The demand for registered nurses (RNs) continues to grow across the U.S., and Utah is no exception. With a rapidly expanding population and increasing healthcare needs, the state offers strong career opportunities for new nurses.
For those with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, accelerated nursing programs in Utah provide a fast-track pathway to earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). These programs condense traditional nursing coursework into an intensive 12-24 month format, allowing career changers to enter the workforce quickly.
This guide explores Utah’s accelerated nursing programs, covering admission requirements, program options, costs, and career prospects to help prospective students make an informed decision.
Why Choose an Accelerated Nursing Program in Utah?
High Demand for Nurses in Utah
Utah’s growing population and expanding healthcare system have led to an increased demand for Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)-prepared nurses. The state is home to major healthcare employers, including Intermountain Healthcare, University of Utah Health, and MountainStar Healthcare, which frequently seek skilled nursing professionals to fill critical roles.
Accelerated Path to a Nursing Career
For individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, accelerated nursing programs in Utah offer a streamlined path to becoming a registered nurse (RN). Rather than spending four years in a traditional BSN program, students can earn their BSN in as little as 16 to 24 months through an accelerated BSN (ABSN) program.
Opportunities for Clinical Rotations in Utah’s Healthcare Facilities
ABSN programs in Utah provide students with hands-on clinical training at some of the state’s top hospitals and medical centers. These rotations allow students to:
- Gain real-world nursing experience in acute care, outpatient, and specialized settings.
- Build professional connections that can lead to job placement after graduation.
- Work with experienced healthcare teams in leading Utah hospitals.
With strong career prospects, an accelerated education timeline, and access to top-tier clinical training, Utah is an excellent place for those looking to transition into nursing through an ABSN program.
What to Look for in an Accelerated Nursing Program
Choosing the right accelerated BSN (ABSN) program is a crucial step in transitioning to a nursing career. Prospective students should evaluate key factors such as accreditation, program length, clinical training opportunities, and NCLEX-RN pass rates.
Accreditation
Attending an accredited ABSN program is essential for ensuring eligibility for licensure and employment. Programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) meet rigorous academic and professional standards.
Program Length
Most ABSN programs in Utah take between 12 and 24 months to complete, depending on the school and format. Some programs offer an intensive full-time schedule, while others provide hybrid options that allow for a more flexible learning experience.
Clinical Rotations
Hands-on clinical experience is a vital component of any nursing program. Prospective students should look for top ABSN programs that offer:
- Clinical placements in major Utah hospitals and healthcare facilities.
- Diverse clinical experiences in specialties like emergency care, pediatrics, and critical care.
- Strong faculty and mentorship programs to guide students through hands-on training.
NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
The NCLEX-RN exam is required for licensure as a registered nurse. A program’s pass rate is a strong indicator of how well it prepares students for the exam. Researching schools with high NCLEX-RN pass rates can help ensure a successful transition to nursing.
Flexible Learning Options
Some students may prefer hybrid or online coursework, which combines virtual lectures with in-person labs and clinical training. While cheapest ABSN programs may offer affordability, it’s important to balance cost with quality, accreditation, and career outcomes.
Licensure Requirements
Each state has specific regulations for becoming a registered nurse. Before enrolling in a program, students should review nursing state licensure requirements to ensure their chosen program meets Utah’s licensure criteria.
By considering these factors, prospective students can select an ABSN program in Utah that aligns with their educational needs, career goals, and financial situation.
Admission Requirements for Utah ABSN Programs
Admission to accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs in Utah is competitive, as these programs are designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to transition into nursing quickly. While specific requirements vary by school, most programs share common prerequisites, academic expectations, and application components.
Common Prerequisites
Most ABSN programs require applicants to complete foundational science and healthcare-related coursework before admission. Common prerequisites include:
- Human Anatomy & Physiology I and II – Covers the structure and function of the human body.
- Microbiology – Focuses on microorganisms and their role in health and disease.
- General or Organic Chemistry – Required by some programs to ensure understanding of biological processes.
- Statistics – Helps students interpret medical research and data.
- Psychology or Sociology – Provides insights into human behavior and social interactions in healthcare.
Some programs allow students to complete missing prerequisites before enrollment, while others require them to be finished before applying.
