Next fall, Ohio University Southern will offer an associate degree in nursing.

"I have heard people say they wanted a nursing program," said Dean Dan Evans. "We also had discussions with hospital officials who said there weren’t enough nurses graduating from other programs to fill the need they have."

Wednesday, the university will host an open house from 3-5 p.m. for those who have or may have an interest in the program at the new Dingus Technology Center.

Shortly after the first of the year, Evans said he anticipates that a nursing director will be hired along with two to three faculty members.

Evans also emphasized those interested in being in the program next year to begin the application process soon.

"This is a high-demand, selective admission program, so we will begin recruiting now to give time for the admissions process," he said.

For some time now, the university has also offered a baccalaureate completion program for those with an associate degree in nursing. Now, a student can complete an associate degree, then enroll in the completion program, Evans said. Even though there is some travel involved, most of the classes can be completed locally, he said.

Also, the university will continue to conduct studies to find out what other health care programs are needed and are feasible to add.

"If we didn’t have the new Dingus building, this wouldn’t be possible," Evans said. "The region has supported us, and because of that support, we will continue to grow." Amelia Pridemore/The Ironton Tribune