Research College of Nursing announces first-ever fast track bachelor's degree pathway
Kansas City, Mo. — Research College of Nursing (RCoN) — the region’s largest and longest-running single-purpose nursing institution and a leader in clinical education — announces a new fast-track Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) pathway designed to allow high-performing students to complete their nursing degree in just 12 months.
Approved by the Missouri State Board of Nursing, the program is the first accelerated fast-track option of its kind in the region for students without a prior bachelor’s degree. The new pathway enables qualified students to move more quickly into the nursing workforce while maintaining RCoN’s rigorous academic and clinical standards.
“Unlike many accelerated BSN programs, Research College of Nursing’s fast-track option allows students to begin working as nurses sooner while also reducing the educational debt many graduates carry,” said Amy Townsend, PhD, RN, president of Research College of Nursing. “For nearly 120 years, RCoN has been deeply rooted in this community with a legacy of excellence in nursing education. This new fully accredited program reflects our continued commitment to future nurses and to strengthening the nursing profession.”
The launch of the fast-track program coincides with the opening of the new $36.5 million Research College of Nursing campus, which welcomed students in January. The 78,000-square-foot facility includes an innovative Center for Clinical Advancement located on the campus of Research Medical Center. The center expands access to hands-on clinical education while helping meet the region’s current and future healthcare workforce needs.
“Our first cohort of students for the fast-track option begins this May, with an application deadline of April 1,” Townsend added. “The first step for interested students is to connect with a member of our admissions team to discuss questions, eligibility, and next steps.”
“For decades, HCA Midwest Health and Research Medical Center has demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing the national nursing shortage by investing in education and clinical training,” said Kirk McCarty, president and CEO of Research Medical Center. “As a Research College of Nursing graduate, it is especially meaningful to see another significant investment in future nurses – one that strengthens both patient care and our region’s healthcare workforce while also providing meaningful benefits to students.”
Across the country, healthcare workers and aspiring nurses are saddled with student loan debt. Recognizing the vital importance of meeting the financial and emotional needs of healthcare students and colleagues, HCA Midwest Health offers a Work Loan Forgiveness program. The program, which reinforces the college’s commitment to advancing the future of nursing, provides up to 75% tuition assistance for BSN students at Research College of Nursing for a two-year service commitment.
Applicants can schedule admission appointments in a variety of convenient ways: Online, Admissions Appointment, contact Derick Jolliff-Cunigan at (816) 823-0517 or simply go to Admissions Appointment to self-schedule.
Research College of Nursing is a fully accredited institution preparing nurses to thrive in complex healthcare environments. Students benefit from a unique pairing of academic excellence and the strength of HCA Midwest Health, the region’s leading healthcare system. RCoN is accredited for Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree programs. HCA Healthcare, the parent company of HCA Midwest Health, is a national leader in clinical education and continues to make similar investments in nursing education nationwide.
For more information on the Research College of Nursing and its dedication to educating nurses, visit the Research College website.