The decision affects only those students who were admitted to start the program in spring 2011. The suspension does not affect currently enrolled students.
HSU today notified all of the newly admitted students of the suspension. Officials at the campus and system level are exploring options for these students, and every effort is being made to find alternatives for them.
Officials of the California Board of Registered Nursing will be on campus Dec. 7-9 to weigh the program’s future and whether the department will be able to meet regulatory requirements.
Provost Robert Snyder said campus leadership struggled with the decision, but ultimately had little choice.
“This suspension is disappointing, particularly because it’s so unfair to the students,” Snyder said. “However, it’s something we have to do. We’ve worked hard to turn this program around, providing it with resources and support, but the program remains in crisis. I want to emphasize that we are stopping admissions for spring only. We have made no determination for Fall 2011 and we are seeking alternatives for those who have been admitted for spring. We will support them in every way we can.”
The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) recently reaccredited the Nursing program, but both the commission and the state Board of Registered Nursing had serious concerns about the program that required close monitoring and correction. The program has also been scrutinized by the HSU Academic Senate, which last spring recommended that it be eliminated.
Despite the challenges, the University has been working to strengthen it, in large part because of the need to provide bachelor-trained nurses for the North Coast region. Enrollment was reduced, and the program was asked to develop a clear plan, by this fall, for addressing its challenges. Funds were also allocated for two faculty positions. At this point, however, the department has not adopted a plan and the search for the new faculty has not begun.
Campus officials have been in contact with the Board of Registered Nursing and the CCNE to seek advice and guidance. They are also seeking assistance from other California State University campuses and from the CSU system headquarters in Long Beach.