Posted Monday, February 18, 2013 --- 8:30 a.m.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point plans to offer a new bachelor's degree program in nursing.

The program will enable registered nurses to pursue the degree through in-person, online and hybrid courses. The curriculum will prepare them for leadership roles and include theories and clinical skills.

The degree is part of UW-Stevens Point's Partnership for Thriving Communities initiative, which is designed to enable the university to respond to regional needs. Sue Raab, head of the university's School of Health Care Professions, says the new nursing degree will help the state address an aging population that needs health care.

Copyright 2013: Associated Press