In a move that will help students seeking financial assistance for their college education, the Eastern Kentucky University School of Nursing announced the associate’s degree in nursing will change its academic title to Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AASN).
“We are changing to open more funding opportunities for students that only applied science degrees are eligible for,” said Dr. Lisa Jones, associate chair and professor of EKU’s School of Nursing. The Work Ready Scholarship program offered through the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) is one such funding opportunity for EKU students. The Work Ready Scholarship supplements a student’s financial aid package by providing additional funds that federal and state grants do not cover.
“We are excited to offer this opportunity to our nursing students,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “Our accredited programs in nursing provide students with the educational foundation needed to help them grow as professionals and serve their communities. Being able to steer them toward financial security while finishing their degree is important to us.”
The name change does not reflect a change in the curriculum, Jones said. Graduates who earn the AASN are eligible to sit for the licensure exam to become a registered nurse.
The AASN will be available to students for the fall 2022 semester. For more information about EKU’s nursing programs, visit nursing.eku.edu.
Visit kheaa.com for more information on the Work Ready Scholarship program.