DES MOINES, IOWA, March 1, 2022 — A new affiliation between Simpson College and Mercy Health Sciences University will allow students to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Health and Exercise Science or Biology from Simpson and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Mercy Health Sciences University in approximately the amount of time it would normally take to earn a degree from one institution.
“Our partnership with Mercy Health Sciences University offers students a powerful dose of combined educational excellence,” said Simpson College President Marsha Kelliher. “Providing students with this unique opportunity to obtain two degrees in four years will give them distinct advantages in their career pursuits.”
After completing their third year at Simpson, students who meet admission requirements will begin nursing coursework at Mercy Health Sciences University. Upon successful completion of the nursing coursework, students are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN exam). Mercy Health Sciences University’s BSN offers three start dates per year, enabling a convenient transition for students to maximize their Simpson experience, including athletic eligibility. In total, the time for program completion is four years.
“Mercy Health Sciences University’s accelerated format is one of the fastest ways to obtain a BSN in Iowa, all without leaving the Des Moines region,” said Nancy Kertz, Mercy Health Sciences University’s vice president for academic affairs and provost. “With the growing need for nurses and healthcare leaders, this affiliation helps accelerate the preparation of the next generation of healthcare professionals.”
Mercy Health Sciences University offers a similar Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences and Accelerated BSN partnership program with Drake University.
Students can learn more by visiting Mercy Health Sciences University’s or Simpson’s website dedicated to this partnership.
About Mercy Health Sciences University
Mercy Health Sciences University is the only private Catholic college in central Iowa and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Located in downtown Des Moines, Mercy Health Sciences University prepares graduates for service and leadership in the healthcare community with a wide range of bachelor, associate, and certificate programs. Visit www.mchs.edu or call (515) 635-1133 to learn how you can Chart Your Course.
About Simpson College
Simpson College is a private, liberal arts college located in Iowa with campuses in Indianola, West Des Moines and online. Founded in 1860, the college has 1,078 undergraduate and graduate students. Simpson offers 75 majors, minors and programs in addition to three graduate programs. Outside of the classroom, Simpson is a member of the NCAA Division III American Rivers Conference, hosts eight Greek houses on campus and sponsors many extracurricular options for student involvement.
