SCTCC is prepared to start its Practical Nursing (LPN) Career Grant Pathway Program this fall semester 2024 after the college was a recipient of Congressionally Directed Spending in the amount of $950,000 in 2022.
The funding appropriation allows SCTCC to add an additional cohort to the current Practical Nursing program to educate 54 more students over three years. The College has hired faculty specifically for this cohort, providing not just regular classes but also supplemental instruction and other activities based on the needs of the students. Additionally, all LPN students will have access to a career planner/success coach.
“The SCTCC community is incredibly grateful to Senator Klobuchar and Senator Smith for supporting SCTCC’s Congressionally Directed Spending request,” said President Lori Kloos. “This investment will provide resources necessary to mitigate the barriers encountered by Central Minnesotans with refugee or resident alien status who wish to pursue a degree and certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). At a time when there is a critical need for healthcare professionals, and in collaboration with community partners, these resources will bridge the gap by providing students with the support needed to successfully complete the LPN degree and enter the workforce.”
The Minnesota Dept. of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is projecting 49,000 RN position openings in Minnesota over the next 10 years. In collaboration with CentraCare and with the funding from the U.S. Senate, SCTCC is providing additional pathways for those in refugee status, children of refugees or resident aliens to enter the workforce as LPNs. More information on eligibility for the Practical Nursing Career Grant Pathway and how to apply to SCTCC can be found at https://sctcc.edu/refugee.
The nursing profession is in the top 2% of in-demand occupations in Minnesota, with Practical Nursing having the highest projected growth rate over the next 10 years. The Practical Nursing degree and certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse provide opportunities for advancement and upward mobility in the field, such as a registered nurse (RN) degree and certification, nurse practitioner status and more.
For anyone who is interested in an education, whether it leads directly to a career or transfers to a bachelor’s degree, there are several financial supports available, including the North Star Promise Scholarship, financial aid, SCTCC scholarships and tuition is frozen through 2025. Additionally, SCTCC offers many cost-free supports to students, including short-term mental health counseling, tutoring, career counseling, and a food pantry. More information can be found at https://sctcc.edu/tuition-aid/affordability-sctcc