Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs in Tennessee offer a fast-track route for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to transition into nursing. Typically completed in 12 to 24 months, these programs combine classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical rotations to prepare students for RN licensure.
With a mix of urban healthcare hubs like Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville and rural communities in need of nurses, Tennessee provides a wide range of opportunities for ABSN graduates. The state’s strong healthcare networks—including Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, and Ballad Health—make it an appealing place to begin a nursing career.
What Is an ABSN Program?
An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is designed specifically for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and wish to become registered nurses without completing the traditional BSN path. These programs compress nursing coursework into an intensive 12 to 24-month format, combining classroom learning, simulation labs, and immersive clinical rotations.
Students engage in foundational nurse training—covering areas like pharmacology, health assessment, nursing ethics, and population health—alongside extensive hands-on clinical experience to ensure readiness for real-world nursing practice.
When comparing your options, you may find it helpful to check out cheapest ABSN programs for more budget-friendly paths, and explore the best accelerated BSN programs for programs known for strong outcomes and academic reputation.
Graduates of accredited ABSN programs are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam, which is required to become a licensed registered nurse in Tennessee and across the U.S.
Why Choose an ABSN Program in Tennessee?
Tennessee offers a unique blend of educational opportunities and healthcare demand that makes it an attractive choice for students pursuing an Accelerated BSN.
Strong Demand for Nurses
Like much of the U.S., Tennessee faces a shortage of registered nurses, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This high demand creates consistent job opportunities for ABSN graduates across the state.
Respected Nursing Schools
The state is home to well-regarded universities that provide ABSN pathways, ensuring students receive rigorous academic and clinical preparation for licensure and practice.
Diverse Clinical Training Opportunities
Tennessee’s healthcare infrastructure includes leading hospital systems such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare in Memphis, and Ballad Health in East Tennessee. Clinical placements at these and other hospitals expose ABSN students to a wide range of specialties and patient populations.
Competitive Salaries with Cost-of-Living Benefits
While RN salaries in Tennessee may trend slightly lower than national averages, they are competitive when adjusted for the state’s affordable cost of living. This makes Tennessee a practical choice for launching a nursing career while managing educational and living expenses.
Notable ABSN Programs in Tennessee
Several universities across Tennessee offer Accelerated BSN options designed for students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. While each program has its own format and timeline, all combine intensive coursework with clinical experiences to prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN and professional nursing practice.
| Institution | Location | Program |
| East Tennessee State University | Johnson City | Accelerated BSN |
| South College | Knoxville | Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Accelerated) |
| Tennessee Technological University | Cookeville | 2nd-Degree Bachelors of Science In Nursing |
| Union University-Tennessee | Jackson | Accelerated BSN |
| University of Memphis | Memphis | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing |
| University of Tennessee-Health Science Center | Memphis | Accelerated 2nd-Degree BSN Program |
| University of Tennessee-Knoxville | Knoxville | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) |
Accreditation and Licensing Considerations
Before applying to an Accelerated BSN program in Tennessee, it’s important to understand the role of accreditation and licensure in shaping your nursing career.
Importance of Accreditation
Accreditation confirms that a nursing program meets nationally recognized standards for quality and rigor. In Tennessee, ABSN programs are typically accredited by one of two organizations:
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Completing an accredited program is essential for:
- Eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN exam
- Access to federal financial aid
- Meeting employer requirements, as most healthcare organizations require accredited degrees
Tennessee Board of Nursing
The Tennessee Board of Nursing, part of the Department of Health, 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, which includes background checks and official documentation
Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Tennessee is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This allows nurses licensed in Tennessee to practice in other compact states without obtaining additional licenses, giving ABSN graduates flexibility and expanded job opportunities across much of the country.
Admission Requirements
Admission to Accelerated BSN programs in Tennessee is competitive, reflecting both the intensive nature of these programs and the strong demand from applicants. While requirements vary by school, most programs share a similar 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
Foundational science and math courses are usually required, often completed within the past 5–10 years. Common prerequisites include:
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Microbiology
- Chemistry
- Nutrition
- Statistics
- Developmental or Lifespan Psychology
- Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Minimum GPA
A 3.0 GPA or higher is typically expected, though some programs may review applicants with slightly lower GPAs on a case-by-case basis. - Application Materials
Most ABSN programs in Tennessee require supporting documents such as:
- Résumé or CV highlighting academic, professional, and volunteer experiences
- Personal statement or essay outlining motivations for pursuing 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 mandatory, relevant experience in healthcare or community service can strengthen an application and may be preferred by some programs.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
Accelerated BSN programs in Tennessee require a significant financial commitment, but they can open the door to a stable and rewarding nursing career. Costs vary depending on the institution and whether it is public or private.
Tuition Ranges for ABSN Programs in Tennessee
Most ABSN programs in Tennessee fall between $30,000 and $65,000 in total tuition. Public universities may offer lower tuition rates for in-state students, while private universities often sit on the higher end of the range.