Minimum GPA and Entrance Exam Requirements
- Many Utah ABSN programs require a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 to 3.5.
- Some programs may require applicants to take an entrance exam, such as:
- Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) – Measures proficiency in reading, math, science, and English.
- Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) Exam – Assesses knowledge in key subject areas relevant to nursing.
A strong GPA and competitive test scores can improve an applicant’s chances of acceptance, especially for programs with limited spots.
Additional Application Materials
Beyond academic performance, ABSN programs may require supplementary materials to evaluate an applicant’s readiness for a fast-paced nursing program. These may include:
- Letters of Recommendation – Typically from professors, healthcare professionals, or employers.
- Personal Statement or Essay – Explains the applicant’s motivation for pursuing nursing and career goals.
- Resume or CV – Highlights relevant healthcare experience, volunteer work, or academic achievements.
- Interview – Some programs require an interview to assess an applicant’s communication skills and commitment to nursing.
Since ABSN programs are highly competitive, applicants should carefully review each program’s requirements and apply early to maximize their chances of admission.
Accelerated Nursing Programs in Utah
Utah offers several CCNE-accredited nursing programs that allow students to earn a BSN faster than traditional four-year programs. However, not all of these programs follow the same accelerated format. Some are designed specifically for students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and can be completed in as little as 16 to 24 months. Others offer a shortened pathway for students pursuing their first bachelor’s degree, making them faster than a traditional four-year BSN program.
Below are some of the top accelerated nursing programs in Utah, each with unique structures and timelines.
Arizona College of Nursing – Salt Lake City
- Location: Salt Lake City, UT
- Program Name: 3-Year BSN Program
- Length: 3 years
- Key Features:
- Up to $5,000 in scholarships available for eligible students
- Evening classes for general education courses
- Hands-on experience in guided labs
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation integrated throughout the program
Grand Canyon University (Sandy, UT Campus)
- Location: Sandy, UT
- Program Name: 16-Month ABSN Nursing Program
- Length: As few as 16 months
- Key Features:
- Designed for students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or 60+ transferable credits
- Three start dates per year
- Online coursework combined with in-person skills labs and clinical rotations
- Learning site located in Salt Lake City
- Prepares students for RN licensure through an intensive, fast-paced curriculum
Joyce University
- Location: Draper, UT
- Program Name: 3-Year BSN Program
- Length: 3 years
- Key Features:
- 120 credit hours, 517.5 clinical hours
- NCLEX-RN pass rate for 2024 exceeds the national average at 96.66%
- Flexible format blending online coursework with in-person learning
- No prerequisite college credits required for admission—students can start immediately
Provo College
- Location: Provo, UT
- Program Name: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program
- Length: 3 years or less
- Key Features:
- Online course options available for flexibility
- Designed for first-time degree seekers who want to earn a BSN faster than traditional programs
Roseman University of Health Sciences (South Jordan, UT Campus)
- Location: South Jordan, UT
- Program Name: Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Program
- Length: Less than 18 months
- Key Features:
- Designed for students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree
- Hybrid-online or on-campus learning options available
- Four start dates per year with rolling admissions
- 95.45% first-time NCLEX pass rate (Jan–May 2024)
- 96.87% employment rate within six months of graduation
These programs provide shortened pathways to a BSN, but students should carefully review the structure of each program to determine the best fit. Those with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree may benefit most from second-degree ABSN programs, while first-time degree seekers can choose a three-year BSN program to complete their nursing education in less time than a traditional four-year degree.
Online and Hybrid ABSN Options in Utah
For students who need flexibility in their nursing education, some accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs in Utah offer online or hybrid learning options. These programs allow students to complete coursework remotely while fulfilling in-person clinical training at healthcare facilities.
Availability of Fully Online or Hybrid ABSN Programs
Fully online ABSN programs are rare due to the need for in-person clinical training and lab work. However, hybrid programs provide a balance between online learning and hands-on experience. These typically include:
- Online coursework for subjects such as nursing theory, pharmacology, and pathophysiology.
- On-campus simulation labs for practicing essential nursing skills.
- Clinical rotations at Utah hospitals and healthcare facilities to gain real-world experience.
Hybrid programs offer flexibility for students who need to balance their studies with work or other commitments while still meeting the rigorous training requirements for RN licensure.
