If you already have a bachelor’s degree and are ready to make the switch to a career in nursing, Accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs offer a fast, focused path to becoming a registered nurse. This guide explores available ABSN programs in Louisiana, what they include, how they compare to traditional nursing paths, and how to choose the right program for your goals.
What Is an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Program?
An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is designed for students who hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to transition into nursing without starting over from scratch. These second-degree pathways allow students to build on their existing general education coursework and focus exclusively on nursing content.
Most ABSN programs last 12 to 18 months and require a full-time commitment. The curriculum typically combines intensive classroom learning, simulation labs, and clinical rotations, providing the same nursing foundation as a traditional four-year BSN program—but in a fraction of the time.
ABSN programs in Louisiana attract career changers from a variety of backgrounds, including healthcare, business, and the social sciences. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN, the national licensure exam required to become a registered nurse.
In short, an ABSN is a proven way for motivated students to leverage prior academic experience and enter the nursing profession quickly, with the same qualifications as those who completed a standard BSN.
ABSN Program Options in Louisiana
Students exploring ABSN programs in Louisiana will find a small but strong selection of accredited options throughout the state. These programs mirror the model of top accelerated BSN programs elsewhere—compressing four years of coursework into about 12 to 18 months for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.
While this list offers a valuable starting point, it’s important to remember that the best program for any student depends on their individual goals, needs, and circumstances. Prospective students are encouraged to explore each program in more detail by visiting the school’s official website and considering other factors such as location, clinical placement opportunities, program length, and support services.
Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center-New Orleans
Career Alternative RN Education (CARE) (New Orleans)
Program Basics
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
- Program Type: Accelerated second-degree program (Career Alternative RN Education – CARE)
- Format: On-campus
- Location: Main campus in New Orleans; Off-Campus Instructional Site (OCIS) in Shreveport
- Program Length: Two years
- Start Terms: New Orleans site admits in the fall; Shreveport site admits in fall and spring
- Designed For: Students with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field
- Preparation: Prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam
Program Highlights
LSU Health New Orleans offers the CARE program for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want to pursue a nursing career. This two-year, full-time program is based at the New Orleans campus, with an additional site in Shreveport. Designed to prepare students for licensure and professional practice, the CARE program features a competitive admissions process and a curriculum focused on building strong clinical and academic foundations.
About the University
LSU Health New Orleans is a leading academic health sciences center in Louisiana, known for its commitment to training healthcare professionals through rigorous, hands-on education. The university plays a central role in health research and care delivery across the state.
Loyola University New Orleans
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Hybrid)
Program Basics
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
- Program Type: Accelerated second-degree program (ABSN)
- Format: Hybrid (synchronous online coursework with in-person clinicals and simulations)
- Program Length: 17 months (four consecutive semesters, including summer)
- Start Dates: Rolling admissions; applications accepted year-round
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in any field, completion of prerequisite coursework, and various health and background screenings
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Program Highlights
Loyola University New Orleans offers a 17-month hybrid Accelerated BSN program designed for students with a prior bachelor’s degree. The program combines synchronous online learning with in-person clinical experiences and simulation lab work in the Greater New Orleans area. Students benefit from guaranteed clinical placements, a low faculty-to-student ratio during clinicals, and a curriculum structured to prepare them for the NCLEX exam. The program emphasizes Jesuit values and holistic patient care.
About the University
Loyola University New Orleans is a private Jesuit institution recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and the development of the whole person. Located in the heart of New Orleans, Loyola integrates liberal arts education with professional preparation.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Accelerated BSN
Program Basics
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
- Program Type: Accelerated second-degree program
- Format: On-campus
- Program Length: 16 months
- Designed For: Students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field
- Prerequisites: All general education coursework must be completed prior to enrollment in nursing classes
- Accreditation:
- Approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing
- Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing
Program Highlights
Northwestern State University’s Accelerated BSN program offers a fast-track option for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to enter the nursing profession in just 16 months. The program is intensive and requires all prerequisite coursework to be completed before starting. With a strong record of accreditation, the program is designed to prepare graduates for licensure and professional practice.
About the University
Northwestern State University is known for its long-standing commitment to healthcare education and its leadership in nursing accreditation within the state. The university emphasizes both academic excellence and practical training.
