on the growing need for nurses in the U.S.—and for more nursing schools to educate them. This is nothing new. Nurses have always been regarded as the backbone of our healthcare system, and with more positions becoming available every day, we continually need more nurses to fill them.

According to the , the United States is facing a nursing shortage due to multiple factors that were only exacerbated by the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. This demand for nurses is ongoing as evidenced by an HHS study that states that 50,000 new registered nurses should be added to the existing workforce every year since 2014 just to meet the growing need. Despite this, the that registered nursing employment will grow by 6% in the next decade.

51cg is proud to help meet the rising demands for well-trained nurses by offering accelerated, year-round education programs that enable new nurses to become licensed faster than traditional programs. Registered nurses are required to have a minimum of an associate’s degree in nursing to become licensed. However, for nurses seeking to grow in their careers, earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing can open more doors for nurses looking for career advancement, increased salaries, and improved patient outcomes.

1. You Can Apply to More Jobs

A BSN degree opens more employment doors. Jobs for BSNs include leadership positions, management roles, traveling nurse contracts, and other specialty positions. A bachelor’s degree is widely accepted as essential for many nursing careers, but a BSN is also becoming a requirement for many nursing positions at certain hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Recognizing the value of more educated nursing staff, many institutions now require all of their nurses to hold a BSN, even for positions that previously requires an associate’s degree only. This practice is becoming more common, so to remain competitive for the majority of posted nursing jobs, nurses are encouraged to continue their education and become BSN-prepared.

Related Resource: Why You Should Consider Alternative Nursing Jobs

2. You’ll Be More Eligible for Leadership Positions

Every person has to start somewhere, and almost every career begins with an entry-level position. There’s an egalitarian nature to nursing, the sense that all nurses are in this together, but there’s still some hierarchy. When looking at jobs for BSNs, you’ll notice that leadership, management, and higher-level nursing staff positions require a BSN degree. Meaning, if you want more upward mobility in your nursing career, earning your BSN will give you broader opportunities for career growth.

Related Resource:Ìý5 Nursing Specialties That Require a BSN Degree

3. You Could Have Access to More Benefits

As a whole, BSN-educated nurses receive improved benefits for their labor. Nurses with a bachelor’s degree can earn a higher salary, enjoy a better work-life balance, and have more control over their work schedules. As a leader and an expert within the field, you also pull more influence over internal processes and workplace culture with a BSN.

Related Resource:ÌýHow to Get Your BSN Degree

4. A BSN Can Open Doors to Non-Hospital Opportunities

Some nurses spend their whole careers in direct patient care positions and wouldn’t dream of doing anything else; others find the idea of teaching, case management, informatics, leadership or policy more appealing after they’ve put in a few years bedside.

While you may be okay with the high-impact physical activity you do as part of your nursing job today, this may not be the case five, 10, or 15 years down the road. Earning a BSN will open the doors to non-clinical jobs in the future, so you have the option of teaching or administration.

Related Resource: Why Nurses Should Consider Non-Direct Patient Care Jobs

5. You Can Find a BSN Program That Fits Into Your Schedule

Online education has come a long way. 51cg’s RN to BSN program is designed for working nurses with 100% of the didactic coursework completed online and asynchronously. This means you can complete the program in as little as one year so you can balance coursework with the rest of your life. It allows you to keep your current job and be more present for your family and friends. You can do the schoolwork when it fits into your schedule, wherever you work most comfortably, and you don’t have to commute to campus.

Related Resource:ÌýWhy Choose 51cg’s aBSN Program?

6. You Can Improve Your Nursing Skills

The has aggregated numerous studies reporting on nursing care. Some of the many benefits of a BSN degree include:

• Lower patient mortality rates
• Lower failure-to-rescue rates
• Higher proficiency at diagnoses and evaluating nursing interventions
• Improved professional integration and research/evaluation skills

This research, though impressive, shouldn’t be too surprising. The purpose of higher education in nursing is to increase your workplace knowledge and proficiency. This evidence simply proves its effectiveness and that earning your BSN will make you a better nurse.

