Rogers State University

PROJECT PURPOSE

Rogers State University (RSU) is seeking $1,364,000 in funding through the American Rescue Plan Act to expand its baccalaureate degree program in nursing (BSN). This funding will allow RSU to begin an additional mid-year admission cycle, boosting capacity in the program from 80 to 120 graduates annually. This expansion will help alleviate the critical shortage of registered nurses with a bachelor?s degree.

EVIDENCE

Currently ranking 46th in the nation for registered nurses (RNs) per capita, Oklahoma?s nursing shortage was greatly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, a 2018 report prepared by Oklahoma Works noted that Oklahoma?s significantly low supply of registered nurses (RNs) made it difficult to find qualified candidates to meet Oklahoma?s healthcare workforce needs (Nursing Professions in Oklahoma, August 2018).

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

The entire State of Oklahoma has been negatively impacted by a lack of qualified registered nurses. Rogers State University serves a large rural area with a significant population of Native Americans. Access to nurses is limited in rural areas, particularly in tribal communities.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

Project performance will be measured by tracking the number of students who graduate each year from Rogers State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. Goal is to increase graduates from 80 to 120 annually.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

Able to continue operation without additional funding from the State of Oklahoma