Rockford Career College was honored to be featured in a recent St. Ambrose University newsletter, highlighting our partnership and shared commitment to helping nursing students continue their educational journeys.
On December 10, 2025, Rockford Career College and St. Ambrose University formalized a three-year agreement establishing an educational pathway for eligible Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) graduates interested in pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
As part of the newsletter feature, Vicki Wells, MSN, RN, Program Director of Nursing at Rockford Career College, shared her perspective on the importance of educational partnerships, the opportunities available to LPN graduates, and the value of helping students plan for their long-term nursing careers.
We’re proud to share her contribution below.
At Rockford Career College, one of our greatest priorities is preparing nursing students not only for their first professional role, but also for the opportunities that come next.
Our partnership with St. Ambrose University has provided an excellent pathway for our Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) graduates who are ready to continue their education and advance in the nursing profession.
Many of our students balance school with employment, family responsibilities, and other commitments. Rockford Career College’s hybrid LPN program helps make nursing education accessible by combining flexible learning with the hands-on clinical experience students need to become confident, compassionate healthcare professionals.
Once students complete their LPN education, having trusted educational partners such as St. Ambrose University allows us to show them that graduation does not have to be the end of their educational journey.
St. Ambrose University’s LPN-to-BSN pathway is particularly valuable because it gives LPN graduates an opportunity to build upon the education and experience, they have already earned while working toward becoming registered nurses and earning their Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
We have also appreciated St. Ambrose University’s willingness to engage directly with our students. Having representatives participate in events at Rockford Career College gives students the opportunity to ask questions, explore their options, and begin thinking about their long-term professional goals before they graduate.
Strong educational partnerships benefit more than our institutions. They benefit our students, our healthcare employers, and ultimately the patients and communities our nurses serve.
We are grateful to St. Ambrose University for being a valued RN bridge partner and for helping Rockford Career College graduates see that becoming an LPN can be the beginning of an exciting lifelong journey in nursing.