Related Resource:ÌýWork Benefits of Getting a BSN Degree

7. You Could See a Bump in Your Salary

A glance at the median salaries of nurses with an ASN vs. nurses with a BSN shows that you can earn quite a bit more money with an advanced degree. According to , the pay difference between nurses with and without a BSN was over $6,000 a year. Some nurses see an immediate pay increase after obtaining their BSN depending on their current position and work benefits. However, others may not see a raise until they apply for higher-paying positions that are only available to those with higher education.

Higher-paying nursing positions often require a BSN, as do some graduate programs, which can open the door to many different career paths. The real financial benefit is that you can apply for the highest-paying BSN jobs. Earning a BSN might not increase your salary overnight (though it might!), but it will open the door to a higher salary.

Related Resource:Ìý15 Highest Paying Nursing Jobs

8. You’ll Help Shape the Nursing Industry

Even if it’s your first day as a nurse, you’re contributing to the nursing profession. But if you want to claim a stake and help bring some definition or further change to the evolving world of healthcare — through educating others, shaping policy, or conducting research — a BSN will help get you there.

It is valuable for nurses to constantly continue the pursuit education, notably to have a stronger voice and impact on how the nursing profession evolves. Earning a BSN can solidify your authority and enable you to contribute in more meaningful ways to the nursing industry.

Related Resource:ÌýHow to Create a Healthy Work Environment in Nursing

9. You Can Stay Ahead of Legislative Changes

If the previous reasons didn’t convince you, many state legislators have already made up their minds. While many top hospitals and healthcare systems already require their nurses to be bachelor-prepared, or to get their BSN within a certain amount of time after hire, legislation like the are being introduced in various states and has been passed in New York state requiring RNs to earn their BSN within 10 years of licensure to continue practicing. While New York is the only state to approve this rule, it is likely other states will follow suit by requiring nurses to earn their BSNs to help improve patient outcomes.

Related Resource:ÌýWhy Some Hospitals Already Require a BSN Degree

10. You May Have Better Work-Life Balance

A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree can provide nurses with a better work-life balance for several reasons. Because BSN-prepared nurses receive a more comprehensive education and advanced skills, they often have access to a wider range of job opportunities, allowing them to choose roles that align with their personal preferences and family commitments. Additionally, healthcare institutions increasingly value BSN degrees, offering more favorable work schedules, higher salaries, and improved job satisfaction for nurses with BSN degrees.

Related Resource:ÌýNursing Careers for Working Moms

If you’re interested in expanding your career choices as a nurse by earning your accelerated BSN degree, learn more about our 1-year RN to BSN program. You can complete schoolwork when it fits into your schedule, keep your current job while attending, and be more present for your family and friends. Request more information online or call us a (801) 890-4704.

Determine Your Eligibility

Before registering for the NCLEX, ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements set by the state board of nursing in the state where you want to practice. These requirements typically include completion of an accredited nursing program and submission of necessary documentation.

Create an Account

Once you’ve determined that you’re eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam, it’s time to create an account on Pearson Vue website. To create an account, you’ll provide your personal information, contact details, and a valid email address. Visit pearsonvue.com/nclex to create an account.

Submit the Application

Log in to your NCSBN account and navigate to the NCLEX registration section. Fill out the application form accurately, providing information about your nursing education, previous licensure (if applicable), and any accommodations you may require for the exam.

Pay the Registration Fee

Once you have completed the application, you will be prompted to pay the NCLEX registration fee. The fee amount may vary year to year, so be sure to check the current fee structure on the NCSBN website prior to registering. Payment options typically include credit or debit cards.

Receive the Authorization to Test (ATT)

After submitting your application and payment, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) via email or through your NCSBN account. The ATT will include important information such as your candidate identification number and instructions for scheduling your exam.

