Skip to content
Edgewood College Logo with White Text

Complete your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 12-months.

You are ready to build a new career – one that feels more like a calling. Becoming a registered nurse is one of the most rewarding professions and will take you on a journey of bringing hope, celebrating the wins, and having a profound impact on the lives of others every day. The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at Edgewood College is a one year pathway designed for post-baccalaureate students who have earned a non-nursing bachelor’s degree. Leverage your academic experience and fast-track your nursing education through this rigorous, in-person accelerated nursing program.

Our immersive second-degree program is a hands-on journey, empowering students to embark on a career driven by passion, where they play a pivotal role at the forefront of healthcare. Rooted in a robust theoretical foundation, our curriculum seamlessly integrates experiential learning through clinical coursework. The Henry Predolin School of Nursing is proud to have one of the nation’s lowest clinical student-to-faculty ratios at 7:1. Clinical faculty, rather than preceptors, guide our students, fostering a student-centric atmosphere. Faculty members actively cultivate relationships, provide mentorship, offer valuable career insights, and create networking opportunities tailored to enhance both academic and professional achievements.

Located in Wisconsin’s capital city, Edgewood College’s location makes it an ideal choice for students pursuing an accelerated nursing degree. Madison, known for its expansive healthcare community, is home to several renowned hospitals including UW Health and clinical partner of Edgewood College. A vibrant and engaged community both on campus and beyond, our picturesque location is the perfect blend offering a stimulating place to live and learn and a professional network that will position you to achieve your goals.

ABSN Information Session

Join us to learn more about the Accelerated BSN program at Edgewood College. We’ll discuss program, courses, application, and your questions.

Monday, November 18, 2024 at 4:00 PM until 5:00 PM Central Daylight Time UTC -05:00

To join us for the information session, please register here!

ASBN Program Structure

Program Features
  • Complete in one year
  • Extremely competitive GPA requirement (2.75)
  • Graduate from the ABSN program with a 3.0 GPA or higher, and be automatically accepted into our master’s level program
  • Earn (3) graduate-level credits while completing ABSN program
  • 7:1 Clinical Student-to-Faculty Ratio (one of the lowest in the nation).
August Start
August Course 2-weeks
Fall Session 1 of 2 8-weeks
Fall Session 2 of 2 8-weeks
Winterim (Online) 2-weeks
Spring 1 of 2 8-weeks
Spring 2 of 2 8-weeks
Summer 1 of 2 7-weeks
Summer 2 of 2 7-weeks
January Start
Winterm (Online) 2-weeks
Spring Session 1 of 2 8-weeks
Spring Session 2 of 2 8-weeks
Summer Session 1 of 2 7-weeks
Summer Session 2 of 2 7-weeks
Fall Session 1 of 2 8-weeks
Fall Session 2 of 2 8-weeks

Careers in Nursing

$81,220

6%

As healthcare continues to advance, there is a growing emphasis on the value of highly educated nurses in the workforce. With a BSN, you will be prepared to pass the NCLEX exam and enter the workforce having a competitive edge. Many organizations prefer or require nurses to have a BSN for consideration of certain positions, especially leadership roles. Your bachelor’s degree will also prepare you for entry into graduate programs if your career aspirations include advanced positions such as a nurse anesthetist, nurse educator, nurse practitioner, and nurse manager/administrator.

Be Prepared to Pass Your NCLEX

One benchmark metric of a strong program is their NCLEX-RN exam first-time pass rate. Consistently, our pass rate is significantly higher than the national average. With a 99.1% NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate (2023), the ABSN program at Edgewood College continues to outperform the national average.

Graduates of the Edgewood College ABSN Program:

Achieve high NCLEX pass rates.

Continue their education and serve in leadership roles.

Practice in a variety of settings.

Selected for prestigious nurse residency programs.

Nursing by the Numbers

80+

7:1

545

Graduate Spotlight

Angie Krey ’07

“When you hire a graduate from the Henry Predolin School of Nursing at Edgewood College, you can be confident that you are hiring a well-rounded professional who will be an asset to your RN team. Edgewood graduates have been challenged throughout their education in a way that sets them apart and prepares them for the rigor of the nursing profession.  They are critical thinkers, leaders, and to embrace every aspect of being a nurse.”

Assistant Manager, Nurse Residency & Internship Programs William S. Middleton Memorial Veteran’s Hospital

Henry Predolin Student Nurses Association

You will gain valuable leadership experience by joining the Henry Predolin Student Nurses Association (SNA), the largest student association in Wisconsin.

