Drake State Community & Technical College is expanding its partnership with Huntsville Hospital through a new Registered Nurse (RN) Launch Program, an initiative designed to strengthen North Alabama’s healthcare pipeline.
The program, announced this week with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding at Drake State’s Cochran Road campus, builds on the success of the organizations’ existing Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Launch Program.
Streamlined pathway from LPN to RN
The new RN Launch Program offers students a more affordable and supportive pathway toward RN licensure. Participants will benefit from:
- A smooth transition from LPN to RN training
- Expanded hospital-based clinical experience
- Mentorship from practicing nursing professionals
- Tighter alignment between academic coursework and hands-on training
- Leaders say the program is designed to reduce barriers to completion and prepare students more effectively for advanced nursing roles.
Meeting a regional workforce need
“Our partnership with Huntsville Hospital continues to strengthen the region’s healthcare workforce, and the RN Launch Program is a powerful next step,” said Drake State President Dr. Patricia Sims.
Huntsville Hospital President & COO Tracy Doughty said the new initiative mirrors the success of the LPN Launch Program and reflects both institutions’ commitment to regional workforce development.
Enrollment details
Students interested in joining the inaugural RN Launch cohort may apply for Fall 2026. Additional program and admissions information is available on Drake State’s Health Sciences website.
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