California State University, Sacramento will launch a new program in 2016 to help community college nursing students make a smooth transition into a bachelor’s program.

The new program expands offerings at the Sacramento State School of Nursing, adheres to recommendations by the Institute of Medicine, and will provide health care employers with a bigger pool of potential employees.

Studies show a higher level of nursing education results in better patient care and lower patient death rates. The Institute of Medicine has called for nurses to be educated at a bachelor’s level or higher.

Starting in the spring of 2016, community college students at American River College, Sacramento City College and Sierra College can take one course at Sacramento State while simultaneously completing their associate degree. Once they pass the license exam, they can finish their bachelor’s degree at the university.

Dian Baker, coordinator of the new River City Partnership program, said in a news release that the program will “create a very clean transition” to the university. Initially, the program is expected to bring 40 new nursing students into Sacramento State. That number is expected to grow over time.