Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Program Length
6 semesters - 18 months (full-time)
64 credit hours
Degrees Offered
Accelerated Bachelor
Learning Experiences
In person
At this new Chicago location you will experience the same rigorous curriculum, expert faculty, and hands-on clinical training as our other accelerated nursing program locations. However, as an added dimension, students at the St. Augustine College location can take advantage of a unique benefit: the option to be part of SAC’s bilingual program for primary Spanish speakers who want to master English, and can start in Spanish and finish in English. Please note that choosing this option lengthens the time of completion for the program.
- Time to completion and cost: Depending on transfer credit, a 6-semester program – first semester is pre-term and then 5 semesters of clinicals. Part-time options are available for 7-8 semesters in length. For those that do not have the prerequisites or transfer credit for the accelerated program. St. Augustine offers the opportunity to complete those. This will lengthen time of completion for the program.
- Program format: Accelerated 8-week courses are offered in the daytime with evening and weekend options. Courses are hybrid and in-person and offered at both our Oak Brook and St. Augustine College locations.
- Customizable pathways: Lewis University offers two pathways into the Accelerated BSN program. For those who are looking to complete a degree for the first time and for those who currently hold a bachelor’s degree in another field. Lewis University has a holistic admission process that considers academic metrics, life experience, and personal attributes. This supports a diverse classroom and learning experiences which prepares graduates to practice in a variety of settings.
Program Details: Accelerated Bachelor Of Science In Nursing (ABSN)
Lewis University’s nationally recognized nursing program provides the clinical expertise, academic excellence, and career-focused training to help you receive your nursing degree and start a career as a nurse in less time.
- Earn Your BSN in Just 18 Months depending on transfer credit
- Clinical Placements in Chicago’s Top Healthcare Facilities
- Simulation Labs and Hands-on Training
- Expert Faculty Dedicated to Your Success
- High NCLEX-RN Exam Pass Rates
- Three Convenient Locations – Romeoville, Oak Brook, and Now in Chicago
A Chicago Location for a Nursing Program with Added Benefits
By studying at the St. Augustine College at Lewis University campus, nursing students receive all the benefits of Lewis University’s prestigious accelerated nursing program with the added academic support and flexibility of St. Augustine College’s curriculum.
Here, students can choose to take advantage of:
- Start in Spanish, Finish in English – Optional bilingual coursework support for Spanish- speaking students transitioning into English-based nursing education.
- Small Class Sizes & Personalized Attention – A student-first culture prioritizing individual needs ensures you get the student driven support you need.
- Diverse, Inclusive Learning Environment – Study and acquire a nursing degree in a community-driven setting that values equity, culture, and student success.
Additional support available for students completing their Lewis University nursing degree.
How Does the Accelerated Nursing Program Work?
The Lewis University Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program offers two different pathways for adults to fast track your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree:
Degree Completion Program – For adults who have a 3.0 GPA, pass the entrance exam, and have completed your General Education courses and nursing prerequisite courses.
Career Transition – For adults who have completed a bachelor’s in a non-nursing major.
Lewis faculty will work with you to develop a compassionate, holistic approach to patient care – it is about addressing physical symptoms while caring for the heart, mind and soul. You will become an expert practitioner and innovative leader who will transform practice in an increasingly complex healthcare setting.
Course Formats Available
The accelerated nursing program at Lewis allows for more flexibility for working professionals as you work towards your BSN.
Courses are offered:
- On campus and in blended formats
- Full-time or part-time
- Daytime, with evening and weekend options
The baccalaureate degree program in nursing/master’s degree program in nursing/Doctor of Nursing Practice program and post-graduate APRN certificate program at Lewis University is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (http://www.ccneaccreditation.org).
Sample Accelerated Bachelor’s in Nursing Courses:
- Health Assessment Across the Lifespan
- Pharmacotherapeutics
- Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing
- Children, Adolescents, and Families
- Health Care Trends
- Leadership, Collaboration, and Teamwork
- Critical Care
Admission Requirements
Enrollment is limited to students who:
- Have a 3.0 Admission GPA
- Students will need to take an assessment test upon admittance if you do not meet one of the following criteria:
- Composite ACT 22 or greater with a minimum reading score of 22 and minimum math score of 22
- Composite SAT 1100 or greater with a minimum reading score of 560 and minimum math score of 540
- If unable to submit ACT or SAT, then the ability to take and submit an official TEAS result as listed below
- Successfully pass the TEAS on the first attempt
- If unable to take the TEAS, the KAT can be taken at Lewis University
- Have satisfied the science and nursing prerequisites courses.
*** Assessment score will be used to place student in supplemental reading and math courses if needed ***
Please refer to the Office of Admission for application requirements and specific next steps.
For more information contact the Office of Admission at plodhavia@lewisu.edu
