In the face of an aging population and a surge in chronic health conditions, the demand for licensed practical nurses is soaring. One Utah college, Fortis College, is stepping up to meet this need with a new associate's degree program. This streamlined path to a practical nursing degree offers graduates the opportunity to gain real-life nursing experience in hospitals or long-term care facilities within just 15 months. This is a more accessible and cost-effective alternative to the traditional route of obtaining a registered nursing certificate, which often requires additional time and financial investment. Fortis College's President, Vanessa Lausch, emphasizes the program's ability to cater to students seeking a career in nursing without the burden of a bachelor's degree. She highlights the financial and time constraints associated with pursuing a bachelor's degree in nursing, noting that prerequisite courses and the uncertainty of program acceptance can be significant barriers. Nicole Webb, Director of Admissions at Fortis, underscores the practical opportunities that await graduates upon completion of the 15-month program, including roles in hospital settings, emergency rooms, and long-term healthcare. The demand for nurses is indeed a pressing issue, as confirmed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which projects a 6% expansion in the registered nursing workforce over the next decade, with over 193,000 annual openings anticipated due to retirements and other factors. Fortis College is currently accepting applications for this innovative program, addressing a critical gap in the healthcare industry.