How Online Coursework Integrates With In-Person Clinical Training
In a hybrid ABSN program, students typically:
- Complete lectures, quizzes, and assignments online.
- Participate in virtual simulations to reinforce theoretical knowledge.
- Attend scheduled in-person labs for hands-on skills practice.
- Fulfill required clinical rotations at approved Utah healthcare sites.
This blended format provides convenience while ensuring that students gain critical nursing experience through direct patient care.
Accreditation and Approval for Online ABSN Programs in Utah
Students considering an online or hybrid ABSN program should verify that the program is accredited by the CCNE or ACEN and meets Utah’s nursing state licensure requirements. Completing an accredited program ensures eligibility to take the NCLEX-RN and obtain RN licensure.
For students who need a flexible yet structured path into nursing, hybrid ABSN programs in Utah provide a high-quality education while allowing for remote learning components.
Job Outlook for ABSN Graduates in Utah
Graduates of accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs in Utah enter a strong job market, with growing demand for registered nurses (RNs) across the state. Utah’s expanding population and healthcare needs have created a high demand for BSN-prepared nurses in hospitals, clinics, and specialized care facilities.
Projected Demand for Nurses in Utah
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
- Employment for registered nurses is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
- The demand for nurses in Utah is expected to rise due to population growth, healthcare facility expansions, and an aging workforce.
- Nurses with a BSN degree have greater job prospects, as many employers prefer or require BSN-prepared RNs.
Salary Expectations for BSN-Prepared Nurses in Utah
According to the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics:
- The median annual wage for registered nurses nationwide was $86,070 as of May 2023.
- In Utah, the mean annual wage for RNs is approximately $83,100, with salaries varying based on experience, specialty, and work setting.
- Nurses working in urban hospitals and specialized healthcare settings typically earn higher wages than those in rural areas.
Major Healthcare Employers Hiring ABSN Graduates in Utah
Utah’s leading hospitals and healthcare networks include:
- Intermountain Health – The largest healthcare system in Utah, with multiple hospitals and clinics across the state.
- University of Utah Health – A top-ranked academic medical center offering diverse nursing specialties.
- MountainStar Healthcare – A network of hospitals and outpatient centers throughout Utah.
With strong job growth, competitive salaries, and career advancement opportunities, Utah offers an excellent environment for ABSN graduates launching their nursing careers.
FAQ: Accelerated Nursing Programs in Utah
How long does an ABSN program take in Utah?
Most accelerated BSN (ABSN) programs in Utah take between 12 and 24 months to complete. The exact length depends on the school, program structure, and clinical training requirements. Some programs offer hybrid formats that allow students to complete coursework online while fulfilling in-person lab and clinical components.
Are there online ABSN programs in Utah?
Fully online ABSN programs are rare due to the hands-on nature of nursing education. However, some Utah ABSN programs offer hybrid learning options, where students complete theoretical coursework online and attend in-person clinical rotations at affiliated healthcare facilities.
What are the prerequisites for an ABSN program?
Most ABSN programs in Utah require applicants to complete prerequisite courses in subjects such as:
- Human Anatomy & Physiology
- Microbiology
- Chemistry
- Statistics
- Psychology or Sociology
Each program may have different requirements, so prospective students should review individual program websites to determine if additional coursework is needed before applying.
Can I work while completing an ABSN program?
Due to the intensive nature of ABSN programs, most schools do not recommend full-time employment while enrolled. Some students manage part-time work, but balancing employment with rigorous coursework and clinical rotations can be challenging.
These FAQs provide a general overview of accelerated nursing programs in Utah. For more details, prospective students should contact specific schools to learn about admission requirements, tuition costs, and available financial aid options.
Next Steps: Applying to an Accelerated BSN Program in Utah
For those looking to transition into nursing, accelerated BSN programs in Utah offer a fast and efficient pathway to becoming a registered nurse. With strong job demand, competitive salaries, and access to top healthcare facilities, Utah is an excellent place to start a nursing career.
Prospective students should research accredited ABSN programs, complete any prerequisite coursework, and prepare strong application materials. Exploring financial aid and scholarship opportunities can also help make nursing education more affordable.
By taking these steps, career changers and degree holders can successfully enter the nursing profession and begin a rewarding healthcare career.