Akron Children’s Hospital, in collaboration with The University of Akron, is excited to introduce the Akron Children’s Career Launch Program, offering a transformative pathway to a nursing career. This innovative program enables aspiring nurses to earn an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (ADN) degree in just two years, tuition-free.
The Akron Children’s Career Launch Program directly addresses the growing demand for healthcare professionals by providing comprehensive workforce development. This initiative is significantly supported by a $1.5 million investment from Akron Children’s Hospital and generous contributions from the James H. Hower Career Launch Endowed Fund and the KeyBank Foundation. The ADN program has received accreditation from the Ohio Department of Higher Education and the Ohio Board of Nursing, with final approval from the Higher Learning Commission pending.
Accepted students benefit from 100% prepaid tuition, covering all essential expenses such as uniforms, books, and supplies. Recognizing that student success extends beyond the classroom, the program also offers extensive wraparound support services. These crucial resources include childcare assistance, mileage reimbursement, and support to overcome other potential barriers to ensure every student can thrive.
To take advantage of this exceptional opportunity, prospective students need to apply to both The University of Akron and the Akron Children’s Career Launch Program individually. Applications for the Career Launch Program can be submitted through the Akron Children’s website at www.akronchildrens.org/adn, and University of Akron applications are available at www.uakron.edu/adn.
Chris Young, chief nursing officer at Akron Children’s, emphasizes the program’s significance: “This partnership offers a cost-effective and accelerated route to becoming a Registered Nurse. We believe in equitable access to higher education, and this collaboration directly tackles obstacles in nursing education. By offering a quicker path to the workforce compared to a traditional four-year degree, and providing specialized pediatric care training, we are equipping our nurses with the precise skills to excel in caring for children.”
Classes for the ADN program will be held at University of Akron regional campuses in Akron and Medina, offering flexible learning environments. Practical lab sessions and clinical experiences will be conveniently located in and around the Akron and Medina areas. Students can choose to enroll on a part-time or full-time basis, accommodating diverse schedules and commitments.
Upon graduation, ADN program graduates will embark on their nursing careers at Akron Children’s, fulfilling a work commitment that solidifies their practical experience and contribution to the hospital.
Dr. Timothy Meyers, executive director of UA’s School of Nursing, highlights the broader impact of this collaboration: “Our partnership with Akron Children’s Hospital is a powerful response to the nursing shortage. By adding 60 registered nurses in just two years, we are directly addressing a critical workforce need in our region. We deeply appreciate Akron Children’s investment in the University of Akron School of Nursing and their confidence in our ability to prepare their future nurses with the skills to provide outstanding care. Together, we are not just launching 60 nursing careers; we are significantly strengthening the future of healthcare in our community.”
The Akron Children’s Career Launch Program is set to commence in January 2025, with a priority application deadline of November 15th. Detailed information regarding program prerequisites, requirements, and curriculum guides can be found at www.uakron.edu/adn.
Media Contacts:
- Casey Newman, Akron Children’s; cnewman@akronchildrens.org
- Cristine Boyd, University of Akron; cboyd@uakron.edu
