Methodist College More Than Just Nursing

Beginning in Fall 2012, Methodist College of Nursing will offer two newly approved programs that will expand the College’s curriculum beyond nursing, resulting in a name change to Methodist College to better reflect the wider variety of offerings available. The new Health Science Degree and Gerontology Certification programs will give students a wider variety of health-related career paths to choose from.

Dr. Kimberly Johnston, President of the College, said the new programs were added after assessing the need for health science education in the community. “In working with community college administrators, speaking with community leaders, conducting surveys and staying up-to-date with national trends in nursing and health care education, we were able to identify educational programs that are in demand by the citizens of local and surrounding communities.”

The purpose of the Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Sciences is to prepare graduates of health science fields such as physical Therapy Assistants, Radiologic Technicians, and other associate degree health science programs to become leaders and managers within health care organizations as well as prepare for graduate level degree education. . The curriculum will provide insight into administrative practices including supervision, strategic planning, and change management, as well as quality assurance, policy and fiscal responsibility.

The purpose of the Gerontology Certificate program is to prepare current and prospective personnel within the health care and human service sectors the ability to provide services appropriate for an increasing population of aging clients.

Methodist College is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, North Central Association, and the nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.

Dr. Johnston said the College is planning to offer a Master in Nursing Degree program as well. Students will be able to choose from two tracks—the first will allow them to become Family Nurse Practitioners and the second, a Nurse Educator. The college has scheduled a fall semester 2013 start date for this new program.

Dr. Johnston emphasizes that Methodist College will continue to grow to meet the educational and health care needs of our community through the continued development of health care programs.

Visit the new Methodist College website at: www.methodistcol.edu