In addition to tuition, students should budget for:
- Clinical and lab fees
- Nursing uniforms and medical supplies (stethoscope, lab kits, etc.)
- Textbooks and online learning platforms
- Immunizations, background checks, and drug screenings
- NCLEX-RN exam registration and state licensure application fees
Financial Aid Options
- Federal and State Aid
Completing the FAFSA is the first step to access federal loans and grants. Tennessee also offers programs such as the Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA) for eligible students. - Scholarships and Grants
Nursing-specific scholarships are available from local hospitals, professional organizations, and state associations, and some schools also offer merit- or need-based awards. The Tennessee Nurses Association has additional information about relevant resources. - Employer Tuition Assistance
Major healthcare systems such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, and Ballad Health may provide tuition reimbursement or loan repayment incentives for employees pursuing nursing education. - Loan Forgiveness Programs
Federal initiatives like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program and Tennessee-focused incentives can help graduates reduce debt if they work in designated shortage areas or underserved communities.
Career Outlook for ABSN Graduates in Tennessee
Graduates of Accelerated BSN programs in Tennessee are entering a profession with steady demand and a wide range of employment opportunities across both urban and rural areas of the state.
RN Salary Expectations in Tennessee
According to O*NET OnLine, registered nurses in Tennessee earn an average annual wage of $79,030. The lowest 10% make $59,540 or less, while the highest 10% earn $102,040 or more.
Salaries vary by region:
- Nashville metro area: $81,170 average, with top earners above $108,000
- Memphis metro area: $79,250 average, with upper ranges exceeding $108,000
- Chattanooga: $76,870 average
- Knoxville: $73,320 average
- Johnson City: $73,340 average, with top wages exceeding $106,000
For comparison, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national median wage of $93,600 as of 2024, showing that while Tennessee wages fall below the national median, they remain competitive when paired with the state’s relatively low cost of living.
Job Growth and Demand
Like much of the U.S., Tennessee faces a nursing shortage, particularly in rural hospitals and long-term care facilities. Nationally, RN employment is projected to grow 6% between 2023 and 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to result in nearly 197,200 new RN jobs nationwide, with approximately 194,500 openings per year due to retirements and workforce turnover. Tennessee’s urban centers and underserved rural regions both reflect this broader trend.
Major Employers and Work Settings
ABSN graduates in Tennessee can pursue careers in a wide variety of healthcare environments, including:
- Large hospital systems such as Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, Ballad Health, and Ascension Saint Thomas
- Community and regional hospitals in smaller cities and rural areas
- Outpatient clinics and specialty care practices
- Long-term care, home health, and rehabilitation facilities
- Public health and school-based nursing roles
Together, these opportunities provide ABSN graduates with both stability and the chance to specialize or advance within Tennessee’s diverse healthcare system.
Tips for Choosing the Right Program
With several Accelerated BSN programs available in Tennessee, choosing the right fit involves weighing academic quality, cost, and program logistics. Here are key factors to consider:
Verify Accreditation and NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
Make sure the program is accredited by CCNE or ACEN and approved by the Tennessee Board of Nursing. Reviewing NCLEX-RN pass rates can give you a sense of how well the school prepares students for licensure success.
Evaluate Clinical Placement Opportunities
Clinical experience is central to nursing education. Investigate which healthcare systems the program partners with—major employers like Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, and Ballad Health offer exposure to specialized units and diverse patient populations.
Consider Program Length and Format
Most ABSN programs in Tennessee take 12 to 24 months to complete. Some are designed for full-time, intensive study, while others may stretch the curriculum over a slightly longer timeline. Consider whether you need flexibility or can commit to an accelerated pace.
Compare Total Costs and Financial Aid
Look beyond tuition to calculate fees, supplies, and licensure costs. Explore financial aid options such as federal aid through FAFSA, Tennessee’s state-based programs, and scholarships from local hospitals or the Tennessee Nurses Association. Employer tuition support or loan forgiveness programs may also be available.
Factor in Location and Admissions Cycles
Some programs admit multiple cohorts per year, while others only accept one group annually. Location also matters: being near your school’s main campus or affiliated hospitals can make balancing coursework and clinical rotations more manageable.
FAQ: ABSN Programs in Tennessee
Are there online or hybrid ABSN programs in Tennessee?
Yes. While ABSN programs cannot be completed entirely online due to lab and clinical requirements, some schools in Tennessee offer hybrid formats. These allow students to complete didactic coursework online while attending in-person labs and clinical rotations.
Do schools accept prior credits?
Yes. Since ABSN programs are designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree, most general education credits transfer. However, applicants must typically complete specific science prerequisites such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and statistics before starting the program.
Can students work while enrolled?
Because of the demanding pace, most schools strongly discourage working while in an ABSN program. Students in slightly longer programs (18–24 months) may be able to manage limited part-time work, but balancing a job with coursework and clinicals can be very challenging.