Clark State Nursing Program
Clark State College has forged a partnership with Mercy Health to remove financial barriers for nursing students through a groundbreaking deferred tuition program.
Due to this partnership, all Mercy Health associates, whether full-time or part-time, now qualify for deferred tuition benefits through Clark State from their first day of employment with Mercy Health, providing eligibility requirements are met. Tailored to support Mercy associates transitioning into clinical health care roles, the partnership will help Mercy employees achieve long-term career goals through further education, promoting professional growth and development within Mercy. Participants in the deferred-tuition program will also gain access to Mercy Health’s Internal Mobility team, which offers guidance and support throughout their career journeys.
"Our partnership with Mercy is designed to increase access to higher education by allowing Clark State nursing students who work at Mercy Health to pursue advanced degrees and certifications while distributing tuition payments over an extended period of time," explained Scott Dolan, Ph.D., dean of health, human, and public services at Clark State College. “By lessening the financial burden, students can pursue their academic and career goals while managing educational costs more effectively. The benefits contribute to a more equitable and supportive educational environment, opening doors to students to pursue careers beyond nursing, such as medical lab technicians, phlebotomists, respiratory therapists, medical assistants and radiology imaging specialists.
This initiative is also expected to boost nursing enrollment at Clark State and increase retention rates as students can continue their studies unimpeded by financial hardships.
"Clark State is committed to strengthening the workforce through education and innovative solutions. By addressing financial challenges facing students, we equip them with the resources and skills necessary for both personal and professional growth," remarked Jo Alice Blondin, Ph.D., Clark State president. “We are able to meet both student and community needs by making education accessible and cultivating a skilled health care workforce.”
Enrollment in Clark State’s spring and summer terms begins Oct. 15, with spring semester starting Jan. 13. Interested individuals can start the enrollment process at www.clarkstate.edu or by calling 937-328-6028. To confirm eligibility requirements, contact Mercy Health HR.