Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs in Wisconsin offer a fast-track option for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and want to pursue a career as a registered nurse. Typically completed in 12 to 24 months, these programs blend classroom instruction with clinical training to prepare graduates for RN licensure.
Wisconsin provides a strong environment for nursing education and career opportunities, with respected universities, major healthcare systems, and a consistent demand for nurses across both urban centers like Milwaukee and Madison and rural communities throughout the state. Graduates of Wisconsin ABSN programs are well-positioned to enter a high-demand field with competitive salaries and diverse employment options.
What Is an ABSN Program?
An Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is designed for individuals who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and wish to transition into the nursing field without completing a traditional four-year degree. These programs leverage your prior academic work to condense the BSN curriculum into an accelerated format—typically completed in 12 to 24 months.
ABSN students combine classroom instruction, lab experience, and clinical rotations in environments such as hospitals, community health centers, and specialty clinics. Coursework often covers topics like pharmacology, health assessment, nursing ethics, and population health, while hands-on training ensures readiness to apply evidence-based practices in real-world care.
When considering your options, you may want to compare affordable ABSN programs to find cost-effective pathways, or check out the best accelerated BSN programs to explore schools with strong academic reputations and successful outcomes.
Upon completion of an accredited ABSN program, graduates become eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, the national licensure test required to become a registered nurse in Wisconsin and across the U.S.
Why Choose an ABSN Program in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin offers several advantages for students pursuing an Accelerated BSN, making it an excellent option for those entering nursing as a second career.
Strong Demand for Nurses
The state faces a growing need for registered nurses, with shortages in both metropolitan areas like Milwaukee and Madison and in rural communities. This consistent demand ensures steady job opportunities for graduates of ABSN programs in Wisconsin.
Respected Nursing Schools
Wisconsin is home to well-regarded universities and colleges that provide accredited ABSN pathways. These programs are known for combining rigorous academic study with meaningful clinical experiences, preparing students to succeed on the NCLEX-RN exam.
Diverse Clinical Opportunities
Through partnerships with major healthcare systems such as Froedtert Health, UW Health, and Aurora Health Care, ABSN students gain experience in a wide range of care environments. Clinical rotations expose students to patient care in hospitals, community clinics, and long-term care facilities.
Competitive RN Salaries
Registered nurses in Wisconsin earn wages that are competitive with national averages, making the state a practical and rewarding place to begin a nursing career. With both financial and professional incentives, Wisconsin provides a solid foundation for ABSN graduates.
Notable ABSN Programs in Wisconsin
Several universities in Wisconsin offer Accelerated BSN pathways designed for students who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. These programs vary in length, delivery format, and clinical partnerships, but all provide the combination of intensive coursework and hands-on training needed to prepare graduates for licensure as registered nurses. Below is an overview of institutions in the state that feature ABSN options, each with unique strengths and opportunities for clinical experience.
| Institution | Location | Program |
| Edgewood University | Madison | Online Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) |
| Herzing University Brookfield | Brookfield | Accelerated BSN (ABSN) |
| Herzing University Kenosha | Kenosha | Accelerated BSN (ABSN) |
| Herzing University Madison | Madison | Accelerated BSN (ABSN) |
| Milwaukee School of Engineering | Milwaukee | BSN – Accelerated Second-Degree Track |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | Madison | Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing |
| University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | Oshkosh | Accelerated BSN |
Accreditation and Licensing Considerations
Before applying to an Accelerated BSN program in Wisconsin, it’s important to understand how accreditation and licensure affect your path to becoming a registered nurse.
Importance of Accreditation
Accreditation ensures that a nursing program meets national standards of quality. In Wisconsin, 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 because it allows you to:
- Sit for the NCLEX-RN exam
- Qualify for federal financial aid
- Meet the hiring standards of most healthcare employers
Wisconsin State Board of Nursing
The Wisconsin State Board of Nursing regulates licensure for registered nurses. To obtain an RN license in Wisconsin, graduates must:
- Complete an accredited nursing program
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
- Submit an application and undergo a background check through the Board
Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC)
Wisconsin is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means that nurses licensed in Wisconsin can practice in other compact states without needing additional licenses, offering flexibility and mobility for ABSN graduates.
Admission Requirements
Admission into Accelerated BSN programs in Wisconsin is competitive, as these programs are designed for motivated students ready to handle a fast-paced curriculum. While requirements can vary by school, most share a set of common 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 Courses
Many programs require completion of science and math courses 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 required, though some programs may consider applicants with slightly lower GPAs if other parts of the application are strong. - Application Materials
Most ABSN programs require:
- Résumé or CV highlighting academic, work, and volunteer history
- Personal statement or essays explaining motivation to pursue nursing
- Letters of recommendation from professors, supervisors, or healthcare professionals
- Résumé or CV highlighting academic, work, and volunteer history
- Healthcare or Volunteer Experience
While not always mandatory, experience in healthcare or community service is often valued and may strengthen an application.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
Accelerated BSN programs in Wisconsin are a significant investment, but the career opportunities and earning potential for registered nurses can make them worthwhile. Understanding tuition ranges and available financial aid can help prospective students plan effectively.