The Henry Predolin SNA regularly sends more delegates to the annual statewide conference than any other school. If you’re interested in gaining incredible global health experience, you might want to consider joining our faculty on a trip to underserved areas like Cambodia, El Salvador, and St. Lucia. It’s an enriching experience to learn and grow while making a positive impact on the world.

Accreditation

 

The baccalaureate degree in nursing program at Edgewood College is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), 655 K Street NW, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791. The program is also approved by the State of Wisconsin Board of Nursing.

Application Process

How to Apply

First, check your eligibility to apply for the ABSN program:

  1. Earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
  2. Cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 in college-level coursework or cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 in most recent (60) college credits.
  3. Minimum of 2.75 GPA in prerequisite math and science courses. A minimum grade of “C” is required in all prerequisite math and science courses.
    NOTE: Required math and science courses must have been taken within (8) years of admission to the first nursing course for credit in the nursing major.
  4. Complete prerequisite courses.
  5. Residency is required as learning is in-person.

Apply to the ABSN program

Students interested in the Accelerated BSN degree program are required to apply through the Nursing Centralized Application Services (NursingCAS). This portal is used to simplify and streamline the application process. Edgewood College’s School of Nursing Admission Committee will review all applicants, and make recommendations to the Dean, who will make all admission decisions. We encourage students to make certain the necessary applicant qualifications have been met, and to be mindful of the application deadlines.

Nursing CAS Logo

  • Complete and submit your application including manual entry of all courses including prerequisites. NOTE: Full transcript history should match all courses denoted on your official transcripts.
  • Upload your full transcript history into the NursingCAS portal.
  • Contact all previous higher education institutions and utilize the appropriate form through NursingCAS to request official transcripts be sent to NursingCAS. NOTE: If you’ve attended Edgewood College in the past, you must also follow this process for your Edgewood transcripts.
  • Upload Resume.
  • Pay the required application fee through NursingCAS portal.

If you are admitted to this nursing program, you will be required to submit your official high school transcripts directly to the Edgewood College Office of Undergraduate Admissions. Admitted students will receive further instructions when this information is required.

Application Cycle

Entry Term Application Opens Priority Deadline Final Deadline for Entry term Applications submitted before Priority Deadline

Admission Decision Completed

Applications submitted after Priority Deadline

Admission Decision Completed

Fall Cohort August 25 February 1 June 15 February 15 Approximately (1) month after application is received
Spring Cohort March 1 June 15 November 15 July 1 Approximately

Once you have determined that you meet the criteria to apply for the ABSN program, you will be ready to start the application process. As this is a highly competitive program and admission is capped at (21) students, we recommend submitting your application and required documentation as soon as the application opens. This allows you ample time to complete each requirement and ensure all required documentation has been received so your application meets the priority deadline. After the priority deadline has passed, applications shift to rolling admission.  

Applicant Selection Process

The School of Nursing Admissions Committee is comprised of nursing faculty dedicated to screening applicants for admission into this program and making recommendations to the Dean. Admission to the Accelerated BSN program at Edgewood College is highly competitive and is limited to (21) students in the fall semester and (21) students in the spring semester. The School of Nursing Dean will admit the most qualified students based on cumulative GPA, science/math GPA, previous academic records, and credits completed.

Explore Additional Steps to Strengthen Your Nursing School Application

It is common for students to inquire how they can improve the likelihood of securing one of those coveted spots in the nursing program. While the above qualifications take utmost priority in determining program eligibility, the list below offers a guide as to ways decisions are made when we have more highly qualified students than we have open seats.

  • Achieve at least a 3.0 GPA or greater (on prerequisite college coursework) to have priority over applicants that meet the minimum GPA of 2.75.
  • Complete Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) requirements and hold a CNA license.
  • Outstanding professional or personal achievements
  • Prior experience working in the healthcare field.
  • Proficiency in a second language.
  • Volunteer experience in your community.

Admission Process

Academic Requirements

Eligibility for admission to the ABSN program requires students to complete a bachelor’s degree and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75. At the time of application, students must have either completed, or be in progression to complete, the following prerequisite courses (or their transfer equivalent):

PRE-REQUISITE COURSE CREDITS
Statistics or College Algebra (or higher) 3
General Psychology 3
Lifespan Development Psychology 3
General Chemistry I – including lab component 4
Anatomy & Physiology I – including lab component 4
Anatomy & Physiology II – including lab component 4
General Microbiology – including lab component 4
Pathophysiology (may be complete in first session of program) 3

Students possessing a baccalaureate degree in another field from a regionally-accredited institution are considered to have fulfilled all of Edgewood College’s General Education requirements, except COR courses. Post-baccalaureate students, however, must still meet all School of Nursing pre-requirements for supporting courses in the major.

