ACC Nursing Program named ‘Best of the Best’

Austin Community College’s (ACC) Nursing Program was named 2018 Best of the Best among area nursing programs by the Austin American-Statesman.   The winners were voted on by the community in an online poll.

“This is an incredible recognition from our community,” said Dr. Richard Rhodes, ACC president/CEO. “It speaks to the quality and value of our nursing program and is further proof of the excellent level of instruction and the tremendous value our graduates bring to the region’s healthcare industry.”

ACC is the primary source for registered nurses in Central Texas, with a 95 percent pass rate on the state licensure exam.  ACC Nursing ranked No. 1 in the Statesman’s community poll, followed by the programs at UT-Austin and Texas State University.

“We are honored to be recognized as the top nursing choice for Central Texans,” said Patricia Recek, dean of health sciences.  “Nurses are more likely to stay and serve in the community where they get their degrees. ACC aims to create an accessible option for thousands of nurses to take their careers to the next level, and help fill critical workforce needs.”

ACC provides the community a full nursing career pathway, including programs for registered nursing, vocational nursing and the entry-level certified nurse aide. This fall the college launched its first bachelor’s degree program, for registered nurses wanting to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

“With our RN-to-BSN program, ACC now provides a complete nurse career pathway, from a nurse aide certification, to vocational nursing, to associate degree, and then bachelor’s degree,” Dr. Rhodes said.  “Every career step we can offer serves our students and community.”

Currently, Central Texas has 15,000 registered nurses, a number that’s expected to increase 13 percent over four years with wages estimated to grow to $41 an hour.  There are 4,300 vocational nurses with an expected increase of 10 percent in four years with a salary jump up to $29 an hour.

The Nursing Program is offered through the college’s Health Sciences Area of Study.  For more information, visit the Nursing Program webpage.