The Finger Lakes Health College of Nursing is quietly shaping the future of local healthcare. Dean Kathleen Mills says the programs—offering both LPN and RN pathways—are built to serve the community, support working adults, and create clear, affordable routes into the nursing profession.
A local pathway to a nursing career
The College of Nursing offers two main programs: a 10-month Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program and a Registered Nurse (RN) program designed for seamless advancement. With two admission cycles each year—in August and January—the LPN program includes over 400 clinical hours, giving students direct patient care experience.
“It’s a strong base to get right into the workforce,” Mills said, highlighting the program’s career-launching potential. She herself started in healthcare as a CNA, later completed the LPN program at Finger Lakes Health, and eventually became an RN while working full-time as a single mother.
The programs are intentionally structured for upward mobility. General education courses completed during the LPN program apply toward RN prerequisites, allowing students to build toward advanced roles without starting over.
Step-by-step support and admissions
Mills emphasized the college’s hands-on approach to admissions. Prospective students submit transcripts and work directly with an admissions specialist who ensures nothing is missed.
“It’s almost like a partnership,” she said. “Nathan [the admissions specialist] will look at your application, reach out, and say, ‘Here’s what we still need.’”
Applicants are assessed using a rubric, and those who meet the point threshold are admitted. The next application deadline for both programs is June 1, 2025.
Addressing the healthcare worker shortage
Like many in the industry, Mills acknowledged the workforce challenges amplified by recent years. However, she sees opportunity in current conditions.
“When there’s a need for healthcare workers, that’s when the government and state start to release some money,” she explained.
Right now, funding is available through both government and employer-based programs. Finger Lakes Health offers tuition reimbursement and a stipend program where students can work part-time but receive full-time pay while attending school. Additional financial support exists for those who work in underserved areas post-graduation.
Building from the ground up
The demand is especially high in long-term care, where Finger Lakes Health also offers a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. Participants are hired by the organization, complete their certification, and are placed into direct care roles—laying the foundation for future advancement.
“We call it growing our own,” Mills said. “You can go in different directions all the way through.”
With deeply rooted community ties, built-in financial assistance, and real-world experience embedded in every step, Finger Lakes Health’s College of Nursing is positioning itself as a vital gateway to meaningful healthcare careers in the region.
For more information or to apply for the Fall 2025 session, visit fingerlakeshealth.org.
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