Compare Tennessee’s accelerated nursing programs side-by-side: costs, lengths, NCLEX pass rates, and admissions requirements.
Accelerated BSN programs in Tennessee compress nursing education into 12 to 18 months for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field. Programs in Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga place graduates in some of the state’s largest healthcare markets.
Tennessee is a Nurse Licensure Compact state, so new RNs can apply for multistate licenses. All ABSN graduates sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to earn licensure.
The state’s projected need for 8,500 additional RNs by 2035 creates immediate demand for accelerated graduates across hospitals, clinics, and community settings.
A quick snapshot of what you need to know about accelerated BSN options in Tennessee.
The following ranking of ABSN programs in Tennessee highlights schools that combine rigorous nursing curricula with strong clinical partnerships and graduate outcomes. Each entry is chosen based on factors such as program length, cost, accreditation, and student success metrics, with preference given to in-state institutions serving Tennessee’s major healthcare markets.
| Rank | School | Location | Net price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | The University of Tennessee-Knoxville | Knoxville, TN | ~$19,000/yr (est.) | Career changers committed to East TN healthcare | |
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville's 12-month ABSN is an intensive, full-time program for second-degree students. It combines rigorous coursework with clinical rotations at major East Tennessee hospitals and offers the ABSN Scholars Program, a $12,776 scholarship linked to a post-graduation work commitment at UT Medical Center. With rolling admissions and technology-enhanced simulation labs, the program prepares graduates for NCLEX success and immediate RN practice.
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| #2 | Lipscomb University | Nashville, TN | $25,000/yr | Hybrid learners leveraging Nashville healthcare hub | |
Lipscomb University offers a 16-month hybrid ABSN that combines online coursework with in-person labs and clinicals in Nashville. The program is ACEN-accredited and boasts a 100% job placement rate, with small cohorts and a Christ-centered educational approach. Designed exclusively for second-degree students, it accepts cohorts in the fall and includes a priority deadline of March 15.
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| #3 | Belmont University | Nashville, TN | $33,000/yr | Students seeking a leadership-focused curriculum | |
Belmont University's Nursing Accelerated Option B.S.N. is a four-semester, campus-based program emphasizing leadership, evidence-based practice, and diversity. Students complete 64 nursing credits, including a senior capstone and a preceptorship with a registered nurse. The curriculum's integrated pathophysiology and pharmacology sequence prepares graduates for complex care across settings.
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| #4 | Union University | Jackson, TN | ~$27,000/yr (est.) | ||
Union University's 15-month, cohort-based ABSN spans three Tennessee campuses: Jackson, Germantown, and Hendersonville, providing broad clinical access. The program accepts non-nurses with a prior degree or those at least 24 with completed general education, and reviews last-60-hour GPA. Rolling admissions allow fall or spring starts, and TEAS consideration supports applicants with borderline GPAs.
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| #5 | East Tennessee State University | Johnson City, TN | ~$16,000/yr (est.) | ||
East Tennessee State University offers a campus-based ABSN at three locations: Johnson City, Kingsport, and Sevierville. The 75-credit curriculum includes clinical practicums across specialties and prepares students for NCLEX-RN with varied start semesters by site. This public university option is the quickest licensure route for eligible second-degree seekers in the region.
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| #6 | University of Memphis | Memphis, TN | $10,000 – $15,000/yr | ||
The University of Memphis offers a four-semester, campus-based ABSN with CCNE accreditation and a 90% NCLEX pass rate. Students gain clinical experience through 300+ affiliations and study nursing across the lifespan. Admission requires a 2.8 GPA and two letters of recommendation, with fall-only entry and a two-step application process.
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| #7 | The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga | Chattanooga, TN | ~$14,000/yr (est.) | ||
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga's ABSN is a campus-based, second-degree pathway serving Southeast Tennessee and North Georgia. It offers three annual start dates and requires an ATI Launch Readiness certificate along with prerequisites completed with a grade of C or better. Only two in-progress prerequisites are allowed at application, and a holistic review including resume and essay is part of the process.
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| #8 | Tennessee Wesleyan University | Athens, TN | ~$15,000/yr (est.) | ||
Tennessee Wesleyan University's three-year, CCNE-accredited ABSN emphasizes extensive clinical hours and high-tech simulation. With over 1,000 clinical hours, including 90 hours per specialty and a senior practicum alongside RNs, the program ensures deep hands-on experience. It guarantees admission for qualified Tennessee high school graduates and maintains strong partnerships with regional hospitals like Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center.
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| #9 | South College-Asheville | Asheville, NC | $18,000/yr | ||
Based in Asheville, NC, South College's 18-month, on-campus ABSN serves students with a prior bachelor's degree. It is CCNE-accredited and prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN through classroom, lab, and clinical training covering mental health, pediatrics, adult health, and community nursing. Admission requires a minimum 2.50 GPA and TEAS or HESI scores.
