As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, so too does the way we prepare the next generation of nurses. From innovative training models and technology integration to nationwide efforts addressing faculty shortages and student support, nursing education is making headlines. Changes in nursing education are making waves—here we highlight some of the latest developments shaping the future of nursing programs across the country.
Second-Degree Nursing Program to launch at Penn State Behrend
It is not uncommon for individuals to reevaluate their career paths after graduating with their baccalaureate degree. For many who view the nursing profession as a fulfilling and secure alternative, the Penn State Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing’s second-degree option provides an accelerated opportunity to obtain a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) and enter the health care field, said Rae Brown, associate dean of Undergraduate Nursing Education.
New Jersey City University Announces Revamping of State-of-the-Art Nursing Education Center
New Jersey City University (NJCU) has announced the revamping of its Nursing Education Center (NEC), housed in a newly renovated state-of-the-art facility in Rossey Hall on the university’s main campus in Jersey City. The enhanced center reflects NJCU’s continued commitment to delivering high-impact, hands-on education that prepares nursing students for the evolving demands of the healthcare field. The center reopened for students on June 12, 2025.
UC Berkeley Extension and Samuel Merritt University Partner to Launch Streamlined Pathway to a BSN Degree
UC Berkeley Extension and Samuel Merritt University (SMU) are proud to announce a collaborative 2+2 linkage pathway designed to support aspiring nurses in achieving their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. This innovative partnership provides students with a clear, structured route from preparatory coursework at UC Berkeley Extension to completing their nursing education at SMU.
Dickinson State University Welcomes Melissa Wagner as BSN Coordinator and Nurse Administrator in Training
Dickinson State University is excited to announce the hiring of Melissa Wagner as the new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Coordinator and Nurse Administrator in Training. A dedicated and passionate nurse educator, Wagner brings a wealth of experience in long-term care, clinical instruction, and nursing education leadership. She will lead efforts to build and grow DSU’s BSN program and is poised to become the university’s next Nurse Administrator upon completion of her Doctor of Nursing Practice, which she has already started.
The NEC Model of Cooperative Education: A Bold Response to the Nursing Workforce Crisis
New England College proudly spotlights the transformative work of Dr. Angie McPhee-Smith—DNP, EdD, RN, CNE, and Dean of Nursing and Health Professions—and Dr. Emily Higgins—DNP, MSN, RN, ONC, Academic Practice Partner and Student Placement Coordinator at Concord Hospital Health System. Together, these visionary leaders are reshaping the landscape of nursing education through NEC’s cooperative Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, a bold initiative addressing the critical challenges of today’s healthcare workforce.
Competency-Based Education: Transforming Nursing for Better Patient Outcomes
In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, nursing education plays a pivotal role in preparing professionals to meet the complex demands of patient care. Dr. Joy Longo, Associate Dean of Academic Programs at Florida Atlantic University’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, highlights how competency-based education (CBE) is shaping the future of nursing.
Virtual reality, real skills: Simulations are offering a fresh approach to nursing education
Employers report that recent graduates find it challenging to transition into the fast-paced, unpredictable realities of patient care. Immersive virtual reality lets VCU nursing students dive into high-stakes scenarios, make mistakes safely and build real-world confidence before they step into clinical practice.
SRU adds new 1+2+1 nursing pathway to help address RN shortage
Pennsylvania is facing a critical shortage of nurses, with recent reported vacancy rates of 30% for registered nurses who provide direct care and an anticipated shortfall of more than 20,000 RNs in the state by 2026 is among the highest in the nation. Slippery Rock University is helping provide an immediate solution at the lowest possible cost to future nurses by introducing a new nursing degree pathway.
St. John Fisher Wegmans School of Nursing earns re-accreditation from national agency
The St. John Fisher Wegmans School of Nursing has earned national re-accreditation. The full 10-year re-accreditation comes from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The U.S. Secretary of Education recognizes the national agency to oversee the accreditation of bachelor’s and graduate-degree nursing education programs. The CCNE sets the standards for the education of nurses.
