The Top ABSN Programs in Wichita, KS in 2026
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs provide a fast-track option for students to earn a BSN degree, preparing graduates to become registered nurses (RN). With the rising demand for nurses, ABSN programs have seen rapid growth across the country.
In Wichita, prospective nurses have several high-quality ABSN programs to choose from. This guide provides an in-depth look at the top programs in the area based on admissions selectivity, student satisfaction, affordability and other key factors.
Why Consider an ABSN Program in Wichita?
With several accredited ABSN programs that meet regional workforce needs, Wichita offers an excellent location to earn a nursing degree. Key advantages include:
- Strong Job Prospects: Wichita offers growing RN job opportunities and salaries above national averages
- Practical, Affordable Programs: Local public university and technical college programs provide an affordable accelerated path to an RN license
- Diverse Clinical Placements: Clinical partnerships with major health systems allow students to gain experience in various specialty units
- Vibrant Local Nursing Industry: New nursing graduates have multiple opportunities to launch their careers with area hospitals and clinics
Earning an ABSN in Wichita allows students to tap into the vibrant local nursing field while gaining cutting-edge skills.
Overview of Top Programs in Wichita
The top ABSN programs in Wichita are highlighted below. Comprehensive side-by-side comparisons on key academics factors can be found later in the guide.
| Program Name | University Type | Program Duration | Admissions Selectivity |
|---|---|---|---|
| WSU ABSN | Public University | 16 months | Moderately Competitive |
| WSU Tech Nursing | Technical College | 12-16 months | Least Competitive |
| Newman University Nursing | Private Non-Profit | 12-24 months | Very Competitive |
| Butler CC ABSN | Community College | 12 Months | Moderately Competitive |
| KU Accelerated BSN | Public University | 12 months | Very Competitive |
These programs have common eligibility requirements, including:
- Bachelor's degree with prerequisite coursework
- Competitive GPA (often 3.0+)
- TEAS or HESI test scores
- CNA certification
However, admissions selectivity and other aspects can vary. Read on for detailed profiles of the top programs.
Detailed Program Profiles
Here is an overview of 5 top ABSN programs in Wichita with key details on curriculum, strengths and cost.
1. Wichita State University ABSN
Wichita State University (WSU) offers a full-time accelerated program that allows bachelor's degree holders to earn a BSN in just 16 months.
Program Basics
- 16-month curriculum
- Rolling admissions
- Fall start only
- 72-76 credit hours
Strengths
- High NCLEX pass rates
- Robust virtual simulation technology
- Diverse clinical placements
Cost
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $15,048 (in-state) $33,972 (out-of-state) |
| Additional Program Fees | $1,200 est. |
| Total Cost | $16,248-$35,172 |
The WSU ABSN program provides a fast-paced yet rigorous route to RN licensure with an affordable in-state tuition rate.
2. WSU Tech Accelerated BSN
WSU Tech offers an accelerated nursing track allowing bachelor's degree holders to complete an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) in 12-16 months.
Program Basics
- 12-16 month curriculum
- Rolling admissions
- Fall, spring, summer starts
- 62 credit hours
Strengths
- Strong NCLEX pass rates
- Hands-on clinical skills labs
- Small classes
Cost
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $11,907 |
| Additional Program Fees | $600 est. |
| Total Cost | $12,507 |
With an affordable price-tag and high licensure exam pass rates, WSU Tech's accelerated program is a budget-friendly route to become an RN.
3. Newman University ABSN
Newman University offers an accelerated 12-24 month ABSN program with competitive admissions.
Program Basics
- 12-24 month curriculum
- Fall entry only
- Limited class size
- 67-85 credit hours
Strengths
- Certified nurse educator instructors
- Strong focus on evidence-based practice
- Tight-knit campus community
Cost
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $34,370 |
| Additional Program Fees | $1,500 est. |
| Total Cost | $35,870 |
While one of the more expensive options, Newman ABSN graduates have an excellent reputation among regional employers.
4. Butler Community College Accelerated BSN
Butler CC offers a 12-month accelerated track allowing bachelor's degree holders to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN).
Program Basics
- 12-month curriculum
- Limited admissions (50 seats)
- Summer start only
- 38 credit hours
Strengths
- Innovative human patient simulators
- Small cohort model
- Seamless transfer options
Cost
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $8,118 |
| Additional Program Fees | $850 est. |
| Total Cost | $8,968 |
For an affordable accelerated program with priority admissions for Butler county residents, Butler CC is a strong contender.
5. KU Accelerated BSN
The University of Kansas Medical Center offers an intensive 12-month accelerated BSN program at its satellite campus in Wichita.
Program Basics
- 12-month curriculum
- Summer entry only
- Limited seats
- 64 credit hours
Strengths
- Renowned School of Nursing
- Cutting-edge curriculum with interprofessional education
- Strong hiring reputation
Cost
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $28,769 |
| Additional Program Fees | $2,500 est. |
| Total Cost | $31,269 |
While expensive, KU's rigorous accelerated program produces highly skilled ABSN graduates sought after by local and regional employers.
How to Choose From Top Programs
Use the visual comparison chart below to identify programs matching your needs, learning priorities and professional nursing goals:
| |WSU|WSU Tech|Newman|Butler CC|KU|
|-|:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:|:-:|
|Degree Awarded| BSN|ADN|BSN|ADN|BSN|
|Duration|16 months|12-16 months|12-24 months| 12 months|12 months|
|Credit Hours|72-76|62|67-85|38|64|
|Cost|$$|$$|$$$|$$|$$$|
|Competitiveness|Medium|Low|High| Medium|High
|Start Terms |Fall only|Fall, Spring, Summer| Fall only|Summer only|Summer only|
|Weekly Hours|32-36 hrs|24-36 hrs|24-36 hrs |36 hrs|40+ hrs|
|Accreditation |CCNE|ACEN|CCNE|ACEN|CCNE|
When choosing a program, key considerations include your budget, ability to relocate or commute, tolerance for an intensive curriculum, career goals and more. Meet with an admissions counselor or academic advisor to determine your best option.
Getting Admitted to Top Programs
ABSN programs have selective admissions given the intense curriculum and patient care responsibilities. Here are tips for submitting a strong application:
- Maintain a Competitive GPA: Strive for 3.0+ in your bachelor's program, including in prerequisite courses like anatomy, physiology and microbiology.
- Get Patient Care Experience: Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) experience can improve prospects.
- Prepare For Entrance Exams: Study to excel on the TEAS or HESI tests which evaluate essential academic skills.
- Showcase Passion for Nursing: Share your motivation for becoming a nurse through essays and interview responses.
- Apply Early: Application deadlines vary, though early submission maximizes chances.
Thoroughly review each program‘s requirements and attend an information session to prepare a compelling application.
What‘s Next? Licensure, Job Prospects & More
Upon completing an ABSN program, nursing graduates have bright career prospects after obtaining RN licensure. Here‘s what to expect:
- Earn RN Through NCLEX Exam After meeting education requirements, graduates must pass the NCLEX-RN exam administered by the State Board of Nursing to obtain RN licensure required for employment.
- Strong Job Prospects New RNs can find work in diverse settings like hospitals, clinics, homes and more. In Wichita, major employers include Ascension Via Christi, Wesley Healthcare and Select Specialty Hospital.
- Continuing Education Eligibility ADN graduates can enroll in RN-to-BSN programs while working to elevate from entry-level to advanced nursing roles.
Wichita offers growing and well-compensated nursing career opportunities. After researching programs fully and crafting a strong application, ABSN admission will put you firmly on the path to an exciting and stable nursing career.