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| #10 | South College-Atlanta | Atlanta, GA | $18,000/yr (net price) | ||
South College's Atlanta campus offers an 18-month, on-ground ABSN for students with a non-nursing bachelor's. The CCNE-accredited program includes clinical training and coursework in mental health, pediatric, and adult health nursing. Start dates in January, April, June, and October, along with multiple entrance exam options, provide flexibility for students transitioning into nursing.
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Nursing education has shifted toward flexible learning formats, and Tennessee now hosts several ABSN programs that blend online coursework with hands-on training. While no program is fully remote, hybrid pathways let students complete theory classes from home and handle labs and clinicals in person.
Hybrid does not mean remote. Every Tennessee ABSN program requires scheduled, in-person attendance for skills labs, simulation exercises, and direct patient-care clinicals. Online coursework covers theory, but physical presence on campus and at healthcare facilities is non-negotiable. Before committing, confirm exactly how often and where in-person obligations occur: some programs require weekly lab sessions, while others consolidate them into intensive blocks.
All three Tennessee hybrid programs accept out-of-state students, but relocation is essential. Marian University and Lipscomb both require students to live near Nashville, while South College expects attendance at the Knoxville or Nashville campus. Prospective students from outside Tennessee should verify clinical placement logistics and housing commitments early, as commuting from a distant residence is not typically feasible during an accelerated timeline.
Always contact the program directly to confirm the current hybrid format, clinical site locations, and any updates before applying. Descriptions like “online” can be misleading because no ABSN can eliminate in-person requirements and still meet board of nursing standards.
Tennessee's demand for registered nurses is so intense that a NewsChannel5 report projects the state will need 8,500 more RNs than it can produce by 2035, a statistic that highlights the value of accelerated BSN programs.
NCLEX pass rates measure the percentage of nursing program graduates who pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) on their first attempt. These rates are a key indicator of how well a program prepares students for the licensure exam and, by extension, for entry-level nursing practice. In Tennessee, ABSN programs report varying levels of outcome detail, but a strong first-time pass rate typically signals a rigorous curriculum and effective clinical training.
The NCLEX-RN is a standardized exam required for registered nurse licensure in all U.S. states and territories. First-time pass rates are closely watched because they reflect the proportion of graduates who succeed on the initial try, which is when most test-takers sit for the exam. A high rate suggests that a program's coursework, labs, simulations, and clinical placements are aligned with the competencies the exam tests.
Directly reported, program-specific NCLEX data for ABSN tracks is not always published separately from traditional BSN outcomes. However, two Tennessee accelerated programs have made their recent first-time pass rates public. The table below summarizes what is known as of this year.
Both Lipscomb and UTHSC reported perfect first-time pass rates for their inaugural ABSN cohorts, showing that accelerated programs can produce excellent NCLEX outcomes. For other Tennessee ABSN programs that have not disclosed separate pass rates, prospective students may find aggregate BSN-level data on the Tennessee Board of Nursing website or NCSBN reports. Keep in mind that a single cohort's rate can vary from year to year, so it's wise to ask any program about trends over multiple years, average rates, and how they support students who need additional preparation before the NCLEX.
While a high pass rate is encouraging, it is not the only quality measure. Examine the program's retention rates, the range of clinical rotation sites, faculty experience, and graduate employment outcomes. A school that consistently prepares students well for the NCLEX often also provides strong career support, but confirm this directly with admissions staff or current students.
What are the real admission requirements for ABSN programs in Tennessee, and how do you know you're ready to apply?
Most accelerated BSN programs in the state follow a similar blueprint, but each school sets its own numeric thresholds, exam policies, and deadlines. Understanding the common requirements (and the differences) helps you build a realistic application strategy.
By definition, ABSN programs are built for second-degree students. Every program in Tennessee expects you to hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution before you start nursing coursework. The major does not matter; humanities, business, science, and fine arts graduates all enroll. If you are finishing your first degree, you can typically apply while it is in progress, as long as the degree is conferred before the ABSN cohort begins.
GPA minimums vary, but most Tennessee ABSN programs set a threshold between 2.75 and 3.0. However, competitive cohorts often push the de facto bar higher.
If your overall GPA is slightly lower, strong grades in anatomy, physiology, and microbiology can still make you competitive. A few programs review applications holistically and may admit candidates who demonstrate steady academic improvement or substantial healthcare experience.
Standardized entrance exams are not universal across Tennessee ABSN programs. Many schools have moved away from requiring them, but exceptions remain.
