The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation: New Careers in Nursing Scholarship Program recently awarded Belmont University’s School of Nursing a $100,000 grant in an effort to help alleviate the nursing shortage and increase the diversity of nursing professionals. The scholarships will be awarded to new students who already have a non-nursing college degree and plan to enroll in Belmont’s School of Nursing accelerated program. The intent of the grant is to attract more men, minorities and those who are economically disadvantaged into the field of nursing. All scholarship recipients will participate in an individualized mentoring and leadership program. Since financial aid is limited for students enrolled in accelerated baccalaureate programs, these scholarships will enable students to complete the program who would otherwise be unable to do so.
Associate Professor Dr. Carrie Harvey said, “Prior experience and knowledge enable our accelerated students to successfully complete the rigorous program in four semesters. This track allows students to obtain a bachelor’s degree in nursing in 16 months, enabling graduates to enter the nursing workforce quicker. In addition to alleviating the nursing shortage, our graduates possess the skills that allow them to be successful and productive leaders in the field of nursing.”
According to Dr. Chris Algren, associate dean of nursing at Belmont, “Nurse employers value the maturity and experience that graduates of accelerated programs bring to the workplace. The typical accelerated nursing student is motivated, mature and an excellent learner. We are committed to the academic success of students at Belmont and are appreciative to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation for assisting us to meet the needs of these students.”
Minimum requirements for scholarship applicants include a prior bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, a minimum G.P.A. of 3.0 in core math and science courses, completion of all prerequisites, a commitment to the intensive program, as well as completed applications for Belmont and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Student participants will receive one scholarship during the first year of enrollment in the Accelerated Second Degree Nursing Option.
