Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs in Ohio offer a fast-track pathway for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to transition into a nursing career. Typically completed in 12 to 24 months, these programs combine classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical rotations to prepare students for RN licensure.
Ohio is home to a number of well-regarded nursing schools and major healthcare systems, including Cleveland Clinic, OhioHealth, and University Hospitals, which provide students with diverse opportunities for clinical training. With strong demand for nurses across both urban centers like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati and rural communities, ABSN graduates in Ohio are well-positioned for meaningful and rewarding careers.
What Is an ABSN Program?
An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is crafted for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to become registered nurses without completing a traditional four-year nursing degree. These programs condense coursework into an intensive 12 to 24-month format, combining classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical rotations to prepare students for licensure.
ABSN curricula typically cover key nursing topics—such as pharmacology, health assessment, nursing ethics, and population health—while immersing students in real-world care through hands-on clinical experiences.
When researching your options, it’s helpful to explore affordable ABSN programs for more budget-friendly pathways, and review the best accelerated BSN programs for institutions with strong reputations and student outcomes.
Graduates of accredited ABSN programs become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, the essential licensure test required to practice as a registered nurse in Ohio and across the U.S.
Why Choose an ABSN Program in Ohio?
Ohio offers several advantages for students pursuing an Accelerated BSN, making it an appealing choice for career changers entering the nursing field.
Strong Demand for Nurses
Like much of the U.S., Ohio is experiencing a shortage of registered nurses, particularly in rural communities and within specialized areas of care. This ongoing need creates consistent opportunities for ABSN graduates.
Respected Nursing Schools
Ohio is home to numerous well-regarded universities and colleges that offer ABSN pathways. These programs emphasize academic rigor and clinical preparation, ensuring that graduates are ready for licensure and employment.
Diverse Clinical Training Opportunities
Students benefit from rotations at some of the state’s largest healthcare networks, including Cleveland Clinic, OhioHealth, University Hospitals, and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. These partnerships provide exposure to varied patient populations and clinical settings.
Competitive Salaries and Lower Cost of Living
Registered nurses in Ohio earn competitive wages compared to the state’s lower-than-average cost of living, giving graduates more financial flexibility as they start their careers.
Notable ABSN Programs in Ohio
Several universities across Ohio offer Accelerated BSN programs designed for students who already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. While program length and delivery format vary, each provides the intensive coursework and clinical experiences necessary to prepare graduates for RN licensure. Below is an overview of institutions in Ohio with ABSN pathways, each offering unique features and clinical partnerships.
| Institution | Location | Program |
| Baldwin Wallace University | Berea | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) |
| Capital University | Columbus | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing |
| Cleveland State University | Cleveland | Online Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing |
| Kent State University | Kent | Second Degree BSN |
| Kettering College | Kettering | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing |
| Mount Carmel College of Nursing | Columbus | Second Degree Accelerated Program (SDAP) |
| Muskingum University | New Concord | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing |
| The Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences | Cincinnati | Accelerated BSN (ABSN) |
| The University of Akron | Akron | Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Accelerated BSN) |
| University of Mount Union | Alliance | Accelerated Bachelor of Nursing (Second-degree BSN) |
| Ursuline College | Pepper Pike | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) |
| Xavier University | Cincinnati | Accelerated BSN |
Accreditation and Licensing Considerations
Before applying to an Accelerated BSN program in Ohio, it’s important to understand the role accreditation and licensing play in your nursing education and career.
Importance of Accreditation
Accreditation ensures a nursing program meets national quality standards. In Ohio, ABSN programs are typically accredited by one of two organizations:
- 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 requirements, as most healthcare systems prefer or require degrees from accredited schools
Ohio Board of Nursing
The Ohio 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
- Apply for licensure through the Board, including background checks and documentation
Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Ohio is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses licensed in Ohio to practice in other compact states without needing additional licenses. For ABSN graduates, this provides expanded career mobility across much of the U.S.
Admission Requirements
Admission to Accelerated BSN programs in Ohio is competitive due to the rigorous nature of these programs and strong interest from career changers. While requirements vary by institution, most ABSN programs share a common set of expectations.
Typical ABSN Admission Criteria
- Non-Nursing Bachelor’s Degree
Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field from a regionally accredited institution. - Prerequisite Coursework
Foundational science and math courses are typically required, often completed 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
Most programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0, though some may review applicants with slightly lower GPAs if other elements of the application are strong. - Application Materials
Schools may request supporting materials such as:
- Résumé or CV outlining academic, professional, and volunteer experiences
- Personal statement or essay explaining motivation for pursuing nursing
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references
- Résumé or CV outlining academic, professional, and volunteer experiences
- Healthcare or Volunteer Experience
While not always mandatory, experience in healthcare or community service can strengthen an application and is sometimes preferred.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
Accelerated BSN programs in Ohio represent a significant investment, but strong career prospects for registered nurses can make the cost worthwhile. Tuition varies widely depending on the type of school and program structure.
