In response to a growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals, Fayetteville Technical Community College is expanding its Associate Degree Nursing program, increasing enrollment from 280 to 400 full-time students. This expansion comes at a critical time: North Carolina is projected to face a 23% shortage of registered nurses by 2036 — the fourth-largest RN shortage in the nation.
For Cumberland County and surrounding areas, the looming shortage could lead to longer hospital wait times, heavier workloads for current staff, and challenges in maintaining high-quality care.
Without enough nurses, timely access to healthcare services is at risk, highlighting the urgent need to invest in nursing education and support local healthcare workers. FTCC’s expanded ADN program is a key step toward filling these gaps by preparing more highly qualified nurses to enter the healthcare workforce.
In September 2024, FTCC opened a new Nursing Education Annex, adding 6,000 square feet of space to support increased enrollment. The annex complements the Nursing Education and Simulation Center—a state-of-the-art facility with seven classrooms, two computer labs, eleven simulation labs, and two debriefing rooms.
Together, the labs, classrooms, study rooms, communal areas, and faculty offices create a welcoming, supportive environment for both students and instructors.
Beyond physical space expansion, FTCC provides comprehensive support services to help recruit and retain nursing students. Faculty and the engaging staff in the Student Learning Center offer regular tutoring to strengthen subject knowledge and lab skills.
Workshops on test-taking, time management, and study skills further strengthen academic success. Nursing students are encouraged to participate in clubs and organizations such as the Student Nurses’ Association, Alpha Delta Nu Honor Society and the Practical Nursing Club, which build peer relationships and promote health education and community engagement.
With some of the lowest tuition rates in the region, FTCC helps students access financial aid, scholarships, and work-study opportunities—allowing many to graduate with little or no personal cost. As the region faces a growing healthcare staffing shortage, FTCC stands at the forefront—preparing the next generation of nurses with the education, experience, and support to serve their communities.
Are you ready to learn more?
Contact FTCC Today by visiting the office at the Nursing Education Annex, Rm. 101, 2340 Hull Rd. Call 910-678-0183 or email the Department Secretary, Mrs. Michelle Asendorf, at asendorm@faytechcc.edu.