Kathleen Stockham, Author at South College

South College Nashville launches Doctor of Physical Therapy program

Posted on September 16, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

Campus to welcome first cohort to accelerated hybrid DPT program

NEWS RELEASE

September 16, 2024

South College will welcome its first Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) cohort to its Nashville campus this fall, expanding healthcare education opportunities in the region. The two-year hybrid DPT program, also available at South College’s Knoxville and Atlanta campuses, offers students a fast-tracked path as they pursue a future in physical therapy through a mix of online coursework and hands-on lab and clinical experiences.

As the country’s first accelerated hybrid DPT model, the program is designed to help students minimize time spent in the classroom while maximizing learning and practical application. Students can complete their degree in two years, reducing the overall cost of education and opening doors to professional opportunities sooner than traditional programs.

“We are thrilled to welcome our first DPT cohort in Nashville and to expand the offering of this innovative program in the region,” said Nick South, president of South College Nashville. “Our hybrid approach gives students from all over the country access to a high-quality physical therapy education, and this launch marks an exciting step forward for both South College and Nashville.”

South College’s DPT program at the Nashville campus has earned Candidate for Accreditation status from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), allowing the college to begin enrolling students while continuing the process toward full accreditation.

“The first cohort at our Nashville campus is a testament to our commitment to providing modern, accessible healthcare education,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “We are excited to see how this program will benefit both our students and the wider Nashville area, contributing to the region’s growing need for skilled healthcare professionals.”

The DPT program’s curriculum includes key areas such as clinical practice, patient management across all ages and abilities, advanced diagnostics, business management and more. These components prepare graduates for diverse opportunities in physical therapy, equipping them to meet the challenges of the field and serve their communities. Classes for the first Nashville cohort will begin in October 2024.

South College opened its Nashville campus in 2017. The campus is located at 616 Marriott Drive, near Interstate 40, and features classrooms, laboratories and other conveniences for students and faculty, including a Barnes & Noble bookstore, public-facing dental clinic, large student centers and more. The institution offers a variety of programs and concentrations in the areas of dental, business, healthcare, education, legal studies, technology and more.

For more information about South College, visit south.edu.

South College Knoxville Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology program earns ETAC ABET accreditation

Posted on September 12, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release September 12,2024

South College Knoxville Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology program earns ETAC ABET accreditation

South College Knoxville’s Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology program has been accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission (ETAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

“South College is committed to offering programs that prepare students to pursue work in relevant fields,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “Earning accreditation helps affirm our commitment and opens doors for students after graduation.”

According to the accrediting organization, ABET accreditation assures that programs meet standards to produce graduates ready to enter critical technical fields. The review process is conducted by approximately 2,200 ABET volunteers from the professional community and looks at multiple program aspects, such as curricula, faculty, facilities and institutional support.

With this accreditation, graduates of the South College Bachelor of Science degree program in Electrical Engineering Technology may attempt the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) certification exam. The accreditation was granted retroactive to Oct. 1, 2022.

The program builds a foundation of skills needed for a variety of technical and management electrical engineering opportunities through class discussions, coursework, and hands-on use of measurement tools and engineering software. The program is available online.

“I congratulate the South College team for its diligence and great effort to achieve ETAC ABET accreditation status,” said Dr. Steve Reyes, dean of computer science and engineering for South College. “It is a testament to the quality of multiple aspects of the Electrical Engineering Technology program.”

South College was founded in Knoxville in 1882 and offers professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs in multiple areas of study, including healthcare, business, education, computer science and more. For more information about South College, visit south.edu.

About South College
South College serves more than 12,000 students and is proud of its more than 17,000 graduates. The institution offers academic programs at multiple levels, including professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs via campuses in Knoxville and Nashville, Tennessee; Asheville, North Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia; Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Orlando, Florida, as well as Online. South College focuses on ensuring high standards and quality educational offerings, maintaining multiple authorizations and accreditations.

South College’s programs span diverse fields such as business, criminal justice, dental hygiene/assisting, diagnostic medical sonography, nursing, occupational therapy, paralegal studies, physical therapy, radiography, respiratory therapy, physician assistant studies, pharmacy and surgical technology. The institution is dedicated to preparing students with the skills and knowledge needed for the professional opportunities ahead of them. For more information, visit south.edu.

