MORGANTOWN — Starting in Fall 2026, West Virginia University (WVU) nursing students will have a new opportunity to focus on community health. This innovative program, called “Inside Outside,” is part of a partnership with Johns Hopkins University (JHU). It aims to help future nurses engage with patients in their own communities rather than just in hospitals.
The goal is to increase access to healthcare and promote wellness in diverse settings like schools and health departments. Tara Hulsey, dean of the WVU School of Nursing, describes this program as an exciting pathway for students who want to be community health leaders.
Under this program, students will follow the standard Bachelor of Science in Nursing curriculum but will also participate in hands-on community experiences. Starting in their junior year, they’ll spend time working directly in community settings, guided by experienced preceptors. Tina Antill Keener, a nursing faculty member, believes that these practical experiences will be invaluable in shaping well-rounded healthcare providers.
Robert “Bob” Atkins, executive vice dean of JHU’s School of Nursing, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting that both schools can learn from each other.
A unique feature of the “Inside Outside” program is its dual approach. “Inside” refers to traditional classroom learning, while “Outside” emphasizes real-world clinical experiences. Students in this track will complete clinical placements in community locations, gaining insights that benefit both their education and the neighborhoods they serve.
Students eager to join this program will apply after their first two years at WVU. Selection will be competitive, with eight candidates interviewed based on their motivation and faculty recommendations, emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation to clinical sites.
The program not only prepares nurses for various health challenges but also aligns with WVU’s mission to serve communities, especially in rural areas that may struggle with healthcare access. By training skilled professionals, WVU aims to address the needs of underserved populations.
Recent statistics underscore this need: a report from the Health Resources and Services Administration found that over 80 million people in the U.S. live in areas with a shortage of healthcare providers. Initiatives like “Inside Outside” could play a crucial role in bridging that gap.
In summary, this new track offers nursing students a meaningful way to make a difference, helping them connect with the communities they serve while gaining essential skills for their future careers.
For more insights into public health initiatives, you can explore data from the Health Resources and Services Administration.
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