July 11-12, 2002

ITEM 116-1503B-R0702   Approval of Proposal to Offer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Completion Degree; Montana Tech of The University of Montana

THAT: The Board of Regents of Higher Education authorizes Montana Tech of The University of Montana to convert its current Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) "bridge program" to a traditional 72-credit ASN model and offer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) completion program at Montana Tech.

EXPLANATION:  In July 1999, the Board of Regents approved Montana Tech of The University of Montana to offer an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree "bridge program" (bridging the ASN program with an Associate of Applied Science Practical Nurse degree program approved at the same time). The original proposal included a provision for evaluation of the program after three years. The evaluation has led to the recognition that the vast majority of students entering Montana Tech to pursue nursing education desire registered nursing education rather than practical nursing education. The evaluation also revealed that these students desire Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) education. Currently, Montana Tech nursing students must complete two years of practical nursing education, earning an Associate of Applied Science in Practical Nursing (AAS-PN) degree, then pass the national licensure exam for practical nursing in order to be eligible for admission to the ASN degree program. This proposal will bring Montana Tech's nursing education programs in line with its students' desires by allowing direct access to RN education and offering regional access to a BSN completion program.

The completed signature page resides on file at the President's Office, The University of Montana-Missoula.