An update on the Regents External Degree Program.

Abstract

Many new pathways to learning are being developed as nursing and higher education respond to current societal conditions. Cooperation between education and service is now more important and more possible than ever. The Regents College Nursing Program, while continuing to serve the needs of individual nurses, also has an increasing commitment to develop interinstitutional partnerships designed to plan and implement learning options for other capable and motivated students. Its three-part strategy is deliberately inclusive. It is based on the belief that those already in nursing should be encouraged and helped to achieve their full potential. The process of learning is focused, but flexible; the required outcomes and methods of documentation are specifically prescribed. Opportunity, collaboration and competence are the cornerstones of this interinstitutional approach. Generic nursing programs at the undergraduate and graduate level are essential; but so are innovative adult-oriented BSN and MSN programs that capitalize on the experience and motivation of those already in the discipline of nursing. Many colleges and service agencies already have demonstrated their interest in forming partnerships for the mutual benefit of nursing students and institutions. The incorporation of assessment methods, such as those developed by Regents College, enhances individual learning options, the attainment of required competencies, and the professionalization of nursing.