Schedule Your Exam

Using the instructions provided in the ATT, schedule your NCLEX exam with Pearson VUE, the testing vendor for the NCLEX. You can schedule your exam online, over the phone, or through the Pearson VUE website. Choose a suitable testing center location, along with a convenient date and time for your examination. For Utah candidates, they must also request and receive authorization to test from DOPL before they can sit for the exam.

Prepare for the Exam

Once you have scheduled your exam, it’s time to start preparing. Create a study plan, gather relevant study materials and resources, and engage in focused review and practice. Refer to reliable NCLEX study guides, textbooks, online resources, and practice exams to enhance your preparation. Get more tips on How to Study for the NCLEX.

Take the Exam

On the day of your exam, dress comfortably and arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled testing time. You’ll be required to provide biometrics to verify your identity. When you’re ready to begin your exam, it’s important to set a pace. You have five hours to complete the test, including breaks, and once you’ve answered a question you cannot go back. So analyze carefully.

Remember to check the specific registration requirements and processes of your state’s nursing regulatory body, as they may have additional or slightly different steps. Following these general steps will help you navigate the NCLEX registration process and take a significant step towards achieving your nursing career goals. Good luck!

Do you have career aspirations in leadership? Our 1-year Master of Science in Nursing program will prepare you to sit for the Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) or Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) certifications.

If you’re driven, self-motivated, and ready to begin a rewarding nursing career with the potential to grow and lead, you’re in the right place. Read on for 11 things to consider as you decide if a Joyce accelerated BSN is right for you.

The accelerated BSN program at 51cg has created a fast, affordable alternative to the traditional 4-year Bachelor of Science in nursing degrees you will get at other institutions. If you already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree and are looking to make a career change or jumpstart your career in the field of nursing, accelerated BSN nursing programs will have you entering the workforce in as little as 20 months.Ìý

The Costs of an BSN Degree

Estimated Tuition

So, how much does the accelerated BSN program cost? The cost of 51cg’s accelerated nursing program starting in the Fall semester of 2023 and based on 85 credit hours is $60,355. We know how important tuition cost is in budgeting for school, so we work hard to make our costs transparent and accessible. Learn more about the full cost breakdown for the Accelerated BSN (aBSN) program on our Financial Aid page.

Full aBSN Cost Breakdown:

• Core Credit Hours: 68
• Cost Per Credit Hour: $725
• Total Estimated Program Cost: $60,355
• NCLEX Resource Fee: $2,980

Financial Aid Resources

Many students applying to our accredited accelerated BSN program qualify to receive some form of financial aid. Financial aid for accelerated nursing programs can assist with covering tuition, fees, books, and more. In addition to scholarships and grants, potential aBSN students should also explore the following:

• Veteran Education Benefits:

  Veterans, service members, as well as military spouses and family members are eligible for financial assistance provided through the GI Bill for an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing or aBSN programs. Submit your education benefits application through the .

• Federal Title IV Student Financial Aid Programs:

  Prospective aBSN students must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid () in order to receive federal loans. The type of financial aid you qualify for will depend on which school you attend and your family income. Additional student loan funds are available from private lenders for applicants who meet their qualifications. Financial aid packets are available at our campus Financial Aid Office or learn more about who qualifies online. Once eligible for federal student loans, aBSN students must also complete student loan entrance counseling prior to their first day of class.

The Benefits of a BSN Degree

Accelerated BSN programs have many perks including entering the workforce faster, providing higher quality care to patients, and enhanced job security. Plus at the end of your BSN program, you will be eligible to sit for the NCLEX licensure exam and be prepared to make invaluable contributions to your future patient care teams. But before you get there, we understand that the cost of continuing education is a primary concern. Here is a cost-benefit analysis of pursuing your accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing with us.

Enter the Workforce Faster

By transferring credits from your previous bachelor’s degree and committing 40 hours per week to your education, you can earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing and launch a career as a registered nurse in as little as 20 months. After completing this fast-track nursing program, Joyce students are prepared with the tools to successfully pass the NCLEX, faster than a traditional four-year program. With an accelerated pathway, you’ll be able to enter the workforce sooner, earn an income faster, and pay off debt quicker than students in a traditional track, all while being fully prepared with clinical experience, specialized knowledge, and the competitive advantage of having obtained a BSN degree.

