AAS in Nursing
South College-Asheville has begun to enroll students for a new Associate of Applied Science degree program in Nursing.  Graduates of this program are eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), which is required to practice as a Registered Nurse. The Associate of Applied Science degree program in Nursing will prepare students to assume entry-level positions as Registered Nurses.  There is a tremendous market for RN’s both locally and statewide. 

The North Carolina Board of Nursing has granted the College Initial Approval for this new AAS in Nursing and the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina has granted state licensure .  The Accrediting Council for Independent Schools and Colleges (ACICS) has also approved the program.

Christy Gee, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, is Chairperson of the Nursing Program, bringing to the position many years of nursing practice in a broad array of settings.  Ms. Gee received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Master of Science in Nursing/Family Nurse Practitioner from Western Carolina University. 

BS in Radiological Sciences
In April 2008 students at South College-Asheville begin taking courses in the new baccalaureate program in Radiological Sciences.  The Bachelor’s degree in Radiological Sciences is designed for those individuals seeking a broad foundation within the advanced Imaging Sciences and serves as a sophisticated general undergraduate education in the profession.  With the exponential growth in today’s healthcare technology, educational expertise in technological advances is essential for professional advancement and competitiveness.  This undergraduate degree emphasizes leadership, managerial skills, advanced patient care, PACS (digital formatting and storage of medical images), healthcare law, sectional anatomy, forensic science, health science research, and computed tomography. 

The courses in management in the Radiological Sciences curriculum are designed to prepare students for managerial positions in radiological operations, should they wish to pursue advancement of their careers by assuming positions of leadership and increased responsibility within the field.

Jane Sims, who has a Master of Science in Education from Newman University and a Bachelor of Science in Radiology from St. Mary of the Plains College, is Chairperson of the Imaging Sciences Department, which includes the BS program in Radiological Sciences.

Graduation
On June 20, 2008 South College-Asheville held commencement ceremonies at Lipinsky Hall on the campus of the University of North Carolina-Asheville.  Forty-seven students received degrees or certificates.  This graduation included the very first class of students to graduate in the Radiologic Technology and Criminal Justice AAS Programs. 

Robert F. Burgin, President Emeritus of Mission Hospitals, delivered the commencement address.  Mr. Burgin’s speech focused on critical challenges emerging in healthcare.