The College of Nursing continues to drive transformation in nursing education, innovation and health care delivery across the state and beyond.
At the heart of this momentum is the launch of South Carolina’s only accredited nurse-midwifery education program. Led by Jennifer Baumstark, the program addresses a critical maternal health need and prepares nurses to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care throughout the lifespan — from prenatal to primary care.
This new graduate pathway provides accessible, online training for registered nurses. A statewide network of clinical partnerships — including Prisma Health, the USC School of Medicine Columbia, and 10 midwifery practices across South Carolina — will provide hands-on training and support.
“It’s exciting to think about adding to the midwifery workforce,” she says. “Creating a sustainable nurse- midwifery program is much needed. Graduates will know how to care for, empower and advocate for women.”
With a projected 40% job growth in midwifery over the next decade, the program is poised to be a game-changer for health outcomes in South Carolina. Plans are already underway to expand offerings with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) track in nurse-midwifery by 2026.
Licensed RNs looking to elevate their careers can also explore three RN-to-MSN online tracks including Healthcare Leadership, Nursing Education and Nursing Informatics. These programs are designed for working professionals and offer licensed RNs flexibility and proven academic support.
To help combat the projected nursing shortage in South Carolina, the college also rolled out a new DNP in Nursing Education concentration— the first of its kind in the state. The program is designed to prepare professional nurses to enter educational roles within both colleges and universities as well as work in hospital systems.
With bold new programs and a clear vision for improving health outcomes across the Palmetto State, USC Nursing is leading with purpose — and transforming the future of care.