Tuition Ranges for ABSN Programs in Ohio
Most programs fall between $30,000 and $65,000 in total tuition. Public universities may offer lower tuition for in-state students, while private institutions often fall on the higher end of this range.
Students should also plan for additional expenses, such as:
- Lab and clinical fees
- Nursing uniforms and medical supplies (e.g., stethoscopes, lab kits)
- Textbooks and online learning resources
- Immunizations, health screenings, and background checks
- NCLEX-RN exam fees and state licensure application costs
Financial Aid Options
- Federal and State Aid
Completing the FAFSA is required to access federal student loans and grants. Some Ohio students may also qualify for state-level assistance programs. - Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships are available through national organizations, state-based nursing associations, and healthcare providers. Ohio schools may also offer institution-specific awards for nursing students. - Employer Tuition Assistance
Large healthcare systems in Ohio, such as Cleveland Clinic, OhioHealth, and University Hospitals, sometimes provide tuition reimbursement or loan repayment assistance to employees pursuing nursing education. - Loan Forgiveness Programs
Federal initiatives like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program and state-level loan forgiveness programs can help graduates reduce debt if they commit to working in underserved or high-need areas.
Career Outlook for ABSN Graduates in Ohio
Graduates of Accelerated BSN programs in Ohio enter a job market with steady demand for nurses and competitive wages compared to the state’s cost of living.
RN Salary Expectations in Ohio
According to O*NET OnLine, registered nurses in Ohio earn an average annual wage of $81,250. The lowest 10% of earners make $66,060 or less, while the top 10% make $103,650 or more.
Earnings differ across the state’s regions:
- Columbus: $82,520 average
- Cleveland: $81,970 average
- Cincinnati: $81,790 average
- Akron: $81,520 average
- Toledo: $79,440 average
- Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek: $80,990 average
For comparison, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national median annual wage of $93,600 as of 2024, with the top 10% earning more than $135,000. While Ohio RN salaries are slightly below the national median, they remain strong when adjusted for the state’s lower cost of living.
Job Growth and Demand
Ohio continues to face a nursing shortage, particularly in rural areas and within specialized units such as critical care and long-term care. While state-specific projections vary, national BLS data shows RN employment is expected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth translates to about 197,200 new jobs nationwide, with 194,500 annual openings projected from retirements and turnover.
Major Employers and Work Settings
ABSN graduates in Ohio can find employment with some of the nation’s top healthcare systems, including:
- Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland)
- OhioHealth (Columbus)
- University Hospitals (Cleveland)
- Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (Cincinnati)
- Mercy Health (statewide network)
Common work settings include hospitals, outpatient clinics, home health, long-term care facilities, and public health organizations.
Overall, ABSN graduates in Ohio benefit from reliable job prospects, steady wages, and opportunities within some of the country’s most respected healthcare systems.
Tips for Choosing the Right Program
Choosing an Accelerated BSN program in Ohio requires careful consideration to make sure the program fits your goals, schedule, and long-term career plans.
Verify Accreditation and NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
Only apply to programs accredited by CCNE or ACEN and approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing. Reviewing a program’s NCLEX-RN pass rates will help you gauge how well it prepares students for licensure.
Look at Clinical Placement Opportunities
Clinical experience is central to nursing education. Investigate which healthcare systems the school partners with for clinical rotations—whether with major networks like Cleveland Clinic, OhioHealth, or University Hospitals or with community-based facilities. These placements can shape both your training and your employment prospects.
Consider Program Length and Format
Most ABSN programs in Ohio take 12 to 24 months to complete. Some are structured as full-time, immersive programs, while others may incorporate hybrid formats that include online coursework. Think about how much time you can dedicate and whether flexibility is important.
Compare Total Costs and Financial Aid
Look at the full cost of attendance, not just tuition. Factor in clinical fees, supplies, uniforms, and exam costs. Explore scholarships, grants, and employer tuition assistance, as well as federal aid through FAFSA.
Factor in Location and Admissions Cycles
Some ABSN programs admit new cohorts only once per year, while others have multiple start dates. Proximity to home or to major healthcare hubs like Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati may influence your clinical opportunities and networking prospects.
FAQ: ABSN Programs in Ohio
Are there online or hybrid ABSN programs in Ohio?
Yes. While no ABSN program can be completed entirely online due to required labs and clinical training, some Ohio schools offer hybrid formats. These combine online coursework with in-person labs and clinical placements at affiliated healthcare sites.
Do schools accept prior credits?
Yes. Since ABSN programs are designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree, general education credits typically transfer. However, students may need to complete science prerequisites such as anatomy, microbiology, chemistry, and statistics before enrolling.
Can students work while enrolled?
Because of the accelerated pace, most schools strongly discourage working while enrolled in an ABSN program. Students in longer formats (18–24 months) may be able to manage limited part-time work, but balancing employment with coursework and clinicals is challenging.