Good news for Nursing students as Joliet Junior College and Illinois State University have agreed for a dual degree program. The agreement will help clear the way for nursing students to go from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree.

JJC President Dr. Judy Mitchell said, “It is our collective duty to provide high quality education and streamline access to that education.” He says that there must be a collective effort to eradicate the nursing shortage across the country. ISU President Dr. Larry Dietz thanked the attendants of the agreement signing.

Dietz said, “What you do is huge, and what you’re going to do is even greater. So congratulations to all those who are entering a very noble profession to make a difference in the lives of so many.” As the agreement is signed, students can simultaneously enroll at both JJC and ISU for completing their bachelor of nursing (BSN) at a faster pace. There will also be a transition from their associate degree in nursing (ADN) to an online BSN program.

Dr. Randy Fletcher, JJC vice president for academic affairs said, “Our students are keenly aware of these pathways in education beyond the associate degree. Many look for opportunities to quicken the route to their educational goal attainment through programs such as dual enrollment.” He also said that the JJC students can boost the economy as they will be able to enter the BSN level at such a faster pace.

Dean of ISU’s Mennonite College of Nursing, Dr. Judy Neubrander is also delighted at this joining of hands. Neubrander said, “This dual enrollment partnership brings together two great nursing programs to provide our students an expedient, valuable, affordable route to a baccalaureate degree.”