Hancock & CSU Channel Islands Announce New Bachelor of Science in Nursing Partnership
JUNE 2, 2025-- 伊人直播 and California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) are partnering to expand access to bachelor鈥檚 degrees in nursing for students in northern Santa Barbara County.
Backed by a $1.15 million grant from the California Community Colleges Chancellor鈥檚 Office, the innovative program will launch in fall 2026 and bring CSUCI鈥檚 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program directly to Hancock鈥檚 Santa Maria campus.
Designed for individuals who are nearing completion of an associate degree in nursing or currently working as associate degree-prepared nursing staff, the program offers a pathway to higher education and advancement in clinical practice, research, and leadership. It will follow a hybrid model that blends online coursework with in-person instruction. Students will meet face-to-face with CSUCI faculty at Hancock鈥檚 campus during the start, midpoint, and end of each course, and will have access to local academic and student support services throughout the program.
鈥淭his collaboration with CSU Channel Islands is another example of how Hancock is working to remove barriers and create seamless pathways for students to pursue higher education and meaningful careers,鈥� said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. 鈥淣urses are in high demand across the state, and this program will help our students advance their careers while serving their communities.鈥�
The program establishes a clear, affordable, and supportive route for students in Hancock鈥檚 nursing programs鈥攅specially licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and registered nurses (RNs)鈥攖o earn their BSN degrees without leaving the region.
Program organizers aim to build an initial cohort of 15 to 20 students for the 2026 launch.
鈥淐SUCI is proud to partner with 伊人直播 to help meet the evolving healthcare needs of our Central Coast communities,鈥� said CSUCI President Richard Yao, Ph.D. 鈥淭his BSN pathway will allow students to remain rooted in their communities while continuing their education and expanding their impact as healthcare professionals.鈥�
Hancock and CSUCI are finalizing program details, with full implementation expected in fall 2026.
鈥淭oday鈥檚 announcement is incredibly meaningful to me and so many others,鈥� said Rachael Belunza, a student in Hancock鈥檚 registered nursing program. 鈥淭he idea that we can now pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree right here on the Hancock campus without having to move away from our families or quit our jobs is life-changing.鈥�
The BSN partnership supports a broader statewide effort to grow California鈥檚 nursing workforce and improve healthcare outcomes in underserved and diverse communities.
