FERRUM, Virginia, October 14, 2026 — Ferrum College is proud to launch two innovative academic programs designed to expand opportunities for students and address critical workforce needs across the Commonwealth and beyond.
Beginning in the fall semester of 2027, Ferrum College will welcome its first students into new programs for the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology (BSET) with a focus in applied engineering technologies and the Associate Degree in Nursing to Master of Science in Nursing (ADN to MSN) pathway.
Ferrum College President Mirta M. Martin said the new programs represent the institution’s continued commitment to creating accessible pathways that prepare students for meaningful careers.
“Ferrum College has always believed that education should open doors and transform lives,” said Dr. Martin. “These new programs reflect our commitment to meeting students where they are, removing barriers, and creating pathways that lead to opportunity. Whether preparing the next generation of engineering technology professionals or helping experienced nurses advance into leadership and education roles, Ferrum College is responding to the needs of our students, our communities, and our workforce.”
The BSET will prepare students for high-demand careers in applied engineering fields through hands-on learning, industry-aligned coursework, and practical laboratory experiences. Students will develop the technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and professional experience needed to contribute immediately in fields connected to construction, civil, environmental, and other engineering-related industries. Rooted in Ferrum College’s tradition of experiential learning, the program will provide students with opportunities to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges, preparing graduates who can innovate, collaborate, and help address the evolving needs of industry and communities.
The program will strengthen Ferrum College’s commitment to experiential education while supporting regional employers seeking graduates with applied technical expertise and workforce-ready skills.
Ferrum College is also proud to launch the fast track ADN to MSN program, designed to provide licensed registered nurses (RNs) with an accelerated route to graduate education by completing both undergraduate and graduate courses within the new program. Applicants transferring with a licensed RN who already have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN) are required to complete only the graduate coursework.
The Master of Science in Nursing will provide two distinct tracks designed for working registered nurses, Nurse Leader and Nurse Educator. The fully online program, supported with individual clinical placements, provides advanced knowledge and practical skills needed to address the national shortage of nurse leaders and academic nursing educators. Ferrum College’s unique ADN to MSN pathway creates a seamless, accelerated academic bridge and removes barriers such as additional time, unnecessary repetition, and the cost of completing a BSN first.
Virginia nursing programs provide several pathways for ADN or ASN prepared licensed RNs to pursue graduate education; however, most programs in Virginia require students to complete a BSN before entering an MSN program. While a few programs in Virginia offer post-licensure ADN/ASN to MSN options in a Clinical Nurse Leader track, Ferrum College’s post-licensure ADN to MSN program will be the first Virginia MSN program designed to prepare licensed professional nurses for advanced roles in healthcare leadership and nursing education without requiring BSN completion.
Provost Richard Grant highlighted the importance of these programs in expanding access and strengthening workforce development.
“Ferrum College is committed to developing academic programs that are both rigorous and responsive to the needs of our communities,” said Dr. Grant. “These programs reflect thoughtful planning, collaboration, and our commitment to providing students with pathways that connect education directly to opportunity. We are excited to welcome students into programs that will prepare them to make an immediate impact in their professions.”
The inaugural classes for both programs will begin in August 2027. Ferrum College will begin recruitment efforts immediately.
“These programs are a reflection of who we are as the College of Opportunity,” said Dr. Martin. “We are creating pathways for students to discover their purpose, develop their talents, and lead lives of service and significance.”
Click here for information about the BSET program
Click here for information about the ADN to MSN program
Founded in 1913, Ferrum College is a private, professional four-year liberal arts college nestled in the foothills of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. As the College of Opportunity, Ferrum College offers an academically rigorous, hands-on education that empowers students to discover their purpose, develop their talents, and lead lives of service and significance. Guided by its enduring motto, Not Self, But Others, Ferrum College is committed to developing graduates of character who lead with integrity, serve with compassion, and make meaningful contributions to their professions and communities. Through innovative academic programs, NCAA Division II athletics, experiential learning, and a steadfast commitment to student success, Ferrum College prepares graduates who enter with promise, leave with purpose, and transform the world.
