Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program

Becoming a registered nurse (RN) is a rewarding career path, but for many who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field, the thought of spending another four years in school can be daunting. What if there was a faster, more efficient way to transition into this vital profession? This is where an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program comes in, offering a direct route to a nursing career.

If you're looking to leverage your existing education to make a swift entry into the healthcare field, the Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program might be the perfect fit for you. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this unique accelerated nursing pathway, helping you decide if it's the right step for your future.

What is an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) Program?

An ABSN program is specifically designed for individuals who have already completed a bachelor's degree in a non-nursing field and wish to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Unlike traditional four-year nursing programs, ABSN pathways condense the core nursing curriculum into an intensive, fast-paced format. This allows students to earn their BSN typically within 12 to 18 months, depending on the program.

Why Choose an ABSN Program?

• Fast-Track to a New Career: The most significant advantage is the accelerated timeline, enabling you to become a registered nurse much quicker than through a traditional BSN program.
• Leverage Existing Education: Your previous bachelor's degree demonstrates your academic capability and commitment, making you a strong candidate for these rigorous programs.
• High Demand for Nurses: The healthcare industry constantly needs skilled nurses, ensuring strong job prospects upon graduation.
• Comprehensive Education: Despite the accelerated pace, ABSN programs provide a thorough nursing education, including extensive clinical experience.

The Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program: An Overview

The Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program stands out due to its unique collaborative structure. It's a full-time, in-person degree pathway offered through a partnership between Huntington University, Indiana Tech, and Parkview Health. This collaboration brings together Huntington University's established nursing curriculum and faculty, Indiana Tech's state-of-the-art facilities, and Parkview Health's extensive clinical opportunities.

Students enrolled in this program earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree from Huntington University. The program is taught by Huntington University nursing faculty on Indiana Tech's campus in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Key Features of the Program:

• Duration: The program is completed in just 13 months, making it one of the fastest accelerated nursing options in Indiana.
• Credit Hours: The curriculum spans 56 credit hours of intensive coursework.
• Location: Classes are held in newly renovated, state-of-the-art labs and classrooms within Indiana Tech's Keene Building in Fort Wayne.
• Clinical Experience: Hands-on clinical rotations are conducted exclusively at various Parkview Health locations across Northeast Indiana, providing invaluable real-world patient care experience.
• Accreditation: The Huntington University ABSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and the Indiana State Board of Nursing, ensuring high standards of education. Both Indiana Tech and Huntington University are also regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Admission Requirements for the Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program

Given the accelerated nature of the program, admission is competitive and requires specific prerequisites. To be considered for the Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Prior Bachelor's Degree: You must hold a bachelor's degree in any non-nursing field from an accredited institution.
• Minimum GPA: A cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher from your previous college coursework is required.
• Prerequisite Courses: Successful completion of specific prerequisite courses with a grade of "C" or higher is mandatory. These courses ensure you have a strong foundational knowledge for the intensive nursing curriculum.
  • Anatomy and Physiology I & II (with labs)
  • Microbiology (with lab)
  • Chemistry (with lab)
  • Human Development
  • Statistics
  • Academic Writing and Research
  • Psychology or Sociology
  • Public Speaking or Communications
  • Note: Science and math courses may typically be repeated only once to achieve the required grade.
• Clinical Requirements: Accepted students must also complete a series of clinical requirements, including:
  • Background check
  • CPR certification
  • Immunizations (including yearly influenza vaccine)
  • Physical examination
  • Drug screen
  • TB skin test
  • Driving record
  • Professional Liability insurance

Tips for a Strong Application:

• Review Prerequisites Carefully: Ensure all prerequisite courses are completed with the required grades. If needed, Indiana Tech and Huntington University offer these courses.
• Highlight Relevant Experience: While not always required, any volunteer work, healthcare experience, or leadership roles can strengthen your application.
• Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Use this opportunity to express your passion for nursing and why you believe the accelerated program is the right fit for your career goals.

Curriculum and Learning Experience

The 56-credit-hour curriculum of the Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program is designed to provide a comprehensive nursing education in a condensed timeframe. Taught by experienced Huntington University nursing faculty, the program blends rigorous didactic coursework with essential hands-on learning.

Students can expect a dynamic learning environment that includes:

• Intensive Didactic Coursework: Covering core nursing concepts and theories. Some specific courses include Pharmacology, Fundamental Skills, Health Assessment, Adult Health Nursing, Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing, Nursing Care of Children, and Leadership in Nursing.
• Lab-Based Instruction: Utilizing Indiana Tech's state-of-the-art simulation labs to practice skills in a controlled environment.
• Hands-on Clinical Experiences: Gaining vital patient care experience through clinical rotations exclusively at Parkview Health facilities in Northeast Indiana. This early exposure to real-world settings is crucial for developing practical nursing skills.
• Clinical Immersion: The program includes a final phase with clinical immersion and a role transition experience where students shadow experienced RNs for full shifts, preparing them for the demands of the healthcare environment.

The program emphasizes a comprehensive nursing education, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the challenges and rewards of the nursing profession.

Career Prospects After Graduating

Graduates of the Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program are well-equipped to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and pursue successful nursing careers. The Huntington University nursing program boasts an impressive 100% job placement rate for its graduates for over a decade, indicating strong career outcomes.

A significant advantage of this program is its strong partnership with Parkview Health. Students benefit from:

• Early Integration: Opportunities to work as Student Nurses at Parkview Health during their studies, offering flexible work and accelerating onboarding into the workforce.
• Parkview ABSN Scholars Program: This innovative program offers qualifying students the opportunity to have their full tuition reimbursed by committing to work at Parkview Health for three years post-graduation. This can significantly reduce the financial burden of education and guarantee a job upon completion.
• Guaranteed Job Opportunities: Thanks to this partnership, many graduates have job offers waiting for them at one of the nation's premier health systems.

This robust support system ensures that graduates are not only academically prepared but also have a clear path to employment in a high-demand field.

Conclusion

The Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program offers a compelling and efficient pathway for individuals with a bachelor's degree to transition into the fulfilling career of nursing. Its unique collaboration between Huntington University, Indiana Tech, and Parkview Health provides a fast-paced, accredited, and highly supportive educational experience. With a strong curriculum, extensive clinical opportunities, and exceptional job placement rates, this program is designed to launch your nursing career in just 13 months.

Are you ready to make an impact of a lifetime and join the ranks of dedicated healthcare professionals? Explore the Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program further and take the first step toward a rewarding nursing career.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long is the Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program?

The program is a full-time, in-person program designed to be completed in just 13 months.

Is the Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program accredited?

Yes, the program, which awards a degree from Huntington University, is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and approved by the Indiana State Board of Nursing. Both Indiana Tech and Huntington University are also regionally accredited.

What are the main prerequisites for the ABSN program?

Key prerequisites include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.75 GPA, and specific science and general education courses such as Anatomy & Physiology I & II, Microbiology, Chemistry, Human Development, and Statistics, all with a grade of "C" or higher.

Are there scholarships or financial aid options available for the Indiana Institute of Tech ABSN Program?

Yes, students may qualify for full tuition reimbursement through the Parkview ABSN Scholars Program by committing to work at Parkview Health for three years post-graduation. Additional financial support, including low-interest loans and forgivable awards, is also available through the Questa Education Foundation.