OCCC Approved to Offer New Four-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree

New program expands opportunities for local nurses and strengthens rural healthcare workforce

Oregon Coast Community College (OCCC), long known in Lincoln County for its transfer and two-year degree programs, is taking another significant step forward in academic offerings.

As of this week, OCCC has been approved to offer its own four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree. The approval, granted by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) on Monday, May 19, follows the Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission’s (HECC) endorsement earlier this year.

This marks a major milestone not only for OCCC but for a consortium of six Oregon community colleges that collaborated to develop the new program: Central Oregon, Chemeketa, Klamath, Linn-Benton, Treasure Valley, and Oregon Coast.

In a letter to OCCC President Dr. Marshall Mease Roache, NWCCU praised the strength of the College’s existing associate degree program and faculty, stating, “Oregon Coast Community College has a strong associate’s program, with qualified faculty, from which to build this baccalaureate program.”

Designed for Working Nurses

The BSN program is tailored for registered nurses (RNs) who already hold an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) degree. The program consists of 60 additional credits, delivered primarily online, enabling working nurses to advance their education while continuing to serve their communities.

“This approval is a game-changer for our students and our region,” said Dr. Crystal Bowman, Dean of Nursing & Allied Health at OCCC. “It enables local nurses to pursue a bachelor’s degree without leaving the coast, increasing access and affordability while supporting the local healthcare system.”

Meeting Workforce and Equity Goals

The BSN program aims to address key needs across the state:

• Access: Many Oregon RNs currently complete BSN degrees through out-of-state or online institutions. This local option provides a more affordable, community-rooted alternative.
• Career Advancement: A BSN opens doors to leadership roles, specialized nursing positions, and graduate programs in education or administration.
• Workforce Development: By supporting the pathway to become nurse educators, the program strengthens Oregon’s capacity to train future nurses.
• Rural Retention: Students can remain in their jobs while completing the program, helping to retain skilled professionals in rural healthcare settings.

Program Launch in 2026

The BSN program is expected to launch in Fall 2026. Each of the six participating colleges will offer seven seats annually, for a total cohort of 42 students. The online format and part-time schedule are designed to support students balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

“We are grateful to NWCCU for its support,” said President Roache. “This new degree is the result of years of hard work and collaboration, and we look forward to opening this opportunity for our students and our region.”

For more information about OCCC’s nursing programs and the upcoming BSN opportunity, contact Dr. Crystal Bowman at crystal.bowman@oregoncoast.edu or visit oregoncoast.edu/nursing.

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