CFCC and UNCW partner to implement Try Teal program to address nursing shortage

Wilmington, NC — Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) and the College of Health and Human Services at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) have partnered to implement an innovative program to address the critical shortage of nurses through the “Try Teal” program. This partnership gives CFCC Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) students the opportunity to begin their journey toward a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

Through “Try Teal,” CFCC ADN students can enroll in two Registered Nurse (RN) to BSN courses at UNCW without tuition or fees, saving students over $1,200. All course-related costs, including textbooks, are covered. These online courses are part of UNCW’s accelerated RN to BSN program, designed to accommodate the needs of working adults. Upon successful completion, students are conditionally admitted to UNCW’s program, streamlining the path to advanced nursing education.

Eligibility criteria include:

• Current enrollment in CFCC’s ADN program
• Successful completion or active enrollment in NUR 113 or NUR 114
• Completion of ENG 111 with a grade of “C” or higher
• A cumulative college GPA of 2.4 or higher
• Good academic standing at the last institution attended

“This collaboration is mutually beneficial for both our students and the healthcare community,” said Jim Morton, CFCC President. “It provides an affordable pathway for our nursing students while ensuring a steady flow of skilled healthcare professionals to meet our region’s workforce demands. Together, we’re enhancing the quality of life in our community.”

“The Try Teal initiative represents a significant step forward in addressing the critical nursing workforce shortage,” said Jack Watson, Dean of the UNCW College of Health and Human Services. “Our partnership with Cape Fear Community College reflects a shared commitment to supporting students and advancing healthcare in our communities. We aim to remove financial barriers and provide a seamless pathway for future nurses to enhance their education. Together, we’re empowering the next generation of nursing professionals to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.”

The Try Teal Program is made possible through the support of the New Hanover Healthcare Career Partnership and the New Hanover Community Endowment. This partnership highlights the institutions’ dedication to tackling the region’s critical healthcare challenges by prioritizing the education and training of future nurses.

To learn more about Cape Fear Community College’s Associate Degree Nursing program, visit cfcc.edu/associate-nursing/ .