Agreements create direct routes into SWAU’s MSN in Nursing Education program for qualified BSN graduates

KEENE, Texas — Southwestern Adventist University is expanding access to graduate nursing education through two new partnership agreements with Union Adventist University and Oakwood University, creating direct pathways for qualified Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates to continue into SWAU’s Master of Science in Nursing, Education program.

Together, the agreements reflect Southwestern’s continued investment in developing clear, supportive routes for nurses who are ready to advance their education and prepare for roles in teaching, leadership, and professional service. Rather than leaving students to navigate the next step on their own, the partnerships create defined pathways into graduate study while strengthening collaboration between institutions with shared educational missions.

Under both agreements, graduates who complete a BSN, obtain RN licensure, maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and meet all Southwestern Adventist University admission requirements qualify for automatic admission into the MSN program. Students entering through either pathway also receive an automatic 20% tuition discount, helping make graduate study more accessible and affordable.

Both partnerships also emphasize student support during the transition into advanced study. Faculty and staff may collaborate on information sessions and outreach efforts, while Southwestern provides graduate advising, success coaching, financial aid guidance, and academic planning resources before and during enrollment. This support is aimed at helping students move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

The Oakwood partnership carries added significance in bringing together two institutions with commitments to educating and empowering historically underrepresented student populations. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution, Southwestern Adventist University joins with Oakwood University, a historically Black university, in a collaboration that helps create stronger pathways for diverse students to advance into graduate nursing education and, ultimately, into leadership and service in the healthcare field.

While similar in structure, the two agreements each strengthen Southwestern’s graduate nursing mission in meaningful ways. The Union partnership expands opportunity for students seeking a direct route into SWAU’s MSN in Nursing Education program, while the Oakwood partnership adds a broader emphasis on student transition and institutional collaboration. Together, they represent important momentum for Southwestern Adventist University as it continues to build strong academic partnerships that support the future of nursing education.

Both agreements remain in effect for five years, with the option for renewal by mutual written agreement.

Students interested in learning more about Southwestern Adventist University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program may visit https://swau.edu/academics/nursing-department or contact Dr. Kerrie Kimbrow, Nursing Dept. Chair, kkimbrow@swau.edu, (817) 202-6736