New
CNU and Riverside College Partnership
In an effort to address the critical nursing shortage sweeping the nation, Christopher Newport University (CNU) and Riverside College of Health Sciences have joined hands to introduce a unique dual degree program. CNU President William Kelly and RCHS President Robin Nelhuebel formalized the partnership agreement at a ceremony held at the Riverside campus on Wednesday.
Innovative Approach to Tackling Nursing Shortage
The newly introduced '3+2' program is designed to equip students with dual bachelor degrees over a period of five years. Students will initially spend three years pursuing classes at the CNU campus, after which they will transition to a two-year intensive nursing training at Riverside. Upon successful completion of the program, students will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from CNU and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Riverside. This unique arrangement allows students to obtain both degrees seamlessly, enhancing their career prospects in the healthcare industry.
Closing the Gap in Nursing Workforce
With the projected annual opening of nearly 200,000 nursing positions across the country until 2032, the collaboration between CNU and RCHS aims to bridge the gap in the nursing workforce. By offering specialized training and education, the program aims to supply skilled and qualified nurses to meet the growing healthcare demands of the community and beyond.
Reviving Nursing Education
The partnership marks a significant milestone as CNU revives its nursing education program, which was discontinued in 2004 due to budget constraints. The decision to close the program back in 2002 led to a hiatus in nursing education at the university for nearly two decades. The reintroduction of nursing classes underscores the commitment of both institutions to contribute towards filling the critical shortage of nursing professionals.
Enrollment and Program Details
Current CNU students enrolled in the biology program have the opportunity to seamlessly transition into nursing coursework. Prospective students can begin nursing classes either in January or August, depending on their completion of prerequisite courses. The flexibility in enrollment dates allows students to embark on their nursing journey at their convenience.
In conclusion, the alliance between CNU and Riverside College signifies a proactive step towards addressing the pressing need for qualified nurses in the healthcare industry. Through this innovative dual degree program, the institutions aim to create a well-equipped nursing workforce that can cater to the evolving healthcare landscape with proficiency and dedication.