FYI: New Doctoral Nursing Program

The board of regents at Eastern Kentucky University has approved a new doctoral nursing program at the school.

On Monday, the board and the Kentucky Board of Nursing OK'd the program, but it must now be approved by the state's Council on Postsecondary Education.

Dr. David Gayle, dean of EKU's College of Health Sciences, says if it goes through, the program could enroll its first students as early as January.

The Richmond Register reports that EKU has received 100 applications. Gayle says only 20 would be accepted.

To be admitted, students must have a master's degree in nursing.

The program will be made available to nurses in Kentucky, particularly those who plan to work in rural or other under served areas.