Five Reasons Why Saint Joe’s Students Love our Hybrid ABSN Program
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs are quickly becoming a preferred path for individuals with a bachelor’s degree seeking to enter the nursing profession. With the growing demand for qualified nurses, these accelerated online nursing programs offer a direct, fast-paced route into the field. In just over a year, students can build on their previous education, gain essential clinical skills, and earn the credentials needed to begin a rewarding role in healthcare.
When pursuing a second career in nursing, students look for programs that offer efficiency, support, and strong career preparation. Saint Joseph's College of Maine is committed to helping students transition into the field with confidence. Hear from students how Saint Joe’s hybrid ABSN stands out among accelerated online nursing programs as a leading choice for career changers.
Reason #1: Intense and Rewarding
The program is intense, reflecting the serious nature of nursing, but students find it rewarding as it prepares them to handle real-life responsibilities.
"I was looking for an accelerated program that was a hundred percent online, [with] a mix of the immersion week [and] clinical settings. I wanted something that I can balance life, family, everything together, it's just the self-paced aspect of it."
Hybrid accelerated online nursing programs are both intense and rewarding, offering a unique mix of challenge and fulfillment. Fast-paced education pushes students to quickly grasp complex concepts, preparing them for the high demands of healthcare. At the same time, the flexibility of online coursework allows students to balance their studies, making it easier to advance their careers without putting their lives on hold.
Students experience several key benefits from our program’s intensity, including:
- Personal growth from completing a rigorous program
- Real-world readiness
- A deep sense of achievement
The demanding nature of the program builds resilience and confidence, while the fast pace mirrors the challenges nurses face in practice. This ensures that graduates are knowledgeable, competent and ready to make a meaningful difference.
Reason #2: Supportive Community
The supportive environment at Saint Joseph's College of Maine and the dedication of academic advisors makes students feel they belong.
"The environment is just like a community. You are welcomed. Coming into the campus itself, we're just like a family."
Nursing school is challenging, but it doesn’t have to feel isolating. Building strong connections with fellow students and faculty creates a sense of support that makes the experience more meaningful. Whether sharing ideas in discussion boards, collaborating on group projects, or reaching out for guidance, having a network of people who understand the journey helps you stay motivated.
Saint Joe’s mission emphasizes community engagement, and community can make a difference when it comes to personal growth. Having a group of peers to encourage and uplift you makes it easier to manage the challenges of nursing school studies. Celebrating each other’s wins, offering support through tough moments, and simply knowing you’re not alone adds resiliency. Ultimately, being part of a connected, supportive community helps shape you into a stronger, more compassionate nurse.
Reason #3: Diversity and Impact
Students appreciate the opportunity to make a significant impact in their diverse communities.
“I think what excites me the most about my nursing journey is the impact that I'm going to be able to have on people. Just being a Hispanic provider, that's a lot. Growing up, I really didn't see a lot of providers of my color, and I think that's very impactful, to see somebody in…a doctor, or a nurse, or a physician assistant, any type of healthcare setting, seeing people that look like you is very important.”
At Saint Joseph’s College of Maine, diversity is a key part of the nursing experience. Learning alongside classmates from different backgrounds and life experiences can broaden perspectives and grow empathy for one another. By sharing ideas and experiences, students develop a deeper understanding of how to care for people with compassion and respect.
Nursing is a valued career because the profession can offer ways to give back and create positive change in communities. Diverse experiences and cultural awareness help graduates address disparities and promote health equity with empathy and advocacy. The chance to impact your community for the best can also be deeply fulfilling on a personal level.
Reason #4: Campus Immersion
This experience is formative for students, and they see it as the most valuable part of the program.
"I was nervous for the on-campus immersion. But this has been the best experience out of the whole program so far. Everybody I have met has been so awesome. I can tell that we have a great group of nurses here. Learning all these skills can be really scary. But the professors and the teachers, who have walked us through it, have been really helpful. They answer all your questions and get you comfortable before clinicals."
The on-campus immersion experience offers students the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between nursing theory and real-world clinical practice. Students build confidence, hone their clinical abilities, and improve critical thinking during this invaluable experience in the nursing program.
Additional benefits of the campus immersion include:
- Skill development with practical exposure to clinical scenarios
- Opportunities to practice interpersonal communication
- Emphasis on professional teamwork with peers and faculty
- Preparation for real-world clinical experience
It's completely normal to feel intimidated by immersive learning, especially when you're first starting. However, the experience will help you to think critically and adapt to situations where you may not be comfortable. This is an essential skill for new and seasoned nurses alike.
Reason #5: Career Opportunities
Graduates feel prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in nursing.
"I'm ready to be able to have more scope of practice and more options. I think I'm most excited about not being stuck in one type of nursing, I can go and do different specialties with my [BSN]."
The diversity of career options for nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is remarkable. Completing an accelerated online nursing program can open up a wealth of career opportunities and prepare you for success in various specialty areas. Specialization in nursing may require additional clinical practice and education, but you will have earned the foundation for many nursing jobs when you graduate with your BSN degree.
Clinically, graduates can work in hospitals, outpatient settings, or home health care, specializing in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, or critical care. Demand for nurses continues to increase with numerous open jobs while our country works to resolve the nursing shortage. Non-clinical opportunities are equally abundant, especially to those who choose to earn additional certification. For example, non-clinical roles in healthcare administration, education, research, and informatics are available to pursue.
Given the wide range of career opportunities, exploring a program that offers flexibility and a quick path to advancement can be the key to unlocking your full potential in nursing.
Explore Your Future at Saint Joe’s with an Advisor
If you’re ready to take the next step in your nursing career, the hybrid ABSN program at Saint Joe’s offers the tools and guidance to help you achieve your goals. Through personalized support from dedicated faculty and the opportunity to connect with fellow students, our program fosters both academic and professional growth.
The student testimonials in this blog have highlighted why our accelerated nursing program is a standout choice. By combining flexible online coursework with in-person clinical experiences, you can acquire hands-on skills as a student while balancing your personal and professional lives. The rigorous curriculum is crafted to challenge and inspire, preparing you for success in the fast-paced healthcare environment. Schedule an appointment with an advisor today to learn more about Saint Joe’s hybrid ABSN program and discuss how you can make a meaningful impact in your community