Ohio University Lancaster to launch Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program in Spring 2027

Ohio University Lancaster is expanding opportunities for future healthcare professionals with the anticipated launch of its Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (AAS-N) program beginning Spring Semester 2027, pending final external approvals.

The new program will provide students in Fairfield County and the surrounding region with the opportunity to pursue a registered nursing degree closer to home while helping meet the growing demand for qualified healthcare professionals.

The addition of the AAS-N program represents another step in Ohio University Lancaster’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality, career-focused education that meets the needs of the communities it serves. Currently, Ohio University offers the AAS-N program at its Chillicothe, Southern and Zanesville campuses. With the expansion to Lancaster, students who previously needed to commute to another regional campus or institution to pursue an associate nursing degree will now have the opportunity to complete their education closer to home.

The AAS-N degree is offered through a competitive, accredited two-year program that combines classroom instruction, hands-on laboratory experiences, simulation-based learning and supervised clinical experiences with regional healthcare partners. Through this comprehensive approach, students will develop the knowledge, technical skills and critical thinking abilities needed to provide safe, compassionate and evidence-based patient care.

To support the launch of the AAS-N program, Ohio University Lancaster is making a significant investment in its nursing facilities. The fourth floor of Brasee Hall is currently undergoing renovations as part of Phase 3 of the campus’ nursing renovations project. The improvements will establish dedicated classroom spaces and nursing laboratories designed to support hands-on learning and provide students with the resources needed to succeed in a rigorous nursing curriculum.

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Once completed, the renovated space will allow Ohio University Lancaster to properly support a cohort of 25 AAS-N students in an environment designed specifically for nursing education. The project represents an estimated $990,000 investment in expanding healthcare education opportunities and strengthening the region’s nursing workforce.

"At Ohio University, our regional campuses exist to meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve," said Dr. Lewatis McNeal, vice provost for regional higher education. "The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing at OHIO Lancaster is a direct response to the growing demand for healthcare professionals and reflects the power of collaboration between the university, our healthcare partners and the community. Together, we are creating opportunities for students while building a stronger, healthier future for the region."

Lab spaces are due to be completed by August 2026. During the renovation period, the south end of the fourth floor of Brasee Hall will remain closed to the public.

"Bringing the AAS-N program to Ohio University Lancaster is an exciting opportunity for our campus and the communities we serve," said Danielle Schabel, associate director for nursing and associate professor of instruction at Ohio University Lancaster. "These renovated spaces will allow us to provide students with the classroom, laboratory and simulation experiences they need to build confidence and develop the skills necessary to become successful registered nurses. We are excited to welcome our first cohort and help prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals right here in Lancaster."

Admission to the AAS-N program is selective and academically based. Applicants must have a minimum 2.75 college GPA, complete required prerequisite coursework, including algebra, achieve a qualifying score on the ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (ATI TEAS) and complete both the Ohio University admission process and the nursing program application.

"Preparing practice-ready nurses is at the heart of this program," Schabel said. "By integrating simulation-based learning and hands-on clinical experiences throughout the curriculum, students will graduate with the confidence, knowledge and skills needed to provide quality care in a variety of healthcare settings."

Information session on Monday, Aug. 31

Ohio University Lancaster will host an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing Information Session on Monday, Aug. 31, 2026, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. in Room 422 of Brasee Hall for prospective students interested in learning more about the program.

The information session will provide attendees with an overview of the AAS-N application process, student requirements and expectations, submission deadlines and the basic plan of study for nursing students. The session is open to anyone interested in learning more about pursuing a nursing degree at Ohio University Lancaster; however, attendance is required for students planning to apply for the inaugural Spring 2027 cohort.

"The information session will give prospective students an opportunity to learn more about the program, meet with faculty and better understand the steps needed to prepare for the application process," Schabel said. "We encourage anyone interested in a career in nursing to attend and explore how Ohio University Lancaster can help them reach their goals."

The launch of the AAS-N program builds upon Ohio University Lancaster’s growing health sciences offerings and strengthens the University’s commitment to preparing skilled healthcare professionals who are ready to serve communities throughout the region.

For more information about the Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program and upcoming application details, visit ohio.edu/lancaster.

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