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KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- Two Heartland education institutions are joining forces to offer a new nursing education program.

Representatives from the Kirksville Public Schools, Moberly Area Community College and Gov. Jay Nixon's office announced the accelerated ADN program Tuesday.

The accelerated ADN program will allow licensed practical nurses to earn their associates degree in nursing in 12 months. A new web synchronist delivery technology platform will make it possible for 10 students in each of three different cities to learn from instructors at the same time. The program will be offered in Kirksville, Moberly and Mexico, Mo.

MACC officials say the program is the "missing link" in nursing education in our area.

“That will allow licensed practical nurses living in and around the Kirksville area the opportunity to continue their education all the way up to the master's level without leaving this community. It's good for the students, it's good for the healthcare industry in Kirksville and it's great for the economy,” said Dr. Greg Mosier, Dean of Career and Technical Education.

Governor Nixon's Training for Tomorrow initiative funded the collaborative effort; the program is part of Nixon’s effort to create jobs in the state.

Training for Tomorrow partners community colleges with their local communities to develop or expand education programs in certain fields.

“Training for Tomorrow is providing more Missourians access to training programs in those high demand high-tech field which are absolutely critical in boosting our economy to continue the recovery we're starting to see here in the state,” said David Kerr, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development.

The accelerated ADN program will accept its first class of students in fall 2011.

Locally, it will be housed in the Kirksville Career and Technical School’s' Nursing Center. The district just remodeled and expanded the facility, which includes a state-of-the-art training lab.

“Together when we combine resources and take advantage of financial opportunities presented by the governor's office--this is just a result of the success stories that are possible when you combine resources and expertise,” said Superintendent Pat Williams.

MACC will install new technology and equipment in the Nursing Center as part of the program. Williams says students in the Kirksville High School's health services program and the Career and Technical School’s LPN program will also be able to use that technology.

Mosier says MACC will develop the curriculum for the program this summer. It will have to be approved by the State Board of Nursing and the Coordinating Board of Higher Education.