Story by Isabella Utley, Contributing writer

Murray State’s School of Nursing and Health Professions introduced a blended Bachelor of Science in Nursing program through a partnership with Hopkinsville Community College (HCC) this semester.

According to a press release from Murray State, when the program was implemented over 50 students began taking advantage of the new blended BSN program.

Once the student has completed an associate’s degree at HCC  and passed the national licensure exam, they have the opportunity to transfer to Murray State in order to begin the new  RN-to-BSN program.

Peggy Bozarth, HCC professor and director of nursing, said the students will benefit from a more definite and easily tracked completion of the BSN.  

She said the agreement made between the two institutions allows nursing students to take general education courses and some nursing courses at HCC and then easily transfer into the Nursing Program at Murray State.

“This means that students who could not attend a four year university… can now obtain the AAS in Nursing in two years and a BSN in one more full year,” Bozarth said. “It certainly is a win-win for everyone.”

Since the agreement was finalized at the end of the summer, the nursing students entering the HCC Nursing Program were able to take advantage of the partnership.

According to Bozarth,  the 40 accepted students in the HCC program have committed to the blended program between the two institutions.

Bozarth said this provides individuals connected with the Fort Campbell Army Base an opportunity to take the BSN from Murray State as they are transitioning between assignments in the military.

“Graduates of this blended program will succeed in a career that influences the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities,” said Carol Murch, assistant professor and RN-to-BSN program coordinator at Murray State.

She said students can seamlessly transfer to Murray State to continue their studies due to the positive partnership between Murray State and Hopkinsville Community College.

According to a press release from Murray State, Madisonville Community College and Henderson Community College both have agreements similar to the HCC program. There are 11 Madisonville graduates at Murray State in the current fall semester.

According to Murray State’s website, the course is offered in an online format, which allows a wider opportunity for the intellectual growth of adult learners who find it difficult to come on campus for study and coursework.

“I appreciate getting to be a part of this endeavor to make the education process for our students more seamless and affordable,” Bozarth said. “Thank you to Murray State University for being innovative in this approach.”