Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs in Nevada provide a fast-track route for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to transition into the nursing profession. These programs, typically completed in 12 to 24 months, combine classroom learning with clinical training to prepare students for RN licensure.
Nevada is a strong choice for nursing education and career opportunities. The state is home to respected universities and healthcare providers that offer diverse clinical training sites. With growing demand for nurses in both urban centers like Las Vegas and Reno and in rural communities, ABSN graduates in Nevada are well-positioned for rewarding careers in a high-demand field.
What Is an ABSN Program?
An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program offers a fast-track pathway for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree to transition into nursing. These programs streamline the traditional BSN curriculum into an intensive 12 to 24-month format.
Through an ABSN, students engage in a blend of classroom lectures, simulation labs, and clinical rotations in settings such as hospitals, community health centers, and specialty clinics. Coursework often includes pharmacology, health assessment, nursing ethics, and population health—and is paired with hands-on practice to ensure you’re career-ready.
If you’re comparing options, consider reviewing affordable ABSN programs for cost-conscious pathways, and explore the best accelerated BSN programs to find schools with strong academic reputations and outcomes.
Upon graduation from a fully accredited ABSN program, you’ll be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, the national licensure exam required to become a registered nurse in Nevada and across the U.S.
Why Choose an ABSN Program in Nevada?
Nevada provides a number of advantages for students pursuing an Accelerated BSN, making it an appealing option for career changers entering the nursing field.
High Demand for Nurses
The state continues to experience a shortage of registered nurses, particularly in rural areas and growing metro regions like Las Vegas and Reno. This strong demand ensures steady job opportunities for ABSN graduates.
Respected Nursing Schools
Nevada is home to well-regarded universities that offer accredited ABSN pathways. These programs are designed to prepare students for licensure while emphasizing both academic rigor and practical training.
Diverse Clinical Opportunities
Students benefit from partnerships with healthcare providers such as Renown Health, University Medical Center of Southern Nevada, and Carson Tahoe Health. Clinical placements in these systems expose students to a range of patient populations and care environments.
Competitive Salaries
Registered nurses in Nevada enjoy competitive wages that compare favorably with many other states, especially given Nevada’s relatively low overall tax burden and lower-than-average cost of living. For graduates, this makes an ABSN program in Nevada a worthwhile investment.
Notable ABSN Programs in Nevada
Multiple universities in Nevada offer Accelerated BSN pathways designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. Two standouts:
| Institution | Location | Program |
| Roseman University of Health Sciences | Henderson | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) |
| University of Nevada-Reno | Reno | Accelerated BSN Program |
Accreditation and Licensing Considerations
Before enrolling in an Accelerated BSN program in Nevada, it’s important to understand how accreditation and licensing affect your nursing career path.
Importance of Accreditation
Accreditation ensures that a nursing program meets national quality standards. In Nevada, ABSN programs are typically accredited by one of the following:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Graduating from an accredited program is essential for:
- Eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam
- Access to federal financial aid
- Meeting employer expectations, as most healthcare systems prefer or require degrees from accredited institutions
Nevada State Board of Nursing
The Nevada State Board of Nursing oversees RN licensure in the state. To practice as a registered nurse, graduates must:
- Complete an accredited nursing program
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
- Submit a licensure application and background check to the Board
Admission Requirements
Admission to Accelerated BSN programs in Nevada is competitive, reflecting the rigorous and fast-paced nature of these programs. While requirements can vary slightly by school, most ABSN programs share common criteria.
Typical ABSN Admission Criteria
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s Degree
Applicants must hold a completed bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution in a field other than nursing. - Prerequisite Coursework
Students are typically required to complete foundational science and math courses, often within the last 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
A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is generally expected, though individual programs may accept applicants with slightly lower GPAs under certain conditions. - Application Materials
Many ABSN programs in Nevada require:
- Résumé or CV outlining academic and professional experience
- Personal statement or essay explaining motivation for nursing and career goals
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references
- Résumé or CV outlining academic and professional experience
- Healthcare or Volunteer Experience
Although not always mandatory, relevant healthcare or community service experience can strengthen an application and may be preferred by some programs.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
Accelerated BSN programs in Nevada represent a significant investment, but they can pay off with strong career prospects and high earning potential for registered nurses. Tuition varies widely depending on the institution and program format.
Tuition Ranges for Nevada ABSN Programs
Most ABSN programs in Nevada fall between $30,000 and $70,000 in total tuition. Public universities may offer lower rates for in-state students, while private institutions often sit at the higher end of the range.