About accreditation South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award degrees at the doctorate, educational specialist, master’s, baccalaureate, and associate levels. South College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of South College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling 404-679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (sacscoc.org).

South College earns top Physician Assistant program ranking

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release September 3, 2024

South College earns top Physician Assistant program ranking

South College’s Physician Assistant program in Knoxville has been ranked first in Tennessee, fourth in the Southeast region and 25th in the country by College Factual, a leading source for college data and insights. This program includes campuses in Knoxville, Tennessee, and Atlanta, Georgia.

“We’re excited to receive this ranking as an outstanding Physician Assistant program in multiple categories,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff and students who strive for excellence every day.”

College Factual evaluated 62 colleges in the Southeast and found that South College’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies in Knoxville/Atlanta is one of the most sought-after programs of its type nationwide for its immersive curriculum.

A South College Physician Assistant degree can be completed in 27 months, advancing graduates’ professional potential. The program includes problem-based learning and practical hands-on clinical labs, along with clinical rotations that are completed at both in- and out-patient settings and specialties.

In the last year, 84 Physician Assistant students graduated from South College in Knoxville and 79 in Atlanta, filling positions in the growing healthcare field. According to the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants, nearly 170,000 physician assistants serve in clinics, hospitals and the military. Physician assistants care for patients by providing preventive care, counseling for behavioral health issues, and diagnosing and treating acute and chronic illnesses and injuries.

“This ranking validates that South College is an excellent choice for aspiring physician assistants, who want to improve lives and enter a profession that can truly take them anywhere,” South said. “In addition to our accreditations, I encourage prospective students to take this esteemed recognition into account when considering their professional futures.”

South College was founded in Knoxville in 1882 and has two campuses – Lonas Drive and Parkside Drive – in the city. The locations offer professional certificates and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, educational specialist and doctoral degree programs in multiple areas of study, including healthcare, business, education, computer science and more. The Atlanta campus opened in 2021.

About accreditation

South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award degrees at the doctorate, educational specialist, master’s, baccalaureate, and associate levels. South College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of South College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling 404-679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (sacscoc.org).

South College Orlando nursing students selected to complete clinicals in Orlando Health Dedicated Education Unit

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release July 15, 2024

South College Orlando nursing students selected to complete clinicals in Orlando Health Dedicated Education Unit

Ten nursing students from South College Orlando have been selected to participate in clinical rotations at the Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center’s (ORMC) Dedicated Education Unit (DEU) during the 2024 Spring and Summer terms. The selection marks a significant achievement for the students and the institution, highlighting the strong partnership between South College and Orlando Health.

Orlando Health’s DEU is based on the hospital campus and offers an exceptional learning environment where students engage in a 1:1 or 1:2 staff-to-student mentorship experience. The setting enhances educational outcomes and fosters significant professional growth. During their time at ORMC’s DEU, South College students will be the exclusive participants, allowing for a focused and personalized experience.

“We are immensely proud of our students for earning this opportunity to learn and grow at Orlando Health’s esteemed DEU,” South College Orlando President Jim McCoy said. “This experience is more than just clinical practice; it’s a cornerstone for developing future nursing leaders. Our students will gain invaluable skills and lasting relationships, preparing them for successful futures in nursing.”

“Orlando Health is committed to fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals,” said Annette Carter, director of academic partnerships at Orlando Health. “Our DEU is designed to provide an intensive, immersive learning experience. We are excited to welcome South College Orlando students and look forward to seeing their growth as they work alongside our experienced providers.”

