We recently sat down with students and staff of our 16-month ABSN program, asking them what they enjoy or find unique about the Northeastern University nursing experience. Starting with admissions and ending with NCLEX preparation, here are some key takeaways from these conversations.
Admissions: Feel the Support
If you can’t wait to become a nurse, our ABSN program in Boston or Charlotte can get you started on your education as soon as possible. As long as you meet the admissions requirements, which include having a BA or BS degree and a cumulative 3.0 GPA, you can apply for an ABSN program start date in January, May, or September.
As a prospective ABSN student, you’ll have the undivided attention of an assigned admissions counselor throughout the application process. As you work toward your start date, this individual will provide guidance every step of the way, ensuring you meet every milestone.
Key Takeaways:
- Experience a straightforward, highly supportive admissions process.
- Expect an admissions decision within a few weeks of applying.
Online Courses: Learn on Your Time
Establishing the foundation of your nursing education, our online ABSN coursework teaches the fundamentals of the profession by way of rich multimedia content delivered through an intuitive e-Learning platform.
While instructor deadlines still apply, these online courses allow you to study at your own pace and attend “class” whenever it best fits your schedule. But don’t let the flexibility and convenience of online learning tempt you into skipping your studies now and then. Given the rigorous nature of the ABSN program, you’ll need to practice self-discipline and manage your time wisely—or risk falling behind.
Key Takeaways:
- Easy online access to coursework materials 24/7.
- Learn the fundamentals of nursing anytime, anywhere.
- Engage in interactive learning activities that reinforce key concepts.
- Connect with online instructors as needed.
“Online learning is better than classroom lectures. You can go at your own pace, pausing or revisiting lectures as necessary.” ―Rina P., ABSN Graduate, Boston
“This program is very fast-paced, with much of it completed online. To be successful, you have to be a self-motivated, highly driven person.” ―Tiffany Kim, Northeastern Nursing Faculty
Skills Lab: Practice Without Risk
Replicating the clinical environment, our nursing skills lab features advanced equipment, medical supplies, and manikins so you can freely practice and hone your nursing skills without any adverse consequences. Under instructor guidance, these labs teach you how to safely and effectively apply core skills, such as catheterization, intramuscular injections, intravenous therapy, and wound care.
Key Takeaways:
- Apply coursework knowledge in a mock, risk-free clinical setting.
- Practice core nursing skills using real hospital equipment and supplies.
- Make and correct mistakes under the guidance of faculty.
“I felt comfortable during skills labs because the teachers were always there to help.” ―Shaelyn C., ABSN Graduate, Boston
“The professors are really good at reminding us that lab is a place where you make mistakes.” ―Patti S., ABSN Student, Charlotte
Simulation: Think Like a Nurse
Nursing simulation allows you to intervene in realistic clinical scenarios without the fear of harming an actual patient. It’s a teaching strategy that adjusts to your individual learning needs and relies on positive reinforcement to develop your clinical skills.
Starting with the basics of nursing practice, simulation experiences become more complex as you progress in the ABSN program. Following each simulation, you participate in a debriefing with faculty to discuss the experience in an open, honest setting. Debriefings encourage you to reflect on the simulation while giving faculty the opportunity to understand your actions and clinical approach.
Key Takeaways:
- Integrate theory, practice, and reasoning in realistic clinical scenarios.
- Learn how to problem-solve, collaborate, and think critically.
- Prepare for clinical rotations at top healthcare facilities.
“You can make mistakes and learn from them without hurting anybody.” ―Megan B., ABSN Graduate, Boston
“Ultimately, professors use simulation to help us think like a nurse.”―Patti S., ABSN Student, Charlotte
Clinical Rotations: See Your Future in Nursing
Led by Northeastern University nursing faculty, you and a small group of peers will begin a series of clinical rotations in semester one of the ABSN program. These clinical experiences advance alongside your coursework. By semester four, you’ll be assisting a preceptor with patient care. By the end of the 16-month ABSN program, you’ll have completed more than 430 hours of real-world clinical practice.
Key Takeaways:
- Experience different areas of professional nursing practice.
- Work with diverse patient populations in various settings.
- Gain concentrated patient care experience with a preceptor.
“I learned so much during my preceptorship. I worked a dozen 12-hour shifts and was taking patients by myself.” ―Megan B., ABSN Graduate, Boston
“Some of our students are working in hospitals with healthcare teams that are considered the best in the world for what they do.” ―Tiffany Kim, Northeastern Nursing Faculty
NCLEX Exam: Sit With Confidence
To legally practice the nursing profession, every nursing school graduate must take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Our ABSN program not only provides curriculum relevant to the exam, it also prepares you to take the test with confidence.
Key Takeaways:
- Complete curriculum that has the NCLEX in mind.
- Prepare for RN licensure all through nursing school.
- Feel confident when it comes time to sit for the NCLEX.
“Northeastern definitely prepares you to take the NCLEX. We did a three-day NCLEX prep that breaks down the exam so you know what to expect on test day.” ―Shaelyn C., ABSN Graduate, Boston
“NCLEX preparation is integrated into the curriculum, starting day one. I don’t feel like I am going to have to spend extra time for the exam after the program.” ―Patti S., ABSN Student, Charlotte
If you have a BA or BS degree and would like to put it toward a future in nursing, our ABSN program in Boston or Charlotte can fast track you into the profession in as few as 16 months. Contact Northeastern University nursing to schedule a preliminary ABSN program admissions interview.
