Great Plains Health and the UNMC College of Nursing are pleased to collaborate to bring accelerated clinicals in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program to North Platte.
In 12 months, qualified applicants who hold a bachelor’s degree can complete the UNMC Accelerated BSN program while participating in the Clinical Pathway Partnership at Great Plains Health. Students choosing this pathway complete their didactic courses at the UNMC Kearney campus while receiving exceptional clinical training at Great Plains Health. This immersive clinical training gives students the chance to get to know the culture, values and clinical practices in depth at Great Plains Health.
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"It’s no secret that we need more nurses across the state," said Ivan Mitchell, CEO of Great Plains Health. "There are many wonderful efforts in North Platte and in Nebraska to help train the next generation of health care professionals. We are pleased to deploy another strategy to encourage nursing careers."
Nebraska is facing a growing shortage of nurses. In 2020, the state faced a shortage of about 4,100 nurses; by 2025, the Nebraska Center for Nursing estimates shortfalls exceeding 5,400 nurses. This prediction takes into account the 3.8% predicted growth as nurses graduate from nursing programs and enter the workforce.
The unique educational pathway is designed to help students who are passionate about health care and want to take the next step in their career as quickly as possible while being immersed in the clinical environment of Great Plains Health.
"This is a wonderful opportunity for students to fast-track a nursing career and get in-depth clinical experience with Great Plains Health," said UNMC College of Nursing Dean Juliann Sebastian, PhD. "The UNMC College of Nursing is proud to partner with Great Plains Health to make nursing education more accessible and also enhance the BSN pipeline in our state."
Ken Zeiger, director of student services for the UNMC College of Nursing, said the partnership will be beneficial to many. "This partnership will impact our students' lives in a positive way by shaping education and career opportunities that also benefit our rural Nebraska communities and provide patients with the best in care."
Applications for the Clinical Pathway Partnership are now being accepted, and opportunities for tuition and housing are available. The first cohort of students will begin in 2023.
Applicants must hold 58 credit hours of required prerequisites in the sciences and general studies, which may be completed through the applicant’s exiting bachelor’s degree.
"This is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to break into nursing – or take the next step in their health care career – and make an immediate impact on our community," Tina Pate, chief nursing officer of Great Plains Health, said. "Students will receive an outstanding education through UNMC, coupled with immersive clinical experience at Great Plains Health. We will be alongside these nursing students through every part of their journey."
To learn more and apply, visit the Kearney Accelerated Program online.