Apr 12, 2014 01:53 PM EDT By Jaleesa Baulkman, UniversityHerald Reporter

William Peace University in North Carolina is expanding its curriculum to include a Bachelor's program specifically designed for Registered Nurses with an Associate's Degree in Nursing or Diploma in Nursing, school officials announced.

Beginning in the 2014 fall semester, the RN to BSN will be offered online in the School of Professional Studies (SPS).

"We understand the need to provide our students with up-to-date curriculum in an ever-evolving job market," Debra M. Townsley, Ph.D., president of William Peace University, said in a statement. "We expect the RN to BSN to develop into a flagship program that will help our students land leading roles in the careers of tomorrow."

The program will be led by Dr. Molly Curry, director of Health Sciences Programs and associate professor at William Peace University, according to school officials.
Curry, who has spent nearly 20 years in higher education and the health industry, will be responsible for developing and maintaining the program's curriculum, accreditation, and overall outcomes, as well as teaching courses, recruiting students, and implementing quality improvement measures.

"I am thrilled to be a part of the William Peace University community and helping establish this program," Curry said in a statement. "Nurses are more in-demand than ever and need the skills to lead the transformation of healthcare. We believe WPU can be the launching point for established RNs to further achieve their career and life goals."

School officials said the program will be among the most affordable and competitive RN to BSN programs in the area. Additionally, graduates will have lifetime access to Career Services at WPU, and the opportunity to work individually with trained advisors who will help them chart the next step in their professional lives. A total of 120 credit hours will be required to earn the B.S in Nursing.

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