When exploring how to choose the right nursing school it is helpful to consider what matters most for your goals. If you are changing careers and already have a bachelor’s degree, an accelerated nursing program may offer a streamlined path to becoming a registered nurse. As you explore your options, consider factors such as accreditation, student support, program format, and NCLEX-RN pass rates.
Choosing a nursing school is an important part of exploring your path to a nursing career. As you consider different programs, it can be helpful to look at factors such as accreditation, program format and timeline, as well as the student support and learning experiences each school offers. Understanding these differences can help you evaluate your options and identify a program that aligns with your goals and preferences.
Mercer University’s Second Degree Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) track, located in Atlanta, Georgia, offers a blended nursing education that combines online coursework with in-person skills and simulation labs and clinical rotations at top area healthcare facilities. At Mercer, you could earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree in as few as 12 months after completing any needed prerequisites.
Begin the process by first identifying the right degree for your goals. Then, explore your nursing school options and discover why Mercer’s ABSN track may be the right option for you.
Understand Which Degree You Want to Pursue
If you are considering pursuing a nursing career, evaluate which degree type is right for you. Different nursing programs may confer different degrees, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a BSN. An ADN requires fewer credit hours than a BSN degree, and upon completion, graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam. Depending on your long-term career goals, however, a BSN might be a better option.
For example, if you would like to work at a Magnet hospital, a BSN is preferable to an ADN. Magnet organizations are healthcare providers dedicated to upholding a high standard of nursing practice. All nurse managers and nurse leaders in these organizations are required to hold a bachelor’s or graduate degree in nursing, so a BSN degree may be important for career advancement in these settings. Beyond Magnet hospitals, other employers increasingly prefer to hire nurses with a BSN.
A BSN establishes the necessary foundation for pursuing graduate-level nursing education later, while an ADN does not. A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or other graduate degree can prepare you to pursue career advancement.
Explore the outlook for nurses in Georgia and discover how the nursing shortage can impact where the demand for nurses is highest.
Does It Matter What Nursing School You Go To?
Your choice of nursing school can play an important role in preparing you for your nursing career. When exploring programs, consider factors such as accreditation and state approval, which are important to eligibility for nursing licensure and the NCLEX-RN exam. A strong nursing education can also help prepare you with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to enter the profession with confidence.
Additionally, not all nursing schools provide the same experience. Some schools may provide different levels of student support. Nursing school can be an intensive experience, especially in an accelerated program, so support can make a difference. Mercer University ABSN students can work one-on-one with Academic Success Coaches and receive personalized guidance.
How to Choose a Nursing School
When exploring nursing schools, consider factors such as accreditation, the format of the program, and the program’s anticipated timeline.
Accreditation
Accreditation is essential for taking the NCLEX-RN and becoming a licensed nurse. Mercer University is institutionally accredited. Additionally, Mercer's BSN is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and Mercer's College of Nursing maintains full approval from the Georgia Board of Nursing to offer the prelicensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Program Format
Another factor to consider when choosing a nursing program is the format. For example, you may wish to enroll in a program that offers online coursework paired with in-person learning experiences, such as Mercer University’s ABSN track. Online classes can provide greater scheduling flexibility and provide access to course materials as needed.
Learn more about completing nursing coursework online.
Program Timeline
When considering different nursing programs, the amount of time required to complete your BSN may be an important factor. For those who already hold a non-nursing bachelor’s degree, an ABSN program might be the best path to earn a degree on an accelerated timeframe.
Traditional BSN programs follow a format that entails two years of prerequisite nursing coursework followed by an additional two years of on-campus nursing study. Traditional BSN programs typically require in-person classes.
For individuals who have a previous non-nursing bachelor’s degree and meet admissions requirements, an ABSN program can put you on the pathway to earning a nursing degree sooner. Mercer University’s ABSN track provides a comprehensive nursing education that can be completed in as few as 12 months, after taking required prerequisite courses. Because Mercer’s track has three start dates per year in January, May, and August, students can get started sooner.
What to Look for in a Nursing Program
Beyond accreditation, format, and timeline, you may want to consider other factors when choosing a nursing school. Evaluate how experienced the faculty is and look for testimonials from current students and nursing school graduates. Additionally, consider the availability of student support services and the overall learning environment.
You can also check the school’s NCLEX-RN pass rates. In 2025, the national first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate was 87.6%. In the same year, Mercer University nursing students achieved an NCLEX-RN pass rate of 90.08%.
Why Location Matters When Choosing a Nursing School
In addition to the type of degree you earn, the location of a nursing program can make a difference in terms of the opportunities you can access through your education.
Choosing a nursing school in an urban location, such as Metro Atlanta, can provide clinical experience opportunities at fast-paced urban healthcare facilities. You will be able to gain clinical experience across multiple practice areas while working with a range of patient populations.
Other factors to consider when choosing a nursing school based on its location can include:
- Commute time
- Cost of living
- Nearby cultural and recreational attractions
- Nearby healthcare facilities
Benefits of Choosing a Nursing School in Georgia
One of the many benefits of choosing a nursing school in Georgia, such as Mercer University’s ABSN track, is the multitude of robust health systems. For instance, the greater Metro Atlanta area alone has 19 community health and hospital systems, collectively employing over 35,000 healthcare professionals.
As a student at Mercer University, you will have opportunities to work clinical shifts at some of the top healthcare facilities nearby. Our clinical partners facilitate clinical rotations in a variety of practice areas, such as maternity care, intensive care, acute care, and long-term care. After graduation, you may decide to stay in the area and pursue employment at one of these top facilities.
With the size of the healthcare market within the state, the excellent facilities in Atlanta, and the impending need for many more nurses, Mercer University’s ABSN track in Atlanta provides the ideal environment for many students.
Take the Next Step in Your Nursing Education
Mercer University’s ABSN track is designed for career changers who are interested in accelerating their transition into nursing. After completing any needed prerequisites, you could graduate in as few as 12 months with a BSN. Throughout your nursing school experience, you will benefit from a supportive cohort, attentive instructors, and Academic Success Coaches.
Request info today to learn more about Mercer’s ABSN track and how to get started.