Frequently Asked Questions: Accelerated B.S. in Nursing Program
You ask, we answer! Don't see your question answered below? Please also refer to our ABSN program admissions page before reaching out to our Student Support Team at nursing [at] UMass [dot] edu (nursing[at]UMass[dot]edu).
What prerequisites do I need to take?
Answer: The requirement to apply to our accelerated program is to take six prerequisites. All prerequisites must be completed before the application deadline. We accept courses from any accredited institution, in-person or online. A minimum 3.0 average GPA for the six prerequisites and no prerequisites below a “C” grade will be accepted.
The following prerequisites must have been completed within the past five years:
- Human Nutrition (3 credits)
- Medical Microbiology or General Microbiology (3 credits, no lab required)
The following prerequisites must have been completed within the past ten years:
- Anatomy and Physiology I with lab (4 credits)
- Anatomy and Physiology II with lab (4 credits)
- Statistics (3 credits)
- Human Growth and Development throughout the Lifespan (3 credits)
Am I able to work my full-time job while enrolled in this program?
Answer: No.
We do not recommend students work other jobs outside of this demanding accelerated program. This program requires full days, Monday through Friday, with some weekend days depending on clinical placements.
Am I still eligible to apply if I have my LPN?
Answer: Yes.
As long as you already have a non-nursing bachelor's degree and meet our program's prerequisites, a LPN license simply gives you more experience!
What clinical placements does this program offer?
Answer: We boast over 100 longstanding clinical partnerships with regional healthcare providers and organizations. View a list of our frequently used clinical sites, including Baystate Medical Center, Holyoke Medical Center, and Cooley Dickinson Hospital.
Do I need to have a COVID-19 vaccine?
Answer: It depends.
It is asked for you to have the most current vaccine for COVID-19 (2024). We do accept medical and religious exemptions, but these will determine where you are placed for clinicals.