Vermont State University (VTSU) has graduated 414 new nurses this year, marking a significant step forward in addressing the state’s ongoing health care workforce shortage. With approximately 92% of these graduates testing for licensure in Vermont and strong NCLEX pass rates, the university continues to deliver on its promise to educate and prepare nurses who stay and serve in their local communities.
“Vermont needs more nurses, and VTSU is delivering them,” said VTSU President Dave Bergh. “We’ve built an incredible program that is accessible statewide and whose graduates are directly and immediately impacting the health care needs of their local communities.”
Now enrolling more than 700 nursing students annually—90% of whom are Vermont residents—VTSU’s nursing programs span 12 locations across the state, with additional coursework available online. Designed for flexibility and accessibility, the university’s laddered credential model offers multiple entry points into nursing, from a practical nursing certificate to an associate degree in nursing (ADN), to a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), and ultimately to a master of science in nursing (MSN).
The laddered structure—commonly referred to as 1+1+2—enables students to earn a certificate or degree after each stage of the program. Many, like Bennington graduate Jennifer Spika, choose to continue their education while already working in the field.
“Choosing the VTSU PN program was an easy decision for me,” Spika said. “It has a strong reputation, a supportive learning environment, and it’s located right in my community.” Balancing part-time work and raising three children, Spika plans to continue in the ADN program this fall.
Spika said the program pushed her out of her comfort zone in the best way.
“Most of all, I liked that the program challenged me more than anything I’ve ever done. It helped me grow, not just as a future nurse, but as a person,” she reflected. A career-changer with a background in architecture, Spika said her new path feels “deeply purposeful.”
The statewide program’s accessibility and layered approach have made it a top choice for adult learners and working professionals. “That flexibility is the real beauty of this program,” said Caitlin Stover, dean of nursing and health sciences at VTSU. “Students can choose to advance to the next credential or enter the workforce at any step—and either way, they’re positioned for success.”
According to Stover, nearly all of VTSU’s nursing graduates pass their licensure exams on the first attempt, with scores that consistently outpace national averages.
With its growing enrollment and innovative programming, VTSU continues to play a vital role in strengthening the state’s health care system from the inside out.
