Behind Michigan’s projected need for thousands of registered nurses each year are two important questions: Who will care for a growing number of patients, and how can aspiring and current nurses get the education they need to answer that call?

While unemployment in Detroit remains higher than state and national averages, employers across multiple industries continue to report difficulty filling open positions.

“Live in the D” host Tati Amare was joined by WGU’s Regional Vice President Alison Bell to talk about their unique program. Instead of going through a traditional course, this program measures what you already know. Each term is six months, which allows plenty of time to get course work done. “You don’t pay more to learn more.”With WGU’s unique structure, you can get your four-year degree in as little as 2 1/2 years. Bell emphasized that there’s no need to feel rushed, and that there’s always the option that, if you need to slow down your course work, you can.