Embarking on a career in wound, ostomy, and continence (WOC) nursing through Emory’s esteemed program is a significant step for aspiring healthcare professionals. A crucial component of this program is Bridge Week, an intensive, hands-on experience designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world clinical practice. When considering the overall Emory Wound Care Program Cost, it’s essential to understand the financial aspects associated with Bridge Week, even though it’s tuition-free. This article breaks down the costs related to Bridge Week and highlights its immense value within the Emory WOC nursing education framework.
Bridge Week: Tuition-Free Immersion with Travel Considerations
One of the most attractive aspects of Emory’s Bridge Week is that there are no tuition fees or extra charges associated with the program itself. This significantly reduces the overall financial burden of the Emory wound care program. However, students are responsible for their personal expenses, primarily travel, lodging, and daily living costs during their stay in Decatur, GA.
These costs can vary based on individual choices and locations. For instance, students coming from outside of Georgia will need to factor in airfare or transportation expenses to Decatur. Accommodation costs can be managed by taking advantage of group discount codes offered for hotel stays near the Emory Nursing Learning Center (ENLC). Food, local transportation if needed (though the location is walkable and near public transport), and personal expenses should also be budgeted for.
Despite these out-of-pocket expenses, the value proposition of Bridge Week is substantial. Students gain invaluable hands-on experience, practice critical psychomotor skills, and earn clinical hours that directly contribute to their program requirements. For example, tri-specialty students can accrue 26 clinical hours during Bridge Week, reducing the required precepted clinical hours later in the program. This concentrated learning and clinical hour accrual during Bridge Week ultimately contributes to the efficiency and potentially the overall cost-effectiveness of completing the Emory wound care program.
What Bridge Week Offers: Experience and Networking
Bridge Week is more than just a skills workshop; it’s an immersive experience that significantly enhances a student’s preparedness for clinical rotations and future WOC nursing practice. It provides a unique opportunity to practice essential psychomotor skills in a supportive environment, skills that might be less readily available during standard clinical rotations. This focused practice ensures students are confident and competent when they enter real clinical settings.
Refer to the Bridge Week Schedule for a detailed list of skills and activities covered.
Updated Bridge Week Schedule for Emory WOC Nursing Program outlining skills and activities
Beyond skills development, Bridge Week is a valuable networking opportunity. Students connect with peers from across the country and even Canada, fostering a collaborative learning environment and building professional relationships. They also have direct interaction with the WOCNEC Team, gaining insights and clarifications on complex concepts, and preparing themselves for the WOC nursing certification exams. The Continence Bridge Week, while offered virtually, still provides these crucial networking and preparatory benefits.
Location and Accessibility in Decatur, GA
Emory’s Nursing Learning Center, the venue for Bridge Week, is conveniently located at 250 East Ponce de Leon, Decatur, GA. This prime location is a significant advantage for students attending Bridge Week.
The ENLC is situated within walking distance of various hotels, shops, and restaurants, making it easy for students to manage their stay without incurring additional transportation costs. The proximity to the MARTA station, Decatur’s rapid transit system, further enhances accessibility, especially for those arriving at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The recommendation that “It is not necessary to rent a car” is a direct cost-saving benefit for students attending Bridge Week. Taking advantage of the provided group discount codes for hotels can also significantly reduce lodging expenses.
2024 & 2025 Bridge Week Dates
To help you plan your participation in Emory’s Bridge Week, here are the dates for upcoming sessions:
2024 Bridge Week Dates
- Jul 9-11
- Aug 20-22
- Oct 1- Oct 3
- Nov 12-14
- Dec 10-12
2025 Bridge Week Dates
- Jan 28-30
- March 4-6
- April 15-17
- May 20-22
- Jul 8-10
- Aug 19-21
- Sept 30 – Oct 2
- Nov 11-13
- Dec 16-18
Please note: Completion of all clinical courses and comprehensive Final Exams is required before attending your scheduled Bridge Week. Bridge Week, the Professional Practice course, and clinical credentialing must be completed before commencing Clinical rotations.
Conclusion: Investing in Your WOC Nursing Future
While the Emory wound care program’s Bridge Week is tuition-free, understanding and planning for associated travel and living costs is an important part of assessing the overall financial commitment. However, considering the intensive skills training, clinical hour accrual, networking opportunities, and certification preparation it provides, Bridge Week represents an invaluable investment in your WOC nursing education and career. It is a crucial component of the Emory program, designed to equip students with the practical skills and confidence needed to excel in the field.
For any further questions or to gain more detailed information about the Emory wound care program and Bridge Week, prospective students are encouraged to join one of the Information Sessions or reach out via email at [email protected].
