Kellogg Community College receives grant from Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential for nursing program transfer pathway to Western Michigan University

Kellogg Community College has received a $2 million grant from the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential (MiLEAP) that will give graduates of its Associate Degree in Nursing program the opportunity to continue on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Western Michigan University at a reduced cost.

According to an article on Kellogg Community College’s website, Dr. Lisa Singleterry, the Director of the Bronson School of Nursing at Western Michigan University, was quoted as saying, “The RN to BSN program was the first nursing program at WMU 30 years ago. We have a long history of supporting nurses in the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo community, helping them earn their BSN, impacting health outcomes in our communities.” She also commented that Western Michigan University is “very happy to partner with Kellogg Community College to provide a pathway for KCC graduates to earn their BSN degree.”

The grant, called the ADN-to-BSN Completion Grant, gives the opportunity for ADN graduates from Kellogg Community College to complete courses that are required for transfer to Western Michigan University’s BSN program at no cost to the student. To be eligible for the opportunity, a student must have graduated from an Associate Degree of Nursing program at Kellogg Community College. While most of the required credits for entrance into Western’s nursing program will be covered by courses taken by the student in Kellogg Community College’s associate program, there are some that are not covered. As part of this transfer opportunity, students will have their tuition covered for the remaining courses they need, up to five courses. This will save students about $2,600. After completing those required courses, students will be able to apply for the online Bachelor of Science in Nursing program through Western Michigan University.

Dr. Jennifer Rodriguez, the interim director of Nursing at Kellogg Community College, noted that these savings are important for students who are working their way up in their education and career. She said, “One of the beautiful things about nursing is the ability to sit for boards and start working as an RN with an associate degree. This education provides a solid foundation for the novice nurse generalist to build upon with further education and professional growth. The BSN degree offers advanced courses in nursing including community health, leadership and management, while also preparing them for potential career advancement.”

In addition to the opportunity to save students money while pursuing their nursing degrees, the grant will also fund additional staff, technology, and equipment within the Kellogg Community College School of Nursing. 

Of these additions to the School of Nursing, Rodriguez noted, “While we have a robust simulation department in Nursing at KCC, the additional faculty and staff coupled with the simulation equipment that was purchased with grant funds will help increase critical thinking while providing a safe learning environment bridging the gap between theory and practice.”

Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig, the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Western Michigan University, shared his thoughts on the partnership between the two institutions, saying, “By strengthening our partnership with Kellogg, we are making a significant impact on our students’ ability to achieve their educational goals and fulfill their potential in the health care field. This exemplifies our dedication to supporting our students and addressing the growing needs of the health care industry in Michigan.”

For more information about Kellogg Community College, visit the school’s website.

For more information about Western Michigan University, visit the school’s website.