Concordia University, St. Paul Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)

Program Overview

Concordia University, St. Paul (CSP) offers an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program designed for individuals seeking a swift transition into the nursing profession. This 16-month program combines online coursework, hands-on labs, and clinical experiences to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN® exam and a career as a registered nurse.​

Program Structure and Duration:

• Accelerated Timeline: The ABSN program spans 16 months, divided into four semesters, allowing students to earn their BSN degree in a condensed timeframe. ​

• Blended Learning Format: The program utilizes a hybrid model, integrating online courses with in-person skills labs and clinical rotations, accommodating diverse learning preferences.

Curriculum Highlights:

• Comprehensive Coursework: The 61-credit curriculum covers essential nursing topics, including microbiology, human anatomy and physiology, and chemistry for health sciences. ​

• Skills Labs and Simulation: Students participate in skills labs and simulation exercises, practicing nursing tasks such as placing IV catheters and drawing blood in a controlled environment.

Clinical Experience:

• Diverse Clinical Rotations: Students engage in clinical learning experiences in various healthcare settings within the Twin Cities area, including hospitals and community health organizations, providing exposure to different patient populations and care environments. ​

Supportive Learning Environment:

• Dedicated Admissions Support: Each student is assigned an admissions counselor to guide them through the application process and ensure they meet all requirements.

• Holistic Education Approach: CSP emphasizes caring for the whole patient—mind, body, and spirit—preparing students to promote health and provide leadership within healthcare organizations and the broader community. ​

Accreditation and Licensure Preparation:

• Accreditation: The baccalaureate degree program in nursing at Concordia University, St. Paul, is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring adherence to high educational standards.

• Licensure Eligibility: Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN® exam, a requirement for becoming a licensed registered nurse. ​

• Admission Requirements:

• Educational Background: Applicants must have completed at least 54 non-nursing college credits or hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.

• Prerequisite Coursework: Required courses include Lifespan Developmental Psychology, Quantitative Reasoning for Health Care Professionals, Chemistry for Health Sciences, Microbiology, and Human Anatomy and Physiology I and II.

• GPA Requirement: A cumulative college GPA of 3.0 and a 3.0 GPA in combined science prerequisites are required.

• Additional Requirements: Applicants must complete the ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam with a minimum score of 65%, clear a criminal background check, and demonstrate English language proficiency if applicable.

Tuition and Financial Information:

• Tuition Costs: Specific tuition information is not provided in the available sources. Prospective students are encouraged to consult the official tuition page or contact the admissions office for the most current information.​

Application Deadlines:

• Program Start Dates: The ABSN program offers three start dates per year—January, May, and September—providing flexibility for applicants. ​

Concordia University, St. Paul’s ABSN program offers a rigorous and supportive pathway for individuals aiming to transition into nursing. Its accelerated format, comprehensive curriculum, and commitment to holistic education prepare graduates to excel in the dynamic field of healthcare.