VCOM 2025 Annual Report

49

EDUCATION

A Big Year for the VCOM–Bluefield University Partnership I n 2025, the partnership between VCOM and Bluefield University reached significant new milestones. The two institutions collaborate on several initiatives, including a Master of Health Science in Anesthesia (MHSA) program. This year marked the graduation of the first MHSA class at VCOM-Auburn and the matriculation of the inaugural class at VCOM-Carolinas. In addition, Bluefield and VCOM-Virginia announced that they would also launch an MHSA program at that campus in 2027, joining the other campuses in expanding access to this high-demand field. The graduate-level MHSA program spans 28 months following completion of a bachelor’s degree and prepares students to become highly skilled anesthesia assistants working under the medical direction of a physician anesthesiologist. Students receive comprehensive training in patient assessment, anesthesia planning and delivery, and real time monitoring of anesthesia care, all in close collaboration with anesthesiologists. Historically, 100% of MHSA graduates nationwide secure employment within six months of graduation—evidence of both the program’s strength and the urgent need for well-trained anesthesia professionals.