Is there anyway to have a hospital pay for part/all of your schooling?

[Suny]

Dear Readers,

I am from Denver, CO and I really want to become a Nurse! I was wondering if anyone knows if a hospital or anyone else would help with the cost of school? I am a married woman with an awesome kid and not much money. I thrive to have a better life for them and myself, but to also work in a field that my grandmother and great-grandmother worked in would be so fantastic!! Right now I am a Caregiver/QMAP and I have also worked as a Medical Assistant. I love the work but my dream in life is to become an RN!

I appreciate any advise anyone could give me!!! :)

[RhondaIndyRN]

Hi Suny,

Many hospitals have tuition-type reimbursement programs for school but first you have to get in the door. Check and see if hospitals near you hire CNA's then try getting your CNA at a nursing facility. Hospitals usually don't teach people to be CNA's. I would also try to network with people at your church or your child's school to find someone who works at a hospital. Much of the time, "it's who you know" that gets that door open for you.

Take Care,

Rhonda:)

[westieluv]

At the hospital where I just got hired, they will pay up to $3,500/year for tuition for a full-time employee and up to $1,500/year for a part-time employee. I am a contigent employee, so tuition reimbursement is not an option for me. The key is to get either a full or part-time job in a facility first. They would never pay you up front if you don't work for them yet, especially with all the people looking for jobs right now who are already RNs. The only other option that I can think of off the top of my head is federal student loans, but obviously, you have to pay them back.