Albany State University ranked No. 6 among Georgia nursing schools

ALBANY — Albany State University has been ranked No. 6 in RNCareers.org’s latest “Best Nursing Schools in Georgia in 2024” ranking.

Out of 61 nursing schools in Georgia, ASU has stood out for its exceptional programs and outstanding faculty. The ASU nursing program offers associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, providing students with a comprehensive education and a pathway to a rewarding career in the health care industry.

“Being recognized as the sixth-best BSN nursing program in the state by RNCareers.org is an extraordinary accomplishment,” Sarah Brinson, dean of Albany State’s Darton College of Health Professionals, said in a news release. “This ranking is a reflection of the collective efforts of our faculty, students, and administrative staff. It highlights our program’s strength and reaffirms our position as a leading institution in nursing education.”

The associate’s and baccalaureate programs prepare the nurse generalist for entry into professional nursing practice. The master’s degree prepares the graduate for advanced practice as a nurse practitioner or a leader in nursing education. ASU aims to increase the number of nursing graduates who are adequately prepared to enter the health care work force and provide holistic, culturally-competent care, thereby decreasing the shortage that the nation and the South, in particular, currently face.

ASU also offers an opportunity for motivated health care professionals through the Healthcare-Professional-to-RN bridge program. It is an accelerated associate’s degree nursing program for applicants who already hold active paramedic and/or LPN licensure that meets one day a week to incorporate classroom lectures, online activities and clinical rotations. The program is currently available on both the Albany and Cordele ASU campuses.

Another unique opportunity is the wholly online RN-to-BSN completion program, designed for students and working professionals who have already attained an associate’s degree in Nursing and have subsequently earned their licensure as a Registered Nurse but who ultimately desire to earn a bachelor of science in Nursing degree. Graduate nursing degrees offered include concentrations in family nurse practitioner, nurse educator and nursing informatics.

According to RNCareers.org, there are currently 78,290 RNs employed in Georgia, earning an average of $75,380 per year, or $36.24 per hour. With a projected need for 86,440 new RNs by 2030 or 5,460 new nurses per year, there is an increased demand for qualified health care professionals.

An added benefit to incoming nursing students is that they will have the opportunity to complete up to 50% of their required clinicals in the new Nursing and Health Sciences Simulation Center.

Anyone interested in joining the ranks of highly respected health care providers by pursuing a career as an RN in Georgia with competitive salaries and ample opportunities for growth and advancement is encouraged to visit ASU online at www.asurams.edu.

Special Photo: ASU