UIU offers bachelor’s degree for registered nurses
Flexible program builds nursing leadership to improve healthcare delivery
Fayette, Iowa (October 18, 2006) – Upper Iowa University announced a new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program today aimed at developing nursing leadership, as demographics put increased pressure on the American healthcare system. Registration is now open, with classes starting January 2007.
“Advancing nurse education is important to everyone because research shows quality patient care depends on having enough highly-educated nurses,” said Associate Professor and Director of Nursing Education Dr. Margaret Wimmer. “Upper Iowa University has developed a program that builds skills to address the workforce shortage today and create leaders for tomorrow.”
More than 1.2 million nurses will be needed by 2014, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The increased need is due in part to large numbers of nurses retiring at the same time. Also, with nurses delivering most of the one-on-one care in hospitals and long-term care settings, succession planning – the development of leaders within the nursing workforce – has become critically important. The National Advisory Council on Nurse Education and Practice is recommending that at least two-thirds of the nurse workforce hold a bachelor’s degree by 2010.
“Upper Iowa University has a tradition of developing leaders since 1857 and this new nursing program responds to this call to develop nurse leadership,” said Wimmer.
Registered nurses who become full-time students can complete Upper Iowa University’s program in one year because it is designed to transfer practical knowledge applicable for leadership and career development, as well as deliver education in a flexible manner that best serves nurses. Wimmer added, ““We’ve developed hybrid courses that combine online and classroom learning. We know it is effective, and we think the students will like it because it combines convenience with the chance to form close relationships with fellow students and with faculty in courses that meet in small groups on campus.”
Faculty supporting the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, including Wimmer, are Delano Professor of Science Dr. Rick Klann and adjunct professors Dr. Sheryl Juve, Dr. Lon Butikofer, and Dr. Nancy Maloney.
Upper Iowa University's nursing program requires the successful completion of 11 courses totaling 35 credit hours. The bachelor’s degree requires the completion of a total of 120 semester hours, including transfer credit and credit for coursework completed at Upper Iowa. Applicants must have an RN license, CPR certification and a GPA of 2.5 or higher, among other qualifications, for admission.
For program details, including curriculum plans and admission criteria, visit www.uiu.edu or call 800-553-4150, ext. 2 to speak with an admissions counselor.