A Continuing Mission: Development of a Veterans' Baccalaureate Nursing Program.

BACKGROUND

With more than two million veterans returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, programs are needed that prepare veterans for careers in civilian life. Veterans desire to continue their education and require assistance accessing their GI Bill, other financial benefits, receipt of college credit for military training and experience, and adapting to the college environment.

METHOD

A veterans baccalaureate nursing (VBSN) program addresses the challenges of veterans getting into and staying in school. This VBSN program was developed to provide academic structure and support from a dedicated veteran case manager. Policies were created to address the need for student veterans to petition for course credit based on their military training and experience.

RESULTS/CONCLUSION: The VBSN program has been successful, growing from three students to 29 currently enrolled and 34 graduates. This program meets the needs of student veterans while adding to the nursing workforce. .