Sacred Heart University (SHU) and St. Vincent’s College (SVC) have agreed to enter into a management agreement that will merge valuable resources of two of the region’s longstanding venerable learning institutions. This agreement, mutually beneficial to both, will support the goal of increasing academic excellence and distinctiveness. It will also afford an opportunity for Sacred Heart’s College of Nursing, St. Vincent’s College and St. Vincent’s Medical Center to work together to create new models for student transfer and greater access to clinical education.
The partnership will expand the opportunity for SHU and SVC students and faculty to develop and participate in interdisciplinary education that connects team-based education, self-directed learning and face-to-face instruction. It will provide the development of a pathway for St. Vincent’s students to pursue a baccalaureate or master’s degree at Sacred Heart University in a seamless transition, while providing Sacred Heart students expanded access to inpatient clinical sites that are essential to the success of their program. The agreement also anticipates a transfer of the College to Sacred Heart as either a division of the University or a subsidiary. This transfer will be part of a master agreement that requires accreditation and regulatory approvals.
The educational pathway for nursing has experienced quite a bit of change in the past years. Initially, nursing was based on experience and tradition. Now, with the evolution of nursing science, nursing education is heavily based on evidence-based practices and research. Combining the strengths of Sacred Heart and St. Vincent’s will provide the best of experience, traditions and science of nursing education.
“We are very excited about this venture with St. Vincent’s College as it will create new opportunities for the students and will strengthen both programs,” said Rupendra Paliwal, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at SHU.
“Our goal is to serve the students at Sacred Heart University and St. Vincent’s College with an opportunity to work together to create new models for clinical education and honor the shared Catholic legacy, mission and core values,” said Vince Caponi, President/CEO, St. Vincent’s Medical Center.
