News & Updates » Auburn Career Center Lowers Nursing Tuition to Help Meet Local Employer Needs

Auburn Career Center Lowers Nursing Tuition to Help Meet Local Employer Needs

Auburn Career Center is lowering the cost of its Licensed Practical Nursing program to $15,900, offering the lowest-cost LPN program in Lake, Geauga, and Cuyahoga counties while helping local healthcare employers build their nursing workforce.

The program combines affordability with strong outcomes: a nearly 90% passage rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses, or NCLEX-PN, and a 95% graduate placement rate in 2025.

“Cost should not stand between a motivated adult and a meaningful career,” said Dr. Joe Glavan, superintendent of Auburn Career Center. “We are excited to offer the lowest-cost practical nursing program across these three counties while maintaining strong results. By making nursing education more affordable and accessible, we can help adults improve their earning potential and help local employers find the skilled nurses they need.”

Auburn’s program is designed specifically for working adults. Instruction takes place two days per week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., leaving the other three weekdays available for employment. The upcoming program runs from January 26, 2027, through June 22, 2028. 

“Adults often want to pursue a new career, but they cannot simply stop working to attend school,” said Michelle Rodewald, adult education director. “We designed this schedule so students can attend instruction two days per week and continue working the other three weekdays. Combined with lower tuition and available financial assistance, this creates a practical path for adults balancing school, work, and family.”

Students will learn in healthcare facilities supported by Auburn’s $4 million healthcare renovation, with instruction focused on developing the knowledge, clinical skills, and professional habits needed for practical nursing.

“Our goal is to prepare graduates who are ready for the licensure exam and ready to provide safe, compassionate care,” said Karen Howell, nursing director. “Our nearly 90% NCLEX-PN passage rate and 95% placement rate in 2025 reflect that commitment. We are excited to make this opportunity accessible to more adults who want to enter nursing or build on their existing healthcare experience.”

To support adults already working in healthcare, Auburn waives the entrance HESI test for individuals with Certified Nurse Assistant, Patient Care Technician, or Medical Assistant credentials. Financial aid is available to eligible students, GI Bill benefits may be used, and scholarship opportunities are available.

For admissions information, contact Jessica Fechner at [email protected] or 440-357-7542,
ext. 8333, or visit www.Auburnadult.org. For financial aid information, contact Sandy Radzinski at [email protected] or 440-357-7542, ext. 8326.