Quinsigamond Community College Offers New Apprenticeship Degrees

WORCESTER, MA — A college in Worcester is developing apprenticeship degrees that combine paid work experience with academic credentials in multiple industries.

Quinsigamond Community College offers a practical nursing apprenticeship degree, which is the first of its kind in Massachusetts, along with a medical assistant apprenticeship degree, the school said. QCC plans to expand its offerings this fall to also include cybersecurity and early childhood education.

"Apprenticeship degrees bridge the gap between education and real-world expertise," said QCC President Dr. Luis Pedraja. "They empower individuals to build skills with purpose, strengthen local industries and create a workforce that is prepared, adaptable and essential to a thriving society."

The apprenticeship model similarly follows a learn-and-earn model, but some positiions, like a licensed practical nurse, still requires a degree. The apprentice degree programs satisfy the need and provide pathways for both workers and new hires.

Students complete coursework through the college and then apply those skills on the job under the supervision of a journey coach at their current employer, according to the school.

For Lina Un, a medical assistant at Reliant Medical Group, the LPN apprenticeship program offers a way to keep working while training for the job she wants. Un described healthcare as her calling after seeing the care nurses and doctors gave her mother during a long battle with cancer, according to QCC.

"We all want to become more, but you can’t stop working, especially with a family to support," Un said. "This is a great program for anyone to be able to continue working and learning."

90 percent of registered apprenticeship participants retain employment after program completion, according to U.S. Department of Labor Data cited by QCC.

One employer, SALMON Health and Retirement, has partnered with QCC's apprenticeship degree to develop its staff and address the need for nurses in Massachusetts.

"It’s a win-win for the company. We’re getting vetted staff who we know are great employees, and they are provided continued education in their field. We want our staff to look at this as more than a job, but a career with a lot of opportunity and growth," said SALMON Chief People Officer Scott Laakso. "QCC has always been easy to work with and willing to listen to our needs."

See Also:

• Community Healthlink Prepares For Eventual Closure
• Worcester Railers Hockey Names New Senior Leadership
• Worcester State Offers Transfer Pathways For Anna Maria Students After Closure Announcement