Concordia University adds new 4-year nursing program
Austin's reputation as a major hub for training nurses has been elevated once again.
Friday, Concordia University officials announced the school’s Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing (BSN) Program was approved by the Texas Board of Nursing.
School officials said while there's a shortage of nurses, there is also a shortage of space for nursing students in university and college programs.
This new program will help to meet both needs. The four-year program will be led Dr. Joy Hinson Penticuff, RN.
The school has created 31 new courses based on latest research. Some of the courses have never been taught anywhere else before.
“Concordia’s Nursing Program is unique in that our entire focus is on the preparation of nurses for the workforce,” Penticuff said.
Dr. Joy Hinson Penticuff
There are many unique aspects to Concordia's new program that are steeped in the school's Christian traditions. A mandatory medical mission is one of them.
“Our program reflects Concordia’s mission to develop Christian leaders by instilling leadership in response to the needs of others,” Penticuff said. “They will be going to Nicaragua, Guatemala, Costa Rica, the Philippines, possibly in the U.S., Alaska, and some of the Indian tribes.”
Penticuff said the program has a smaller faculty-to-student ratio than they typically have.
University officials said the program will enroll 30 students this fall and next spring. The following year, it will increase enrollment to 40 students, and in the 2012-2013 school year, the program will reach capacity at 50 new students per semester.
To find out more about the program click here.