Thirteen years and counting: Outcomes of a concurrent ASN/BSN enrollment program

摘要

Abstract In their 2011 report, The Future of Nursing , the Institute of Medicine called for 80% of the nursing workforce to be comprised of baccalaureate prepared Registered Nurses by the year 2020. One suggested approach to achieve this goal is the creation of programs that allow students to progress through associate and baccalaureate nursing preparation simultaneously. This paper describes the University of Central Florida's 13-year experience after implementing a Concurrent Enrollment Program. Development and structure of the program, advisement and curriculum details, facilitators and barriers are described. Data on National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses pass rates, completion rates, comparison with traditional RN-BSN students, and progression to graduate school are also included. The Concurrent Program model described here between a specific university and state college partners, demonstrated positive outcomes that support achievement of the Institute of Medicine's goals. Highlights More BSN educated nurses are needed if 80% of RNs are to hold the BSN by 2020. The ASN remains the predominant form of education for the nursing profession. ASN and BSN program collaboration can result in a successful Concurrent Program. A Concurrent Program can have better outcomes than a traditional RN-BSN track.