Bermuda College nursing students will be able to study at a US university in Kentucky after an agreement between the two establishments.

In the arrangement, graduates of Bermuda College’s Associate of Science Degree (Nursing) will be able to transfer to Kentucky State University in Frankfort for the third year of their four-year nursing degree course.

David Sam, the Bermuda College president, said it was expected that the agreement will lead to further opportunities for Bermudians who would like to study at KSU.

Addressing the university’s new president, Koffi Akakpo, Dr Sam said: “May your confident and innovative leadership be the building blocks to newer and brighter horizons in nursing education for Kentucky State and Bermuda College students.

“We are always pleased about win-win collaborations that provide access and opportunities for our students and graduates.”

In response, Dr Akakpo said: “Kentucky State University is excited to partner with Bermuda College to create educational pathways for nurses looking to further their education and expand their career opportunities.

“This reflects our strategic priority of affordable access through increasing programme offerings.”

The move was backed by interim Vice-President of Academic Affairs at Bermuda College, Ali Arouzi, who praised KSU’s facilities.

Dr Arouzi said: “Our students will be exposed to the state-of-the-art equipment in KSU’s simulation labs, including avatar and high-fidelity mannequins.

“With partnerships such as these, the aim is for BC graduates to take advantage of more career opportunities and pursue leadership roles in healthcare settings in the future.”

Kathy-Ann Swan, director of nursing at the college, said the deal was an endorsement of the institution’s standards.

She said: “This agreement is a significant endorsement, and supports our vision for the division to be recognised both locally and internationally.”

Mary Ellen Broaddus, KSU’s School of Nursing programme administrator, added: “We welcome this opportunity and hope that we can provide an enhanced pathway of healthcare in Bermuda.

“Kentucky State University is probably the most diverse university in the state of Kentucky and I think for us, having Bermuda’s nursing graduates as a part of our institution, would be a win for all.”

Candidates must meet certain criteria to qualify for admission to KSU.

• For more information about the college’s Associate of Science (Nursing) programme, call 239-4099 or e-mail readytostart@college.bm