The University of Massachusetts Amherst Accelerated Nursing Program is a rigorous and intensive program designed for individuals who have a non-nursing bachelor's degree and wish to pursue a career in nursing. The program is tailored to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become competent and compassionate nurses. One of the most frequently asked questions about this program is how long it takes to complete.
Program Duration and Structure
The UMass Amherst Accelerated Nursing Program is a 16-month program that begins in May and ends in August of the following year. The program is divided into four semesters, with each semester building upon the previous one to provide a comprehensive nursing education. The curriculum is designed to be completed in a sequential manner, with students progressing through the program as a cohort.
Breakdown of the Program
The 16-month program can be broken down into the following components:
- Summer semester (May to August): Foundations of nursing practice, including nursing fundamentals, health assessment, and pharmacology
- Fall semester (September to December): Adult health nursing, mental health nursing, and nursing research
- Spring semester (January to April): Maternal-child health nursing, pediatric nursing, and community health nursing
- Final summer semester (May to August): Leadership and management in nursing, as well as a capstone project
Throughout the program, students can expect to spend a significant amount of time in both classroom and clinical settings. The clinical rotations provide hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, community health organizations, and long-term care facilities.
| Semester | Duration | Coursework |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | May to August | Foundations of nursing practice |
| Fall | September to December | Adult health nursing, mental health nursing, and nursing research |
| Spring | January to April | Maternal-child health nursing, pediatric nursing, and community health nursing |
| Final Summer | May to August | Leadership and management in nursing, capstone project |
Program Outcomes and Accreditation
Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed registered nurses (RNs). The UMass Amherst Accelerated Nursing Program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.
Graduates of the program have gone on to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations. The program's strong reputation and accreditation ensure that graduates are well-prepared to enter the nursing workforce and make a positive impact in their communities.
What are the admission requirements for the UMass Amherst Accelerated Nursing Program?
+Admission requirements include a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and completion of prerequisite courses in anatomy, physiology, and statistics. Applicants must also submit official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
How competitive is the UMass Amherst Accelerated Nursing Program?
+The program is highly competitive, with a limited number of seats available each year. Applicants are evaluated on their academic record, prerequisite coursework, and personal statement, as well as their potential to succeed in the program and make a positive contribution to the nursing profession.