Southeastern Louisiana University
Nursing, Accelerated BS
Program Basics
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
- Program Type: Accelerated second-degree program
- Format: On-campus; coursework takes place at both the Hammond campus and the Baton Rouge Center
- Program Length: 18 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Designed For: Students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field
- Preparation: Prepares graduates for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX)
Program Highlights
Southeastern Louisiana University’s Accelerated Nursing Program offers an intensive path for students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to earn a B.S.N. in just 18 months. The full-time cohort model provides peer support throughout the program, which is split between Southeastern’s Hammond campus and its Baton Rouge Center. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX and pursue careers in a range of clinical settings.
About the University
Southeastern Louisiana University is a regional public institution known for its strong ties to the community and focus on hands-on, career-oriented education. It is part of the University of Louisiana System and accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Louisiana Christian University
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Program Basics
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.)
- Program Type: Accelerated second-degree program
- Format: On-campus
- Program Length: 17 months
- Credit Requirements: 63 credit hours of nursing coursework, in addition to 31 hours of non-nursing prerequisites
- Prerequisites: 31 hours of specific non-nursing coursework required with a grade of “C” or better; some course substitutions may be allowed based on prior degree
- Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in any field, minimum 2.6 cumulative GPA, TEAS score at or above national BSN mean, statement of goals, and three references
Program Highlights
Louisiana Christian University’s Accelerated BSN program allows students with a bachelor’s degree in another field to earn a nursing degree in just 17 months. Students receive block credit for general education courses from their prior degree, focusing their studies on nursing-specific coursework. The curriculum includes multiple clinical and academic components, with Christian values integrated throughout the program.
About the University
Louisiana Christian University is a private Christian institution recognized for its faith-based education and commitment to academic excellence. Located in Pineville, the university emphasizes service, leadership, and a biblically integrated approach to higher education.
What to Expect from ABSN Programs in Louisiana
ABSN programs demand focus and commitment. These programs are designed for motivated learners who want to transition into nursing quickly, and they move at a much faster pace than traditional BSN programs.
Intensive, Full-Time Pace
Because ABSN programs compress several years of coursework into 12–18 months, students should expect a fast-moving, year-round schedule. Classes, labs, and clinicals are typically held on weekdays, with limited breaks between terms. Most programs strongly discourage outside employment during enrollment due to the workload.
Clinical Placements and Hours
Hands-on learning is a major part of every ABSN curriculum. Students complete 600–800+ hours of clinical rotations in hospitals, community health centers, and long-term care facilities. Clinical experiences cover core nursing areas such as medical-surgical care, maternity and newborn care, pediatrics, and mental health nursing.
Core Nursing Courses
Coursework in Louisiana’s accelerated BSN programs mirrors that of traditional four-year nursing degrees, including subjects such as:
- Adult Health and Illness
- Pharmacology
- Pathophysiology
- Nursing Leadership
- Community and Population Health
- Mental Health Nursing
These courses integrate both theory and clinical application, preparing students for direct patient care and critical decision-making in diverse healthcare settings.
NCLEX-RN Preparation and Licensure
Graduates of accredited Louisiana ABSN programs are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, the national licensure test required to practice as a registered nurse. Many schools incorporate NCLEX-style exams and review sessions into their curriculum to help students build confidence and test readiness.
Admission Requirements for Louisiana ABSN Programs
Admission to ABSN programs in Louisiana is competitive, reflecting both the accelerated pace and the high demand for nursing education. Each school may have slightly different requirements, but most share several common eligibility standards designed to ensure that students are prepared for the intensity of the program.
Non-Nursing Bachelor’s Degree
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field from a regionally accredited institution. This prior degree allows students to bypass general education courses and focus exclusively on nursing content.
Prerequisite Coursework
Before starting an ABSN program, students typically must complete key science and math prerequisites, such as:
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Microbiology
- Statistics
- Human Growth and Development
- Nutrition
- Chemistry (varies by program)
Most Louisiana programs require these courses to have been completed within the last five to seven years, with a minimum grade of C or higher.
GPA Standards
A minimum cumulative GPA—usually around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale—is required for admission. Some schools also calculate a separate GPA for prerequisite courses, emphasizing strong performance in the sciences.
Entrance Exams
Many Louisiana nursing schools require applicants to take the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment to evaluate readiness for accelerated study. Scores are used alongside GPA and prior coursework to determine admission eligibility.
Additional Application Materials
Applicants may also need to submit:
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references
- A statement of purpose outlining motivation to pursue nursing
- Official transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended
- A resume highlighting healthcare experience, volunteer work, or relevant employment
Because ABSN programs are highly structured and fast-paced, Louisiana schools seek students who demonstrate academic preparedness, time management skills, and a clear commitment to completing the program successfully.
