Rosemont College, Rosemont, Pa., has partnered with Drexel University, Philadelphia, on a new 4+1 Biology and Nursing Double Degree program.

Started this spring, the program allows students to earn a bachelor of arts degree in biology at Rosemont College before entering the Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions’ Accelerated Career Entry (ACE) program to complete their bachelor of science in nursing degree.

Rosemont is the only college in Pennsylvania partnered with Drexel University School of Nursing and Health Professions and offering this opportunity for students to earn two degrees in five years.

“We are excited to be partnering with Drexel University’s highly-acclaimed College of Nursing and Health Professions,” said Dr. Sharon Latchaw Hirsh, president of Rosemont College. “This new 4+1 program places Rosemont in a position of continued growth and demonstrated academic leadership within our geographic region.”

The addition of the 4+1 program creates another avenue for biology students who wish to further their education and career beyond graduation, building on the success of Rosemont’s existing partnerships with the Temple University Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry and Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.

“Drexel’s ACE students are sought after by the region’s best healthcare systems because of our reputation for developing knowledgeable, compassionate and leadership-driven nurses,” said Dr. Donna Ruelens-Trinkaus, department chair, Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions.

Drexel’s ACE program prepares a student for a position as a registered nurse in several types of settings. The program boasts a National Council Licensure Exam pass rate of 97-100 percent, along with expansive clinical affiliations, reputable faculty, and an innovative curriculum.  ACE affords students the opportunity to complete their degree and fast-track their nursing career in four consecutive 10-week terms.

According to Dr. Aikaterini Skokotas, associate professor and biology department chairperson at Rosemont College, a degree in biology will provide a firm foundation for any student seeking a career in the healthcare industry.

“Although Drexel’s accelerated nursing program is rigorous and intellectually challenging, Rosemont students will adapt well to the curriculum because they’ll already have research experience as well as a thorough understanding of cell biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology,” she said.

For more information, visit Rosemont.edu.