VCU School of Nursing to nearly double admissions in effort to address national nurse shortage

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- In response to the growing national nursing shortage, Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Nursing is taking a significant step forward: nearly doubling its student admissions this fall.

Instead of enrolling the usual 140 students, the school will welcome 260 this fall—an increase of 120 spots aimed at bolstering the future of the healthcare workforce.

“We have a moral and ethical obligation to help the health of our patients in our community, and this is how we can do it,” said Patricia Kinser, VCU’s Interim Dean of Nursing.

The expansion marks the first phase of a five-year growth plan that aims to increase enrollment gradually, ensuring both quality education and workforce preparedness. While the program already boasts a 96% retention rate—well above the national average of 75–80%—Kinser emphasized that the initiative isn’t just about numbers.

“We're not just adding extra seats,” Kinser said. “We're also adding extra faculty who are well-prepared to support our students and extra staff who can help provide that well-rounded experience.”

To better support incoming students, the school is also expanding resources such as success coaches and scholarship opportunities. Kinser noted that the school is currently able to offer financial assistance to around 85% of students who demonstrate need.

The nursing shortage is driven by several factors, including an aging workforce, increasing retirements, and burnout from the COVID-19 pandemic. Kinser said the school’s goal is to not only increase the number of trained nurses, but also ensure that they’re entering the workforce resilient and well-prepared.

“How can we expand overall and meet the needs of students and, then, again make sure we're building a resilient workforce?” she said. “We need to make sure our students know the complexities of being a nurse.”

VCU’s strategy underscores a long-term commitment to addressing the healthcare industry’s staffing crisis—not just by filling classroom seats, but by shaping the next generation of nurses to thrive in a demanding field.