RNs Beyond the Beltway Scholars Program
RNs Beyond the Beltway Scholars Program
The RNs Beyond the Beltway Scholars Program is a federally funded workforce initiative designed to prepare and support the next generation of nurses living and working in rural and non-metro communities. Scholars receive targeted financial support, specialized advising, and priority placement in rural clinical sites to help them launch sustainable careers beyond the Beltway. We anticipate up to 15 awards in 2025-2026.
17%
Enrolled men in nursing students
20%
Enrolled veteran students in BSN
68%
Enrolled DC-VA-MD students
Preparing Nurses to Lead in Rural Communities
GW Nursing’s RNs Beyond the Beltway Scholars Program offers students the opportunity to develop the skills that align with the rural communities' needs. Through coursework focused on rural health systems, exposure to community-based care models, and immersive clinical experiences in rural and regional settings, scholars learn how to apply research-informed approaches to real-world practice.
Students in the program engage with topics such as:
- Social and structural determinants of health in rural communities
- Evidence-based interventions that improve access and outcomes
- The role of health policy and advocacy in rural health transformation
- Community engagement practices that support sustainable change
By combining academic preparation with hands-on learning, the program equips nurses with the perspective and competencies needed to make meaningful contributions to rural health.
Selected scholars receive:
| Tuition support (Up to $30,000)Military experience can be applied to the 60 credits of required college level course work for active duty and veteran students. |
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| Tailored academic and career advisingSpecialized Training: Provide students with opportunities to gain specialized acute and long-term care training within rural and non-metro areas of VA, MD, and/or W.Va |
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| Networking with rural health system partnersEnjoy the benefit of having veteran nurse faculty members, a cohort of other military students, and a veteran study lounge on campus. |
"Nurse practitioners are central to [rural health] transformation, given their substantial role in rural health care delivery and their leadership."
Professor Joyce Knestrick
GW Nursing
Nationally Ranked
GW Nursing's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is ranked #28, consistently landing in the top 4% of nursing programs according to U.S. News and World Report.
Awarded for Men in Nursing
GW Nursing has been awarded a "Best School for Men in Nursing" three years in a row.
At GW Nursing we are focused on your future
GW Nursing is committed to effecting change in our health care system by developing the nurse leaders of tomorrow and maintaining connections with the world's most influential health organizations, such as the National Institute of Health. Our students not only study the world, they also work to improve it and we make sure they have the skills and resources to do so.
| Hands-on ExperienceGain invaluable hands-on experience during your clinical rotations and learn on-site at our 20,000 square foot Simulation and Innovation Learning Center. |
| Exceptional FacultyOur faculty members are nationally recognized leaders in nursing who actively engage and inspire students to improve global health care for all. |
| Nationally RankedGW Nursing's programs are consistently ranked among the top programs in the country by U.S. News and World Report. |
| Diversity & InclusionWe are committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive community to prepare our students to facilitate value-based health care delivery. |
Students interested in learning more about the program, including eligibility, funding, rural placements, and career pathways, are encouraged to connect with Faculty Lead, Ashley Darcy Mahoney, PhD, NNP adarcymahoney
gwu [dot] edu.