South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC) announced the launch of its Evening and Weekend Nursing Program, addressing the high demand for nursing education in the region.
The program will introduce 20 additional spots to SPSCC's Nursing Program, aiming to combat the critical shortage of healthcare professionals.
SPSCC said in its press release that the Evening and Weekend Nursing Program spans six quarters over two years, offering classes during the summer, fall, and winter quarters.
The program features evening classes from approximately 6 to 8 p.m. on weekdays, combined with weekend classes, clinicals, and other essential components.
This is the only program in the area to offer a full-time evening and weekend model, boosting the potential graduating class to 60 nursing professionals annually.
Marriya Wright, Dean of Allied Health, emphasizes the necessity of flexible programs.
“A student could work during the day from Monday to Wednesday, take Thursday off, attend online classes in the evenings, then participate in in-person classes and clinicals from Friday through Sunday when they are more likely to have family support for childcare," Wright said.
While SPSCC students have access to a state-of-the-art simulation lab for some clinical hours, real-world experience gained through partnerships with healthcare providers, such as MultiCare Health System and Providence Swedish South Puget Sound, remains integral to their education.
“We’re very excited that South Puget Sound Community College is adding more classes to their nursing program,” said Will Callicoat, President of MultiCare Capital Medical Center. “We’re in dire need of more nurses, and SPSCC’s ability to adapt quickly is great news for every health system. This expansion at SPSCC will go a long way to support our community’s healthcare needs."
Suzie Scott, Chief Nursing Officer at Providence Swedish South Puget Sound, added, “We are excited for the expansion of this program and the continued partnership with SPSCC. Developing the next generation of clinical caregivers is key to our sustained success in providing high-quality care to our community."
In 2018, SPSCC acquired the Louis Walker Middleton Building, now the Dr. Angela J. Bowen Center for Health Education, thanks to a historic $1.19 million in-kind donation from the estate of Dr. Angela Bowen.
The same year, the college set a goal to double its Nursing Program, supported by the community, including major gifts and funding from the Betti Foundation, the Marcus family.
Admissions to the Evening and Weekend Nursing Program will be by lottery, with prerequisite requirements.
Applications will open on Jan. 2, 2024, and close on March 1, 2024, the program set to begin in July 2024.
To learn more about the program, attend upcoming information sessions, and apply, visit SPSCC Special Admissions.
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