OPINION: A game-changer for nursing education in Tennessee

It is critical that we address the prolonged nursing shortage, given the universal necessity and increasing demand for quality healthcare across all regions of the United States. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting that 6% more registered nurses will be needed in 2031 when compared to 2021.

Tennessee's healthcare system is particularly affected, as it has faced a shortfall of more than15,000 nurses post-pandemic, and the Tennessee Hospital Association anticipates a shortage of approximately 12,000 registered nurses by 2025. These statistics, along with my career in higher education and my being married to someone in the healthcare field, have contributed to my deep commitment to addressing the need for additional qualified nurses.

As a strategic partnerships manager at Western Governors University (WGU), I have the honor of being a part of the transformational impact that higher education has on the lives of Tennesseans. Covering a wide geographic range, part of my role involves supporting local healthcare institutions such as Ballad Health and West Tennessee Healthcare by promoting upskilling and reskilling initiatives to enhance the capabilities of their workforce.

The most recent innovative education model I have the privilege of sharing is the WGU competency-based education model, which promises to make a profound difference in the profession of nursing, as well as the lives of those interested in pursuing it. WGU, an online nonprofit with more than 5,200 current students and 11,000 alumni in Tennessee, heralds the introduction of a prelicensure program to the residents of Tennessee as a paradigm shift in the state’s approach to nursing education.The program aims to help students start their career in the nursing industry.

This innovative model has the potential to address longstanding challenges, bridge educational gaps, and cultivate a more dynamic future-ready nursing workforce. WGU's competency-based education model is rooted in flexibility and individualized learning, and it aligns seamlessly with the evolving needs of the healthcare landscape. Tennessee, by embracing this approach, has empowered aspiring nurses to progress at their own pace, ensuring they develop a deeper understanding of core concepts and competencies. This adaptability is particularly relevant in a field as dynamic as healthcare, where staying current is paramount.

This new prelicensure program also offers a unique opportunity to reach a broader demographic of aspiring nurses. The didactic portion of the program is online and asynchronous, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds and geographic locations within Tennessee to pursue their nursing education. This inclusivity can contribute to a more representative nursing workforce that can address disparities and foster cultural competency in healthcare delivery.

Furthermore, the competency-based structure aligns with the urgent need for skilled healthcare professionals. By focusing on mastery of skills rather than time spent in a traditional classroom setting, this new program can accelerate the journey to licensure. This is a crucial aspect given the increasing demand for nurses in Tennessee, particularly in rural areas, and the need for a workforce that can quickly respond to emerging healthcare challenges.

The program's emphasis on real-world application through clinical experiences ensures that graduates are not only well-versed in theoretical knowledge but also equipped with practical skills. To get hands-on experience, students visit high-tech simulation labs and do their clinicals at nearby healthcare facilities. This approach can lead to a seamless transition from education to practice, enhancing the overall preparedness of nursing graduates for the complexities of the healthcare environment.

Collaboration between WGU and Tennessee's healthcare institutions is vital for the success of this initiative. Ensuring that clinical placements and hands-on experiences are aligned with local healthcare needs will be crucial in producing graduates who are attuned to the specific challenges and opportunities within the state.

The introduction of WGU’s prelicensure program in nursing represents a transformative leap forward for Tennessee. It has the potential to redefine nursing education, making it more accessible, responsive and tailored to the needs of both students and healthcare employers. By embracing this innovative model, Tennessee can not only meet the demands of a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, but also position itself as a pioneer in nursing education.

Derriell Springfield is a strategic partnerships manager for Western Governors University and resides in Jackson. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Tennessee State University and his Doctor of Education degree from East Tennessee State University.