Athens State Nursing
Whether you’re ready to earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing, looking for an accelerated pathway to complete your degree, or planning for graduate study (coming soon), Athens State University offers flexible nursing programs designed for today’s healthcare professionals.
Our nursing programs combine academic excellence, career-focused curriculum, and personalized support to help you reach your goals while balancing work, family, and life commitments. Guided by experienced faculty and informed by industry leaders, Athens State prepares nurses to lead, serve, and make a meaningful impact in healthcare settings across Alabama and beyond.
Available Nursing Programs

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Designed for licensed registered nurses seeking to advance their education, the BSN program builds upon existing clinical knowledge while preparing graduates for expanded leadership opportunities, professional growth, and graduate study.

Fast-Track / Joint Enrollment BSN
The Fast-Track/Joint Enrollment option allows eligible nursing students to begin coursework toward their BSN while completing an associate degree in nursing.

Master of Science in Nursing Education
Athens State is expanding opportunities for nursing professionals with the upcoming launch of a Master of Science in Nursing Education program.
Why Choose Nursing at Athens State?
Flexible for Working Professionals
Our programs are designed with working nurses in mind, offering flexible course delivery options that help students balance education, employment, and family responsibilities.
Career-Focused Education
Our curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, communication, and evidence-based practice to prepare graduates for success in today’s evolving healthcare environment.


Expert Faculty
Learn from experienced nurse educators and healthcare professionals who bring real-world expertise into every course and are committed to student success.
Workforce Ready Graduates
Athens State nursing graduates leave prepared to meet the challenges of modern healthcare while serving patients, organizations, and communities with excellence.
Nursing Unit Advisory Board
Athens State University’s Nursing Unit and its collaborative partners recognize the value and importance of involving internal and external stakeholders in the development, delivery, and promotion of its campus programs through program advisory boards. These groups provide a critical link between educators, students, and practitioners in the field in order to achieve program quality and relevance.
The mission of the Athens State University Nursing Unit is to educate and empower nurses to become compassionate, evidence-based practitioners, leaders, and educators who advance the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. We are committed to student-centered learning, professional excellence, lifelong development, and innovative educational experiences that prepare nurses to lead change, improve healthcare outcomes, and serve the evolving needs of the nursing profession.
Dr. Mark Reynolds
Chief Nurse Administrator, Athens State University
Dr. Kaneesha McNeely
Clinical Nursing Practice, Huntsville Hospital
Stacy Powell
Interim Department Chair, Calhoun Community College
Amy Mahone RN, MSN
Director of Health Sciences Drake State Technical and Community College
Brandie Frayne, RN, BSN
Clinical Educator, Decatur-Morgan Hospital
Catherine Brown, MSN, RN, CNS, ACNS-BN
Chief Nursing Officer, Athens-Limestone Hospital
Andrea Bergman, MSN, FNP-C
Hometown Family Medical Urgent Care
Dr. Myrna Williamson
Director of Nursing, Northeast Alabama Community College
S’myjh Sims, RN
Athens State RN to BSN Program Student
Priscilla Martinez
Athens State Fast-Track/Joint Enrollment BSN Program Student
Carrie Wates, RN, BSN, NCSN
Athens State RN to BSN Program Alumni
Amy Shadoin PhD, RN, BSN
Athens State Fast-Track/Joint Enrollment BSN Program Alumni
Head of Division