Provide a Higher Quality of Care

According to the American Association of Colleges in Nursing, there is a growing body of that nurses with bachelor’s degrees are significantly better prepared than their ASN colleagues. Patients of nurses with a BSN degree experience lower mortality rates and higher rescue rates. Because of the faster pace and rigor of the program, BSN-prepared nurses are also better equipped to properly meet the demands of today’s dynamic medical environment.

With a BSN from an accelerated nursing program, you will be among the most knowledgeable and proficient leaders in your field. Your clinical judgment and critical reasoning skills can make you a stronger candidate for growth opportunities, helping you build a proven track record of efficiency along the way.

Job Outlook and Security

Most nurses – 70% in fact – are to currently have a bachelor’s degree. This means that by acquiring a BSN through an accelerated nursing school, you will be part of the competitive majority of job applicants entering a high-demand field. Some employers, like the , require a bachelor’s degree for all nurses. This is quickly becoming the norm across healthcare institutions as they seek to beat out to the field of nursing, so if you plan to enter the nursing field, now is the time to acquire a bachelor of science in nursing.

By choosing an accelerated BSN program, you’ll not only get to the job market faster and at a more affordable cost than traditional routes but also more securely knowing you will be ahead of legislative changes and hospital requirements.

Read more about why some hospitals already require a BSN Degree.

It is important for anyone making a career change to carefully weigh the costs and benefits before making a decision. Learn how Joyce can help you reach your career goals in nursing. To get more information about our accelerated BSN program or to seek financial assistance moving forward, speak with an Admissions Advisor. We can answer all of your questions!

Frequently Asked Questions 51cg Getting an aBSN Degree

Is aBSN worth the money?

Yes! An accelerated bachelor of science in nursing is designed to be a fast-track program to get you into the field of nursing quicker than a traditional program. Due to its accelerated format and ability to accept transfer credits from your previously earned bachelor’s degree, an aBSN can be earned in as little as 20 months. This means that you can enter the workforce sooner and earn money to pay back any debts accrued faster. If you already have a degree and are looking to change careers, an accelerated nursing program will get you there faster.

Is there a pay difference between ADN and BSN?

Yes! According to , the pay difference between nurses with and without a BSN was over $6,000 a year. At 51cg, we offer multiple pathways to nursing success—from our ASN program to our 3 year BSN degree, accelerated BSN program, RN to BSN program, and MSN degree. Those with a BSN degree or higher typically earn quite a bit more than nurses with an associate’s degree, with even greater earning potential for those who advance to an MSN degree. Nurses with a BSN are also eligible to apply for higher paying positions due to their enhanced hands-on learning, clinical experiences, and leadership skills learned in BSN curriculum. Additionally, healthcare institutions increasingly value BSN degrees, often offering more favorable work schedules, higher salaries and improved job satisfaction for nurses with BSN degrees. Read about the highest paying nursing specialties.

What are the benefits of getting aBSN in nursing?

There are numerous benefits to getting an aBSN in nursing such as the ability to apply to a larger variety of positions including leadership and management roles, and other specialty positions. With more variety in positions to apply to also comes greater access to benefits like higher pay, schedule flexibility, and better work-life balance than ASN-prepared nurses. This in combination with your connections made duringyour accelerated BSN program to Joyce faculty, other nurses , and alumni providing you career guidance and mentorship, you’ll feel prepared for success and ready to launch your career.

How will having a BSN affect my future nursing career?

In addition to applying to a wider variety of jobs with a BSN degree, your future nursing career will be elevated by the workplace knowledge and proficiency you learn while in an accelerated aBSN program. According to , nurses with a BSN degree see lower patient mortality rates, lower failure-to-rescue rates, higher proficiency at diagnoses and evaluating nursing interventions, and improved professional integration and research/evaluation skills. Obtaining a BSN can also solidify your authority and allow you to influence change in the industry by taking on leadership roles.

