ELKO – Great Basin College (GBC) proudly announces the launch of an innovative Paramedic/Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Registered Nurse (RN) Bridge program, providing a new pathway into the state’s #1 ranked Nursing Program, GBC’s Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nursing.
This bridge pathway is designed for nationally certified Paramedics and LPNs who aspire to elevate their career in healthcare by earning their AAS Nursing degree in under a year. This pathway features a comprehensive five-credit bridge course, NURS 185: Paramedic/LPN Bridge to Registered Nursing, which seamlessly integrates students into the esteemed GBC Nursing Program.
“We are very excited to offer this pathway program,” said Associate Vice President for Faculty Success and incoming GBC Interim President Dr. Amber Donnelli. “By creating this pathway, we are not only helping to advance the careers of these professionals but helping to build a stronger, more diverse nursing workforce in Nevada” added Dr. Staci Warnert, GBC Dean of Health Sciences and Human Services.
A survey conducted by GBC’s institutional research department, sent to all Nevada licensed LPNs as well as current and past GBC Paramedic students, found that 94.89% of respondents expressed interest in this expedited 9-month bridge program.
This initiative is a response to Senate Bill 375, which allocates funding to Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) institutions to expand the state’s nursing workforce.
Thanks to this funding, Great Basin College has acquired state-of-the-art training equipment and advanced simulation manikins, ensuring students receive the highest quality education. Additionally, the funding has enabled the hiring of full-time nursing faculty in both Elko and Pahrump, further enhancing support for students and access to quality education for rural areas.
The AAS nursing program prepares students to pass the NCLEX licensure exam and practice as safe, competent nurses. GBC holds a 100% NCLEX pass rate and will ensure the bridge students are held to the same high standards of excellence.
This program has received approval from the Nevada State Board of Nursing, and GBC anticipates full Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) approval before the 2024-2025 academic year.