Johnson & Wales University Nursing Program Helping To Address Nursing Shortage

CHARLOTTE, NC — Inside a simulation lab Johnson and Wales University is taking a hands-on approach to addressing the nursing shortage.    

“So Johnson and Wales really looked at the community and saw what the need was and recognized that nursing is a growing profession and we need nurses,” Johnson and Wales assistant professor Meredith Joyner said. 

Johnson and Wales University launched a new accelerated nursing program that gives students a chance to finish a nursing degree in just 16 months. 

Their course work includes participation in a simulation lab which allows students to practice the skills they will need in their nursing careers.

“It gives them the opportunity to get feedback on their skills, build that muscle memory of actually doing skills. They are able to make mistakes in a safe environment.” Joyner said. 

 The faculty is mainly comprised of women professors who work closely with each student. 

“They’re not just a number, they are a name and a person and we can really focus on the whole person and what we can do to help them be successful,” Joyner said. 

Nursing students like Jessica Nichols say it’s given them a chance to begin a path in a fulfilling career. 

“You know, people don’t want to go to the hospital, they don’t expect to end up there, but the simple fact of the matter is that we will be able to help people feel better and get to leave, ultimately, is the most rewarding part about it,” Nichols said.