7/6/2026
ERIE, Pa. — The UPMC Jameson School of Nursing at UPMC Hamot in Erie, Pa. is expanding opportunities for future nurses with the launch of two new educational pathways beginning in fall 2026: an advanced placement option for military medics and paramedics that recognizes prior clinical experience and a new 24-month extended nursing program designed for students seeking a more flexible pace to earn their R.N. diploma.These offerings reflect UPMC's commitment to creating accessible pathways into the nursing profession. By providing flexible options for people with different backgrounds and life circumstances, UPMC is helping build a stronger pipeline of nurses for the communities it serves.
"Our goal is to remove barriers while maintaining the high-quality education and hands-on clinical experience our students need to succeed," said Karen Morahan, Ph.D., director, UPMC Jameson School of Nursing at UPMC Hamot. "Whether someone is building on years of clinical experience or looking for a schedule that fits their life, these pathways create more opportunities to pursue a nursing career."
Advanced Placement Pathway for Military Medics and Paramedics
The school's new advanced placement option is designed specifically for military medics and paramedics whose professional experience already includes many of the skills and competencies taught in introductory nursing coursework.
Eligible service members within five years of an honorable discharge and licensed paramedics may earn advanced standing by successfully completing competency examinations. Students who pass can bypass the program's first-semester nursing course, a 12-credit requirement, resulting in substantial overall tuition savings. Students remain with their cohort and receive supplemental refresher training to support a successful transition into the program.
"We respect the skill, experience and dedication military medics and paramedics bring to patient care," said Morahan. "They already do complex, high-stakes work every day. This pathway recognizes that experience and helps them take the next step in their careers."
A First for UPMC Schools of Nursing
The military medic and paramedic advanced placement option is unique among UPMC Schools of Nursing and reflects growing demand for innovative approaches to strengthening the nursing workforce.
"This is a very specialized offering, there are not many programs like it," said Brandy Hershberger, DNP, chief nursing officer and vice president of Academic Affairs, UPMC Centers for Nursing Excellence. "We're recognizing the valuable experience these professionals already bring and creating a more accessible pathway into nursing."
Modeled after the school's successful LPN-to-R.N. track, the pathway supports experienced clinicians as they transition into registered nursing while building on the skills they've already developed through service and practice. The program also leverages the school's longstanding partnership with Gannon University, where students complete general education requirements while UPMC faculty deliver the nursing curriculum and clinical training.
Courses such as anatomy, ethics and other non-nursing requirements may be completed through Gannon University or transferred from other institutions, providing additional flexibility for students.
New 24-Month Extended Program Offers Greater Flexibility
In addition to its traditional 16-month accelerated R.N. diploma program, the UPMC Jameson School of Nursing at UPMC Hamot is also introducing a new 24-month extended option designed for students who may benefit from a more flexible academic schedule.
The extended pathway allows students to spread coursework over a longer timeframe while receiving the same high-quality nursing education, clinical experiences and support services offered through the accelerated program.
The program is ideal for recent high school graduates, working adults, parents and others balancing employment, family commitments or other responsibilities. By reducing the intensity of the accelerated timeline, the extended option creates additional flexibility for students who want to pursue nursing without putting other aspects of their lives on hold.
"Not every future nurse is looking for an accelerated experience," Morahan said. "The extended pathway provides another option for students who want the same successful outcome but need a pace that better fits their circumstances."
Investing in Future Nurses
UPMC continues to support students beyond the classroom through tuition assistance and loan forgiveness programs that help make nursing education more affordable. Current UPMC employees enrolled in UPMC Schools of Nursing may be eligible for tuition assistance. Graduates who choose to build their careers at UPMC may also qualify for tuition loan forgiveness programs.
"These programs are another example of UPMC's commitment to supporting employees at every stage of their journey," said Hershberger. "We're investing in people who want to make a meaningful impact in health care and helping them build rewarding careers close to home."
Growing the Region's Nursing Workforce
The new pathways build on the significant growth of the UPMC Jameson School of Nursing at UPMC Hamot, which expects to graduate approximately 110 nurses in 2026 — more than double the annual number of graduates from just a few years ago.
By expanding access to nursing education, UPMC is strengthening the workforce pipeline, supporting local communities and helping ensure patients throughout the region continue to receive high-quality, compassionate care.
Enrollment Opportunities
Applications for the current fall 2026 cohort are being accepted through July 21, 2026. Future enrollment opportunities include:
- Military Medic/Paramedic Advanced Placement Pathway: Summer 2027 start: Application deadline of February 1, 2027; Fall 2027 start: Application deadline of June 1, 2027
- 24-Month Extended R.N. Diploma Program: Annual enrollment beginning in Fall 2027, with an application deadline of June 1, 2027
Prospective students are encouraged to explore program options early and connect with admissions representatives to determine the pathway that best aligns with their experience, goals and schedule.
Photo (click for high-resolution image)
Caption: In 2026, UPMC Jameson School of Nursing at UPMC Hamot graduated its fifth class, the largest graduating class to date, with 61 students. Since the school opened five years ago, 233 nurses have graduated.
Credit: UPMC