Always check the current year's application instructions: test policies can change, and even programs that waive the exam may request an alternative demonstration of academic readiness, such as a recent GRE score or a written statement.
Tennessee ABSN programs tend to operate on a single annual start date, typically fall, with deadlines in the first half of the year. If you plan to begin in 2026, here is a snapshot:
Most schools require all prerequisites to be completed before the program begins, not necessarily by the application deadline. You can often apply with a plan to finish outstanding courses during the spring or summer term, provided final transcripts are submitted on time. Early application is strongly encouraged, as seats fill quickly and some programs begin reviewing applications well before the posted deadline.
Beyond transcripts and test scores, Tennessee ABSN programs commonly ask for professional or academic letters of recommendation. Two to three references (from professors, employers, or healthcare supervisors) are standard. Some schools incorporate an interview, either on-campus or via video call, especially for candidates who pass the initial review. Interviews often probe your motivation, your understanding of nursing as a second career, and your ability to handle an intensive academic schedule. The combination of references and interviews gives admissions committees a fuller picture of your readiness beyond grades alone.
Navigating ABSN prerequisites in Tennessee means balancing the scope of required courses against your timeline and budget. Casting a wide net across programs often demands the most comprehensive set of prerequisites, while targeting a single school can let you focus on just what that program requires. The table below shows which courses appear most frequently across Tennessee accelerated BSN options in 2026.
| Prerequisite | Commonly Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Anatomy & Physiology I | Yes | Lab required; recency of 5-7 years common |
| Anatomy & Physiology II | Yes | Lab required; often same recency window as A&P I |
| Microbiology | Yes | Lab required; 5-10 year recency limit |
| Chemistry | Yes | Lab required; one to two semesters (UT Knoxville requires two) |
| Statistics | Yes | Elementary statistics or equivalent |
| General/Intro Psychology | Yes | Often combined with lifespan development |
| Developmental/Lifespan Psychology | Yes | Required at Memphis and Union; often part of a psychology sequence |
| Nutrition | Sometimes | Required at University of Memphis; recommended at Lipscomb and Sewanee |
| Social Science (any) | Sometimes | 3 credits required at Lipscomb and Union |
| College Algebra or higher math | Sometimes | Required at Lipscomb; may substitute for statistics at some schools |
| Medical Terminology | No | Recommended at Lipscomb; sometimes woven into nursing courses |
Most Tennessee programs want science prerequisites completed within the last five to ten years. Union University's accelerated BSN program uses a seven-year window for anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, while other schools lean toward a five-year standard. Labs are non-negotiable for the sciences: you will need hands-on lab components for A&P I and II, microbiology, and chemistry. Statistics and psychology courses typically have no recency cap, but checking individual program guidelines is essential.
A few prerequisites show up selectively. Nutrition appears as a hard requirement only at the University of Memphis.1 Lipscomb University's accelerated BSNLipscomb University's accelerated BSN and Sewanee's ABSN programSewanee's ABSN program both recommend it without mandating it. Lipscomb's program also asks for college algebra or higher math and lists medical terminology as a suggested, not required, course. Social science credits (sociology, anthropology, or similar) are mandatory at Lipscomb and Union. Because these variations can affect your application eligibility across multiple schools, request a transcript review early and confirm which courses each program counts toward its minimum credit and content expectations.
A student entering the accelerated BSN program at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis faces a total published cost of $13,806 for the 2026-2027 academic year, as listed on the UTHSC bursar’s tuition and fees page. That figure sits well below the $32,295 total shown on the UT Knoxville ABSN tuition and fees page, illustrating the wide cost spread among Tennessee’s accelerated nursing options.
Costs for the state’s two major public accelerated BSN programs appear in the table below. Keep in mind that totals are often quoted for in‑state residents; out‑of‑state students should contact the programs directly for higher possible rates.
| School | Total Program Cost (as listed) | What the Total Typically Covers | Financial Aid Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Tennessee, Knoxville | $32,295 (2024, 2025) | Tuition and mandatory university fees; books, uniforms, and clinical supplies not included. | Federal aid through FAFSA; institutional scholarships may be available. |
| University of Tennessee Health Science Center | $13,806 (2026, 2027) | Tuition and standard student fees; detailed per‑credit rates and additional fee breakdowns available in the bursar’s PDF. | Federal aid eligible; contact the financial aid office for possible institutional scholarships. |
The listed total from each school is only part of the financial picture. Even when a program quotes a comprehensive figure, students nearly always face several out‑of‑pocket costs beyond tuition and fees. Typical extras include:
Because the University of Tennessee system publishes detailed per‑credit rates and fee schedules, prospective students should consult the latest bursar documents to see how charges break down semester by semester. Some programs quote a fixed total; others charge by credit hour, which can shift if a student needs to retake a course or adds elective credits.
