The UConn School of Nursing is proud to announce its new collaboration with UConn Department of Allied Health Sciences for students interested in pursuing a career as a Registered Nurse. Allied Health Sciences within the College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources, offers students on both the Storrs and Waterbury campuses a 3.5-year plan of study with the opportunity [for students] to apply to the Accelerated BS Nursing (CEIN) program in nursing and earn a BSN within 12 months. The accelerated program is designed for those with a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field.
Students who have completed their undergraduate degree and have been accepted into the Accelerated BS Nursing (CEIN) program will have a hands-on learning experience at one of the top research-intensive universities in the country. In 2022, 94% of CEIN graduates passed their National Council Licensure Examination on their first attempt.
The UConn CEIN program is the most affordable, full-time, 12-month nursing program serving Connecticut, with the added benefit of hands-on learning experience at the state’s flagship, research-intensive university. “I am excited about this collaboration and continued partnership,” shares Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Professor of Undergraduate Programs, Annette T. Maruca PhD, RN, PMH-BC, CNE, CCHP.
Shea Bridenbeck, the School of Nursing’s Recruitment Coordinator, explains that this one year, three semester long program admits once a year in January. Additionally, students who have already completed the admission requirements but hold a bachelor’s degree in another field are eligible to apply. Through a partnership with CT Health Horizons, UConn CEIN nursing students are eligible to receive up to $10,000 in tuition assistance.
Dr. Maruca praises “the work of Dr. Michelle Cole, Associate Clinical Professor and Shea Bridenbeck, Recruitment Coordinator on the collaboration with Allied Health to offer Allied Health students a pathway into nursing this past academic year.” This partnership further opens up the field of nursing, giving these Allied Health students an opportunity to receive a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
“UConn Nursing is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of nurses prepared to meet the healthcare demands of the state,” says Schol of Nursing Dean, Dr. Victoria Vaughan Dickson. “UConn students are exceptional, and this pathway provides the opportunity for students to discover and pursue their interest in Nursing.” She adds that “it is a win-win: for the student, for UConn and for the people of Connecticut!”
“It is partnerships like this that provide opportunities for students while helping to address critical workforce needs,” Justin Nash, Professor and Head of the Department of Allied Health Sciences.
“We appreciate this collaboration with the School of Nursing. Allied health students will graduate a semester early and immediately start on the path to achieving their professional goal of becoming a registered nurse,” Lauren Wilson, Lecturer, Director of the Allied Health Sciences Major, & Director of the Allied Health Sciences Advising Center.
For more information on the Allied Health to BSN CEIN plan of study, please visit, Allied Health to CEIN Program | Certificate Entry into Nursing (CEIN) Program (uconn.edu)
