Rend Lake College News

RLC and SIUE streamline RN to BSN path for nurses

Written by Reece Rutland | May 3, 2019 5:00:00 AM

INA, Ill. (May 3, 2019) - There has never been a better time to train for a great job in nursing. You can now earn a bachelor’s degree in the field without leaving the area, thanks to a new offer from Rend Lake College and Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville.  

RLC and SIUE have teamed up to offer an accelerated Bachelor of Nursing track. Students can take classes at RLC for three years and begin a job in their profession, while working online to obtain their BSN from SIUE.

That means a less expensive, more convenient path to a booming local industry.

“Our agreement with SIUE allows students to complete their general education courses at Rend Lake College, earning an associate’s degree in nursing, then complete their baccalaureate courses online with SIUE in as little as one year,” explained RLC Associate Vice President of Career and Technical Education and Student Support Kim Wilkerson. “Since SIUE offers an online program, our graduates can stay in our local area and begin their careers while continuing their education. While this program is demanding, it is a great option for our students and very affordable.”

“The partnership between RLC and the SIUE School of Nursing demonstrates a mutual commitment of offering high-quality, affordable and accessible education to students who want to become nurses and advance within their profession,” said Laura Bernaix, PhD, dean of the SIUE School of Nursing.  “This partnership will undoubtedly contribute toward ensuring a robust nursing workforce in southern Illinois.”

Students at RLC right now can benefit from the agreement. The program was ratified to be active August, 1, 2018. That means those currently enrolled in RLC’s Nursing Program can take advantage of the opportunity immediately upon graduating this month.   

Those already in the nursing field now have an outstanding opportunity to build an associate degree into a B.S.N. and advance their career
all while continuing to work.  

Seats in this new accelerated program are going to fill up fast. To see a class schedule, visit www.rlc.edu/nursing. Get detailed information by calling (618) 437-5321 Ext. 1763.

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