Tuskegee University starts first nursing apprenticeship program at an HBCU in Alabama

Tuskegee University is making history by launching the first nursing apprenticeship program at a Historically Black College and University in Alabama.

Tuskegee University, in partnership with Baptist Health System, will now offer the Registered Nursing Apprenticeship Program. This program, through the Alabama Department of Workforce, establishes a pathway using classroom instruction, paid on-the-job learning and clinical experience and one-on-one mentorship for aspiring nurses.

Tuskegee University celebrates the launch of its nursing apprenticeship program – Photo from Tuskegee University

The program also addresses financial barriers that often prevent students from completing nursing degrees. Baptist Health System will serve as Tuskegee University’s “last dollar” scholarship provider, covering remaining tuition or eligible school-related expenses not met through other financial aid. Apprentices will earn wages working on-the-job while completing clinical rotations across specialty departments, which organizers say is a benefit not usually available to nursing students.

“This apprenticeship represents a different way of thinking about how we prepare Alabama’s healthcare workforce,” Meredith Smith, Director of the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship, said. “By blending education with paid and structured on-the-job learning, we are expanding opportunity for students while helping healthcare employers build a strong, sustainable talent pipeline.”

Tuskegee University joins thirty other institutions in offering the program, marking them as the first four-year HBCU.

Alabama’s Student Nurse Apprenticeship program launched in 2022. It gives student nurse apprentices hands-on practice earlier in their academic careers. Apprentices are paired one-on-one with experienced nurse mentors, allowing them to gain  experience with an individualized approach.

CLICK HERE for more information about apprenticeship opportunities in Alabama.