Deciding to pursue a career in nursing is the first step toward an exciting and fulfilling professional life in health care. Choosing and applying to the right nursing school is the next step, one that requires planning and insight. Whether you’re transitioning from another profession, returning to school after time away, or accelerating your undergraduate nursing education, having a clear roadmap can make all the difference.
Tulane University’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (aBSN) program is designed for career changers and driven individuals ready to become healthcare professional; No prior medical or clinical experience necessary. This article guides you through everything you need to know about eligibility criteria, academic prerequisites, and how to build a strong, competitive application for Tulane’s aBSN program.
Who Can Apply to Tulane’s aBSN?
Tulane’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (aBSN) program is open to a wide range of motivated applicants, including candidates who:
- Have completed significant college coursework (al least 60 credits)
- Hold an associate’s degree
- Already have a bachelor’s degree in another field
While a bachelor’s degree is not required for admission, applicants must have at least 60 transferable undergraduate credit hours from an accredited institution. These credits must include all nursing major prerequisites (for details, see Nursing Prerequisites: What You’ll Need, below), completed within the prior seven years with a grade of ‘C’ or better.
No prior healthcare experience is necessary to apply. Prospective students should be ready to embrace the full-time program’s fast pace. Tulane’s aBSN offers an immersive and academically rigorous curriculum that includes hands-on clinical training.
Applicants with associate or bachelor’s degrees are encouraged to consult with Tulane’s Program of Nursing to ensure their previously earned credits fulfill the program’s core curriculum and nursing prerequisite requirements.
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Understanding Admissions Categories
Tulane utilizes a holistic approach to evaluating aBSN applicants, reviewing candidates with the requisite undergraduate credits across two admissions categories designed to match students with the appropriate entry point based on their academic progress.
- Ready to Admit students have already completed all required prerequisites and core curriculum credits, qualifying them to begin the program immediately upon admission.
- Conditional Admits are close to completing their requirements but may still need to finish up to three remaining courses (only one of which can be a science course with a lab component).
Tulane maintains a third category for those requiring additional undergraduate credits or nursing prerequisite courses. Pre-Nursing applicants can take their remaining courses through Tulane’s School of Professional Advancement or approved courses at a regionally accredited institution before entering the aBSN program.
Academic Requirements and GPA Expectations
Candidates for the aBSN program must meet the following minimum requirements:
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all transferable undergraduate coursework, as well as a GPA of 3.0 in nursing prerequisite courses, with no grade lower than a C
- Completion of all nursing prerequisite courses within the 10 years prior to applying (maximum two attempts per course; a second failure disqualifies the applicant).
Take note that these are the minimum academic standards; meeting them does not guarantee admission. The admissions team applies a holistic approach, evaluating each candidate’s overall academic performance, dedication to the field, and alignment with the program’s mission and values.
Readiness for the fast-paced, full-time demands of nursing school is another key consideration. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong motivation, resilience, and a clear commitment to transitioning into a nursing career.
Nursing Prerequisites: What You’ll Need
Tulane’s aBSN program requires applicants to complete 25 credit hours of nursing prerequisite courses; some include both lecture and lab components. These foundational courses are essential for preparing students for the rigorous academic and clinical demands of nursing school. They include:
- Anatomy and Physiology I and II with lab (8 credits total)
- Microbiology with lab (4 credits)
- Chemistry with lab (4 credits)
- Statistics (3 credits)
- Nutrition (3 credits)
- Developmental Psychology (3 credits)
Candidates must have completed all prerequisite courses at accredited institutions within the past seven years to ensure the material remains current and relevant. To maintain academic standards, students must earn a grade of C or higher in each course and may repeat a course only once.
Other Eligibility Factors: Technical Standards, Background Checks, and LSBN Approval
In addition to meeting academic requirements, applicants to Tulane’s aBSN program must meet several other important eligibility criteria. Tulane’s technical standards outline the physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities necessary for safe and effective nursing practice. Given the demanding nature of the program’s academic and clinical components, students should be prepared for a rigorous, full-time schedule that challenges their stamina, critical thinking, and communication skills.
Before enrolling in any clinical courses, all students must receive approval from the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN), a process that includes a criminal background check. Applicants with a history of arrest, conviction, or impairment must petition the LSBN for permission to practice as a student nurse. Additionally, those seeking to transfer credits for prerequisite or core courses not covered under Tulane’s existing articulation agreements may need to submit course syllabi for evaluation. The admissions team is available to assist applicants through this process to help ensure that all eligibility requirements are met.
How the Application Process Works
The application process for Tulane’s aBSN program is designed to be straightforward and supportive. Applicants begin by submitting an online application that includes:
- Transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- A personal statement outlining their interest in nursing
- A current resume
After submission, each applicant is paired with an admission counselor to guide them through the remaining steps, including transfer credit evaluations, prerequisite verification, and any additional documentation.
Applicants should reach out early if they have questions about credit transfer or upcoming application deadlines. Connecting with an admission counselor early in the process can help ensure a smooth application experience and set you up for success as you take the first step toward a career in nursing.
How To Strengthen Your Application
Start by completing your prerequisite courses as early as possible, especially the science courses, which are essential for building the foundation needed in nursing school. Aim to meet or exceed the minimum 3.0 GPA in both your overall transferable coursework and your nursing prerequisites. A strong academic record can enhance your competitiveness.
Your personal statement is also important. Take the opportunity to clearly express why you’re pursuing a career in nursing and how you’re prepared for the fast pace and intensity of an accelerated program. This is your chance to show your passion and alignment with the nursing profession’s values.
Throughout the application process, don’t hesitate to lean on Tulane’s admissions team for support. Your admission counselor is available to help answer questions and guide you through the process.
Ready To Apply? Tulane Can Help You Take the Next Step
Tulane’s aBSN program is built for students from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Whether you’re changing careers or continuing your education, the program offers a rigorous curriculum, real-world clinical experience, and the guidance you need to thrive in a fast-paced, rewarding profession.
If you’re considering applying, Tulane’s admissions team is here to help. Whether you’re ready to start your application or simply need more information, Tulane will support you every step of the way.