The selected students include:

Mohamed Alkhayet: From Hama, Syria, Alkhayet is a President’s List student at South College Orlando and the co-publisher of an article in the International Journal of Medicine in Developing Countries. Alkhayet also was an organizer and volunteer at King Khalid University Hospital amid the initial stages of the COVID-19 vaccination. He is interested in gaining experience in the critical care unit, intensive care unit and cardiology.
Brahlee Bebey: Bebey is a Los Angeles, California, native and member of the National Student Nurses’ Association. She previously completed nursing internships at The Lakes of Clermont Health and Rehabilitation Center and STEPS Inc. Bebey plans to specialize in caring for Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) patients.
Angella Carnegie-Ramos: Carnegie-Ramos, who is from Spanish Town, Jamacia, is a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success and has served as a Certified Nursing Assistant and house supervisor for Alpha Care Group Home, LLC. Carnegie-Ramos’ area of interest is the cardiac progressive care unit.
Shakela Hester: From Titusville, Florida,Hester currently holds a Certified Nursing Assistant license and works as a home health aide and nurse technician at her local hospital. She is seeking psychiatric care as her specialty.
Viennetta Leath: Leath, an Orlando native, has made South College Orlando’s President’s and Dean’s Lists and is a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success. Leath aims to become an operating room nurse and is looking forward to the experience and knowledge she’ll gain at Orlando Health’s DEU.
Jasmine Pena: Pena is from Orlando and works full time as a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST) at AdventHealth. Through her education at South College Orlando and Orlando Health’s DEU, she hopes to work as an operating room nurse in the future.
Amanda Pigeon: From Saint Cloud, Florida, Pigeon has achieved placement on South College Orlando’s President’s List. She is seeking pediatrics as her specialty and has goals to earn a Master of Science and practitioner license in pediatrics.
Melissa Piton: Piton is from Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and is an honors student at South College Orlando. Her areas of interest are trauma, burn care and the cardiac progressive care unit.
Krystal Rosado: Brooklyn, New York-native Rosado is eager to complete clinicals at Orlando Health, where she hopes to continue working post-graduation. She aims to care for mothers and their children in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Alyssa Urquhart: Urquhart is from Valley Springs, California and is working as a nurse technician while in school. She also is an active member of the National Student Nurses’ Association. Urquhartplans to specialize in neonatal and pediatrics care.

For more information about South College Orlando visit south.edu.

About South College

South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award degrees at the doctorate, educational specialist, master’s, baccalaureate, and associate levels. South College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of South College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (sacscoc.org).

Tennessee Titans ONE Community, South College Nashville welcome Backfield In Motion and Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee for ‘Titan Up For Life’ health and wellness event

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release April 12, 2024

Tennessee Titans ONE Community, South College Nashville welcome Backfield In Motion and Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee
for ‘Titan Up For Life’ health and wellness event

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 12, 2024) – Tennessee Titans ONE Community and South College’s Nashville campus partnered to host more than 200 kids from local nonprofit organizations Backfield In Motion and Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee for a “Titan Up For Life” health and wellness event at Nissan Stadium. The event aimed to introduce children to future career paths in the healthcare industry while instilling the importance of a wellness-driven life.

“South College Nashville continues to be a highly respected educational institution, community advocate and valued partner to the Tennessee Titans,” said Brad McClanahan, Titans Vice President of Corporate Partnerships. “We share a similar passion for supporting nonprofit organizations across the state and encouraging overall health and wellness, making this collaboration a natural fit. I hope the tools learned today will positively impact attending children for years to come.”

South College Nashville students and faculty provided fun, age-appropriate healthcare education, promoting the college’s academic programs including, Nursing, Surgical Technology, Physician Assistant (PA), Medical Assisting (MA), Dental Hygiene and Assisting, Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA), Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA), Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Radiography.

“Today’s ‘Titan Up For Life’ event perfectly encapsulates South College’s dedication to enriching our community and empowering the next generation,” said Nick South, South College Nashville campus president. “By engaging children in interactive health and wellness activities, we’re not just teaching them vital skills, but also sparking their interest in the diverse fields in healthcare.

“This partnership with Tennessee Titans ONE Community underscores our commitment to education that extends beyond classroom walls and makes a real difference in lives. It’s inspiring to see our students lead these activities, sharing their knowledge and passion, and we’re excited about the positive, lasting impact this event will have on these young minds.”

Activities included training in smart brushing techniques, expert breathing skills, heartbeat analysis and more. Participants received swag bags packed with Titans gear and health-focused items, as well as a chance to meet-and-greet with Titans Mascot T-Rac, Titans Cheer, Blue Crew drumline and other special guests.

