Elevating education: Saint Joseph’s expands career-focused program

We are excited to announce the launch of our Certified Pre-Nursing Program (CP-NP) at Saint Joseph’s College. This new offering strengthens our commitment to preparing students for careers in health care by combining four key certifications into a comprehensive training program. The
CP-NP includes certification in Clinical Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy Technician, EKG Technician, and Basic Life Support, providing students with a strong foundation in patient care. 

To meet various student needs, we’re offering two program tracks. The accelerated 9.5-week program launching May 26 is ideal for high school students looking to jumpstart their health care careers. The full-term 16-week program, beginning this fall, is for those seeking a more in-depth experience. Both provide valuable hands-on training and a pathway to enhanced credentials in a competitive health care job market. 

Saint Joseph’s has also partnered with local veterinarians and animal care facilities to provide hands-on clinical training for students in our Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Office Assistant certificate programs. These partnerships give students real-world experience in veterinary clinics, allowing them to apply their skills in animal care and clinic operations alongside professionals in the field. 

Additionally, we’re launching a two-week CDL Refresher Course for individuals who previously held a Class A CDL but let it lapse. This streamlined training helps them brush up on essential skills and understand the testing requirements needed to regain their license. 

Since breaking ground last fall, the Saint Joseph’s Building and Trades house has steadily taken shape. With the footings and foundation poured, students quickly raised the framing, enclosed the structure, and installed doors and windows, bringing the house to life. They installed the roof using materials graciously donated by GAF Materials LLC, further advancing the exterior construction of the home. 

As winter set in, students moved indoors to focus on drywall installation. Thanks to the generosity of National Gypsum, they worked with donated Gold Bond drywall and PermaBASE cement board products, while ProForm Finishing Products donated the tape and joint compound. With warmer weather approaching, students will shift their focus back to the exterior to install the siding. The home will ultimately be sold to the public, reinforcing the program’s emphasis on practical, career-ready training.  

Upon successful completion of the program, students can proceed into an apprenticeship through the Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters’ Indiana Kentucky Regional Council of Carpenters Joint Apprenticeship and Training Fund (JATF). This opportunity ensures they can continue developing their skills and embark on rewarding careers in the carpentry and construction industries. 

In January, the board of trustees approved the modernization of the HVAC systems in the Fieldhouse, Recreation Center, and Raleigh Hall. This investment is an important step in preparing our campus for the future. Upgraded climate control will create more comfortable, flexible, and functional spaces — setting the stage for new opportunities as we continue to grow and evolve.  

We’re excited about what’s ahead and grateful for the continued support in shaping the next chapter of Saint Joseph’s.