Vermont State University Celebrates 414 New Nurses Ready to Transform the Healthcare Workforce

Vermont State University (VTSU) has proudly graduated 414 new nurses this year, adding to the state’s healthcare workforce. This achievement aligns with the university’s ongoing commitment to expand its nursing program, which welcomed 713 students this academic year, 90% of whom are Vermont residents from every county.

The program boasts a strong track record, with about 92% of graduates testing for licensure in Vermont and achieving impressive NCLEX pass rates. This success addresses an ongoing shortage of licensed nurses in the state. VTSU President Dave Bergh emphasized the importance of this program, stating, “Vermont needs more nurses, and VTSU is delivering them.”

VTSU’s Nursing Program offers a wide range of credentials from certificates to Master’s degrees, with courses available both locally and online. The program accommodates diverse learning paths, helping students balance their education with personal responsibilities. The typical age of students is around 30, suggesting that many are pursuing nursing as a second career.

One of the standout options is the 1+1+2 laddered credential system. Here, students earn a Practical Nursing (PN) certificate after three semesters, leading to Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensure. Following that, they can complete an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) before going on to achieve a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). VTSU even offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, preparing students for leadership and education roles in nursing.

Recent graduates shared their experiences. Jennifer Spika, who completed her PN program, praised VTSU for its supportive environment. She juggled her studies with a part-time job and family responsibilities. “The program challenged me like never before and helped me grow both as a nurse and as a person,” she said.

Caitlin Stover, Dean of Nursing and Health Sciences at VTSU, noted the flexibility of the program allows students to enter the workforce earlier or continue their education. “Our students typically pass their NCLEX exams on the first try, which speaks volumes about the quality of education at VTSU,” she added.

With the nursing field facing unprecedented challenges—such as staffing shortages exacerbated by the pandemic—there’s a pressing demand for new nurses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, adding about 195,000 jobs each year.

By addressing these workforce needs, VTSU not only supports individual students like Jennifer but also strengthens communities across Vermont. This nursing program stands as a vital contributor to the state’s health care landscape, ensuring care for residents now and in the future.

For further details on VTSU’s nursing programs, visit VTSU Nursing.

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