The University of New Mexico has added an accelerated nursing program to help address the state’s shortage of available nurses.

The Bachelor of Science program is offered to students who already have a bachelor’s degree in a science-related subject, according to KRQE. Students immediately enter the nursing program instead of having to start over with prerequisites. The program would wrap up in 16 months, instead of 20.

“There is a very real need in New Mexico for more nurses,” College of Nursing Interim Dean, Carolyn Montoya, told KRQE. “We are about 6,000 down and I think this is a big focus for the university in general.”

The accelerated nursing program begins in the fall of 2023.

The university is currently in the process of hiring a director and hopes to enroll 24 students in the first class, according to KRQE. Applications for the program close March 15.