Accelerated Second Degree in Nursing

The Accelerated Second Degree in Nursing program is designed for a highly motivated individual aspiring to a career in nursing. Candidates for this program will hold an associate, baccalaureate or higher degree in a non-nursing major and complete entry requirements.

The program uses a cohort model where an entering class is maintained as a cohesive group moving through nursing classes together. The program of study is designed for an accelerated pace where students complete a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing in two academic years, plus one intensive summer semester (20 months).

The program is fully accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and is currently undergoing curriculum refinement in order to offer the most contemporary nursing education available to students.

Admission Requirements

The following are the requirements for admission to the Elms College Accelerated Second Degree in Nursing Program:

• A completed associates, baccalaureate or higher degree from an accredited college or university.
• The conferred degree must be completed by the time of application. Individuals completing a degree after the application deadline (April 1) should consider applying the following year.
• A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0. on a 4.0 scale. Students are selected on a competitive basis therefore the GPA required for an actual offer of admission may be higher depending on the applicant pool.
• An essay (300-500 words) which describes your reasons for changing your career to Nursing. The essay should include why you are an excellent candidate for the Accelerated Second Degree in Nursing program and how the program will facilitate your career goals.

Required prerequisite courses that must be completed with a minimum grade of C+ by May of the year of admission include:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4 credits includes lab)
• Human Anatomy and Physiology II (4 credits includes lab)
• Microbiology (4 credits includes lab)
• A 4-credit chemistry course , preferably biochemistry
• Human Growth and Development (3 credits)
• Introduction to Psychology (3 credits)
• Statistics (3 credits)
• English (6 credits)
• Nutrition

*Students are not eligible for admission to the Elms College Accelerated Second Degree Nursing Program if they have been dismissed for academic or clinical reasons in another nursing program.