Your Future in Nursing Starts at UNM!

Already have a bachelor’s degree? Are you interested in nursing?


We now offer an Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN (ABSN) option that builds on your previous success as you transition into an accredited nursing program.

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Make a Difference. Become a Nurse.

Complete our Accelerated BSN degree in as little as 16 months, and become the nurse you were meant to be – with all the resources of New Mexico’s flagship, premier Carnegie R1 research institution at your fingertips.

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Why UNM?

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SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

STATE-OF-THE-ART SIMULATION CENTER

PART OF A LARGE HEALTH SCIENCES SYSTEM

UNIQUE CLINICAL EXPERIENCES

Learn From Expert Faculty

Hear how UNM’s Accelerated 2nd Degree BSN Option provides you with the support you need to complete your nursing program at a rapid pace. Saving you time and money while ensuring you are well prepared to transition into the rewarding profession of nursing.

Cassandra Figgs, MSN, RN, CEN

Interim Accelerated BSN Program Director Lecturer I

“The ABSN program is a rigorous but rewarding journey, where students will navigate challenges and celebrate meaningful milestones over the course of four short semesters. I am passionate about supporting each and every student in becoming safe, competent, and compassionate nurses. It’s an hour to be part of their journey into such a beautiful and fulfilling career. It is so rewarding to watch them achieve their goals and walk across the stage at graduation.”

Allison Phillips, MSN, RN, PCN

Lecturer I BSN

“Our ABSN program is intense and super rigorous. It’s like working a 60 hour a week job, and working out your brain and body every day. By the end, students are highly skilled and well prepared to hit the floor. What I love about teaching is seeing students realize how much they’ve grown. Their shift in confidence is pretty powerful.”

Be Thoroughly Prepared

Our program prepares you to excel on the National Council Licensure Examination – Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) licensing exam.

Clinical Experiences

We offer a variety of unique clinical experiences. You will develop your skills with practice as you interact with your patients.

Ensuring Your Success

We are dedicated to your education and provide ongoing support for all of our students. That is why we have an Office of Academic Success. You’ll have access to personalized 1:1 consultations to refine your test-taking strategies, boost your study skills, manage test anxiety, improve time management, and much more!

Simulating Real-World Experiences

From IV pumps to high-fidelity manikins. Our simulation labs allow for clinical experiences in a safe, low risk environment.

Hear From Our Students

Hear how UNM College of Nursing programs prepare future nurses for their careers.

Brittany Acklin

“The ABSN program at UNM has been wonderful, the faculty and staff are very supportive and help each student to reach their goals. It is just what my family needed a top-notch program here at home with an accelerated option! It’s been great and I couldn’t be happier with my experience.”

Hung Tran

“Academic achievement is the most remarkable story I’m proud to share with everyone – hard work and strong compassion can overcome any barrier to education.”

FAQs

Why would I choose the ABSN program versus the Traditional BSN Entry?

The ABSN provides an option for those who already have a Bachelor's degree to complete their BSN in a shorter timeframe than the traditional BSN program and to do so with other students who have also completed their college degree.

What are the requirements to apply for an Accelerated BSN?
  • A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution

  • Cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher

  • Successful completion of prerequisite courses

  • No HESI exam is required!

How long is the Accelerated BSN (ABSN) program?
With your first bachelor’s degree in hand and prerequisite courses completed, you’ll begin your nursing courses in your first semester. 

You will spend a full 16 months in the program. Upon completion of the curriculum you will finish with 59-65 credits.
Are there funding opportunities available for students of the Accelerated BSN (ABSN) Program?
Yes, scholarship and grant dollars are available.

The majority of our students receive some form of financial aid: scholarships, grants, loans, work study or teaching assistant positions.

We awarded over $825,000 in scholarships during the 2022-2023 academic year. Individual scholarship amounts range from $200–$5,000 annually.

Ready to Start Your Nursing Career?

Begin Your Journey

505-272-4721

HSC-CON-Admissions@salud.unm.edu