Bethel University launches new nursing degree pathways

Bethel University has launched two new nursing degree pathways for its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. The new pathways include a direct-entry method for first-year and transfer students and an LPN to BSN pathway for working nurses. These two new pathways are intended to remove barriers to a nursing education and help fill open positions as the state continues to face an ongoing shortage of nurses.

According to an article on Bethel University's website, President Dr. Perry Moulds was quoted as saying of the new nursing pathways, "Tennessee needs nurses, and Bethel is answering that call from both directions. We are welcoming students into the profession earlier and helping the nurses already serving our communities go further. That is what it means to equip individuals for a life of service." 

The first new pathway, which is direct entry for first-year students and transfer students, will allow students to begin their nursing coursework right away, without needing to apply for the program, complete pre-requisites, or compete for a spot in the program. Students will be directly admitted into the nursing program during their first semester at the university given that they meet the stated criteria for program entrance.

Interim Provost Joe Hames said, "Direct Entry means we are telling students something powerful the moment they choose Bethel: we believe in you. You do not have to prove yourself twice. We are ready to walk this journey with you from the very first day of class." 

The LPN to BSN pathway will remove the traditional requirement of an associate degree or transferred college credits for LPNs to begin earning a bachelor degree and will instead allow entrance to individuals who have an LPN license without any other coursework or degrees. The hybrid program will allow students to complete online coursework and in-person intensives on campus, as well as clinical hours completed in their own community. 

Ashley Johnson, the interim director of the nursing program, said, "This pathway allows students to continue progressing professionally while developing the knowledge, leadership, and clinical judgment necessary to provide excellent patient care. LPNs bring something to the classroom you cannot teach. Real experience caring for real patients." 

Each pathway will lead to a Bachelor Degree in Nursing and will position students for roles as nurses and for future educational opportunities that can lead them to becoming a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or nurse educator.

Delecia Parker, interim dean of the College of Health Sciences, said, "In our nursing program, you are not a number; you are known. Our faculty walk alongside students through every challenge, every clinical rotation, every breakthrough. That kind of relationship changes how students learn and who they become as nurses." 

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