If you’ve been thinking about starting your nursing journey — or continuing it — summer is the perfect season to make that leap. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or a working nurse looking to expand your credentials, enrolling in a summer nursing program can help you move forward faster without waiting until fall to begin.
With flexible schedules and online learning options designed for working students, a summer start lets you keep your momentum going while staying focused on what matters.
Plus, if you’re not sure where to begin, you don’t have to worry. West Coast University offers nursing programs accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) that are built to support your experience level, career goals, and busy schedule.
Why Should You Enroll in a Summer Nursing Program?
Summer might not be the traditional time to start school, but that’s exactly what makes it such a smart move. While others are taking a break, you could be gaining clinical experience, earning credentials, and getting one step closer to your vocation — all without waiting for the next term.
Here’s why starting in the summer can work in your favor:
- Get ahead faster: Summer starts mean accelerated learning. Rather than getting stuck on a nursing waitlist, you can start working toward your degree right away.
- More flexible scheduling: Some programs offer flexible pacing so you can begin when it works best for you.
- Online convenience: If you’re going the online route, summer can be even more ideal. With 24/7 access to lectures, coursework, and faculty support, your learning fits around you.
- Make an impact sooner: The earlier you begin, the sooner you can complete clinicals and enter the workforce. Whether you’re aiming for your first nursing job or planning for career advancement, getting started now puts you closer to where you want to be.
What Is the Most Common Summer Nursing Program for High Schoolers?
If you’re a high school senior or recent graduate looking to break into the world of nursing, summer is a great time to explore hands-on learning opportunities designed just for you. In fact, you might even come across nursing programs for high school students, like camps or college immersion experiences that give you a preview of what’s ahead.
These experiences can be a great way to confirm your interest in nursing before committing to a degree program. Once you’re ready to take that next step into college-level training, one degree option tends to take the lead:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
If you’re planning a career in nursing long-term or want to eventually move into advanced practice or leadership roles, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing could be a great fit. You’ll receive a broader education than an Associate Degree in Nursing, with courses that cover everything from public health to nursing research.
Starting your BSN in the summer lets you jump into core nursing classes early, which could help you graduate sooner. What’s more, if your schedule is already packed, some campuses offer flexible options, such as a Working Professional pace or an Evening & Weekend format, so you can move forward without having to make any compromises.
What Are the Most Common Summer Nursing Programs for RNs?
Already have your RN license but looking to move up? Summer nursing programs aren’t just for first-time students. They can be a great way to level up your credentials without putting your career on pause. You can generally start with a BSN or move straight into a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.
RN to BSN
If you’ve earned your ADN and want to continue growing in your career, an RN to BSN program gives you the opportunity to build on what you already know. You’ll explore courses in leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice, all while working toward your bachelor’s degree.
With many schools like WCU offering 100% online coursework and flexible pacing, you can balance your education with your current responsibilities and complete your degree on a schedule that works for you.
RN to MSN
An RN to MSN program allows you to go straight from your associate degree to graduate-level nursing courses — no need to earn a separate BSN first.
This path means you build on your experience as a registered nurse while working toward your master’s degree. The RN to MSN program at WCU offers six different specializations, so you can focus on the area of nursing that fits your career goals.
Master of Science in Nursing
If you currently hold a BSN, a Master of Science in Nursing can help you advance your healthcare career. WCU’s MSN program is CCNE-accredited and combines online coursework with hands-on clinical experiences to help you grow your skills and expand your impact in nursing. You can earn your MSN or choose to further your education with a Post-Master’s Certificate.
Post-Master’s Certificates
Have you already earned a graduate degree in nursing? A Post-Master’s Certificate gives you the chance to focus your expertise in a specific area. These programs are typically short, targeted, and designed to expand your qualifications without requiring a full second degree.
Take a look at the post-master’s nursing certificates offered at WCU:
- Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nurse Educator
- Nurse Leader
- Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
How To Choose a Nursing Program
Choosing the right summer nursing program starts with knowing where you stand and where you want to go. However, you need to be honest about what matters most to you, such as your goals, schedule, and learning style.
Before you decide on a program, ask yourself:
- Do you need online flexibility, or do you prefer learning exclusively in person?
- Would an accelerated pace or weekends and evening classes help you stay on track?
- Are you managing other responsibilities like work or family that might impact your schedule?
Once you’ve thought about your priorities, make sure you determine if the nursing program you pick is accredited. An accredited program means you’re getting a quality education that meets industry standards, and it’s often required for licensure, certification, and future job opportunities.
Take the First Step: Enroll in a Summer Nursing Program at WCU
Ready to take the next step in your nursing journey? This summer is a great time to begin. No matter if you’re beginning with an ADN, BSN, returning for an RN to BSN, RN to MSN, or a Post-Master’s Certificate, summer nursing programs are built to fit your life.
At West Coast University, you can choose from multiple nursing pathways with summer start dates. Whether you’re learning via online classes or on campus, you’ll have access to experienced faculty, hands-on training, and a support system focused on helping you succeed.
Your summer start could be the beginning of something big — schedule an information session at WCU today.
WCU provides career guidance and assistance but cannot guarantee employment. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or position of the school or of any instructor or student.
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