In an effort to proactively meet the regional demand for additional bachelor’s prepared nurses, Mount Mary University and the Waukesha County Technical College have joined forces to create a unique “Nursing 1-2-1” program.

This program gives high school graduates and transfer students an opportunity to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing, licensure as a Registered Nurse and then seamlessly move to completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree within four years. By leveraging the skills and expertise of both institutions, the Nursing 1-2-1 program offers lower cost per credit than regional competitors offering similar degrees.

Students take prerequisite and general studies courses in year 1 of the program at Mount Mary; complete the Associate Degree in Nursing and licensure as a Registered Nurse at WCTC in years 2 and 3; and complete the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in the year 4 at Mount Mary University.

Students entering the Nursing 1-2-1 program can enjoy the full range of benefits associated with both Mount Mary and WCTC, including the option of living on the Mount Mary campus. A seamless curriculum and course schedule across both institutions provide the opportunity for the completion of both an associate’s degree and bachelor’s degree in four years.

“This unique program combines the expertise and resources of Mount Mary University and WCTC, including highly experienced and recognized faculty, advanced technology and a creative and collaborative learning environment, with opportunities for firsthand leadership experience while in the program,” said Mount Mary President Christine Pharr, Ph.D.

As the health care industry reforms, particularly for meeting the needs underserved populations, nurse leaders are vital to redesign of care. Earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing that develops leadership skills will advance nurses as they work together as part of interdisciplinary teams.

The Wisconsin Center for Nursing projects that by 2040, the workforce shortage of RNs will reach nearly 43 percent if no changes are made to program capacities and infrastructure today. The WCN recommends expanding nursing program capacity to meet the projected demand for 7,500 additional graduates annually by 2020.