Designed to address critical healthcare workforce shortages in California, the grant supports innovative approaches to nursing education, including developing strategic partnerships, robust student support systems, and implementing immersive learning technologies.
“This grant represents a transformative opportunity for Cuesta College’s Registered Nursing program, particularly in our ability to help Licensed Vocational Nurses achieve their RN degrees in just one year – directly addressing our region’s critical healthcare workforce needs,” said Dr. Jason Curtis, Cuesta College Assistant Superintendent / Vice President of Instruction.
“Beyond creating career advancement pathways, this initiative doubles graduates’ earning potential, with salaries typically rising from $65,000 to $125,000 upon completion of RN licensure.”
Cuesta College’s RN program continues to set the bar statewide, boasting a 100% NCLEX pass rate in 2023-2024 – surpassing both state and national averages. The program is widely recognized for its rigorous academic and clinical training, exceptional student support, and strong partnerships with healthcare providers.
With this new funding, Cuesta College will:
- Pursue national accreditation for its RN program, supporting dual enrollment pathways with California State University Monterey Bay’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program
- Focus on strengthening the Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) to Registered Nurse (RN) pathway, which attracts a diverse pool of students with varied academic and clinical backgrounds
- Expand clinical rotation opportunities to provide students with hands-on experience across a diverse range of healthcare settings
- Integrate immersive learning tools, including educational iPads, multi-language digital textbooks, and online multimedia resources
- Offer comprehensive faculty professional development in simulation technology, inclusive teaching strategies, and immersive instruction methods
- Strengthen student support services through increased staffing, enhanced clinical coordination, and targeted academic remediation.
“The support of the Chancellor’s Office ensures our students not only receive comprehensive academic resources but also gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge, immersive technology that mirrors the advanced systems they’ll encounter in today’s healthcare environments,” said Cuesta College Superintendent / President Dr. Jill Stearns.
“We’re not just training nurses – we are preparing healthcare leaders equipped to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven medical landscape.”
Cuesta College will leverage this grant alongside other public and private investments to expand nursing enrollment, improve retention, and increase program completion rates – ultimately helping to meet urgent workforce needs throughout the Central Coast and beyond.
For more information about Cuesta College’s Registered Nursing programs, please visit the Registered Nursing program webpage and LVN to RN program webpage.
