# Tennessee ABSN Programs Guide
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**Featured Image:**
[Five young women in blue scrubs smile while sitting at a table with notebooks and pens.] (https://absn.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/12/2025/09/ABSN-Tennessee.jpg)
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**Author:** ABSN Editorial Team
**Published:** September 10, 2025
**Updated:** September 10, 2025
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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] (https://absn.org/degrees/bachelors/cheapest-absn-programs/) for more budget-friendly paths, and explore the[ best accelerated BSN programs] (https://absn.org/degrees/bachelors/top-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] (https://www.etsu.edu/nursing/undergrad/accelerated_bsn.php) |
| South College | Knoxville | [Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Accelerated)] (https://www.south.edu/program/bachelor-of-science-in-nursing-accelerated-bsn/) |
| Tennessee Technological University | Cookeville | [2nd-Degree Bachelors of Science In Nursing] (https://www.tntech.edu/nursing/2nd-bsn-program.php) |
| Union University-Tennessee | Jackson | [Accelerated BSN] (https://www.uu.edu/programs/nursing/undergraduate/accelerated/) |
| University of Memphis | Memphis | [Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing] (https://www.memphis.edu/nursing/program-admit/accelerated-bsn/absnprogram.php) |
| University of Tennessee-Health Science Center | Memphis | [Accelerated 2nd-Degree BSN Program] (https://www.uthsc.edu/nursing/bsn.php) |
| University of Tennessee-Knoxville | Knoxville | [Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)] (https://nursing.utk.edu/undergraduate-programs/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)** **
** ] (https://www.aacnnursing.org/ccne-accreditation)
- [**Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)** **
** ] (https://www.acenursing.org/)
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:
1. Complete an accredited nursing program
2. Pass the **NCLEX-RN exam** **
**
3. 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
- **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
- **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** ] (https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa) is the first step to access federal loans and grants. Tennessee also offers programs such as the [**Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA)** ] (https://www.collegefortn.org/tennessee-financial-aid/tennessee-student-assistance-award/) 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** ] (https://www.tnurses.care/) 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] (https://www.onetonline.org/) , 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] (https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm) 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.