Tuition Ranges for Wisconsin ABSN Programs
Most ABSN programs in Wisconsin cost between $30,000 and $70,000, depending on the institution, program length, and format. Public universities may offer lower tuition for in-state students, while private schools are often on the higher end of the range.
In addition to tuition, students should budget for expenses such as:
- Lab and clinical fees
- Textbooks and digital resources
- Nursing uniforms and equipment (stethoscopes, kits, etc.)
- Health screenings, immunizations, and background checks
- NCLEX-RN exam and state licensure fees
Financial Aid Options
- Federal and State Aid
Completing the FAFSA is the first step toward accessing federal loans and grants. Wisconsin students may also qualify for state-based financial aid through the Wisconsin Grant Program. - Nursing Scholarships and Grants
Scholarships are available from local hospitals, nursing associations, and national organizations. The Wisconsin Nurses Association and health systems like Froedtert Health may also offer support. - Employer Tuition Assistance
Some healthcare systems in Wisconsin provide tuition reimbursement or loan repayment programs for employees pursuing nursing degrees. - Loan Forgiveness Programs
Nurses who work in underserved areas may qualify for federal initiatives like the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program, as well as state-level loan forgiveness programs designed to address rural healthcare shortages.
Career Outlook for ABSN Graduates in Wisconsin
Graduates of ABSN programs in Wisconsin can expect steady demand for nursing professionals and salaries that compare well with regional standards. While pay in Wisconsin is slightly below the national average, the state offers consistent opportunities across both urban centers and rural communities.
RN Salary Expectations in Wisconsin
According to O*NET OnLine, registered nurses in Wisconsin earn an average annual wage of $86,070. Salaries range from about $74,970 for entry-level positions to over $109,000 for the top 10% of earners.
Regional salary differences exist across the state:
- Madison: $89,980 average
- La Crosse-Onalaska: $95,800 average
- Milwaukee-Waukesha: $83,990 average
- Green Bay: $79,550 average
- Eau Claire: $81,420 average
For comparison, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the national median wage for RNs was $93,600 in 2024, with the top 10% earning more than $135,000.
Job Growth and Demand
Wisconsin continues to face a high demand for nurses, driven by an aging population, retirements in the nursing workforce, and healthcare needs in rural regions. While statewide projections vary, national trends from the BLS show a 6% growth in RN employment between 2023 and 2033, which is faster than average across all occupations. This equates to nearly 194,500 annual job openings nationwide.
Major Employers and Work Settings
ABSN graduates in Wisconsin can pursue roles in a wide variety of healthcare environments, including:
- Major hospital systems such as Froedtert Health, UW Health, and Aurora Health Care
- Community and rural hospitals where shortages are most pressing
- Outpatient clinics and specialty practices
- Schools and public health agencies supporting community wellness
- Long-term care and home health services
With competitive salaries and a growing demand for nurses across the state, Wisconsin offers ABSN graduates a solid foundation to build rewarding and stable nursing careers.
Tips for Choosing the Right Program
Choosing the right Accelerated BSN program in Wisconsin involves more than just finding the fastest or least expensive option. Prospective students should weigh several factors to ensure the program aligns with their goals, learning style, and long-term career plans.
Verify Accreditation and NCLEX-RN Pass Rates
Ensure the program is accredited by CCNE or ACEN and approved by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing. Reviewing NCLEX-RN pass rates can help you gauge how effectively a school prepares its graduates for licensure.
Explore Clinical Placement Opportunities
Hands-on experience is essential. Investigate where each program places its students for clinical rotations—whether at major hospital systems like Froedtert Health and UW Health, or at smaller community facilities. Strong partnerships often translate into better networking and job placement opportunities.
Compare Program Length and Format
Most ABSN programs in Wisconsin can be completed in 12 to 24 months. Some offer hybrid options, combining online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals, while others are entirely on-campus. Consider which format works best for your lifestyle and responsibilities.
Weigh Costs and Financial Aid
Beyond tuition, factor in fees, supplies, uniforms, and exam costs. Compare financial aid opportunities, including state-based programs like the Wisconsin Grant, nursing scholarships, and potential employer tuition reimbursement if you plan to work for a healthcare provider.
Consider Location and Admissions Cycles
Some programs admit new cohorts once a year, while others offer multiple start dates. Location is also key: proximity to clinical sites and major healthcare systems may impact your convenience and career opportunities after graduation.
FAQ: ABSN Programs in Wisconsin
Are there online or hybrid ABSN programs in Wisconsin?
Yes. While no ABSN program can be fully online due to clinical requirements, some schools in Wisconsin offer hybrid formats. These allow students to complete didactic coursework online while fulfilling labs and clinical rotations in person.
How long do programs take to complete?
Most ABSN programs in Wisconsin can be finished in 12 to 24 months, depending on the institution’s schedule and whether the program runs year-round or follows a semester-based calendar.
Do schools accept prior credits?
Yes. ABSN programs are specifically designed for students with a bachelor’s degree in another field. General education credits usually transfer, though you may need to complete science prerequisites such as anatomy, microbiology, and chemistry if you have not already done so.
Can students realistically work while enrolled?
Because ABSN programs are condensed and rigorous, working while enrolled is generally discouraged. Students in longer (18–24 month) programs may be able to manage limited part-time work, but most schools recommend focusing entirely on coursework and clinicals.