ATHENS – In a move to help answer a critical nursing shortage and an ease for nursing students, Northeast Alabama Community College and Athens State are establishing joint enrollment nursing program.
The two schools recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a Fast-Track/Joint Enrollment Bachelor of Science in Nursing program that will allow students to receive their associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in nursing simultaneously.
Students will be enrolled in nursing courses concurrently at both institutions and have the opportunity to graduate in separate ceremonies with separate diplomas.
“We are excited to add Northeast Alabama Community College as a collaborative community college partner offering the Fast-Track BSN. The Fast-Track is a wonderful opportunity for motivated nursing students at NACC,” said Dr. Mark Reynolds, chief nurse administrator at Athens State. “This opportunity provides time and cost-saving for the future-nurse to gain additional skills and expertise along with the capability to move into advanced-practice education more quickly.
“The collaborative efforts between both institutions indicates a commitment to the region to produce knowledgeable registered nurses who are aptly prepared to provide quality patient care.”
The fast-track BSN program with NACC will launch in Fall 2025. Athens State also offers an RN to BSN degree program which provides a pathway for success to registered nurses already working in their field to complete their baccalaureate degree in nursing.
“The NACC faculty and I are thrilled for this wonderful opportunity for the NACC nursing students,” said Dr. Myrna Williamson, NACC Nursing Program director. “We are looking forward to working closely with Athens in this partnership to offer this beneficial program to qualified students.”
For more information, visit www.athens.edu/BSN.
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