Midway University is implementing a Fast-Track Associate Degree Nursing Program. Partly, the aim is to see more nurses move into the hospital setting sooner. It’s based on a dual credit approach where high school students take courses in areas like English, College Algebra and Anatomy and Physiology with lab. These classes would normally be taken by students in the first semester. Dr. Diane Chlebowy is Midway Health Sciences Dean.
“We’ve had students who graduated from our associate degree in nursing program and within 12 months, one year, they’ve actually earned their bachelor’s degree. So, it just really does speed everything up in trying to really help with the shortage of nurses in practice,” said Chlebowy.
Taking this approach can mean cutting a semester off a student’s timeline, saving time and money. Dr. Chlebowy noted the school nursing program already has a high pass rate of over 90%.
“We’re very proud of that high pass rate, which then allows us to admit more students. We could certainly admit above that 65 number, which I anticipate we will be doing in the fall of 2024,” said Chlebowy.
Chlebowy said the fast-track dual credit strategy is helpful to area hospitals, looking for nurses.
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