Shorter University is responding to the needs and demands for health care professionals by adding a nursing program to its list of strong academic programs. Registered Nurses constitute the largest healthcare occupation, with 2.4 million jobs and the demand for nurses (RNs) has never been greater. The nursing shortage is predicted to intensify as baby boomers age and the need for health care grows.

Message from the Dean

Shorter University, with a rich tradition of excellence in education and an innovative vision for the future, decided to prepare nurses for practice with a Baccalaureate Degree (BSN). Healthcare leaders and the Federal Health Resources and Services Administration are calling for baccalaureate preparation for at least two-thirds of the RN workforce. The BSN nurse has the greatest employment flexibility of any entry-level RN (AACN, 2002). Research studies report that higher levels of nursing education are linked with lower patient mortality rates, fewer errors, and greater job satisfaction among RNs (AACN:Fact Sheet June 2008 Creating a More Highly Qualified Nursing Workforce).

The opportunity to develop a new Baccalaureate Degree Nursing Program on a university campus that affirms a commitment to the Christian faith and strives to integrate Christian values in a nurturing student centered learning community is an exciting opportunity. The overall goal for the School of Nursing at Shorter University is to develop a nursing program of distinction that is committed to academic excellence and spiritual integrity while reaching out to both the local and global community through healthcare service.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN) at Shorter University will prepare the nurse of the future. The faculty designed a curriculum to improve health care quality.  The core competencies will focus on patient-centered care, teamwork and collaboration/communication, inclusion of evidenced-based practice, quality improvement, safe practices, and use of informatics.

The nursing program also has a strong community-based and community-focused approach. Students will have the opportunity to participate as a member of many interdisciplinary teams.  In addition, a global study and health care mission abroad component will be required for all nursing students. This opportunity reflects the Christian mission and values of Shorter University and the School of Nursing, while advancing students’ understanding of world cultures. Service learning will also be included as a vital part of the nursing program. Each clinical nursing course will include a requirement of volunteer participation with a community service agency.  Clinical practice will include a technologically enhanced learning environment that includes human patient simulations.  

	Dr. Vanice W. Roberts, DSN, RN Dean of Nursing, Shorter University Professor of Nursing 20 Riverbend Drive SW, Rome, GA 30161 Telephone: 706-233-7464 e-mail: vroberts@shorter.edu
	April Allen Administrative Assistant 20 Riverbend Drive SW, Rome, GA 30161 Telephone: 706-233-7464 e-mail: aallen@shorter.edu
	Pamela B. Dunagan, MSN, RN Assistant Professor, School of Nursing Location: 20 Riverbend Mall, Rome, GA 706-233-7464 pdunagan@shorter.edu
	Roxanne Johnston, MSN, RN Assistant Professor, School of Nursing Location: 20 Riverbend Mall, Rome, GA 706-233-7464 rjohnston@shorter.edu