NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Registered nurses can advance their careers and earn a degree that prepares them for the future of healthcare through the new Bachelor of Science Completion Program in Holistic Nursing at Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (PCOM) in New York. A leader in developing highly skilled and licensed practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage and Asian bodywork, PCOM has developed the first nursing bachelor degree program of its kind within a Complementary/Alternative Medicine (CAM) school. The new nursing program includes classes covering not only core work in the sciences, leadership, community and research necessary for the Bachelor of Science, but also classes in holistic theory and modalities for healing, health, and wellness. Designed specifically for licensed registered nurses who already have their associate’s degree, students can attend day or evening classes. With classes beginning in January 2012, students can complete their bachelor’s degree in as little as four semesters full-time or seven to nine semesters part-time.
The program launches at a critical time in the nursing field, as New York and many other states consider a proposal requiring all registered nurses to achieve a bachelor’s degree or higher within the next 10 years. Indeed, in light of rapidly expanding clinical knowledge and mounting complexities in healthcare, the Institute of Medicine report on the Future of Nursing and a number of national nursing associations, including the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) recommend the baccalaureate degree as the minimum educational requirement for professional nursing practice.
“PCOM’s unique new program offers RNs the opportunity to earn the increasingly important bachelor’s degree, with a focus on integrative care that is fast becoming the standard for healthcare today,” said Dr. Carla Mariano, past-president of the American Holistic Nurses Association (AHNA) and a leader in developing national standards for holistic nursing education, practice and certification. Dr. Mariano, who developed the curriculum for PCOM’s holistic nursing program and serves on the program’s advisory committee, also initiated the country’s first master’s level nurse practitioner program in holistic nursing at New York University. Holistic nursing was recently recognized by the ANA as a distinct specialty in nursing at the bachelor’s and master’s degree levels.
Reflecting the rising interest in holistic approaches to healthcare, the latest studies indicate that 65 to 80 percent of the world’s population and approximately 38 percent of all Americans use CAM.
“There is growing demand for economically feasible and compassionate health options grounded in holistic ideals,” said Dr. Mariano. “Consumers and even insurers are seeking out and expecting healthcare professionals who can focus on the whole person and incorporate an array of conventional and holistic therapies to enhance healing and cultivate wellness. PCOM is uniquely positioned to provide a program that educates nurses to do just that while providing a rich interdisciplinary learning experience.”
Consistent with the standards set forth by the AHNA, the PCOM program in holistic nursing takes an integrative relationship-centered approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of self, others, and the environment; the promotion and maintenance of health and well-being, not simply the absence of disease; and a commitment to professional self-reflection and self-care. The holistic nurse is educated as an advocate, collaborator and partner with the patient, his/or her family, the community, and other health disciplines, striving to identify and treat the root cause of illness. Classes include core courses such as nursing leadership, research, health assessment, issues and trends in healthcare, as well as courses in theories of holism and holistic integrative modalities. Electives are offered in Chinese medicine, nutrition, herbology, essential oils, and Asian bodywork.
“PCOM has a history of excellence in educating outstanding professionals in Traditional Chinese Medicine through our unique approach to integrating Western and Eastern approaches to healthcare,” said Dr. Gina Lepore, campus director at PCOM’s New York Campus. “Our deep experience in CAM and ability to offer some of our current courses as curricular and co-curricular options make PCOM a perfect venue for a bachelor completion program in holistic nursing.”
The PCOM Bachelor of Science Completion Program in Holistic Nursing is approved by the New York State Education Department Office of the Professions (NYSED) and is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
For more information on the program, contact 1-888-539-9230.
About Pacific College of Oriental Medicine
Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (PCOM) is committed to meeting the growing demand for integrative health practitioners through a unique education that incorporates both Eastern and Western approaches to healing disease and cultivating wellness. PCOM’s comprehensive accredited programs include certificates, undergraduate and graduate programs in Asian Bodywork and Massage Therapy, Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, as well as a new program in holistic nursing. Students can build confidence and expertise through extensive clinical experience at on-site clinics and in integrative healthcare settings. With campuses in San Diego, New York, and Chicago, thousands of alumni and over 200 faculty members, students and graduates can tap into a network of distinguished professionals for lifelong learning and career opportunities.
PCOM is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). (ACCSC’s scope does not extend to PCOM’s doctoral programs). PCOM’s Master's and Doctoral degree programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (ACAOM).
Availability of programs varies by location. For more information, call 1-888-539-9230 or visit www.pacificcollege.edu. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PCOMNewYork.