Last Updated on November 9, 2019 by Indiana University Kokomo
KOKOMO, Ind. – Did you earn a bachelor’s degree, but now want to be a nurse?
In 17 months, that desire can come true, with a new track launching at Indiana University Kokomo.
The School of Nursing will begin a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) program for those who have previously earned a bachelor’s degree in another field, to become a nurse in four semesters.
Dean Susan Hendricks said it’s not a new B.S.N. degree, but a new way to get it, in a short time.
“People who already have a degree bring really good life experience and other educational experiences that help diversify the nursing workforce,” she said. “They tend to be excellent students. They are very successful and sought-after upon completing the program.”
The program is open to people who earned a bachelor’s degree in any field, but some prospective students may need to complete prerequisites. Hendricks encouraged those interested to contact academic advisors in Allied Health Sciences and Nursing at 765-455-9384.
Applications will be accepted starting in January 2020, with the program beginning in the fall 2020 semester. That gives time for potential participants to complete any needed classes during the spring 2020 semester. The first class will complete the degree in December 2021.
Current undergraduate students graduating in May or August 2020 may also apply for admission.
The degree program benefits career changers, and also helps address a looming nursing shortage. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the need for an additional 203,700 new RNs each year through 2026 to fill newly-created positions, and to replace retiring nurses. According to the Bureau’s Employment Projections 2016-2026, registered nursing is listed among the top occupations of job growth.
The American Association of Colleges of Nursing found in its annual survey that more than half of hospitals and other healthcare institutions require new hires to have a B.S.N., rather than an Associate of Science in Nursing.
Hendricks added the program may be attractive to people who earned degrees in other healthcare related fields, but is not limited to those fields.
“Someone with a degree in a language would be a great asset,” she said. “A business degree could set a nurse up to be a leader in health care later in their career. Almost any degree can be transferred into this.”
For more information about the program, contact Hendricks at 765-455-9288 or shendric@iu.edu. For information about admissions and requirements, contact the allied health sciences or nursing offices at 765-455-9384.
Indiana University Kokomo celebrates 75 years as north central Indiana’s choice for higher education.