Comparing ABSN vs. Traditional BSN in Louisiana
Both ABSN and traditional BSN programs prepare students for RN licensure, but they differ significantly in pace, structure, and audience. Understanding these differences can help you decide which path fits your timeline, goals, and learning preferences.
| Accelerated BSN (ABSN) | Traditional BSN | |
| Audience | Students with a prior bachelor’s degree | First-time college students or lower-division transfers |
| Timeline | 12–18 months (full-time) | About 4 years |
| General Education | Already completed in prior degree | Included within the program |
| Cost | Condensed tuition over a shorter timeframe | Spread out across multiple years |
| Pacing | Intensive, year-round with few breaks | Semester-based with standard breaks |
Key Takeaways
While both tracks lead to the same Bachelor of Science in Nursing and eligibility for the NCLEX-RN, the ABSN programs are designed for students ready to move quickly into professional practice.
- ABSN students bring prior academic experience and often career experience, allowing them to adapt to a demanding full-time schedule.
- Traditional BSN students typically begin with general education and foundational courses before progressing to nursing-specific studies.
In essence, an ABSN program condenses the content and clinical experiences of a four-year BSN into a shorter, more intense format—ideal for second-degree students who are ready to make a focused transition into nursing.
Tips for Choosing the Right ABSN Program in Louisiana
Selecting among ABSN programs in Louisiana can be challenging, especially for students balancing timelines, finances, and career goals. The following tips can help you identify the best-fit program and set yourself up for success from the start.
Compare Formats and Flexibility
Louisiana’s ABSN programs vary in structure. Some offer hybrid formats that combine online coursework with local clinical placements. Others, such as LSU Health New Orleans and Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University (FranU), deliver fully on-campus instruction. Consider your preferred learning style and schedule flexibility when choosing a program.
Review NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
Strong NCLEX pass rates are one of the best indicators of program quality. Look for schools that consistently report above-average results, as these reflect both rigorous academic preparation and effective clinical training.
Understand Tuition and Financial Aid Options
Accelerated programs often have higher per-credit costs due to their condensed structure, but they also allow students to enter the workforce sooner. Compare total tuition, fees, and financial aid opportunities—including scholarships for second-degree nursing students—to estimate your return on investment.
Evaluate Clinical Placement Opportunities
Clinical rotations are central to every ABSN curriculum. Research where each school places its students for hands-on training. Programs with partnerships across large hospital networks or diverse community health settings can provide broader experience and stronger post-graduation connections.
Look for Student Support Systems
The fast pace of accelerated nursing education makes strong student support essential. Seek out programs that offer academic advising, tutoring, mental health resources, and peer mentorship to help students stay on track and maintain balance.
Taking time to assess these factors will help you choose among Louisiana’s ABSN options confidently—and ensure that the program you select aligns with your personal goals, financial situation, and readiness for an accelerated learning experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I work while enrolled in an ABSN program?
Because ABSN programs that Louisiana schools offer are full-time and highly accelerated, most students find it difficult to maintain employment while enrolled. The schedule often includes weekday classes, labs, and clinical rotations that require full attention.
Are Louisiana ABSN programs online or in-person?
Most Louisiana ABSN programs are on-campus. However, Loyola University New Orleans offers a hybrid format that blends online coursework with in-person clinical placements, giving students slightly more flexibility while maintaining hands-on experience.
What’s the average tuition for ABSN programs in Louisiana?
Tuition varies by institution, but students can generally expect to pay between $40,000 and $55,000 for the full program. Costs depend on factors such as credit hours, university type (public vs. private), and available financial aid.
Do these programs prepare me for the NCLEX?
Yes. Graduates of accredited Louisiana ABSN programs are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN, the national licensing exam for registered nurses. Each program’s curriculum is built around the competencies and standards tested on the exam, ensuring graduates are prepared for entry-level nursing practice.
Next Steps
If you’re ready to pursue nursing through one of the ABSN programs offered by schools in Louisiana, start by reviewing each school’s admission criteria, application deadlines, and prerequisite requirements. Completing your science courses early, attending information sessions, and reaching out to admissions advisors can help you plan a strong application.
Because programs are competitive, consider applying to more than one school and preparing backup options, such as hybrid or online ABSN pathways in neighboring states. With focus and preparation, you can transition from your previous field into a rewarding nursing career faster than you might expect.