The State Board of Nursing has unanimously approved continuation of a nursing program delivered through distance delivery technology by Weber State University to students on the UAS Juneau, Sitka and Ketchikan campuses. Associate Dean Gary Bowen said, "Students currently in the Licensed Practical Nurse program on the three campus will be able to continue a second year of training to earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing and become registered nurses."

Another Practical Nurse program will be offered in the 2001-2002 academic year followed by a second Registered Nurse year in 2002 - 2003, according to Bowen. The choice of sites for the 2001-2003 program will be based on demand and on the number of students with adequate prerequisite preparation.

"Nursing is one of the fastest growing career fields," Bowen said. "Because there is a great demand for trained nurses throughout Southeast, the university has helped organize training through the existing program at Weber State. Approval to continue the program helps ensure jobs for those interested in health service careers."

The agreement for continuation of the nursing program at UAS was made at a Juneau meeting attended by representatives of UAS, Alaska State Hospital and Nursing Home administrators and Weber State University.