Students should also anticipate additional costs, such as:
- Lab and clinical fees
- Nursing uniforms and basic medical equipment (stethoscope, supplies)
- Textbooks and digital learning resources
- Health screenings, immunizations, and background checks
- NCLEX-RN exam fees and state licensure application costs
Financial Aid Options
- Federal and State Aid
Completing the FAFSA is the first step toward accessing federal student loans and grants. Nevada students may also qualify for state-based assistance programs. - Scholarships and Grants
Nursing-focused scholarships are available through organizations like the Nevada Nurses Foundation, as well as through hospitals and community groups. - Employer Tuition Assistance
Healthcare systems such as Renown Health and University Medical Center may offer tuition reimbursement or loan repayment support for employees advancing their education. - Loan Forgiveness Programs
Federal initiatives such as the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program or state-level loan forgiveness for service in rural and underserved areas can help reduce student debt after graduation.
Career Outlook for ABSN Graduates in Nevada
Graduates of Nevada ABSN programs enter a healthcare market with strong demand and higher-than-average salaries for registered nurses compared to much of the nation.
RN Salary Expectations in Nevada
According to O*NET OnLine, registered nurses in Nevada earn an average annual wage of $101,990. The lowest 10% make $77,960 or less, while the top 10% earn $132,990 or more.
Earnings also vary by location:
- Las Vegas–Henderson–North Las Vegas: $101,840 average
- Reno: $103,620 average
- Carson City: $99,600 average
- Balance of Nevada (nonmetropolitan areas): $100,390 average
For comparison, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national median wage for RNs of $93,600 as of 2024, with the top 10% earning more than $135,000. This means Nevada RNs tend to earn above the national median, particularly in urban centers.
Job Growth and Demand
Nevada continues to face a shortage of nurses, especially in rural communities and rapidly growing metro areas like Las Vegas. While state-specific projections vary, national BLS data indicates 6% growth in RN employment between 2023 and 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth translates to about 197,200 new jobs nationwide, with 194,500 annual openings expected from retirements and workforce turnover.
Major Employers and Work Settings
ABSN graduates in Nevada can pursue careers in a range of healthcare environments, including:
- Large hospital systems such as Renown Health, University Medical Center of Southern Nevada, and Carson Tahoe Health
- Community hospitals and rural clinics, where shortages are most acute
- Outpatient and specialty practices, particularly in urban areas
- Long-term care and home health organizations
- Public health and school-based nursing roles
With competitive wages, strong demand, and diverse career settings, Nevada offers ABSN graduates a favorable job market in which to launch their nursing careers.
Tips for Choosing the Right Program
Selecting an Accelerated BSN program in Nevada involves more than finding the fastest path to licensure. By carefully weighing your options, you can choose a program that fits your needs and maximizes your career opportunities.
Verify Accreditation and NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
Only consider programs accredited by CCNE or ACEN and approved by the Nevada State Board of Nursing. Reviewing a school’s NCLEX-RN pass rates gives insight into how effectively it prepares students for licensure.
Look at Clinical Placement Opportunities
Hands-on training is the core of nursing education. Investigate where programs place their students for clinical rotations—whether with major health systems like Renown Health, University Medical Center, or Carson Tahoe Health or in community-based settings. Strong partnerships can shape your clinical experience and improve job prospects after graduation.
Compare Program Length and Format
Most ABSN programs in Nevada last 12 to 24 months. Some may include hybrid delivery formats, combining online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals, while others are entirely campus-based. Consider your learning style and schedule when evaluating formats.
Review Costs and Financial Aid
Be sure to compare the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, uniforms, supplies, and exam costs. Explore financial aid opportunities, including nursing scholarships, state grants, and employer tuition reimbursement programs.
Consider Location and Cohort Start Dates
Some ABSN programs admit only once per year, while others offer multiple start dates. Proximity to your home and to healthcare facilities can affect both your daily routine and long-term career connections.
FAQ: ABSN Programs in Nevada
Are there online or hybrid ABSN programs in Nevada?
Yes. While ABSN programs cannot be fully online due to required labs and clinical rotations, some Nevada schools offer hybrid formats. These combine online coursework with in-person training and clinical practice in hospitals and community health settings.
How long do ABSN programs in Nevada take to complete?
Most Accelerated BSN programs in Nevada can be completed in 12 to 24 months, depending on the school’s structure and whether courses are offered on a year-round or semester basis.
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 prerequisite science courses like anatomy, microbiology, and chemistry before starting the program.
Can students work while enrolled?
Because of the fast-paced, demanding structure of ABSN programs, most schools strongly discourage working while enrolled. Students in longer programs (18–24 months) may be able to manage part-time work, but balancing employment with coursework and clinicals is difficult.