Earn + Learn & MercyReady
The Earn + Learn & MercyReady programs offer tuition and professional support to nursing and select allied health students.
Get paid to develop your skills.
- Gain hands-on experience through a part-time, clinical position at Mercy while working toward degree completion of your degree.
0.2 FTE or greater; minimum of $15.25/hour.
- Tuition support to help offset education cost.
- 18 month post-graduation, full-time work commitment.
Student Stories
Megan's Story
"My experience at Mercy so far has been nothing but positive, and I can see myself staying here for much longer than my 18-month commitment."
– Megan, Earn + Learn Graduate
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Michaela's Story
"The hands-on experience I obtain while working at Mercy has definitely made me feel more prepared for being an RN in the future."
– Michaela, Current Earn + Learn student
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are these programs?
The Earn + Learn (E+L) and MercyReady programs are education assistance programs offered by Mercy Cedar Rapids and helps nursing and select allied health professionals as they pursue their degree. The programs includes tuition, professional and academic resources.
Tuition amounts vary.
Students will be required to fulfill a post-graduation work commitment in exchange for receiving tuition support.
Why should I consider participating?
These programs offers several unique benefits. Students may receive tuition support to help offset debt. Additionally, if students meet all criteria, they will have an opportunity for placement in a full-time position in their field of study at an independent, growing healthcare system following graduation. Students may also be eligible for additional bonuses.
What type of degrees are eligible?
These programs are offered to students enrolled in an accredited nursing program (BSN, ADN), as well as select allied health positions, including medical assistant (CMA), surgical tech and medical technicians.
What does "tuition support" mean?
Tuition support is money outside of a regular wage that is to be used for education-related expenses, including tuition, books, housing and transportation. Students may be eligible for financial support after they are accepted to an accredited nursing or allied health program and enrolled in core/technical classes.
The amount of tuition support for which a student is eligible varies.
How will I receive financial support?
Payments are made directly to students. Students should be aware that any payment of more than $5,250 within the calendar year has a tax implication. Payments that are subject to taxes will have taxes taken out at the time the award is issued – similar to a normal paycheck. Students can plan on about a 20% tax rate for amounts more than $5250.00. Students are highly encouraged to discuss tax implications with a trusted tax professional.
When will I receive my tuition support?
Mercy understands that school expenses accrue while you are in school, so tuition support payments are made once per semester. Once the program guidelines and contractual agreement are signed, payments can be authorized. The exact timing may vary depending on the program students are enrolled in. Mercy’s academic liaison is available to help students understand timing.
Can I use other aid?
The goal of education assistance programs is to help students complete their degree with little to no debt and to feel prepared to transition to the role of a professional nurse. Scholarships, government aid, and tuition support dollars can all be used in tandem to pay for your cost of attendance.
Tuition support from Mercy can be considered as part of a student's overall financial-aid package. Students should disclose tuition support to their school.
Tuition support will be paid directly to the student; it is the student’s responsibility to use the money to make tuition payments.
Do I need to work at Mercy while I am working toward my degree to be eligible?
Yes. These programs offer students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and earn a regular paycheck while they work toward completing their degree by working at Mercy. Many students work as a patient care tech or phlebotomist, but Mercy is flexible with the type of position a student desires.
Mercy also offers an additional sign-on bonus, which may require a longer commitment up to 24 months.
What does professional and academic support include?
Professional and academic support varies by degree type.
Nursing students who complete an education assistance program and who are placed in a full-time RN position will be enrolled in Mercy’s New Nurse Residency program, which facilitates the transition from nursing student to a professional nurse. While in the New Nurse Residency, new graduates earn 70% of their RN salary while they prepare for the NCLEX exam and, after passing, are ready to transition to an independent, professional nurse.
Students find the hands-on, professional experience acquired through their part-time position allows them to quickly apply skills learned in the classroom setting and are better prepared for school and certification exams throughout their education.
Furthermore, students have access to Mercy’s academic liaison to help guide them through the program and post-graduation placement. Students also have the opportunity to make connections with leaders and managers who are always willing to share pathing and career advice.
What if I do not pass my certification exam the first time?
Mercy Cedar Rapids will reimburse students one time for an approved exam fee. If a second sitting is needed, students will remain in their current role until certification is achieved and they are able to practice their licensed designation.
Are there deadlines to apply?
There is no set deadline to apply. Considerations can be given at any time. Mercy’s academic liaison is available to help students understand the timing of payments.
Following graduation, do I get to pick which department I am employed in?
As students near graduation, they will apply to positions within Mercy through Mercy’s job site. Mercy’s talent acquisition team is available and happy to support students, who are encouraged to reach out to discuss placement possibilities.
Do I have to repay tuition support if Mercy Cedar Rapids does not hire me once I have completed my nursing degree?
In the rare instance that Mercy is not able to provide a full-time position following graduation, if a student has met all the requirements (including maintaining your employment in good standing) and Mercy chooses not to hire you for reasons other than cause, your tuition support will be forgiven.
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