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HYBRID ACCELERATED BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING (ABSN) IN KANSAS
If you are looking to begin a career in nursing in Kansas and already hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program is the solution for you. Rockhurst University is ranked the #1 Regional University in Kansas City (2021 U.S. News and World Report). Located in Kansas City, Missouri, Rockhurst University offers one of the few Hybrid ABSN programs that combine online coursework, a 10-day campus residency and in-person clinicals in your region. Rockhurst University’s nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing (CCNE). The Hybrid ABSN program includes:
- 100% online coursework that can be completed from any of our authorized states*
- 10 days of clinical instruction at Rockhurst’s campus in Kansas City, Missouri, in our new, state-of-the-art simulation lab and direct patient care in our renovated nursing facilities
- Direct patient care experiences through clinical rotations that are conducted under direct supervision of University faculty, exposing students to the spheres of care such as skilled nursing, hospice and long-term, acute care settings
- Comprehensive clinical placement support allowing students to focus on their coursework and be prepared to pass the NCLEX exams in just 16 months
*Students from Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska are welcome to apply to the ABSN program.
Accelerated pathway
Earn your BSN in just 16 months
End-to-end support
From enrollment to graduation
Clinical placement
Preceptor matching service provided
HEAR FROM OUR STUDENTS AND FACULTY
ABSN Program Director Lindsey Carlson and Associate Dean of Nursing/Chief Academic Administrator of Nursing Kristina Henry, joined by students Carly Tomlin and Abbey Clark, share their goals, experiences and what students can expect from Rockhurst University’s Hybrid Accelerated BSN program.
ARE YOU CONSIDERING ONLINE NURSING PROGRAMS IN KANSAS?
According to an AACN 2022 survey, 71.7% of employers express a strong preference for BSN program graduates. For those who are looking for online accelerated BSN programs in Kansas, Rockhurst University's Hybrid ABSN program is a reputable program that will equip students for a new career in nursing in just 16 months. Additionally, the Nurse Loan Repayment Program serves as a valuable resource for future nurses.
CAREER OUTLOOK FOR ABSN GRADUATES IN KANSAS
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Kansas made an annual mean wage of approximately $65,350, which, combined with the low cost of living, makes Kansas a great option for a nursing career.
Kansas offers a great career outlook for nurses to pursue advanced nursing, especially for those who wish to become nurse practitioners. Kansas recently granted licensed nurse practitioners full practice authority, allowing them to practice independently under the scope set forth by the Kansas Board of Nursing.
There are over 100 hospitals in Kansas, as well as 298 nursing facilities and 222 assisted living/residential facilities in the state. In the adjacent state of Missouri, there are several respected hospital systems. In addition to Saint Luke’s Health Care System, Kansas City, MO is home to the HCA Midwest Health Research Medical Center, Children’s Mercy Hospital and Kindred Hospital Northland.
Kansas nurses also work in:
- Government hospitals
- Private clinics
- Schools
- Ambulatory health care services
- Urgent care facilities
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- State requirement
- Residency in one of the following states: Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri or Nebraska
- Bachelor’s degree in any field
- 2.7 cumulative GPA or higher
- Resume
- Completion of prerequisites:
- Must complete 2 of 4 science prerequisites for your application to be reviewed
- Science credits must be no older than 7 years; older credits trigger an ATI TEAS admission exam
- Cannot repeat science courses more than once
- Minimum of grade C in all prerequisite courses
- 2.7 cumulative GPA or higher for prerequisite coursework, and a minimum grade of C in all prerequisite courses
- State requirement
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- State requirement
- Residency in one of the following states: Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri or Nebraska
- Bachelor’s degree in any field
- 2.7 cumulative GPA or higher
- Resume
- Completion of prerequisites:
- Must complete 2 of 4 science prerequisites for your application to be reviewed
- Science credits must be no older than 7 years; older credits trigger an ATI TEAS admission exam
- Cannot repeat science courses more than once
- Minimum of grade C in all prerequisite courses
- 2.7 cumulative GPA or higher for prerequisite coursework, and a minimum grade of C in all prerequisite courses
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This course provides a foundation in the essential principles, concepts, and skills needed by the beginning nursing student who is learning the role of the nurse generalist. Emphasis is placed on the role of the nurse in the provision of safe patient care, effective communication, patient teaching, health promotion, and utilization of the nursing process. Students have the opportunity to apply fundamental nursing principles in lab and clinical settings. (6 credits) Corequisites: NUA 3100, NUA 3120
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This course provides a foundation in the essential principles, concepts, and skills needed by the beginning nursing student who is learning the role of the nurse generalist. Emphasis is placed on the role of the nurse in the provision of safe patient care, effective communication, patient teaching, health promotion, and utilization of the nursing process. Students have the opportunity to apply fundamental nursing principles in lab and clinical settings. (6 credits) Corequisites: NUA 3100, NUA 3120
WHY CHOOSE ROCKHURST
Our online nursing programs are delivered by the Saint Luke’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences. We are committed to preparing the health care workforce of tomorrow by offering undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate programs for adult learners. Our goal, which is aligned with the Jesuit education tradition, is for our graduates to be leaders-in-service.
Rockhurst prepares nursing professionals for clinical excellence through health care innovation, transformative learning, quality outcomes, and desirable specializations. Supportive resources and clinical placement services ensure that you have the necessary support and tools to thrive throughout your educational experience and succeed as a nurse in Missouri.
Halie McArdle, Hybrid ABSN student, Rockhurst University
Ellie Thompson, Hybrid ABSN student, Rockhurst University
Daley Sullivan, Hybrid ABSN student, Rockhurst University
To become a registered nurse, you need to complete a nursing education program and pass the NCLEX exam. For those with a non-nursing bachelor's degree, a second-degree BSN program offers an accelerated pathway to becoming an RN. After graduation, you will get paired with a faculty member to meet weekly for 1:1 NCLEX coaching. After passing the NCLEX exam, you can apply for state licensure and begin your nursing career. In 2023, Rockhurst University’s BSN graduates had a 97% NCLEX pass rate.
The demand for nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is strong. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of RNs will increase by 6% by 2032, which is higher than the national average for all occupations. Many healthcare settings, including 77% of hospitals, prefer to hire registered nurses with a BSN, according to the AACN. BSN-prepared nurses are equipped with a higher level of education and skills, making them well-prepared to provide quality patient care.
The median salary for registered nurses is around $86,070, according to the BLS. The salary of an RN can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, education level and the specific healthcare facility or setting. Due to an aging population, healthcare advancements, and the evolving nature of the industry, BSN degree holders have better career prospects, opportunities for advancement and the ability to pursue specialized nursing roles.
The Hybrid ABSN is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Rockhurst University and Saint Luke’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
The accelerated BSN program is full-time and takes 16 months to complete.
The accelerated BSN is a rigorous program intended for full-time study. Students are not expected to work while enrolled in this program.
You will learn from active clinicians who bring real-world experience into the online classroom. As trusted Rockhurst faculty members, they are committed to your success as an advanced practice nurse.
Yes. Clinical placement services are built into the cost of the program. A dedicated Rockhurst placement coordinator will identify an appropriate site and preceptor within a reasonable driving distance from where you live.
During the required 10-day on-campus residency in Kansas City, Missouri, students will gain needed clinical experience and hands-on training with feedback from faculty. Learn more about the on-campus residency experience.
