AKRON, Ohio – To help address the shortage of nurses, Akron Children’s Hospital and the University of Akron are partnering to offer a free Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree program through Akron Children’s Career Launch Program.
Through the program, 30 students will receive 100% prepaid tuition, along with funds to cover uniforms, books and supplies, according to the university. In exchange, accepted students will agree to work at Akron Children’s Hospital for 2-3 years.
“This partnership provides students with a cost-effective path to becoming a registered nurse,” Akron Children’s Hospital’s Chief Human Resource Officer Rhonda Larimore said in a news release. “The ADN degree program offers a way for students to enter the workforce quicker than a traditional four-year degree. This collaboration gives students the specialized training in pediatric care, equipping them with the skills they need to excel in caring for children.”
Students can attend classroom lectures at regional University of Akron campuses in Akron or Medina or via live stream at Akron Children’s Hospital. Labs and clinicals will be held in the Akron and Medina areas. Students can attend the program part-time or full-time, according to the university.
“Our partnership with Akron Children‘s Hospital represents a remarkable opportunity to curtail the nursing shortage by adding 30 Registered Nurses, addressing a critical workforce need in our area. We are deeply grateful to the hospital for investing in the University of Akron School of Nursing and trusting us to equip their future employees with the skills needed to deliver exceptional care. Together, we are not only launching the careers of 30 future nurses but also strengthening the health care forecast in our region,” Executive Director of the University of Akron’s School of Nursing Timothy Meyers said in the release.
Akron Children’s Career Launch Program was established to help applicants advance in their careers while filling in-demand healthcare jobs. The new ADN program is funded by a $1.5 million investment from Akron Children’s Hospital and is accredited by the Ohio Department of Higher Education and the Ohio Board of Nursing. The program is pending approval with the Higher Learning Commission, according to the university.
The ADN program begins in January 2025. The priority deadline to apply is Nov. 15. Interested students can view program requirements and curriculum guides on the University of Akron website.
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