Kean Launches New Three-Year Nursing Program, Fast-tracking Career Path for Diverse Candidates

Kean University is accepting applications for its newest undergraduate nursing degree program, which allows students to earn their bachelor’s degree and qualify for an RN in three years of study. Classes begin this Fall.

The new Pre-Licensure Bachelor of Science Nursing program, offered in-person on Kean’s main campus in Union, puts students on a fast track toward earning a nursing degree and becoming a licensed registered nurse.

“The program is designed to propel aspiring nurses into the profession in just three years,” said Kean Assistant Professor Chrysanthe Patestos, Ph.D. “Students will earn 120 credits in that period of time, which includes taking summer courses. They can be working as nurses in about half the time it takes for students who enter the field by earning their RN first, then pursuing a bachelor’s degree separately.”

Patestos said Kean’s Department of Nursing developed the program to address two issues facing health care – a nursing shortage and lack of diversity in the nursing ranks. 

“Our Prelicensure BSN program answers the nursing profession’s call to add to the number and diversity of the nursing workforce in a very innovative way,” Patestos said. “Our program places a strong emphasis on holistic nursing education, ensuring a focus on student support from admission through graduation. We are committed to breaking down barriers to success, particularly for students from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in the field of nursing.” 

She also noted that most hospitals require RNs to obtain their bachelor’s degree within a certain period of time after they are hired. “RNs who already have their BSN are more marketable when they enter the workforce,” Patestos said.

Kean is still accepting applications for this Fall.

The Prelicensure BSN program has received provisional accreditation from the New Jersey Board of Nursing, a status issued to all new programs until they become eligible for full accreditation. Eligibility for full accreditation with the state Board of Nursing occurs after the first cohort of students graduates and achieves a pre-established pass rate on the NCLEX-RN exam. 

Summer studies are required in all three years, with clinical immersion in healthcare settings occurring after years two and three. Upon graduation, students will be able to take the licensing exam and enter the workforce.

The program is open to students of any age without a nursing degree or those transferring from another college or another program within Kean.

For more information, visit the Prelicensure BSN program's webpage.  

For information on other nursing programs at Kean, visit the Department of Nursing webpage.