Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs in Missouri offer a fast-track pathway for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. These intensive programs, typically completed in 12 to 24 months, combine accelerated coursework with clinical training to prepare students for RN licensure.
Missouri is a strong region for nursing education and career opportunities. The state includes respected universities and robust healthcare systems, such as those in St. Louis, Kansas City, and beyond. With demand for nurses across urban and rural areas alike, graduates of Missouri ABSN programs can anticipate rewarding career prospects.
What Is an ABSN Program?
An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is tailored for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to shift into nursing without completing a traditional four-year BSN. By leveraging your previous academic work, these programs streamline the nursing curriculum into an intensive format, typically completed in 12 to 24 months.
ABSN students engage in a blend of classroom learning, lab experiences, and clinical rotations in environments like hospitals, community clinics, and specialized care settings. Coursework often covers topics such as pharmacology, health assessment, ethics, and population health, while hands-on training equips students to deliver evidence-based patient care.
If cost is a concern, it’s worth exploring cheapest ABSN programs to identify more affordable options. For those focused on program quality and outcomes, reviewing the list of best accelerated BSN programs can help you evaluate schools known for strong academic reputation and student success.
After completing an accredited ABSN program, graduates are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, the national licensure requirement to become a registered nurse in Missouri and across the U.S.
Why Choose an ABSN Program in Missouri?
Missouri offers a number of advantages for students pursuing an Accelerated BSN, making it a strong choice for career changers who want to enter the nursing profession quickly.
High Demand for Nurses
Like many states, Missouri faces a shortage of registered nurses, particularly in rural communities and underserved areas. This demand creates steady opportunities for ABSN graduates across the state.
Respected Nursing Schools
Missouri is home to well-established universities that provide accredited ABSN pathways. These schools are recognized for academic quality and clinical preparation, helping students transition smoothly into nursing careers.
Diverse Clinical Opportunities
Students benefit from clinical rotations through partnerships with leading healthcare systems, including BJC HealthCare, Mercy, and Saint Luke’s Health System. These placements expose students to a variety of care settings, from large urban hospitals in St. Louis and Kansas City to smaller regional facilities.
Competitive Salaries and Career Prospects
Registered nurses in Missouri earn competitive wages relative to the state’s cost of living, and new graduates are well-positioned for career advancement. With both urban and rural healthcare systems in need of nurses, Missouri ABSN programs provide pathways into stable and rewarding employment.
Notable ABSN Programs in Missouri
Several universities across Missouri offer Accelerated BSN pathways designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. While each program differs in length, delivery format, and clinical partnerships, all provide the intensive academic and hands-on preparation needed to qualify for RN licensure. Below is an overview of institutions in Missouri with ABSN programs, each offering unique strengths and opportunities for clinical training.
| Institution | Location | Program |
| Central Methodist University | Fayette | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) |
| Cox College | Springfield | BSN – Accelerated Track |
| Goldfarb School of Nursing at Barnes-Jewish College | St. Louis | BSN – Accelerated Option |
| Research College of Nursing | Kansas City | Accelerated BSN |
| Rockhurst University | Kansas City | Hybrid Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) |
| Saint Louis University | Saint Louis | Nursing, B.S. (Accelerated) |
| Truman State University | Kirksville | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing |
| University of Missouri-Columbia | Columbia | Accelerated BSN |
| University of Missouri-Kansas City | Kansas City | BSN Accelerated |
| University of Missouri-Saint Louis | St. Louis | Accelerated BSN |
| William Jewell College | Liberty | BSN Accelerated Track |
Accreditation and Licensing Considerations
Before applying to an Accelerated BSN program in Missouri, it’s important to understand how accreditation and licensing will affect your path to becoming a registered nurse.
Importance of Accreditation
Accreditation confirms that a program meets national standards for nursing education. In Missouri, ABSN programs are typically accredited by one of two agencies:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Graduating from an accredited program is vital because it ensures you are eligible to:
- Sit for the NCLEX-RN exam
- Qualify for federal financial aid
- Meet most healthcare employers’ requirements for BSN-prepared nurses
Missouri State Board of Nursing
The Missouri Board of Nursing regulates RN licensure. To practice as a registered nurse, graduates must:
- Complete an accredited nursing program
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
- Submit an application and undergo a criminal background check through the Board
Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Missouri is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This allows nurses licensed in Missouri to practice in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses, providing ABSN graduates with valuable flexibility and mobility in their careers.
Admission Requirements
Admission to Accelerated BSN programs in Missouri is competitive, reflecting both the intensity of the programs and the strong demand for nursing careers. While specific requirements vary by school, most programs share a core set of criteria.
Typical ABSN Admission Criteria
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s Degree
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing from a regionally accredited institution. - Prerequisite Coursework
Many programs require completion of foundational science and math courses, often within the past 5–10 years. Common prerequisites include:
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Microbiology
- Chemistry
- Statistics
- Nutrition
- Developmental or Lifespan Psychology
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Minimum GPA
Most Missouri ABSN programs expect a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, though some may consider applicants with slightly lower GPAs if other application components are strong. - Application Materials
Students are usually required to submit:
- Résumé or CV highlighting academic, professional, and volunteer experiences
- Personal statement or essay explaining motivation to pursue nursing
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references
- Résumé or CV highlighting academic, professional, and volunteer experiences
- Healthcare or Volunteer Experience
While not always required, relevant experience in healthcare or community service can strengthen an application and may be given preference in admissions decisions.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
Accelerated BSN programs in Missouri represent a significant investment, but they provide a direct pathway to a stable and rewarding nursing career. Costs can vary widely depending on the type of institution, program length, and whether the school is public or private.