What is the most expensive aBSN?

Any nursing degree is going to , but some can reach as high as $150,000 for a BSN degree from a private institution. At 51cg, an aBSN degree costs $60,355 for 85 credits and there are many options for financial aid such as loans, scholarships, grants, and aid for veterans. Our financial aid office can assist you in planning your financing for your academic future.

All 51cg students also have access to online and on-campus tutoring through our Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL). Because we want to make your financial and professional goals a reality as soon as possible, Joyce doesn’t require any previous nursing experience or prerequisites for qualifying applicants. All course requisites are included in the curriculum.

How long is Joyce’s BSN Program?

Like all things healthcare, nursing school isn’t one size fits all. That’s why 51cg provides 3 pathways to earning a BSN degree. These tailored pathways allow students with varying academic backgrounds to start their nursing careers with thorough training but no redundant coursework.

Our 3-year BSN programÌýis a great fit for prospective students with no nursing experience and no college degree, like recent high school graduates. In just 3 years, Joyce BSN students will become confident, capable nurses ready to make a difference. The program has no prerequisites to apply, and all course requisites are included in the curriculum. Our fast track BSN is shorter than traditional programs, with three semesters per year, flexible online asynchronous coursework, and a dynamic hands-on experiential learning environment for labs and simulations in our state-of-the-industry simulation center.

The accelerated BSN program is an expedited program for career changers with an existing bachelor’s degree in any non-nursing field. The aBSN program allows qualifying students to transfer up to 46 existing college credits and jump right into a nursing program, so they can pursue a nursing degree without redundant academic requirements and achieve their career goals in as little as 20 months. All course requisites are included in the program curriculum, with all coursework completed online and asynchronously. Labs and skill development takes place in person at our simulation center on campus during the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th semesters.

The RN to BSN program is designed for currently licensed RNs with an associate’s degree. This completion program is designed for working nurses and helps them grow their careers and earning potential in just 4 semesters. All coursework is completed asynchronously online so as to help students balance school with the rest of their lives.

Related Resource:ÌýWhy Choose 51cg’s BSN Program?

What does Joyce’s BSN Program Curriculum Look Like?

Our BSN curriculum reflects The Essentials: Core Competencies for Professional Nursing Education, as established by The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). Designed to develop your clinical judgment skills, our curriculum expose you to evidence-based practice through a variety of virtual and hands-on methods so that you can qualify for nursing licensure and gain employment in a variety of clinical and non-clinical settings.

Depending on your BSN pathway, you’ll be able to sit for your boards in just 4-8 semesters, then enter the medical field ready to navigate healthcare technology and the medical system and even save lives. Learn more about the curriculum for each pathway on BSN, aBSN, and RN to BSN pages.

Related Resource:ÌýCost and Benefits to Consider With an Accelerated BSN Degree

Applying to 51cg’s BSN Program

If you’re looking for nursing schools in Utah, Colorado, or Arizona, you’re in the right place. 51cg offers accelerated BSN programs tailored to a variety of educational backgrounds. Whether you’re coming straight from high school, want to level up your existing nursing career with a BSN degree, or are even looking to change careers, Joyce has a BSN program that can bring you confidently into the nursing career of your dreams.

With cutting-edge simulation technology, hybrid classes for school-life balance, hands-on skill development, and professional networking opportunities, Joyce has everything you need to enter the rewarding healthcare field as a qualified, licensed nurse. Plus with three start dates per year you don’t have to wait around for a new school year to get started. Ready for a rewarding nursing career? Joyce is here to help your goals become reality.

Related Resource:ÌýTop 4 Benefits of a Hybrid aBSN Program

*Our accelerated BSN curriculum is designed to meet the licensure and certification requirements in the state of Utah. Contact the licensing agency in your desired state of practice to ensure your license will be viable.

Ready to take the next step? Learn how we can help you reach your career goals. Get more information about our BSN program and financial assistance by requesting more info online or calling (801) 890-4704.