Both UT Knoxville and UTHSC participate in federal financial aid programs, so the FAFSA is the essential first step. Eligibility for federal grants, work‑study, and loans depends on individual circumstances. Beyond federal aid, each campus may offer institutional scholarships, often through the college of nursing or university foundation. These awards frequently consider academic merit, financial need, or a commitment to work in underserved Tennessee communities. Private scholarships from hospital systems and nursing organizations also exist; checking with the school’s financial aid office can uncover partnerships that may reduce net cost.
Payment plans are another tool. Many nursing schools break semester charges into monthly installments, easing the cash‑flow challenge of an intensive, full‑time program. Students should ask about plan availability and any associated fees during the admission process.
Program costs shift from year to year, and the totals shown here come from the most recently published sources at the time of writing. Inflation, tuition adjustments, or changes to course structure can all alter the final bill. Before building a budget, request a current fee schedule from each program. A short conversation with a financial aid counselor can clarify what institutional aid might apply, whether work options exist during the accelerated track, and what additional expenses to realistically plan for , ensuring that the cost of earning a BSN in Tennessee is understood in full, not in part.
Paying for an accelerated BSN in Tennessee involves combining federal, state, and institutional aid, along with loan repayment programs tied to service commitments. Because ABSN students already hold a bachelor's degree, some traditional undergraduate grants do not apply, but several targeted options can significantly reduce out-of-pocket cost.
Start by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). ABSN students are eligible for need-based Federal Pell Grants and Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, even as second-degree seekers.1 Work-study may also be available depending on your school and financial need.
Several state-sponsored aid programs in Tennessee can help, including the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship , Nontraditional, which supports residents age 25 or older who have been out of college for at least two years. It can be used toward a first bachelor's or certain post-baccalaureate programs, making it a potential resource for qualifying ABSN students. The Tennessee Student Assistance Award (TSAA) is a need-based grant awarded on a first-come, first-served basis; early filing improves your chances. Note that programs like the Tennessee Reconnect Grant3 and TN STRONG Act4 are limited to first-degree seekers and will not apply to ABSN students. The Graduate Nursing Loan-Forgiveness Program5 targets master's and doctoral students, so it is not relevant for ABSN.
Many Tennessee healthcare employers offer tuition help in exchange for a work commitment. For example, a UT Knoxville nursing scholarship program provides around $12,776 to selected students who agree to work at UT Medical Center for three years after graduation. Similar hospital partnership programs across the state may cover a portion of tuition and provide a monthly stipend, typically with a two- to three-year post-graduation obligation.2
The Nurse Corps Scholarship Program pays tuition, fees, and a monthly stipend in return for working in a critical shortage facility after licensure.1 The Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program can repay a portion of existing nursing student loans for the same type of service.1 Registered nurses employed by government agencies or 501(c)(3) nonprofits may also pursue Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) after making 120 qualifying payments.1
Beyond employer-linked programs, many nursing schools maintain their own scholarship funds for career changers. Amounts and criteria vary widely, so contact each program's financial aid office directly. Ask about departmental scholarships, alumni-funded awards, and partnerships with local health systems.
Sticker tuition rarely tells the full story. Gather aid offers from multiple schools and compare the net cost after grants, scholarships, and expected loan disbursements. Factor in any work commitments, as a lower upfront cost may come with a multi-year service obligation that affects your early career flexibility.
Clinical placements in Tennessee’s ABSN programs are closely tied to the state’s major healthcare hubs, exposing students to diverse patient populations in urban and community settings. Most accelerated BSN programs in Tennessee coordinate clinical rotations at hospitals, outpatient clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health centers across the state. Because each school builds its own network of clinical partners, the specific sites where you train depend heavily on the program’s location, existing affiliations, and the terms of clinical contracts.
Three metropolitan areas anchor clinical training for the majority of Tennessee ABSN students.
Tennessee ABSN programs typically handle clinical placement logistics for enrolled students, but the level of support and the selection process vary. Some schools assign rotations directly, while others accept student preferences but retain final control over site selection. Regardless of approach, all programs must meet the Tennessee Board of Nursing’s clinical hour requirements and align placements with course learning objectives.
Because clinical slots are finite and often shared among multiple nursing programs in the same city, students should plan to commute to facilities within a defined radius of campus. In certain semesters, rotations may be scheduled during evenings, weekends, or 12-hour shifts to mirror real-world nursing schedules.
Approaching clinical placement research with clear questions and a willingness to contact programs directly will help you choose the Tennessee ABSN that best aligns with your training goals and geographic preferences.
Below are answers to common questions about accelerated BSN programs in Tennessee. Use this guide to understand requirements, timelines, and what to expect as you begin your journey toward a nursing career.
