Glen Oaks Community College and Baker College are partnering to increase the number of bachelor-prepared nurses.
After a decade-long pursuit, state lawmakers passed legislation last summer allowing community college partnerships with four-year colleges or universities in Michigan to offer Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) completion programs. Baker has stepped in as an institution willing to assist with this critical need for BSN nurses.
With a $2 million state grant, GOCC nursing alumni have a zero-cost tuition pathway to furthering their education and can transition into a degree program to complete a BSN beginning as early as this fall. Students entering the program can choose to attend full time or part time.
“After researching nursing completion program proposals at several four-year colleges and universities, we chose Baker College as the best fit for our students,” said Dr. Adam Cloutier, GOCC VP academics. “They offer the program in a cohort format where students can take two classes per term, each lasting eight weeks. In addition, students having to miss a class can jump back into the cohort without having to wait for a specific course sequence.”
Daniel Summers II, Baker College Vice President for Enrollment Management Services, said, “We are taking steps toward addressing the nursing shortages by giving students in our region another pathway to gain this important credential. The education we provide in the BSN program prepares students for greater career opportunities and advancement.”
Randy Hill, Ed.D, Baker College VP for academic affairs, added, “We are creating a seamless educational pathway which has expanded access to higher education resources and allowed for collaboration between faculty and staff across institutions, resulting in shared expertise and innovative teaching practices.”
Currently enrolled students and those interested in the program are encouraged to attend one of two upcoming kickoff events, Wednesday, July 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., or Thursday, July 27 from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Glen Oaks nursing alumni should contact Sara Birch, GOCC dean of health sciences at: 269.294.4287 or at [email protected]. Associate degree prepared nurses from other institutions should contact Sue Kelly, senior admissions advisor, Baker College at 231.247.0780 or [email protected].
To learn more about the program and to apply, click here.
