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Jefferson Community and Technical College (Jefferson) and Kentucky State University (KSU) announced at a signing ceremony today a new partnership to provide a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The partnership creates a pathway for graduates of Jefferson’s nursing program to pursue a BSN from KSU with significant in-person support on the Jefferson campus. In addition, KSU’s Jefferson-2-KSU Pathway Scholarship provides a tuition-free bachelor’s degree to students eligible for the federal Pell grant.

“This partnership with Kentucky State University is a positive step forward toward expanding opportunities for our nursing students,” said Dr. Ty Handy, President of Jefferson Community and Technical College. “By offering a clear, supportive pathway to a BSN—right here on our campus—we’re removing barriers and making it easier for students to advance their education and careers. We value our collaborative partnership with KSU and look forward to more opportunities in the future.”

Students will be enrolled at KSU and receive services on Jefferson’s Downtown Campus. They’ll also have access to the College’s nursing labs and other student services.

“This is a remarkable opportunity to empower our future nurses and offer them an affordable, high-quality education closer to home,” said KSU President, Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo. “We want to ensure that we are not only creating pathways, but that we are also providing the academic support and financial aid to ensure students are successful as they embark on those pathways.”

The Jefferson-2-KSU Pathway Scholarship is a renewable, last-dollar and nonrefundable scholarship program for students transferring from Jefferson. The scholarship covers fall and spring tuition after federal and state aid and external awards have been applied. 

To qualify, students must be Pell-eligible, enroll full time in a bachelor’s program, file a FAFSA and submit a scholarship application. 

Highlighting the value of advanced nursing education, Shari Kretzschmer, UofL Health Chief Nursing Officer, emphasized the importance of the BSN degree and praised the new partnership, stating: “The BSN degree opens so many doors and career advancement possibilities for nurses. At UofL Health, and in health care systems across the state, nurses with BSN’s are recognized and rewarded as experts in their field. I applaud Jefferson and KSU for collaborating on this partnership to reduce barriers so more nurses can advance their careers.”

2025 classes begin Monday, August 18. For more information, visit kysu.edu.