South College offers academic programs at many levels from professional certificates to doctoral degrees at eight campuses and online. For more information about South College, call 629-802-3000 or visit south.edu.

South College nursing students achieve 99.4% pass rate on NCLEX-RN exam

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

NEWS RELEASE

South College nursing students achieve 99.4% pass rate

on NCLEX-RN exam

Recent graduates of the South College Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program who took the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in Tennessee in 2023 earned a 99.4% pass rate on their first attempt.

“The dedication of the students, faculty and staff in the South College BSN program is evident in many ways, and we celebrate with the 165 individuals who are now South College graduates and registered nurses in Tennessee,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “We’re proud to work with our partners to help prepare healthcare professionals, especially in disciplines where they’re needed most.”

The national exam assesses the application and analysis of knowledge that students learn in school and ensures that entry-level nurses can make clinical judgments and meet the needs of patients. It covers four major categories: safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity and physiological integrity. It is the final component of the licensure process.

The South College BSN program helps students build a strong academic foundation and learn fundamental skills required of a nurse generalist, including the basics of medical care, critical thinking, interpersonal skills and technical competence required for taking the NCLEX. Students receive classroom, laboratory and clinical training.

South College is accepting applications for the next BSN cohort and offers healthcare programs from certificate to doctoral levels across several disciplines. South College students who qualify for financial aid have access to a range of programs as do members of the U.S. military, veterans and their families. The institution offers both student and career services. For more information about South College, please call the Knoxville campus at 865-251-1800 or visit south.edu.

About South College

South College Atlanta Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant program earns Candidate for Accreditation status

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

NEWS RELEASE

South College Atlanta Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant program earns Candidate for Accreditation status

The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) has granted the Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program at South College Atlanta Candidate for Accreditation status.

“We are delighted that the PTA program has earned Candidate for Accreditation status from CAPTE and remain committed to fulfilling obligations to continue the accreditation process,” said Josh Huffaker, president of the Atlanta campus. “Considering the need for qualified healthcare professionals, our focus is bringing together great support, curriculum, faculty and resources to help students gain the skills they need to be PTA practitioners and prepare them for future endeavors.”

CAPTE is an accrediting agency for physical therapist and physical therapist assistant programs. A letter from the commission indicates that its Oct. 31, 2023, decision was based on the program’s demonstration toward achieving compliance with both the accreditation standards and required elements. South College Atlanta will pursue additional levels of accreditation, which will include a self-study report and site visit by the commission in spring 2025.

The PTA program offers both classroom and clinical training for students to develop skills to assist physical therapists in delivering treatment plans that help patients regain function, strength and control. It covers diverse aspects of physical therapy, including sports medicine, pediatrics, acute care, outpatient orthopedics, rehabilitation, extended care and assisted living. The campus also has a newly renovated physical therapy lab that will be utilized by the PTA program.

South College offers additional programs to continue in physical therapy education, including the Bachelor of Science in Health Science (Pre-Physical Therapy) and Doctor of Physical Therapy.

Enrollment is now open for interested students. For more information about South College, including prerequisite and admissions information for the PTA Atlanta program, visit south.edu.

About South College

About CAPTE accreditation

Effective Oct. 31, 2023, the Associate of Science in Physical Therapist Assistant at South College Atlanta has been granted Candidate for Accreditation status by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, Virginia 22305-3085; phone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org). If needing to contact the program/institution directly, please call 470-322-1224 or email acornell@south.edu.

Candidate for Accreditation is an accreditation status of affiliation with the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education that indicates the program may matriculate students in technical/professional courses. Achievement of Candidate for Accreditation status does not assure that the program will be granted Initial Accreditation.

South College Asheville launches Licensed Practical Nursing certificate program upon earning initial approval by North Carolina Board of Nursing

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

NEWS RELEASE

South College Asheville launches Licensed Practical Nursing certificate program upon earning initial approval by North Carolina Board of Nursing

South College Asheville has earned initial approval for its Certificate in Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program by the North Carolina Board of Nursing, allowing launch of the program in June 2023.

The board cited the 100% pass rate of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduates on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) in 2022 in its approval of the LPN certificate program.

