Career Launch - Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) Graduate debt-free.
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What is Career Launch?
Career Launch is Akron Children's premier workforce development program, designed to help you complete your degree at no cost so you can focus on your future-not the price of tuition. We are excited to continue our exclusive partnership with the University of Akron's two-year associate degree in nursing program, offering full tuition support for thirty students. Learn more about career launch.
Program Overview & Benefits
Start: Fall 2026 (pre-requisites); nursing coursework begins Spring 2027
Schedule: Full-time, in person daytime classes, 3-5 days per week
Location: University of Akron Wayne Campus (Orrville, OH)
Class Times: Vary by semester (refer to the University of Akron ADN program for details)
Career Launch Support Includes:
- 100% prepaid tuition, uniforms, books, and required supplies covered
- Transportation and childcare reimbursement available, as needed
- Opportunities for mentorship and professional development
- Job placement upon graduation - a direct pathway into a nursing career at Akron Children's
Why the University of Akron Wayne Campus?
The University of Akron Wayne Campus offers a smaller, community-focused learning environment with personalized academic support, well suited for students pursuing nursing education. You'll find small class sizes with faculty who are invested in your success. Students progress through the program as part of a dedicated cohort, fostering connection, accountability, and peer support. The Wayne Campus provides a consistent, focused academic setting designed to support student success, with a dedicated nursing program and new lab space.
How the Program Works
Participants will be hired into Career Launch Student (PRN) positions and must meet all Akron Children's requirements for hire. After submitting your Career Launch application, candidates must also complete an application to the University of Akron Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program. Career Launch provides tuition support and structured guidance while you complete your degree and prepare to transition into a Registered Nurse role at Akron Children's following graduation.
what will the enrollment process look like?
We're excited you're considering the Career Launch ADN Pathway. Below is an overview of what you can expect after submitting your application to both Career Launch and The University of Akron.
- Step 1: Schedule Your Intake Call
- After we receive your application, you will be emailed a link to schedule your intake call. The email will also include our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document, which provides more in-depth information about the program and answers to common questions you may have.
- Think of the intake call as your first interview. During this conversation, we'll learn more about you, your goals, and your readiness to commit to the program requirements. It is also your opportunity to ask questions and gain a clearer understanding of Career Launch.
- Step 2: Panel Interview
- If your intake call is successful, you will move forward to a panel interview. The panel interview is a virtual Microsoft Teams meeting with several members of the Career Launch team. This step allows us to further explore your interest in nursing, your commitment to the program, and your overall fit for the pathway.
- Step 3: On-Site Job Shadow
- Candidates who successfully complete the panel interview will be invited to participate in an on-site shadow experience.
- This is typically a four-hour shadow where you will see what a "day in the life" looks like for our Registered Nurses. The goal is to provide a realistic preview of the role and ensure this pathway is the right fit for you.
- Final Selection
- Final selection into the Career Launch ADN Pathway is based on successful completion of all interview steps and overall alignment with program expectations.
- In addition, applicants must be formally accepted into The University of Akron's Associate Degree in Nursing program to participate.
How Do I Qualify?
We seek candidates who align with Akron Children's core promises:
- To treat every child as we would our own
- To treat others as they would like to be treated
- To turn no child away
Ideal candidates demonstrate:
- Strong motivation and commitment to completing a rigorous academic program
- Professionalism and reliability
- Effective communication skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
All applicants must:
- Apply to both Career Launch and The University of Akron Associate Degree in Nursing program
- Meet all Akron Children's employment requirements
Important: Final selection is contingent upon full acceptance to the University of Akron and the Associates Degree of Nursing Program. Admission requirements and curriculum details for the ADN program are available on the university's website.