[black small square] I strongly agree with Penny Simpson Brooke that we should require a baccalaureate degree as a minimum for entry into nursing. All other professions start here, with many now requiring a master's degree.

Thirty years ago, when I was in my final year in a diploma nursing program, we were told that 3-year nursing programs were being phased out and that 4-year degrees would be mandated for professional nurses. We were a bit upset, to say the least, but we were told not to worry because we'd be grandfathered in. We accepted this. I'm still waiting!!

-ROBIN OLSON, RN

Grantsburg, Wis.