UMPC Altoona + Saint Francis University
Your Nursing Career, Fully Funded
Scholarship, bonus, and loan help - plus a guaranteed career at UPMC Altoona.
When you choose Saint Francis University and commit to starting your career at UPMC Altoona, you unlock a financial package designed to remove barriers and set you up for success.
- Up to $15,000 Scholarship
- Covers the difference between your financial aid and SFU tuition (available for juniors and seniors).
- Up to $15,000 Sign-On Bonus
- Upon graduation, receive a sign-on bonus (amount varies by unit).
- Up to $15,000 Student Loan Repayment Assistance
- Reduce your debt as you build your career.
*All with one simple, two-year work commitment at UPMC Altoona in select units.
This one-of-a-kind partnership between UPMC Altoona, the Ward Family, and Saint Francis University connects education with opportunity, creating a direct path from classroom to career.
Where Your Career Begins
UPMC Altoona is more than a hospital, it's where your nursing career will thrive. With hands-on experience, supportive mentorship, and access to UPMC's extensive healthcare network, you'll start your career in an environment built for growth.
This program is also made possible through the generosity of the Ward Family, whose support helps future nurses like you take the first step with confidence.
Visit UPMC Altoona to learn more.
Your Pathway to a Career with UPMC Altoona
Starting your nursing career doesn't have to be complicated. This program combines financial support and a guaranteed career path, so you can focus on what matters most: becoming an exceptional nurse.
From application to graduation and beyond, here's what to expect:
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Saint Francis University is Changing the Way Nurses Learn
At Saint Francis University, our unique interprofessional curriculum prepares nurses to enter the field sooner and with greater confidence. Rooted in Franciscan values, our program develops ethical, compassionate professionals who are ready to make a difference. With personal attention from faculty recognized as innovators in nursing education, our graduates consistently exceed the national first-time pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Learn more about SFU's accredited nursing program.
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Once you've joined SFU's nursing program, you can apply for the UPMC Nursing Scholarship. This application connects you directly to UPMC Altoona and ensures you're considered for:
- Up to $15,000 in scholarship funding to cover the gap between your aid and SFU tuition (for juniors and seniors)
- A guaranteed career pathway with UPMC Altoona upon graduation
- Additional financial incentives, including the sign-on bonus and loan repayment assistance
This step is your gateway to a bundled package worth up to $45,000 in total support while you complete your degree and prepare for your future.
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After your application is reviewed, you’ll receive a personalized award package that outlines every part of your financial support. This package details:
- Your scholarship amount—up to $15,000 for juniors and seniors
- Your sign-on bonus potential—up to $15,000 (based on the unit at UPMC Altoona)
- Your loan repayment assistance—up to $15,000 to reduce student debt
This transparent process ensures you know exactly what funding you’ll receive so you can plan confidently for your education and your future career.
-
Once you complete your degree, you’ll transition seamlessly into your nursing role at UPMC Altoona. With a two-year commitment in select units, you’ll gain:
- Hands-on experience in a respected regional hospital
- Access to UPMC’s extensive network for mentorship and growth opportunities
- Your sign-on bonus and loan repayment benefits, giving you a strong financial start
- The chance to make a real impact in the community from day one
This is more than a job—it’s the first step in a rewarding nursing career backed by the support of UPMC Altoona and Saint Francis University.
Saint Francis University is Changing the Way Nurses Learn
At Saint Francis University, our unique interprofessional curriculum prepares nurses to enter the field sooner and with greater confidence. Rooted in Franciscan values, our program develops ethical, compassionate professionals who are ready to make a difference. With personal attention from faculty recognized as innovators in nursing education, our graduates consistently exceed the national first-time pass rates on the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Learn more about SFU's accredited nursing program.
Once you've joined SFU's nursing program, you can apply for the UPMC Nursing Scholarship. This application connects you directly to UPMC Altoona and ensures you're considered for:
- Up to $15,000 in scholarship funding to cover the gap between your aid and SFU tuition (for juniors and seniors)
- A guaranteed career pathway with UPMC Altoona upon graduation
- Additional financial incentives, including the sign-on bonus and loan repayment assistance
This step is your gateway to a bundled package worth up to $45,000 in total support while you complete your degree and prepare for your future.
After your application is reviewed, you’ll receive a personalized award package that outlines every part of your financial support. This package details:
- Your scholarship amount—up to $15,000 for juniors and seniors
- Your sign-on bonus potential—up to $15,000 (based on the unit at UPMC Altoona)
- Your loan repayment assistance—up to $15,000 to reduce student debt
This transparent process ensures you know exactly what funding you’ll receive so you can plan confidently for your education and your future career.
Once you complete your degree, you’ll transition seamlessly into your nursing role at UPMC Altoona. With a two-year commitment in select units, you’ll gain:
- Hands-on experience in a respected regional hospital
- Access to UPMC’s extensive network for mentorship and growth opportunities
- Your sign-on bonus and loan repayment benefits, giving you a strong financial start
- The chance to make a real impact in the community from day one
This is more than a job—it’s the first step in a rewarding nursing career backed by the support of UPMC Altoona and Saint Francis University.
Have questions? We'll help you secure your $45K nursing advantage.
Connect with our team to learn more, explore your options, and take the next step toward your career at UPMC Altoona.
Dr. Kerri Golden
Dean/Associate Professor
Email: kgolden@francis.edu
Phone: 814-472-2791
