from the Assessment Technology Institute (ATI). iii. Based on your cumulative GPA in these college science courses: Anatomy & Physiology I and II, Biology, Chemistry, and Microbiology. Two of these courses must be used to calculate science GPA. Any of these courses completed must be included in the calculation, and no others. If you do not meet this requirement, you must score a composite score of 66 or higher on the TEAS. A grade of "B" or better must be earned for transfer credit to be awarded for Anatomy & Physiology, regardless of whether it was included in the calculation.

Careers

Your second career IS possible.

As one of the top accredited nursing schools in Orlando and Central Florida, Herzing University’s degree program equips you with the education you need to take advantage of your prior credits, pursue a new career and become a new you.

Jobs you can get with a bachelor’s of science degree in nursing

A bachelor of science in nursing qualifies you for new opportunities, specialty roles and responsibilities as a registered nurse (RN). You may specialize in patient care in pediatrics, emergency or intensive care as an RN in a hospital, or move on to a nurse manager or nursing director role.

It’s really up to you. Getting your BSN opens many more doors to pursue a career you can mold to your strengths and specialties. As you earn more responsibility you may consider a master’s degree in nursing to become a family nurse practitioner, nurse educator or pursue a role in nursing leadership.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! If you’re fully committed to a new career in nursing, an accelerated BSN program is the fast track to earning your degree and getting a job with high earning potential as soon as possible.

According to 2020 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs make an average salary of $80,010 per year ($38.47 per hour)*. Nurses with a bachelor’s degree tend to fall on the upper side of that average due to their advanced education and their qualification to help hospitals earn Magnet Recognition.

The BLS projects a 9% increase in need for registered nurses from 2020-2030*. RNs are in high demand, and earning a BSN can help your resume stand out and give you a better chance of getting the job you really want.

Herzing University has no requirement for how much you can or can’t work during nursing school. Many ABSN program students work part-time while pursuing their ABSN coursework and clinicals. However, we recommend prioritizing your education as much as you can afford. The accelerated BSN program is very demanding and our priority is for you is to be successful.

You can expect fast-paced learning with no traditional breaks over the course of the program.

Surviving nursing school takes hard work and commitment. However, starting a new career is never easy—and a demanding profession requires demanding training.

It’s a challenge just like any other bachelor’s degree program – but compressed into a shorter window it can feel much more demanding. Rest assured you’ll have strong support every step of the way from Herzing faculty, staff and your fellow students to ensure you remain on track.

If you’re considering a second career and you want to become a nurse practitioner, degree pathways with Herzing University include:

Option 1:

Earn your BSN in an accelerated BSN nursing program in as few as 20 months (24 months for most students).
Earn your master's degree through our online MSN FNP program in 20 months.

Our accelerated BSN program is available in Minneapolis, MN, Orlando, FL, Tampa, FL and 3 locations in Wisconsin (Kenosha, Brookfield and Madison).

Option 2:

Earn an Associate in Nursing (ASN/ADN) in 20 months.
Earn a master's degree through our accelerated online RN to FNP program in 24 months.

Our ASN program is available in Akron, OH, Birmingham, AL, Orlando, FL, and Tampa, FL. You may also elect to earn your BSN on the way by enrolling in our online RN to BSN program. Non-nurses who want to become an NP must first earn an undergraduate nursing degree before applying for an MSN program.

These are average estimates for full-time enrollment and can vary for each student. Fully commit to starting your second career and Herzing University can help you become eligible to sit for the FNP certification exam in 3-4 years to become a certified family nurse practitioner in your state.

With Herzing University you are never alone. It’s our goal to provide all students an affordable, career-driven education. Financial aid options include:

You can find an estimate for tuition and expenses by using the Herzing University tuition wizard.

If you’re considering a second career as a nurse but concerned about the workload in an accelerated program, there are several other paths you can take:

You can first become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). In 1 year you can earn a diploma in Practical Nursing and become an LPN. From there you can determine if you want to become a registered nurse.
Get an associate’s degree and become an RN. You can earn your associate degree in nursing and become a registered nurse in 20 months—this is the quickest way to become an RN outside of an accelerated program.
A traditional BSN program. Enroll in our 3-year bachelor’s of science in nursing program, earn your degree and become a highly qualified registered nurse. You can choose an on-campus program or our online BSN program.

It’s our goal to help you succeed in your second career. We’ll work with you to determine the best fit.

The difference between RN vs BSN is that RN stands for Registered Nurse and BSN stands for Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. RN is the career; BSN is a degree needed to become an RN. Earning your BSN positions you for more possibilities as a registered nurse both in earning potential and ability to specialize in the field of your choice.

There are many different nursing specialties to choose from. Depending on your personality, educational background and preferred working environment you can follow your own personalized path in the nursing profession.

Here are a few popular nursing specialties you may consider:

You can take our nursing personality quiz to get a better idea of what you might prefer in your nursing career.

Our requirements for the accelerated BSN nursing program option are higher given the rigorous nature of the coursework and how fast it moves.

Herzing University’s goal is to help you find a path to a new career in nursing. If you’re worried a low GPA will keep you from being able to enroll, please get in touch with us and schedule an appointment with an admissions advisor. We may be able to work out a better solution for you.

Associate Degree in Nursing ASN ADN Program Orlando

Associate in Nursing - Orlando

Orlando Practical Nursing School LPN Prep

Practical Nursing (LPN prep) - Orlando

Bachelor of Science in Nursing BSN Degree Program

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) - Orlando

Visit Us

With a personalized visit, you will have the opportunity to learn more about Herzing's ABSN nursing program to help you determine which pathway to becoming a nurse is right for you.

Herzing University - Orlando

1865 SR 436
Winter Park, FL

Call Us

(407) 641-5227

Orlando Programs

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Accreditations

Accreditations & Disclosures

1. The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Herzing University Orlando is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).

Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

View Herzing University Accreditation and Approvals

* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2020. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.

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Herzing’s Accelerated BSN nursing program in Orlando