Accelerated Online Nursing Programs
Earn your nursing degree faster — from wherever you are.
WCU’s accelerated online nursing programs are designed for students who are committed to streamlining their education and earning their degree sooner. With focused curriculum tracks, 24/7 online access, on-the-go resources, and dedicated support, you can move toward your nursing goals faster on a timeline that fits your needs.
Why Choose an Accelerated Online Nursing Program at WCU?
WCU’s online programs are built for busy nurses who want flexibility and speed. Our accelerated online nursing programs offer:
- 100% online coursework, available 24/7
- Multiple start dates throughout the year
- Self-paced or structured options, depending on the program
- Dedicated student support including clinical placement assistance when needed
- Specializations tailored to your career goals
Whether you’re an RN ready to pursue your bachelor’s or a master’s-prepared nurse seeking a post-grad credential, WCU can help you finish faster and focus on your future.
Explore Our Accelerated Online Nursing Programs
RN to BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing)
Already an RN? Our RN to BSN program allows you to earn your bachelor’s degree in nursing through an online, streamlined format. With start dates throughout the year and the opportunity to apply up to 90 transfer credits, the accelerated RN to BSN program empowers you to earn your degree on your own terms.
Accelerated Plus Pace
Distance Education/Online
120 Credits
8 Months
2 Trimesters
Accelerated Pace
Distance Education/Online
120 Credits
20 Months
3 Trimesters
Working Professional Pace
Distance Education/Online
120 Credits
20 Months
5 Trimesters
Explore the online RN to BSN program.
RN to MSN (Master of Science in Nursing)
Skip the BSN and go straight into master’s-level courses without delay. This direct-entry program is ideal for RNs who want to accelerate their education and specialize in advanced practice or leadership roles.
| RN to MSN Track | Accelerated Plus |
Accelerated | Working Professional |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | Not available | 28 months | 44 months |
| Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner | Not available | 24 months | 44 months |
| Family Nurse Practitioner | Not available | 28 months | 44 months |
| Nurse Educator | 16 months | 20 months | 32 months |
| Nurse Leader | 16 months | 20 months | 32 months |
| Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner | Not available | 32 months | 44 months |
| RN to MSN Track | Accel. Plus |
Accel. | Working Prof. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | N/A | 28 mos. | 44 mos. |
| Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner | N/A | 24 mos. | 44 mos. |
| Family Nurse Practitioner | N/A | 20 mos. | 44 mos. |
| Nurse Educator | 16 mos. | 20 mos. | 32 mos. |
| Nurse Leader | 16 mos. | 20 mos. | 32 mos. |
| Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner | N/A | 32 mos. | 44 mos. |
Explore the online RN to MSN program.
MSN – Master of Science in Nursing
Advance your nursing career journey with a graduate-level degree focused on clinical or administrative roles. Because hands-on experience is essential, most MSN degrees include on-site intensive clinical experiences. WCU can provide resources to help you identify the right preceptor and clinical site that aligns with your educational needs.
| MSN Track | Accelerated Plus |
Accelerated | Working Professional |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | Not available | 20 months | 32 months |
| Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner | Not available | 20 months | 32 months |
| Family Nurse Practitioner | Not available | 20 months | 32 months |
| Nurse Educator | 8 months | 12 months | 24 months |
| Nurse Leader | 8 months | 12 months | 24 months |
| Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner | Not available | 20 months | 36 months |
| MSN Track | Accel. Plus |
Accel. | Working Prof. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | N/A | 16 mos. | 32 mos. |
| Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner | N/A | 20 mos. | 32 mos. |
| Family Nurse Practitioner | N/A | 20 mos. | 32 mos. |
| Nurse Educator | 8 mos. | 12 mos. | 24 mos. |
| Nurse Leader | 8 mos. | 12 mos. | 24 mos. |
| Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner | N/A | 20 mos. | 36 mos. |
Explore the online MSN program.
Post-Master’s Certificate in Nursing
If you’ve already earned your MSN, a post-master’s certificate can help you advance your credentials quickly — and entirely online. You have greater flexibility and control over your study schedule, making it easier to fit in around your professional and personal responsibilities.
| Post-Master’s Track | Accelerated | Working Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | 16 months | |
| Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner | 16 months | |
| Family Nurse Practitioner | 16 months | |
| Nurse Educator | 8 months | 16 months |
| Nurse Leader | 8 months | Â 16 months |
| Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner | 16 months |
| Post-Master’s Track | Accel. Plus |
Accel. |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner | 20 mos. | |
| Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner | 16 mos. | |
| Family Nurse Practitioner | 20 mos. | |
| Nurse Educator | 8 mos. | 16 mos. |
| Nurse Leader | 8 mos. | 16 mos. |
| Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner | 20 mos. | |
Is a Fast-Track Online Program Right for You?
You might benefit from an accelerated online format if you:
- Already work in the healthcare field
- Have previous nursing education or licensure
- Prefer the flexibility of online learning
- Want to move into leadership, education, or advanced practice roles
Not sure which program is right for you?
FAQs About Accelerated Online Nursing Programs
Can I work while enrolled in an accelerated online nursing program?
Yes. Many WCU students are working nurses. While due dates and assignments help keep you on track, you will have the flexibility to watch lectures and complete coursework when and where it’s convenient for you.
How fast can I graduate?
Timelines vary by program and some programs offer an Accelerated Plus pace in addition to the Accelerated pace. Visit one of the pages below for more program-specific details:
Do I need to complete clinical hours?
Several programs and tracks require clinical placements to gain essential hands-on experience. Our Clinical Placements team supports you through the clinical site search process — whether you need help locating a facility and preceptor that meets program requirements or you want assistance in getting a site approved.
Are these programs 100% online?
All coursework is online. WCU’s online programs are enriched with mobile-friendly video content, audio books, simulations, adaptive quizzing, and on-the-go resources for remote learning. Any in-person clinical or practicum components are arranged locally.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Future — Faster
WCU’s accelerated online nursing programs are designed for students who are ready to deepen their knowledge and expand their career opportunities in less time. Whether you’re advancing your practice, pursuing a leadership role, or stepping into a new specialization, WCU’s focused online nursing programs can help you get there faster, without sacrificing quality or support.
Schedule an information session today and invest in your education on your own timeline.
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