The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center announced Wednesday a collaboration with Methodist Health System to expand the nursing program in Mansfield to address nurse shortages.
The partnership between TTUHSC’s School of Nursing and Methodist Health System will be provided through a satellite campus and specifically for the traditional BSN program. This will be the fourth location the program is offered at in Texas, with the others being in Lubbock, Odessa and Abilene.
“Nurses are an integral part of the health care team, but they are in short supply here and nationwide,” said TTUHSC President Lori Rice-Spearman. “We’re excited for an opportunity to help meet those needs in this community through an approach that holds true to our great university’s vision: transform health care through innovation and collaboration.”
Dr. Michael Evans, the dean for the School of Nursing, said during the news conference that he’s confident the partnership will lead to more high-quality graduates from Texas Tech staying in the DFW area.
“Over 95% are coming from Texas Tech, but they’re from the DFW area, so the chances of them staying in that area upon completion of our program is very high and we’re proud of that,” Evans said. “We’re committed to educating the most outstanding nurses who will stay upon graduation.”
TTUHSC has been working with the City of Mansfield and the Methodist Health System for several years on expanding the program and creating the campus.
“There is a need in our state to provide educational opportunities that will support the growing health care industry, especially in the area of nursing,” said State Representative David Cook, who is also the former mayor of Mansfield. “Mansfield is a city that takes an active role in growing its local economy and improving the quality of life of its residents through providing critical services and educational opportunities.”