I’ve Been Admitted—Now What?

Congratulations on being selected for our esteemed School of Nursing! We look forward to supporting your journey to becoming extraordinary healthcare professionals.

  • Accept admission by the specific date on your Offer of Admission Letter. NOTE: Nursing students who do not accept admission by the deadline will forfeit their space.
  • Submit a $1,000 nonrefundable deposit within (30) days of receiving the Offer of Admission Letter. NOTE: This is applied toward tuition in your final semester.
  • Complete all items listed in the welcome packet.

Relocate to Madison, WI

According to the 2023-24 U.S. News & World Report, Madison stands out as one of the premier cities in the United States, securing the third spot as the best place to reside for quality of life. Boasting an extensive array of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare institutions, many of which serve as clinical partner sites, Madison offers an optimal environment for nursing students at Edgewood College.

It’s more of an experience, and less of a destination. Madison is nestled among four scenic lakes and surrounded by lush greenery. This natural beauty coexists with the amenities of its urban infrastructure as Wisconsin’s capital city. You will fall in love with the vibrant downtown where you will find live music, a “foodie” rivaled landscape, expansive farmer’s markets, and a popular arts and culture scene. And for those days when you want to escape the hustle and bustle, Madison offers incredible parks, hiking paths, and so many cozy nooks and crannies to explore.

Transportation

Navigating around the beautiful city of Madison is intuitive thanks to a robust transportation network. You will fall in love with the balance of living in a bustling capital city without the sacrifice of the rich nature found just steps from the classroom. If you want to explore other midwestern sights, Madison’s centralized location means you’re not far from Milwaukee, Chicago, and Dubuque.

  • Walk
  • Car – Under 20 minutes is the average commute time for Madison residents
  • Bus – Madison Metro and long-distance intercity bus service
  • Taxi and rideshare services
  • Bicycle – Madison BCycle bike-sharing program
  • Airplane – Dane County Regional Airport

Housing Resources

On-Campus Housing: 

  • Affordable options: average $1300/month.
  • No deposit or utility payments, free laundry.
  • Low/no transportation costs. 9 or 12-month contracts.
  • Meal plan included.
  • Pets allowed in select apartments.
  • More information on upper-class housing options 

Off-Campus Housing: 

Edgewood College has an Off-Campus Housing Guide.
To request a copy of this comprehensive guide, please email residencelife@edgewood.edu.

Program Tuition and Fees

$45,000 inclusive program cost 2024-25 includes:

  • Nursing courses
  • Clinical fees
  • Lab fees
  • ATI Testing
  • Parking (on campus during classes)
  • Textbooks & Clinical Attire/Materials purchased by student.

Financial Aid

Students in the ABSN program may be eligible for federal and private loans to assist in financing their education.
Federal financial aid:

  • Complete the FAFSA
  • Students may be eligible for a maximum of $12,000 from the Stafford Loan Program

SUBSIDIZED: The Federal Government pays the interest while the student is in school at least halftime. You may receive a maximum of $5500 per academic year.

UNSUBSIDIZED: Interest begins to accumulate as soon as the loan is disbursed.

For additional questions about financial aid and financing your accelerated nursing degree, please visit Financial Aid or contact Edgewood Central at ECentral@edgewood.edu.

Admitted Student Resources

Apply for Nursing Scholarships

Visit our scholarships page to view all available Edgewood scholarships.

Or, download a list of external nursing scholarships

Undergraduate Handbook

Nursing Clinical Experiences

The Henry Predolin School of Nursing partners with over 80 community agencies for clinical placements. Locations span across southcentral Wisconsin as well as northern Illinois. Some of these include:

  • SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital – Madison
  • The American Family Children’s Hospital
  • UnityPoint Health-Meriter Hospitals and Clinics
  • UW Hospitals and Clinics
  • Veteran’s Administration Hospital

Clinical placements also include multiple public health sites and public/private school sites.

Faculty Spotlights

Heidi Denigier

Heidi Deininger

hdeininger@edgewood.edu

Maria Yelle

Maria Yelle

MYelle@edgewood.edu

Building Confidence Through the Application of Experiential Learning

 

The Center for Healthcare Education and Simulation (CHES) is a collaborative partnership between Edgewood College School of Nursing, SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital, and UnityPoint Health – Meriter Hospital. This state-of-the-art space has been providing Edgewood College nursing students with innovative education and training through the utilization of patient simulators. Simulation rooms are designed and equipped to replicate a multitude of environments such as a patient room in a hospital or a clinic, or a resident room of a nursing home or skilled care facility.  