“Upon a thorough review by the North Carolina Board of Nursing, South College Asheville’s Licensed Practical Nursing program has initial approval,” said Dr. Danielle Kwasnik, campus president of South College Asheville. “We continue the South College tradition of providing a holistic focus on healthcare and nursing education, supporting students, following a current and carefully crafted curriculum, and providing great faculty and facilities to further enhance education. I am grateful for all who have worked to ensure that we met required standards for this approval.”

The North Carolina Board of Nursing, whose intent is to protect the public by regulating the practice of nursing, currently oversees the licensure of 22,764 licensed practical nurses in North Carolina.

“South College Asheville was one of only five schools out of 36 BSN programs in the state to achieve a 100% NCLEX pass rate in 2022, and that high benchmark is what we will strive to achieve with the LPN certificate program as well,” Kwasnik said. “We’re excited to welcome LPN students and commit our all to helping them succeed.”

The North Carolina Board of Nursing will continue to monitor the quality of education that LPN students receive at South College Asheville by annually reviewing the program, completing routine site visits, and guiding program compliance and board regulations changes.

South College Asheville is accepting applications for the first Certificate in Licensed Practical Nursing cohort and currently is enrolling for multiple other programs, offered on-campus and online. Students who qualify for financial aid have access to a range of programs as do members of the U.S. military, veterans, and their families. The institution offers both student and career services. For more information about South College, call 828-398-2500 or visit south.edu.

About South College

South College Atlanta launches Doctor of Physical Therapy program

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

NEWS RELEASE

South College Atlanta launches Doctor of Physical Therapy program

South College Atlanta is launching a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program upon being granted candidate for accreditation status from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

“South College strives to offer programs that will enhance communities, as well as the lives of our students,” said Josh Huffaker, campus president of South College Atlanta. “We are excited to add the Doctor of Physical Therapy program to provide expanded opportunities and educational advancement for physical therapy students.”

Application is now open for the program that will start with the first cohort in June 2023. The program is offered in an accelerated two-year blended learning model designed to reduce the cost of a DPT education. It includes both academic instruction and clinical education in a variety of settings.

CAPTE grants specialized accreditation status to qualified entry-level physical therapy education programs. South College Atlanta received candidate for accreditation status based on the demonstration of satisfactory progress toward achieving compliance with the standards and required elements. South College Atlanta will continue to pursue the next steps of accreditation through CAPTE. Visit south.edu/about/accreditations-and-approvals to learn more about South College accreditations and approvals.

South College students who qualify for financial aid have access to a range of programs as do members of the U.S. military, veterans, and their families. The institution offers both student and career services. For more information about South College, visit south.edu.

About South College

About CAPTE Candidate for Accreditation status

Effective April 25, 2023, the South College Atlanta Doctor of Physical Therapy program has been granted Candidate for Accreditation status by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (3030 Potomac Ave., Suite 100, Alexandria, VA 22305-3085; phone: 703-706-3245; email: accreditation@apta.org). If needing to contact the program/institution directly, contact Dr. Christina Odeh at 470-322-2807 or via email at codeh@south.edu.

South College Pittsburgh hosts open house and ribbon cutting

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

NEWS RELEASE

South College Pittsburgh hosts open house and ribbon cutting

South College Pittsburgh welcomed area dignitaries and partners to an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony on April 20 to celebrate the newly renovated campus.

South College, a multi-campus institution founded in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1882, offers 100-plus programs and concentrations taught at eight physical campuses and online.

Campus President Anne Petrella spoke at the event, which was held on campus at 3000 Westinghouse Drive in Cranberry Township. Recruiting of students started in 2022, and the first classes on campus began in January 2023.

“This is a big day for South College Pittsburgh,” Petrella said. “We are committed to helping our community thrive by offering excellent education, student services, resources, and facilities. Our renovated campus is a beautiful place for collaborative learning, and we’re always looking to the future to develop programs that fulfill community needs.”

The campus offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and healthcare-centric Associate of Science programs in Surgical Technology, Medical Assisting, Health Science (Pre-Nursing), Radiography, and Diagnostic Medical Sonography, along with certificate programs in Licensed Practical Nursing and Medical Assisting.

