The graduates represent a broad range of healthcare disciplines, including nursing and allied health programs that prepare students for careers dedicated to patient care, community wellness, and critical healthcare support services. As healthcare systems across California continue to face workforce shortages, MSJC’s newest graduates will play an important role in serving local hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations.

“Healthcare professionals are essential to the well-being of our communities, and we are proud to send 157 highly trained graduates into a region where the need for skilled healthcare workers continues to grow every day,” said Roger W. Schultz, Superintendent/President of Mt. San Jacinto College. “These graduates are stepping into careers centered on service, compassion, and excellence, and their work will make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless individuals and families throughout our region.”

In addition to celebrating this year’s graduates, MSJC also recently received a significant investment to expand its nursing program capacity and help address California’s ongoing nursing shortage. The college was awarded approximately $1.1 million through the Rebuilding Nursing Infrastructure (RNI) Grant Round 2 to develop a new hybrid Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)-to-Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) pathway within the college’s ADN program.

The grant will expand educational opportunities for working healthcare professionals seeking to advance their careers while increasing the number of registered nurses entering the workforce.

As a result of the grant, MSJC will be able to admit 12 additional students to the nursing program each year. Beginning in the spring semester, the total number of students admitted into the program will increase to 84.

“This investment strengthens our ability to respond to regional workforce needs while creating additional pathways for students to pursue careers in nursing,” Schultz said. “By expanding access to nursing education, MSJC continues to support the health and economic vitality of the communities we serve.”

MSJC’s healthcare programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical training, providing students with real-world experience in medical settings throughout the Inland Empire. Many graduates will remain in the area, contributing directly to the local workforce and helping address critical healthcare staffing needs.

For more information about MSJC’s nursing and allied health programs, visit https://www.msjc.edu/nursingandalliedhealth

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The Board’s review underscored the exceptional quality of MSJC nurses and highlighted the urgent need for more nursing professionals nationwide. Starting in the spring of 2025, the Nursing program will welcome two cohorts of 36 students each in the spring and fall semesters. Admission to the program is highly competitive, with a rigorous selection process that considers Grade Point Average (GPA), life experiences, prior experience, and other criteria.

Situated at the Menifee Valley Campus, the Nursing program spans two years, divided into four semesters, and culminates in an Associate of Science in Nursing degree. Graduates are prepared to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN® exam) with an outstanding pass rate exceeding 90% and achieving a perfect 100% pass rate in the last two cohorts.

“We are thrilled to expand our Nursing program, as it aligns with our commitment to meeting the critical healthcare needs of our community,” said Joyce Johnson, MSJC Vice President of Career Education, Nursing, and Allied Health. “We provide a plethora of support services and resources to ensure our students’ success because their success is our success.” As a former pediatric nurse of 38 years and with 25 years serving MSJC students, Johnson added, “This program expansion is truly a labor of love for me.”

In addition to the expansion, the MSJC Nursing program recently received accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), further elevating its prestige and affirming its commitment to industry quality standards.

Looking ahead, MSJC is actively pursuing opportunities to enhance its Nursing program further, including potential participation in SB 895 (Roth), a pilot program aimed at offering bachelor’s degrees in nursing at selected California Community Colleges. The prospect of a complete bachelor’s degree program at the Menifee Valley Campus will significantly fortify the local healthcare workforce.

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