The East Tennessee State University College of Nursing is leading an initiative set to strengthen our region’s nursing workforce.
The College of Nursing has received a $250,000 grant to launch a new EMS-to-BSN Pathway, creating opportunities for experienced emergency medical services (EMS) professionals to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing while helping address the growing need for registered nurses across Northeast Tennessee.
Funded through the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development's Rural Healthcare Workforce Development Initiative, the grant will support current EMTs and paramedics living in Carter, Greene, Hawkins, Johnson, Sullivan, Unicoi and Washington counties as they pursue a nursing degree at ETSU.
The new pathway recognizes the valuable experience EMS professionals bring to patient care while providing the academic, financial and student support needed to successfully transition into nursing careers.
"This grant reflects the State of Tennessee's commitment to growing its healthcare workforce from within," said Dr. Dena A. Evans, dean and professor of the ETSU College of Nursing and principal investigator for the project. "EMS professionals already possess exceptional clinical skills, resilience and a dedication to service. Through this funding, ETSU will help transform that experience into nursing careers, creating a sustainable pathway that benefits individuals, healthcare employers and rural communities across our region."
Through the grant, participants will receive support for program-related expenses. Students will also benefit from proactive academic advising, tutoring and academic coaching through the College of Nursing’s Academic Student Success Center and Office of Student Success.
"Northeast Tennessee's nursing shortage is one our rural hospitals feel every day, and the answer has to be built here at home," said Dr. Amber Arsenault, assistant professor in the ETSU College of Nursing and co-principal investigator for the project. "Paramedics and EMTs already bring the clinical judgment and patient-care experience that translates directly into nursing, and they already know and serve these communities. This grant opens a clear path from EMS into nursing, giving them the support to grow their careers right here while turning existing talent into the registered nurses our region urgently needs."
To be eligible, applicants must be licensed EMTs or paramedics who have earned an Associate of Applied Science degree or higher, reside in one of the program's seven eligible Northeast Tennessee counties and be admitted to ETSU. Eligible participants who complete the program's Request More Information form will receive an application fee waiver before submitting an application for admission.
The EMS-to-BSN Pathway is designed to strengthen the region's nursing workforce by helping experienced healthcare professionals advance into registered nursing roles while continuing to serve the communities they know best.
EMS professionals interested in learning more about the pathway, eligibility requirements and how to apply are encouraged to visit the ETSU College of Nursing website at: etsu.edu/nursing/undergrad/emstobsn.php
