SU School of Nursing Announces Enrollment Increase and New 'Fast Track' Program

Salisbury University’s School of Nursing recently announced accelerated program and enrollment increases to place new nurses in the workforce faster to meet growing health care demands. 

“Communities across not only the state but the country need additional nurses now more than ever,” said Dr. Debra Webster, director of SU’s School of Nursing. “Expanding enrollment numbers and creating a fast track degree allows us to help meet those needs while continuing to deliver the top-notch education our program is known for.”

Thanks to a recent $986,344 Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) grant, the School of Nursing expanded enrollment in its first- and second-degree programs, with plans to continue growth the next five years. 

The grant will help provide tools necessary to support enrollment growth such as additional faculty, instructional design and simulation staff, and simulation and clinical education resources.

“We hope to do our part to reduce the strain on high-demand clinical facilities,” said Webster. “We also want anyone who wants to become a nurse to have every opportunity to do so in a reasonable amount of time, whether that’s new interest in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding on other science or medical backgrounds, or starting over in a new career.” 

Those seeking a second-degree bachelor's program for non-nursing college graduates can request admission to a new “fast track” full-time, 12-month option or the standard 16-month program. This curriculum acknowledges the education, career and life experiences of the individual, and requires fewer prerequisites for the nursing courses than the basic baccalaureate nursing program. 

The first “fast track” cohort will begin in fall 2022. Admission applications are open until Saturday, January 15.

For more information visit the School of Nursing webpage. 

Learn more about how SU students and faculty are exploring opportunities for greatness and making tomorrow theirs at www.salisbury.edu.