“We congratulate Pittsburgh and its tremendous efforts to serve students in person,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “We are proud of South College’s eighth campus and look forward to meeting both the needs of area students and employers who are seeking well-qualified candidates for healthcare positions.”

South College Pittsburgh students who qualify for financial aid have access to a range of programs, as well as federal work-study. Students also have access to on-site student and career services to assist them in their journey.

South College works to develop successful clinical and community partnerships in the area to help students in educational endeavors.

“We send our sincere thanks to local school representatives, elected officials, valued healthcare partners, and members of the Butler County Chamber of Commerce who shared in this celebration and who show continued support for South College Pittsburgh,” Petrella said.

For more information about South College Pittsburgh, please call 724-209-7934 or visit south.edu.

About South College

South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award degrees at the doctorate, educational specialist, master’s, baccalaureate, and associate levels. South College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of South College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

South College Asheville launches first Physician Assistant program cohort

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

NEWS RELEASE

South College Asheville launches first Physician Assistant program cohort

The South College Asheville Physician Assistant program officially launched on Jan. 23 with the first class of 84 students who are pursuing a Master of Health Science in Physician Assistant Studies.

“We have eagerly anticipated welcoming the first group of students in the Physician Assistant program in Asheville,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “Our team is committed to developing these students through our comprehensive student support system, course instruction, and clinical training to help communities through the addition of qualified health professionals.”

The South College Physician Assistant Program previously earned provisional accreditation status from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) for its master’s level program in Physician Assistant Studies. This is the accreditation status initially awarded to new programs.

The Commission is the accrediting agency that protects the interests of the public and physician assistant profession by defining standards for education and evaluating programs in the United States to ensure compliance.

Enrollment is open now for the next cohort, which starts in January 2024. The program can be completed in as little as 27 months, with 15 months in didactic instruction followed by 12 months in supervised clinical practice experiences (SCPEs).

About South College

South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award degrees at the doctorate, educational specialist, master’s, baccalaureate, and associate levels, as well as certificates. Questions about the accreditation of South College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (https://www.sacscoc.org).

About ARC-PA Accreditation

ARC-PA provides the following statement about this accreditation: The ARC-PA has granted Accreditation-Provisional status to the South College Asheville Physician Assistant Program sponsored by South College.

Accreditation-Provisional is an accreditation status granted when the plans and resource allocation, if fully implemented as planned, of a proposed program that has not yet enrolled students appear to demonstrate the program’s ability to meet the ARC-PA Standards or when a program holding Accreditation-Provisional status appears to demonstrate continued progress in complying with the Standards as it prepares for the graduation of the first class (cohort) of students.

Accreditation-Provisional does not ensure any subsequent accreditation status. It is limited to no more than five years from matriculation of the first class.

South College Knoxville and Nashville nursing students achieve 92% pass rate on NCLEX-RN exam

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Kathleen Stockham

NEWS RELEASE

South College Knoxville and Nashville nursing students achieve 92% pass rate on NCLEX-RN exam

Students in the South College Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offered at its Knoxville and Nashville campuses who took the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in 2022 earned a 92% pass rate on their first attempt at the exam.

“We congratulate the BSN graduates on their exceptional performance on national examinations and are happy to have helped 163 individuals in Tennessee achieve the title of ‘registered nurse’ in 2022,” South College Chancellor Steve South said. “This reinforces the great emphasis we place on training, education, student support, and providing great faculty and external partners to prepare students to enter critical health professions.”

The national exam assesses the application and analysis of knowledge that students learn in school and ensures that entry-level nurses can make clinical judgments and meet the needs of patients. It covers four major categories: safe and effective care environment, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity. It is the final component of the licensure process.

South College is accepting applications for the next BSN cohort and offers multiple healthcare programs from certificate to doctoral levels across several disciplines. South College students who qualify for financial aid have access to a range of programs as do members of the U.S. military, veterans, and their families. The institution offers both student and career services.

For more information about South College, please call the Knoxville campus at 865-251-1800 or the Nashville campus at 629-802-3000 or visit south.edu.

About South College

South College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award degrees at the doctorate, educational specialist, master’s, baccalaureate, and associate levels, as well as certificates. Questions about the accreditation of South College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (sacscoc.org).