Three realistic patient rooms are fully equipped, each viewable from a control room that allows instructors to monitor students and record sessions. Two of these classrooms are equipped with audio-visual equipment that provides live feed simulation. This reflective learning environment includes opportunities to discuss and debrief. Robot patient simulators include high-fidelity mannequins across the lifespan – infant, child, birthing mother, adult – that can be programmed to replicate patient conditions and physiologic responses. Several low-fidelity mannequins and task trainers are used by students as they practice specific skills and techniques.  

Simulation experiences introduce nursing students to clinical scenarios in preparation for real clinical interactions, thus allowing students to safely practice team-based care and improve individual skills. This learning environment places students in the experience and is often mentioned as a favorite aspect of nursing school. This engaging space fosters team-based learning as students learn, train, and work together. This is where students apply their textbook knowledge, learn from their mistakes, practice skills, and improve communication. It’s also when future nurses emerge and begin to build their self-confidence. 

 

 

Pathway to Advanced Nursing Education

Embarking on your journey in the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program not only propels you toward a rewarding career in nursing. When you choose the ABSN program at Edgewood College, you have a couple of additional advantages.

Earn Graduate-Level Credits

This opportunity not only accelerates your path to becoming a nurse but also provides a head start toward advanced education and specialization in nursing. As you navigate through the rigorous curriculum, you’ll seamlessly earn (3) graduate-level credits, setting the foundation for your future academic pursuits.

Guaranteed Admission

Upon successful completion of the ABSN program, graduates are guaranteed admission into Edgewood College’s Master of Nursing programs, contingent upon achieving a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above.

Frequently Asked Questions About the ABSN Degree

Is an ABSN degree the right path for me?

We understand that a decision to go back to college to pursue your nursing degree is a big decision. Choosing an accelerated program is often based upon career goals, academic background, and personal circumstances. Here is a short checklist to consider:

  • You already have a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.
  • You are prepared to make a full-time commitment to the program and your personal and professional schedules will allow you to devote your time and energy to a rigorous program.
  • You are motivated by the short term model of learning and desire to get to the field in the quickest way possible.
  • You enjoy hands-on learning and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
  • Most importantly, you are passionate about pursuing this career path and a journey to becoming a registered nurse (RN)!

How many hours a week will the ABSN program require?

Students can expect to spend 40 to 60 hours per week on coursework and classroom assignments, which results in an expedited completion time of one year as opposed to the typical two to two and a half years.

What if I’m not from the Madison area?

Edgewood College can accommodate students with on-campus housing. We can also connect you with resources to assist with off-campus housing if you prefer.

If I only need an ADN to become an RN, why should I pursue a BSN?

A BSN provides ample benefits in terms of career advancement, earning potential, and professional development. Achieving your BSN reflects a commitment to excellence and dedication to ongoing professional development. BSN-prepared nurses are positioned to adapt to the evolving landscape in healthcare and contribute to improving patient outcomes.

Won’t I save money by just doing an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN)?

College math can be tricky! While a reasonable person may infer that an Associate’s Degree is a cost-savings, we encourage you to “check the math.” Here is an example…

Program  Duration  Tuition Cost  Earning Potential  Total Financial Impact 
ADN  2 years  $15,000  $80,000/year  -$65,000 
ABSN  1 year  $45,000  $80,000/year  +$35,000 

What does this mean? 

  • Completing your ADN takes (2) years and will cost approximately $15,000. The initial investment is lower, but you will miss an entire year of earning an annual salary of $80,000. The total financial impact of spending an extra year in school is an estimated loss of $65,000 (Salary minus program cost).
  • Completing your ABSN only takes (1) year and will cost $45,000. Despite the higher initial investment, you will enter the workforce a year sooner.  The total financial impact of not spending an extra year in school is a gain of $35,000 (Salary minus program cost). Additionally, BSN-prepared RNs have higher earnings potential as compared to ADN-prepared RNs.

Does Edgewood College have a traditional undergraduate nursing program?

Yes, Edgewood College has two pathways for students aspiring to achieve their bachelor’s degree. If you are interested in both our ABSN and Traditional BSN programs, you do not need to submit two applications on NursingCAS. To be considered for both programs, please contact Amy Brinks at abrinks@edgewood.edu.