Thomas Edison State University (TESU) Accelerated BSN

Program Overview

Thomas Edison State University Accelerated BSN (ABSN)

The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at Thomas Edison State University is a full-time, 15-month pathway designed for motivated adults who already hold at least 60 college credits or a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. Offered through the W. Cary Edwards School of Nursing and Health Professions, the program blends online coursework with on-campus simulation labs and in-person clinical experiences across New Jersey. With 60 nursing credits—including three graduate-level courses that can apply toward an MSN—students gain a strong foundation in nursing theory, evidence-based practice, and hands-on care. The program is CCNE-accredited, approved by the New Jersey Board of Nursing, and features multiple start dates throughout the year to accommodate diverse student needs. Designed with working adults in mind, the TESU ABSN emphasizes flexibility, academic support, and real-world readiness, preparing graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN and enter the workforce as confident, practice-ready nurses.

Program Structure & Duration

• Length: Full-time program completed in four 16-week terms (~15 months)

• Format: Cohort-based, sequential progression; rigorous full-time pace—outside employment is strongly discouraged

Curriculum Highlights

• Credit Hours: 60 professional nursing credits (34 hybrid, 26 fully online) within a 120-credit BSN program

• Courses include:

  • Fundamentals of Nursing

  • Health Assessment & Health Promotion

  • Nursing Care across lifespan (pediatrics, med-surg, community)

  • Complex Health Conditions

  • Plus three graduate-level courses (e.g., Health Policy, Nursing Informatics, Financial Management)

• Clinical Experience: Hybrid model combines virtual/on-site simulation labs and in-person clinicals at facilities across New Jersey, including Magnet hospitals

Supportive Learning Environment

• Simulation Labs: Access to virtual and hands-on state-of-the-art facilities

• Advising & Cohort Support: Full advising, holistic admissions, and strong cohort identity

• Graduate Credit Advantage: Three graduate-level courses count toward an MSN if prerequisites are maintained

Accreditation & Licensure Preparation

• Accreditation: CCNE-accredited, approved by NJ Board of Nursing, and institutionally accredited by MSCHE

• NCLEX Eligibility: Graduates qualify to sit for the NCLEX‑RN; first-time pass rates exceed state and national averages

Admission Requirements

• Degree/credit requirement: At least 60 college credits or a non-nursing bachelor’s degree

• Prerequisites (grade C/73%+):

  • A&P I & II w/ labs (8 cr)

  • Microbiology w/ lab (4 cr)

  • Chemistry (3 cr)

  • Nutrition (3 cr)

  • Statistics (3 cr)

• GPA: Minimum 3.0 preferred

• ATI TEAS Exam: Required (score ≥70%) only for applicants without a prior bachelor’s degree

Tuition & Financial Information

• Program Tuition: $41,580 total (effective August 2024)

• Additional Fees: $510 clinical lab fee per clinical course

Application & Start Dates

• Start Terms (3 per year):

  • Winter (January): apply by Sept 1

  • Spring (May): apply by Jan 1

  • Fall (September): apply by May 1

• Admissions: Rolling review with interview invitation; cohort placement is first-come, first-serve

Flexibility & Accessibility

• Hybrid Delivery: 26 online credits + 34 hybrid; clinicals 1–2 days/week, including evenings/weekends

• Prerequisite Delivery Options: Prereqs and gen-ed can be completed at TESU or elsewhere with advisor support

• Ideal for Adult Learners: Multiple entry points, online coursework, credit-by-exam options, designed around adult schedules

Overview Table