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Accelerated nursing programs in South Carolina can get your NCLEX-RN ready in 15-18 months!
And with South Carolina projected to be among the states with the worst nursing shortages in the country by 2030, it is a perfect time to accelerate your transition into this noble profession.
In this article, we list the 5 best accelerated nursing programs in South Carolina that are CCNE-accredited: They include 4 accelerated BSN programs and 1 direct-entry MSN program.
4 Best Accelerated BSN Programs in South Carolina
1. Medical University of South Carolina- Accelerated BSN
The Accelerated BSN program at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is spread over four consecutive semesters, including a summer term. So, in just 16 months, you’ll be ready for the NCLEX-RN.
Duration: 16 months
Format: Hybrid
Location: Charleston, South Carolina
The program admits twice a year- Spring & Summer.
No Bachelor’s Degree? No Problem!
Unlike most accelerated nursing programs, a bachelor’s degree isn’t a requirement for admission to MUSC’s ABSN program.
So, no matter where you’re starting from, as long as you meet the prerequisite requirements, a rewarding career in nursing is within reach.
A Special Focus for Holistic Development
MUSC’s ABSN program emphasizes leadership, care coordination, and communication skills. The program realizes the importance of developing these skills to deliver quality patient care and advance your nursing career.
About MUSC’s College of Nursing
The Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Nursing has a rich history dating back to 1883 when it started as a nursing training school. Over the past 140 years, it has established a reputation for excellence in nursing education.
The ABSN program ranks 31st in the nation and holds the top spot in South Carolina. More than 97% of its students pass the NCLEX-RN exam on their first attempt.
2. Clemson University- Accelerated Second Degree Nursing
Clemson University’s Accelerated Second Degree Nursing program lets you earn your BSN in 16 months, spanning just four semesters. The program kicks off in the Fall.
Duration: 16 months
Format: Hybrid
Location: Greenville, South Carolina
About Clemson’s School of Nursing
Clemson University is a large public research university. It was established in 1889 and is now the second-biggest university in South Carolina in terms of student numbers.
Clemson’s School of Nursing aims to train students to become healthcare professionals. Students are prepared to contribute to science and improve healthcare practices through research and community involvement.
3. Anderson University- Accelerated BSN
Anderson University’s Accelerated BSN program packs 63 credit hours into a tight 15-month schedule.
Duration: 15 months
Format: On Campus
Location: Anderson, South Carolina
Anderson’s ABSN curriculum equips you to work in different areas within the nursing profession. Whether you’re drawn to pediatrics, surgery, adult care, or geriatrics, this program prepares you for dynamic nursing roles.
About Anderson University
Anderson University is a private Christian university and one of the biggest private schools in South Carolina. It was established in 1911, as Anderson College.
Anderson’s School of Nursing has experienced faculty to not only develop great nurses but also inspire students to use their nursing skills to serve others in a way that embodies the teachings of Christ.
4. Charleston Southern University- Accelerated BSN
CSU’s Accelerated BSN is an 18-month program spanning five semesters. You’ll earn a total of 67 credit hours: 6 in University Christian Studies and 61 in Nursing.
You’ll also accumulate 675 clinical hours.
Duration: 18 months
Format: Online
Location: Charleston, South Carolina
This program admits a maximum of 20 students each Fall.
No Bachelor’s Degree? No Problem!
Just like the Medical University of South Carolina accelerated nursing program, if you don’t have a bachelor’s degree here, you’re still eligible to apply to CSU’s ABSN program- as long as you meet the minimum 58-60 credit hours of previous college credit.
Labs & Clinicals
Labs are held on CSU’s campus during weekday evenings, so you can continue working or managing other commitments. Clinical rotations are conveniently scheduled in Charleston area hospitals on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
About CSU
Charleston Southern University was founded in 1964. It is a private non-profit university affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention.
CSU’s College of Nursing aims to train professional nurses who incorporate Christian values into their nursing practice.
Both the traditional and accelerated BSN programs have recorded a 94% average pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam over the past decade.
Related: Pros and Cons of Accelerated Nursing Programs
Best Direct Entry MSN Program in South Carolina
1. University of South Carolina- Master’s Entry to Practice Nursing (MEPN)
University of South Carolina’s Master’s Entry to Practice Nursing (MEPN) is designed to be fast-paced yet comprehensive enough to introduce you to nursing. Over the course of five consecutive semesters, you’ll complete 70 credits and accumulate 784 direct clinical hours.
Duration: Approx 18 months
Format: Hybrid
Location: Columbia, South Carolina
The USC MEPN program admits students in Spring.
Clinical Experience
You’ll complete your clinical hours in the Midlands region of South Carolina- in top-tier facilities such as Prisma Health, MUSC Health Columbia Medical Center Downtown, Lexington Medical Center, and the William Jennings Bryan Dorn Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
The broad exposure to diverse healthcare settings will prepare you to deliver competent and compassionate care in any nursing context.
About USC Nursing
USC started its nursing program in 1942. Since the national accreditation of its BSN program in 1957, USC Nursing has had over 11,000 nurses graduate.
The college has many student organizations like the Student Nurses Association, Men in Nursing, Chi Eta Phi, Sigma Theta Tau International, and Black Nurses Association.
USC Nursing’s goal is to improve health for everyone by advancing science, practice, and policy.
Admission Requirements for Accelerated Nursing Programs in South Carolina
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in any field. Charleston Southern University and Medical University of South Carolina can accept you without a bachelor’s degree.
- Typically, a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in previous undergraduate coursework and in pre-nursing prerequisite courses
- The pre-nursing prerequisite courses may include: English, Communication, Foreign Language, Computer and Information Sciences, Culture, Humanities, Fine Arts, Literature, History or Philosophy or Political Science, Fine Arts, Literature, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Mathematics, Chemistry with Lab, Human Anatomy and Physiology with Lab I and II, Microbiology with Lab, Nutrition, Lifespan Development, and Statistics
- Professional references who can evaluate your potential for success in a nursing program (no family members)
- A personal goal statement that reflects your reasons and objectives for pursuing a nursing degree
- A current curriculum vitae or resume
- GRE is generally not required
- A TEAS score may be needed
- A personal interview and additional health and ability requirements as determined by the program
Final Thoughts
Imagine saving lives every day as a nurse. You could be the hero that patients and doctors need.
But there is a problem: there are not enough nurses in South Carolina. This state will have an estimated 10,000 nurse vacancies by 2030.
To help fill nursing jobs, several South Carolina schools are now offering CCNE-accredited accelerated BSN programs for qualified students.
That’s why you should join the fast track to nursing through accelerated nursing programs in South Carolina. You will learn the skills you need in less time and start making a difference sooner.
Disclaimer:
- Information on these programs may change without notice. So, we cannot guarantee their authenticity and accuracy. You’d have to check with the school and do further research. Our review list is simply for guidance and cannot be relied upon exclusively without research on your part.
- Before enrollment, check with your state regarding licensing rules or whether your desired program meets your home state’s certification requirements and licensure.
- If you are an administrator/staff for one of the schools listed in this article, and you would like to issue corrections or updates on your program’s information, please contact us here.
Related Nursing Programs:
10 Best Accredited ABSN Programs in North Carolina
10 Accelerated Nursing Programs in Georgia
Related Nursing Resources:
Guide to Accelerated Nursing Programs: What are they?
Pros and Cons of Accelerated Nursing Programs
8 Best TEAS Prep Courses Today, According to Nursing Students
How to Write the Nursing School Personal Statement: Steps, Tips, And Samples
