Referring Physicians

Expanding Opportunity Through Innovation

How OTIDE and DCH Are Empowering Nurses in West Alabama

In a powerful new partnership designed to strengthen the region’s nursing workforce, the University of Alabama’s Office of Teaching Innovation and Digital Education (OTIDE) and DCH Health System have joined forces to expand educational opportunities for local nurses and healthcare professionals. This collaboration is more than a traditional university–hospital partnership — it’s a modern, flexible model of learning that meets healthcare workers where they are. What OTIDE Brings to the Partnership OTIDE serves as the bridge between higher education and real-world professionals, helping nurses and hospital staff balance their demanding schedules while continuing to grow academically. Through UA Online, OTIDE delivers over 100 fully online degree and certificate programs — including the RN-to-BSN program from the Capstone College of Nursing — specifically designed for working adults. For DCH nurses, this means: Access to Flexible, High-Quality Education: Nurses can pursue their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) online while continuing their roles at the bedside. Personalized Academic Support: OTIDE offers success coaching, online tutoring, and writing-review services tailored for adult learners balancing career and coursework. Scholarships and Financial Assistance: DCH employees and their families gain access to scholarship opportunities and grants that help make higher education more affordable. Career Growth Beyond the Bedside: OTIDE’s programs extend well beyond nursing, opening doors to continuing-education courses, leadership certificates, and advanced healthcare administration degrees.