Three smart paths for future nurses
Augustana students with the passion of becoming a nurse choose one of three paths for phenomenal preparation:
• Direct-entry 2+2 bachelor of science (B.S.N.) in nursing, with two years at Augustana followed by two years at Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences
• Four-year bachelor of arts (B.A.) pre-nursing program with a major in biology or psychology
• Accelerated, six-year dual-degree master’s program in which students complete the B.A. at Augustana, with an overlap during the senior year, and the master of science in nursing (M.S.N.) at Trinity College.
Along with a liberal arts foundation, an Augustana education for future nurses includes more science study than a four-year B.S.N. at many other schools. Augustana also provides built-in laboratory experience, in which students learn through experience alongside professors in excellent facilities, and so many opportunities to grow as a leader outside the classroom and lab.
“I didn’t expect the countless opportunities,” said Augustana graduate Gwendolyn Flannery, Class of 2024, now completing her B.S.N. at Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences.
“I traveled to two countries and had two separate internships, all of which pushed me to learn more about myself, others, and how far my Augie education and experience could take me.”
Why a liberal arts start for nurses?
Nurses with a liberal arts background are better prepared for the future of health care. They have more understanding of different cultures and disciplines, plus skills in critical thinking, communication and problem-solving. This means they can more quickly address complex issues in real time, and better treat patients from many backgrounds—essential skills for excellent nurses.
Seeing the bigger picture of health — and not only applying technical skills — leads to better health and well-being for patients. Because of these better patient outcomes, nurses with a BA or liberal arts background can take on greater responsibility, which can lead to higher-paying positions.
Why Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences?
Augustana students can continue on for an advanced degree at any nursing school in the country. What Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences offers is more hands-on practice than at many other schools, and a great (and local!) location.
Trinity College provides students access to the same electronic health record system utilized by area hospitals, for a seamless transition into the workforce. With a state-of-the-art teaching lab and guaranteed local clinical placements, Trinity College of Nursing & Health Sciences provides excellent training for nurses.
Students who complete the dual-degree MSN are setting themselves up early for a successful career. The efficiency and savings of the overlap — plus results that lead to higher pay, more responsibility and greater options — make the Augustana-Trinity dual-degree master’s program a smart path for future nurses.
Here’s how it works.
