Mount Mercy University has partnered with Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) to provide an easy transfer process into Mount Mercy’s RN-BSN program.
Now, students who graduate from EICC’s nursing program and meet enrollment requirements can receive automatic early admission to Mount Mercy to earn their bachelor’s degree.
Such partnerships are crucial to streamline education for Iowa’s nurses—a profession which 70% of Iowa’s medical facilities are struggling to fill, according to the State of Iowa’s most recent Nursing Demand Survey.
"Mount Mercy University is enthused to build a new connection with EICC, as we partner to provide great opportunities for nursing students and help to strengthen Eastern Iowa's vital nursing workforce,” said Mount Mercy President, Dr. Todd A. Olson.
“This partnership not only meets the urgent need for skilled nursing professionals, but also provides a seamless pathway for EICC nursing graduates to further their education and training,” said EICC Interim Chancellor, Dr. Liang Chee Wee. “This transfer agreement with Mount Mercy University enables EICC students to maintain their impactful profession in patient care while boosting their career prospects and earning potentials.”
Mount Mercy’s RN-BSN program is offered online with nine start dates throughout the year. With classes available in five- and 10-week blocks, students have the ability to pick a schedule that is right for them, providing flexibility for working students, those with family commitments, and those looking to accelerate their plan of study.
“Nursing is a great profession, and EICC graduates go far in the field with their associate degree,” said Dawn Boettcher, Dean of EICC’s Health Programs. “We appreciate that Mount Mercy recognizes the quality of our nursing program and values EICC graduates. This is a wonderful opportunity for them expand their skills even further.”
The RN-BSN program is centered around nursing practice research, leadership skills, and a values-based curriculum to ensure graduates are prepared to provide outstanding care to their patients and compassionate service to their communities. Mount Mercy also offers Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice programs for nursing professionals who want to continue their education and elevate their careers. RN-BSN students can easily transition into these programs and even have the potential to take graduate-level courses during their RN-BSN program through Mount Mercy’s MMU Plus program.
“For more than 90 years, Mount Mercy has set the standard for nursing excellence in our region,” said Olson. “We are excited to welcome a new set of students into our program and appreciate that EICC sees the value of a Mount Mercy education as much as we do.”
Learn more about Mount Mercy’s Martin-Herold College of Nursing & Health at mtmercy.edu/mhcnh. Learn more about EICC’s healthcare programs at eicc.edu/health.
About Mount Mercy University
Mount Mercy University empowers students with a values-based education paired with beyond-the-classroom opportunities to elevate their experience, community, and overall life. Our well-rounded curriculum helps students enhance their critical thinking, engage in self-reflection, and get hands-on experience in their field. This—combined with our proud tradition of service started by the Sisters of Mercy—gives each of our students the strong foundation they need to excel at and beyond Mount Mercy.