Accelerated Nursing

What are the admission requirements into the ABSN program?

You must document completion of a non-nursing bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited college or university and of the prerequisite course requirements listed in this FAQ prior to acceptance into the ABSN program. 

Can I apply to the ABNS program if I am an RN with an ADN or a diploma?

No. This accelerated program is for non-RNs who hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than nursing. RNs seeking a four-year degree should enroll in Muskingum’s RN-to-BSN program.

What are the prerequisites for the ABSN program?

Applicants must complete the following prerequisite courses prior to acceptance in the ABSN program track. Science courses denoted with a (^) must have been completed within the past five years to be considered for acceptance into the program. Courses denoted with a (*) must be completed with a minimum grade of “C” or better in each course. Transfer credit will be considered for all courses listed.  

• BIOL 121 Anatomy and Physiology I (4 credit hours) ^* 
• BIOL 122 Anatomy and Physiology II (4 credit hours) ^*
• BIOL 305 Human Genetics (3 credit hours) ^*
• BIOL 312 Microbiology (4 credit hours) ^*
• CHEM 108 General, Biologic and Organic Chemistry (4 credit hours) ^*
• HLSC 231 Nutrition Across the Lifespan (3 credit hours) *
• PSYC 208 Lifespan Development (3 credit hours) *
• PSYC 232 Behavioral Statistics (3 credit hours)

Be sure to check with the ABSN advisor, Macey Carson (maceyc@muskingum.edu) to confirm that you have met or are meeting all the ABSN prerequisites.

Do these prerequisite courses have to be taken at Muskingum?

Muskingum does offer all prerequisite courses, with several available online. However, if you choose, you can take these courses at any regionally accredited college or university. Prior to registering for a course at another institution, be sure to confirm with Macey Carson (maceyc@muskingum.edu) that the course you are taking will meet the prerequisite requirement. 

If necessary, can I repeat prerequisites for a higher grade? 

Yes, courses can be repeated to earn the grade necessary for admission. 

When and how do I apply to the ABSN program? 

You can apply at any time to the program. The application review process for the fall cohort will start on March 1 and continue until the cohort has been filled. The ABSN program encourages prospective students to start the process early by completing the online application.

How much does the program cost? 

During the 2024-2025 Academic Year, tuition in the ABSN is $515 per semester hour of credit.
Nursing students will incur additional costs which will be detailed in writing. These include the cost of uniforms, equipment (e.g. a stethoscope), course and test prep materials, a background check, drug testing, and a health assessment and immunizations. 

Can I receive financial aid?

Muskingum offers a discounted rate of tuition to its ABSN students. Students in the ABSN program are eligible for various loan programs to help cover the cost. Please contact the Financial Aid Office for additional information.

How long will it take to complete the ABSN program? 

Once you are admitted into the program and begin classes, it will take 15 months or four consecutive semesters of full-time study to complete. Cohorts start in the fall semester. 

What is the course load like? 

Upon entering the program, you will be taking predominantly nursing courses that combine classroom, laboratory and clinical components. You can expect to take between 15 and 20 credits per semester depending on the results of your transfer credit evaluation. 

Can I attend the program part-time? 

The ABSN program has been designed as a full-time, 15-month program. If necessary, prospective nursing students can discuss other options at Muskingum with their adviser. 

Can I work while I’m in the program? 

Generally, it is not advised that you work while enrolled in the program. The program requires that students be available during the day with the possibility of occasional evening and weekend clinicals.