Increase the number of nursing graduates by growth and development of accelerated pipelines into the BSN, adapting delivery methods for improved compatibility with the Corps of Cadets, and expanding program delivery to additional campuses
|
Nursing graduates |
AY 2023-2024 (Fall 2023/Spring2024) |
AY 2022-2023 (Fall 2022/Spring2023) |
AY 2021-2022 (Fall 2021/Spring2022) |
|
76/109 |
77/86 |
98/90 |
|
|
Total |
185 |
163 |
188 |
The Department of Nursing is implementing an aggressive growth plan for undergraduate admissions over the next five years to address the evolving healthcare needs of our community. This plan includes launching an Accelerated BSN track, developing a specialized military cohort, and expanding campus facilities.
The primary key performance indicator (KPI) for evaluating the success of this initiative will be the total number of BSN nursing graduates, which will be tracked each semester. Progress will be assessed against both baseline figures (current graduation rates) and our target growth goals. Regular evaluation will ensure the program remains on track to meet its targets and can be adjusted as needed to optimize success.11
The Accelerated BSN track (ABSNT) was launched in Spring 2023 with an initial cohort of 16 students. Since then, the program has experienced significant growth, with the 2024 cohort increasing to 51 students and the 2025 cohort projected to reach 80 students. To further support student success and retention, a dedicated Student Success Coordinator was hired.
In May 2024, 15 ABSNT students successfully graduated, marking a significant milestone for the program. This achievement, combined with a rebound in enrollment in the Traditional BSN track following the COVID-19 pandemic, reflects the overall growth and success of the department.
Looking ahead, continued focus on enhancing student retention and academic support will be critical as the program expands. We will continue to assess student progress, refine support services, and adjust program offerings as needed to maintain momentum and ensure long-term success.
In Fall 2025, the BSN program will expand to the Cumming campus, with an initial cohort of 20 students. Enrollment will increase by 10 students each year, ultimately reaching a maximum capacity of 60 students. Additionally, planning has already begun for the expansion of the BSN program to the Blue Ridge campus, slated for Fall 2026.
Further expansion initiatives include launching the Accelerated BSN track (ABSNT) at the Cumming campus in Summer 2026, followed by the introduction of a military cohort in Dahlonega in Fall 2027. These steps are part of our ongoing efforts to increase access to nursing education and address the growing healthcare needs of our community.
The rapid expansion of the BSN program faces several key challenges, primarily related to securing sufficient funding for faculty, capital improvements, and ongoing operations. While a building project for the Cumming campus expansion was completed in Summer 2024 and construction is underway at the Blue Ridge campus, additional financial support is still needed. Although grants have been secured for some of the required funding, the Department of Nursing (DON) is actively negotiating with community partners to secure further financial resources.
Another challenge is the ongoing shortage of qualified nursing faculty, which could impact the implementation and scaling of the expanded programs. In particular, the rising salaries for nurses in the private sector create a competitive environment, making it necessary to offer attractive faculty compensation packages in order to recruit and retain highly qualified instructors.
