Indianapolis, Ind.—Angelo State University, a member of the Texas Tech University System, has partnered with The College Network, Inc. to offer licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) in Texas new online degree programs in which they can earn both an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The LVN to AASN/RN to BSN programs are designed to transition more LVNs into BSN degree-prepared RNs and help ease the RN shortage in hospitals and care facilities across Texas.

“We are excited to expand our already successful RN-BSN partnership with The College Network to include this new LVN to RN, RN to BSN model of education,” said Dr. Susan Wilkinson, Head of the Department of Nursing at Angelo State University. “With this innovative approach to nursing education LVNs in Texas can work toward not only their RN but continue on to complete their BSN degree.”

The LVN to AASN/RN to BSN programs can be completed in as little as three years. Plus, students are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN^®) for licensure to practice as an RN upon completion of the AASN portion of the program (approximately two years).

The classroom portion of the program is completed online to help accommodate an LVN’s busy work schedule and give him or her more flexibility in pursuit of a degree. The clinical portion of the program is completed locally, where an RN preceptor is assigned to serve the LVN as a tutor and mentor.

“We are proud to partner with Angelo State University to provide Texas LVNs with an innovative approach to advancing their education and careers,” said Gary Eyler, Chairman and CEO of The College Network. “BSN degree-prepared RNs have educational backgrounds that prepare them to assume roles as leaders, researchers, educators, and stewards of the nursing profession. The LVN to AASN/RN to BSN programs will ensure the future well-being of the Texas healthcare system and the quality of care that its residents receive.”

The College Network has an integral role in this partnership program by providing Customized Study Materials (CSMs). Accessible online, CSMs provide content for specific nursing requirements for Angelo State University’s program. CSMs are self-paced—enabling learners to study at their convenience. Learners demonstrate their competency and knowledge of the nursing content by successfully passing National League for Nursing (NLN) examinations.

The College Network also provides online Comprehensive Learning Modules (CLMs) to prepare learners to earn college credit for general education and prerequisite courses by passing end-of-course college equivalency exams, such as CLEP^®, DSST^®, and the Excelsior College^® Examination. Credits earned by passing these exams are then transferred to Angelo State University, where learners will complete their degrees online.

For further information please contact:
Emily Huntzinger
The College Network
317-566-2669
ehuntzinger@college-net.com

About The College Network, Inc.
Since 1992, The College Network has provided educational solutions that enable working adults to enjoy the pride, prestige, and earning power that result from obtaining college degrees and professional certificates from highly acclaimed universities. As one of the nation’s leading educational services companies and a partner with several of the nation’s foremost institutions of higher learning, TCN has helped over 150,000 adults advance their education while balancing their personal and professional lives. Visit www.college-net.com or call 1-800-39-LEARN (395-3276) for more information.

About the National Association of EMS Educators
Founded in 1995 in Pittsburgh, the National Association of EMS Educators (NAEMSE) is a not-for-profit professional organization serving over 3,000 emergency medical services industry professionals worldwide. NAEMSE offers educational resources to EMS educators. NAEMSE’s mission is to inspire excellence in EMS education and lifelong learning.