By Lois Thomson

Responding to South Florida’s growing demand for nurses, Florida Atlantic University’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing will launch a spring-entry Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program at the Davie campus in 2027, creating an additional pathway for individuals seeking to transition into the nursing profession.

The accelerated track, designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, is currently offered in fall cohorts at the Boca Raton and Davie campuses.

“In just 16 months, students can transition into one of the most in-demand professions in health care,” said Cameron Duncan, dean of the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing. “Students who begin the program in spring 2027 could enter the nursing workforce by the following summer.”

The program is designed for students seeking a fast-track path into nursing, with coursework completed across four consecutive semesters, including summer terms. Students begin practicum experience in their second semester, gaining hands-on experience in a variety of health care settings.

Current accelerated nursing student Zakiyya Manifold said her background in public health inspired her transition into nursing. After earning degrees in political science from Florida Atlantic and public health from Florida International University, she chose the accelerated track to move into a more direct patient care role.

“After working in public health and seeing how much impact compassionate care can have, I realized I wanted to be more hands-on with patients,” she said. “I chose nursing because I’ve always had a desire to help people and be there for them during some of their hardest moments.”

The new spring cohort will provide additional flexibility for prospective students who may not meet fall admission timelines or who want to enter the workforce sooner. The intensive nature of the program, however, requires students to be prepared for a rigorous academic and clinical schedule.

“Students are in classes and clinical experiences five days a week, which may mean leaving current employment or cutting down hours,” said Joy Longo, Ph.D., associate dean of academic programs and associate professor. “Success depends on being organized and flexible, and having a strong support system.”

The College’s support systems include program faculty who work closely with students, along with a dedicated student success team available to provide ongoing guidance throughout the program.

Students entering the program come from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including health science, education, psychology, social work, and business. Once admitted, students enter having already completed all prerequisites and focus exclusively on nursing coursework.

“After passing the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, our graduates can begin their first roles as registered nurses,” Dr. Longo said. “Most take the exam within one to two months after graduation, and enter the workforce once they have successfully passed.”

Graduates of the ABSN program pursue careers across a wide range of nursing settings, including acute and primary care, as well as community health. Practice areas include medical-surgical units, intensive care, mental health and obstetric specialties, and public and rural health.

“Nursing is more than a profession; it’s who you are,” Dr. Longo said. “The accelerated program is demanding, but it prepares students to achieve their goal of becoming registered nurses while offering flexibility in their career path.”

Manifold, who will graduate in December 2026, said the Accelerated BSN program is preparing her to step into nursing with strong clinical experience and confidence.

“Once I pass the NCLEX, my plan is to start working as an RN and explore areas of nursing where I can make the greatest impact,” she added, noting that the program is helping her finally start the career she had always wanted.

Applications for the Spring 2027 ABSN cohort are open through July 31, 2026.

For more information, call (561) 297-3000 or visit https://www.fau.edu/nursing/academics/bachelor-of-science-nursing-program/accelerated-bsn/