Delaware Tech awards first bachelor of science in nursing degrees
Delaware Technical Community College hosted an historic event Dec. 10, when graduates were awarded the institution’s first bachelor’s degrees. A total of 21 students from around Delaware, who work in healthcare facilities throughout the state, received their bachelor of science in nursing degrees in a special commencement held for the first graduates.
“Each of you have been pioneers. The first 21,” said Delaware Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long as she addressed the graduates. “I welcome you to what is widely considered the most respected profession in the United States. You will touch the lives of so many throughout your career … a career path that brings out the best of our humanity, that serves others whose lives literally depend on it.”
The bachelor of science in nursing program was approved by the Delaware Tech Board of Trustees in 2016 in response to a significant need in the state’s workforce. The first cohort of 60 students started in January 2017, and currently there are 270 students enrolled in the program. Dec. 10 was the first time in the college’s more than 50-year history that bachelor’s degrees were awarded to Delaware Tech students.
“The creation of this program demonstrates our commitment to look at the economy, listen to our business partners, and look at new ways to support Delaware’s workforce,” said Delaware Tech President Dr. Mark Brainard. “It demonstrates how creative and dynamic and nimble we will have to be to meet the challenges that lie ahead.”
The bachelor of science in nursing program is an online degree program designed for current RNs who are ready to pursue the next level of their nursing education while working. The program provides licensed registered nurses with baccalaureate-level education. It builds upon the foundational knowledge and skills attained in previous nursing courses and experiences. Baccalaureate education prepares professional nurses with a broad knowledge base for practice with expanded roles encompassing advocacy, leadership, and scholarship. Coursework emphasizes evidence-based nursing practice through a holistic approach enabling graduates to be designers, coordinators, leaders and managers of collaborative care.
