Omaha, October 23, 2025
The University of Nebraska Medical Center announces the nationwide expansion of its Nursing Pathways Initiative, which allows certified nursing assistants to quickly transition to registered nurses. The program, launched in 2024, now partners with 50 hospitals in 20 states, aiming to address the U.S. nursing shortage by providing accelerated training. Funded by a $10 million federal grant, the initiative emphasizes online simulations and mentorship, creating 5,000 nursing jobs annually and promising greater efficiency and accessibility in nursing education.
Nationwide Expansion of UNMC’s Nursing Pathways Initiative Addresses U.S. Nursing Shortage
Omaha, NE – October 23, 2025 – The University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) has launched a nationwide expansion of its Nursing Pathways Initiative, a program designed to combat the ongoing nursing shortage across the United States. Originally introduced in 2024 as a local effort in Nebraska, the initiative now extends to 50 hospitals in 20 states, enabling certified nursing assistants (CNAs) to transition quickly into registered nurses (RNs) through accelerated training pathways.
The expansion marks a significant step in bolstering the national healthcare workforce. By partnering with hospitals nationwide, the program aims to streamline education and placement for aspiring nurses, addressing critical staffing gaps in medical facilities. This development builds on the initiative’s proven success in Nebraska, where more than 200 graduates have already secured positions in local hospitals since its inception.
The program’s structure emphasizes efficiency and accessibility. Participants benefit from a combination of online simulations for hands-on learning and personalized mentorship to guide their professional growth. These elements allow CNAs to complete their RN training faster than traditional routes, reducing barriers to entry in the nursing field. The nationwide rollout is supported by a $10 million federal grant, which funds the expansion and ensures resources reach diverse regions.
Collaboration plays a key role in the initiative’s growth. Educators from Creighton University participated in the announcement, underscoring the importance of joint efforts between institutions to scale effective training models. This partnership enhances the program’s reach and quality, drawing on combined expertise to refine curriculum and support systems.
Economically, the expansion holds substantial promise. It is projected to generate 5,000 nursing jobs each year across the participating states, contributing to workforce stability in healthcare sectors. In Omaha, a recognized medical hub, the initiative reinforces the city’s role as a leader in medical education and innovation, while extending benefits to communities far beyond Nebraska.
Background on the Nursing Shortage
The U.S. faces a persistent shortage of nurses, exacerbated by factors such as an aging population, retirements, and increased demand post-pandemic. Traditional nursing education programs often struggle to keep pace, with lengthy timelines deterring potential candidates. The Nursing Pathways Initiative directly tackles these challenges by shortening the path from CNA to RN, typically a process that can take two years or more in standard programs.
Launched in 2024, the local version in Nebraska served as a pilot, demonstrating high placement rates and participant satisfaction. Over 200 individuals completed the training and found employment in Nebraska hospitals, validating the model’s effectiveness. This success prompted the nationwide push, approved with the federal grant to replicate and adapt the program across states.
Program Components and Impact
At its core, the initiative integrates technology and human support to accelerate learning. Online simulations provide realistic clinical scenarios, allowing trainees to practice skills remotely. Mentorship from experienced nurses offers ongoing guidance, helping participants navigate certification exams and job placements.
The 50 hospital partners will host practical components, including clinical rotations, ensuring hands-on experience aligns with real-world needs. This nationwide network covers a broad geographic area, from urban centers to rural regions, promoting equitable access to nursing careers.
In terms of job creation, the annual projection of 5,000 positions highlights the program’s scale. These roles will fill vacancies in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, improving patient care and reducing wait times. For Omaha, the expansion solidifies its status as a medical education powerhouse, attracting talent and investment to the region.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, UNMC plans to monitor the program’s progress through data on graduation rates, job retention, and participant feedback. Adjustments may include expanding partnerships or incorporating new technologies. The initiative’s success could inspire similar models in other healthcare fields, further addressing workforce shortages.
Overall, this expansion represents a proactive response to a national crisis, leveraging proven strategies to build a stronger nursing workforce. By fast-tracking qualified individuals into essential roles, the Nursing Pathways Initiative supports healthier communities nationwide.
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FAQ
What is the Nursing Pathways Initiative?
The Nursing Pathways Initiative is a program by the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) designed to fast-track training for certified nursing assistants into registered nurses.
When was the Nursing Pathways Initiative launched locally?
The Nursing Pathways Initiative was launched locally in 2024.
How many hospitals and states are now involved in the nationwide expansion?
The nationwide expansion partners with 50 hospitals in 20 states.
What is the success rate in Nebraska for the initiative?
Over 200 local graduates have already been placed in Nebraska hospitals.
How is the nationwide expansion funded?
The nationwide expansion is funded by a $10 million federal grant.
What components does the program include?
The program includes online simulations and mentorship.
Which university joined the announcement?
Educators from Creighton University joined the announcement, emphasizing collaborative efforts.
How many nursing jobs is the initiative expected to create annually?
The initiative promises to create 5,000 nursing jobs annually.
What impact does the initiative have on Omaha?
The initiative directly impacts Omaha’s medical hub status.
Key Features of the Nursing Pathways Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Scope | Nationwide expansion partnering with 50 hospitals in 20 states |
| Launch Year (Local) | 2024 |
| Funding | $10 million federal grant |
| Training Components | Online simulations and mentorship |
| Nebraska Success | Over 200 graduates placed in local hospitals |
| Annual Job Creation | 5,000 nursing jobs |
| Collaborators | Educators from Creighton University |