Tuition Ranges for ABSN Programs in Missouri
Most ABSN programs in Missouri fall between $25,000 and $65,000 in total tuition. Public universities often provide more affordable tuition for in-state residents, while private schools typically charge higher rates.
Students should also plan for additional expenses beyond tuition, including:
- Clinical and lab fees
- Nursing uniforms and basic supplies (stethoscope, lab kits, etc.)
- Textbooks and online learning materials
- Immunizations, drug screenings, and background checks
- NCLEX-RN exam fees and state licensure application costs
Financial Aid Options
- Federal and State Aid
Submitting the FAFSA gives access to federal loans and grants. Missouri residents may also qualify for state-based financial assistance programs, such as the Access Missouri Financial Assistance Program. - Scholarships and Grants
Nursing-focused scholarships are offered through universities, nonprofit organizations, and professional associations. Local hospital systems may also sponsor students through scholarships or tuition assistance. - Employer Tuition Support
Major healthcare providers in Missouri—such as BJC HealthCare, Mercy, and CoxHealth—sometimes offer tuition reimbursement or loan repayment assistance for employees who pursue nursing degrees. - Loan Forgiveness Programs
Federal options like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program are available for graduates who commit to working in underserved areas. Missouri also participates in initiatives to support nurses practicing in rural or high-need regions.
Career Outlook for ABSN Graduates in Missouri
Graduates of Accelerated BSN programs in Missouri enter a healthcare field where demand for registered nurses remains strong. While salaries in Missouri trend somewhat below the national average, the state offers diverse opportunities across urban centers like St. Louis and Kansas City as well as rural communities in need of nurses.
RN Salary Expectations in Missouri
According to O*NET OnLine, registered nurses in Missouri earn an average annual wage of $79,770. The lowest 10% earn about $58,510 or less, while the top 10% earn over $103,140.
Earnings vary by region:
- St. Louis, MO–IL: $82,560 average
- Kansas City, MO–KS: $82,630 average
- Columbia, MO: $81,370 average
- Springfield, MO: $66,530 average
- Jefferson City, MO: $75,930 average
For comparison, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the national median wage for registered nurses was $93,600 in 2024, with the highest 10% earning more than $135,000.
Job Growth and Demand
While state-level projections vary, Missouri continues to face nursing shortages, particularly in rural areas and smaller communities. Nationally, the BLS projects 6% employment growth for RNs between 2023 and 2033, adding about 197,200 new jobs over the decade, with nearly 194,500 annual openings expected due to workforce turnover and retirements. These trends suggest strong career prospects for ABSN graduates in Missouri.
Major Employers and Work Settings
Nursing graduates in Missouri can pursue careers in a variety of healthcare environments, including:
- Large hospital systems such as BJC HealthCare, Mercy, and Saint Luke’s Health System
- Community and regional hospitals serving smaller cities and towns
- Outpatient and specialty clinics across Missouri’s urban hubs
- Long-term care and home health agencies, particularly important in rural areas
- Schools and public health organizations, supporting prevention and education
With competitive salaries for the region, steady demand, and broad career opportunities, Missouri offers a supportive environment for ABSN graduates beginning their nursing careers.
Tips for Choosing the Right Program
Selecting the right Accelerated BSN program in Missouri involves more than just finding the shortest or least expensive option. Prospective students should consider a variety of factors to ensure the program fits their goals, learning style, and long-term career plans.
Verify Accreditation and NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
Make sure the program is accredited by CCNE or ACEN and approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing. Reviewing recent NCLEX-RN pass rates will give you an idea of how effectively a program prepares its students for licensure.
Evaluate Clinical Placement Opportunities
Clinical experience is at the core of nursing education. Investigate which hospitals and healthcare systems a program partners with for clinical rotations. Access to large networks like BJC HealthCare, Mercy, or Saint Luke’s Health System can provide valuable exposure to diverse patient populations and care settings.
Consider Program Length and Format
Missouri ABSN programs typically take 12 to 24 months to complete. Some may offer hybrid formats combining online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals, while others are fully on campus. Think carefully about which structure best suits your learning style and schedule.
Weigh Costs and Financial Aid Options
Look at the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, uniforms, supplies, and exam costs. Compare available scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement programs to understand your financial options.
Factor in Location and Admissions Cycles
Some ABSN programs admit new cohorts only once a year, while others have multiple start dates. Consider how soon you want to begin and whether the school’s location offers convenient access to clinical sites and job opportunities after graduation.
FAQ: ABSN Programs in Missouri
Are there online or hybrid ABSN programs in Missouri?
Yes. While ABSN programs cannot be fully online because of clinical requirements, some Missouri schools offer hybrid formats. These programs combine online coursework with in-person labs and clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare sites.
How long do ABSN programs in Missouri take to complete?
Most programs can be completed in 12 to 24 months, depending on whether they run year-round or follow a traditional semester structure.
Do schools accept prior credits?
Yes. Since ABSN programs are designed for students with a bachelor’s degree in another field, most general education credits transfer. However, students may need to complete science prerequisites such as anatomy, microbiology, and chemistry before enrolling.
Can students work while enrolled in an ABSN program?
Because of the fast pace and heavy workload, most schools discourage working while enrolled. Students in longer programs (18–24 months) may be able to manage limited part-time work, but balancing employment with coursework and clinical training is challenging.