Albany State and Phoebe Putney Launch Nursing Pathway for Adults

Albany State University and Phoebe Putney Health System Launch Nursing Pathway for Working Adults

Albany State University has partnered with Phoebe Putney Health System to launch a direct pathway to nursing careers for working adults. Beginning in January 2027, the collaboration adds financial and career development support to Albany State’s existing associate of science degree in nursing evening track program.

The program is designed to accommodate work and daytime responsibilities through an evening schedule. Under the new agreement, students must commit to a two-year employment contract with Phoebe Putney Health System after graduation. In exchange, Phoebe will provide each participating student with $10,000 in financial support during their studies.

Academic Support and Faculty Expansion

Students in the evening ASN track will also receive mentoring opportunities, clinical training, and simulation experiences. Beyond direct student assistance, the partnership funds new faculty positions at Albany State, including one full-time faculty member, one part-time faculty member, and two clinical instructors.

“Albany State University has long recognized that access and flexibility are essential to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals,” said Robert Scott, president of Albany State University. “This partnership with Phoebe creates a meaningful opportunity for working adults to pursue a nursing degree while receiving the academic, financial and professional support needed to succeed. At the same time, it strengthens the nursing workforce in Southwest Georgia. This is exactly what a university and a healthcare system can accomplish when we align our missions around the needs of our students and our community.”

The collaboration seeks to address local workforce needs while opening accessible routes to healthcare careers for individuals with daytime obligations.

“This partnership will strengthen Phoebe’s workforce pipeline, expand ASU’s already outstanding nursing program and, most importantly, create life-changing opportunities for hardworking people in our community who want to pursue nursing careers,” said Scott Steiner, president and CEO of Phoebe Putney Health System. “It will also benefit the many patients they will one day serve. We are committed to creating more career opportunities for people who have a heart for service and an interest in healthcare, and we look forward to seeing the lasting impact of this partnership.”