With a nationwide nursing shortage expected to hit critical levels over the next decade, Concordia University-Portland is stepping up to significantly expand its nursing degree programs and facilities for students.
Concordia University’s College of Health & Human Services is offering a new,accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) degree program, building upon the university’s decade-long track record of graduating caring and competent nurses with a heart for service.
The 16-month ABSN degree is designed to be accessible for students continuing their education or shifting careers. The program combines online coursework with hands-on experience and clinical rotations at top healthcare facilities. There will be three start dates each year, with the first scheduled for January 2017.
“As the demand for nurses increases in our community, Concordia is committed to providing the latest and most advanced educational options for students,” says Dr. Sarah Sweitzer, Dean of Concordia University’s College of Health and Human Services. “Concordia’s Accelerated BSN allows students to earn the same quality degree in a concentrated timeframe, so graduates can serve the community as soon as possible.”
Portland’s health care sector is strong and growing, with the demand for nurses higher than ever, in part due to the rapidly aging baby boomer population, as well as recently expanded access to care under health care reform. According to recent labor trend reports, health care is leading the growth and, within the sector, nurses are in highest demand. The average salary for BSN-educated RNs is $83,800, according to theUnited States Bureau of Labor Statistics, ranking Oregon as the fourth highest paying state for registered nurses in the country.
