What: Mesa Community College’s newest nursing program allows paramedics to fast-track their education and become qualified as an RN in one year. The tailored program will build on existing skills and eliminate repeat content or coursework already mastered by paramedics. A summer transition course will provide additional training that is not included in paramedic curriculum. The initial co-hort will be filled with the first 20 paramedics that meet program admission requirements (see website for complete list of prerequisites). The pilot program begins Summer 2006 with an expected graduation in Spring 2007. Additional grant monies allow MCC to expand the current nursing department rather than give existing seats to paramedics.
Why: The nation’s nursing shortage encourages innovative approaches to educating students and preparing them for successful nursing careers. As the first-of-it-kind in the state, this program provides an effective solution because many paramedics already have the background and experiences necessary for nursing. Statewide response has been overwhelming, with several rural sites offering to sponsor students to obtain much-needed staff.
Information Sessions: September 15th , at 6 p.m., in room NU158,
November 8th at 6 p.m. in room NU161
Where: Mesa Community College, Southern & Dobson Campus
1833 W. Southern Ave., Mesa, AZ 85202
Additional Information:
Program Website - http://www.mc.maricopa.edu/dept/d31/nur/
Program Coordinator- Pam Bischoff, pbischoff@elhsoft.com for applications and pre-requisite information.
For additional information on educational and scholarship
opportunities visit www.mc.maricopa.edu.
