ALEXANDRIA, La. (1/29/2025) – The LSUA School of Nursing is proud to announce the launch of its first evening option cohort for the Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program, offering a flexible pathway for individuals balancing work, caregiving, and other life commitments.
This innovative program began in January with seven students attending classes on Monday and Tuesday evenings, with clinical training on Saturdays. Building on the success of this cohort, LSUA plans to offer two evening classes by Fall 2025 and all four clinical courses by Fall 2026.
The program was developed in response to market research and demographic data collected by the School of Nursing, which revealed significant demand for flexible learning options in central Louisiana. According to Jeff Langston, Dean of the College of Health & Human Services, 70% of current nursing students are married, and 48% have children or serve as caregivers. “This data showed us there is a real need for a nursing program that accommodates those who cannot attend classes during traditional hours,” Langston said. “We’re addressing this demand to make nursing school more accessible to working moms and dads in our area.”
Sarita James, Ph.D., RN, CNE, and Director of the LSUA School of Nursing, emphasized the program’s focus on inclusivity and accessibility. “The evening option allows individuals with daytime commitments to pursue their dreams of becoming registered nurses without compromising their responsibilities,” James said. “This initiative reflects LSUA’s commitment to providing high-quality education tailored to the needs of our community and the healthcare industry.”
For Raven Bryant, a current LSUA employee and newly enrolled pre-nursing student, the program is a life-changing opportunity. “As a mom and full-time worker, this evening option is perfect for me,” Bryant said. “I always wondered how I could work and go to nursing school, and this is my confirmation to get to the finish line.”
As LSUA continues to address the region’s healthcare workforce shortages, the evening option exemplifies the university’s mission to deliver meaningful, high-quality degrees that meet the evolving needs of Central Louisiana.
For more information about LSUA’s nursing programs, visit www.lsua.edu/nursing.
Written by Adam Lord
Photo credit – LSUA Strategic Communications
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