Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) and Weatherford College have announced a new academic partnership designed to create a streamlined pathway for Weatherford College nursing students to continue their education at SWAU.
Representatives from both institutions signed the agreement on Sept. 3, which took effect immediately.
The partnership provides eligible Weatherford College students with a clear pathway to continue their nursing education at SWAU, including opportunities to complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and subsequently advance into SWAU’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.
Under the agreement, eligible Weatherford College students are guaranteed admission to SWAU upon meeting established requirements, including completion of the application process, a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0, a current and unencumbered U.S. registered nursing license, and good academic and professional standing at the time of graduation.
As part of the partnership, SWAU will also provide Weatherford College students with access to graduate advising, financial aid guidance, and academic planning resources prior to enrollment, helping students prepare for a successful transition into the next stage of their nursing education.
“We are thrilled to begin this new partnership with Weatherford College,” says Kerrie Kimbrow, D.N.P., chair of the Nursing Department at SWAU. “This agreement creates a clear pathway for exceptional students to continue their education through our MSN program. We look forward to preparing these students to become the next generation of nurse educators.”
“We are very excited to have this opportunity for our students, whom we believe are well prepared to succeed in a graduate program,” says Tod Farmer, Ed.D., president of Weatherford College. “We have a culture of caring based on our core values of faith, hope, and love. This partnership with a Christian university is a natural progression for our students as they transition to the graduate level, continue to grow professionally, and embrace new academic challenges.”
Nelu Nedelea, Ph.D., president of SWAU, emphasized the broader significance of the partnership and the institutions’ shared commitment to developing future leaders.
“May this be the beginning of a strong and long-lasting partnership,” Nedelea said. “Throughout our 133-year history, our commitment has been to contribute to the excellence our partners are already providing to their students and to work alongside them in preparing the next generation of leaders—healthcare professionals, servants, church leaders, and so many others who will make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. It is truly an honor for us to be part of this journey and to build the future together.”