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Batten University Acquires Sentara College of Health Sciences
Effective July 1, 2026, Sentara College of Health Sciences officially became an operating division of Batten University.
University News | July 1, 2026
Batten University has officially acquired Sentara College of Health Sciences following approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) on June 11, 2026. Effective June 30, 2026, Sentara College of Health Sciences became an operating division of Batten University, expanding opportunities for students pursuing careers in nursing and the health sciences while helping address critical healthcare workforce needs throughout Coastal Virginia.
Formerly known as 嫩草影院, the institution officially became Batten University on July 1, 2026, reflecting its expanded mission and growing role in higher education. The acquisition of Sentara College of Health Sciences represents a major milestone in that transformation and further strengthens Batten’s commitment to workforce development, healthcare education, and community engagement.
The next step in this process is securing final approval from the U.S. Department of Education to complete the merger and consolidation. Until federal approval is granted, Sentara College of Health Sciences will continue to operate as a separate college with its own degree authorization, accreditation, and participation in federal student financial aid programs.
Founded in 1892, Sentara College of Health Sciences has a distinguished 134-year tradition of preparing healthcare professionals and has graduated more than 9,500 alumni who serve communities throughout Virginia and beyond. The college is currently located in Chesapeake, Virginia, and its programs will continue to be offered there while also expanding onto the Batten campus in Virginia Beach.
This acquisition represents a strategic investment in the future of healthcare education and the regional workforce. University leaders have emphasized the growing demand for nurses and allied health professionals across Coastal Virginia. By bringing together the strengths of both institutions, Batten is expanding educational capacity, enhancing facilities and technology, increasing faculty resources, and strengthening student support services.
Moving forward, the University has identified four key priorities. First, it will help meet the healthcare workforce needs of Coastal Virginia and the Commonwealth. Second, it will enhance affordability and access to high-quality nursing and health sciences education. Third, it will strengthen partnerships with healthcare providers to ensure exceptional clinical and experiential learning opportunities for students. Finally, Batten is committed to honoring and preserving the rich legacy of Sentara College of Health Sciences while positioning it for continued growth and success.
During the transition period, University and College leadership will focus on integrating systems, support services, and the overall student experience. Investments are planned in learning environments, simulation technologies, and instructional resources to ensure students are prepared for the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Throughout the process, Batten remains committed to transparency, collaboration, and respect for the traditions that have made Sentara College of Health Sciences a trusted leader in healthcare education for more than a century.
The acquisition strengthens Batten’s position as a comprehensive institution serving learners across a broad spectrum of academic and professional disciplines while advancing its mission to prepare graduates who make meaningful contributions to their communities and professions.