Davenport University is giving its nursing students a new opportunity to launch their careers with less debt through a new partnership with Scholars Network. This national program connects students with healthcare employers around the country offering career opportunities and student loan repayment assistance.

The partners have just launched recruitment for eligible Davenport Bachelor of Science Nursing (BSN) students into the Scholars Network program. Through the Scholars Network, students can pursue employment with participating health systems, including University of Michigan Health-Sparrow in Lansing. They would qualify for student loan repayment assistance in exchange for a commitment to work for the partner employer following graduation. 

Students selected by University of Michigan Health-Sparrow may receive up to $40,000 in student loan repayment assistance if they fulfill a three-year employment commitment with the Michigan Health-Sparrow. Davenport students also have access to other participating health systems across the country, with some employers offering as much as $65,000 in loan repayment assistance. The amount and length of the employment commitment vary by employer.

The Scholars Network model connects nursing education directly with workforce needs. It allows Davenport students to continue their education and clinical training while gaining a valuable connection to employers recruiting nurses. 

“At Davenport, we believe students who have the passion and ability to become nurses should have every opportunity to pursue their calling without the burden of immense debt,” said Amy Stahley, Ph.D., dean of the College of Health Professions at Davenport University. “This partnership creates a strong connection between education and employment. Our students can focus on becoming exceptional nurses, knowing they’re on the path to a rewarding profession. It’s a win for students, employers and for the patients they’ll serve.” 

Eligible Davenport nursing students can apply through the Scholars Network platform after completing at least one semester of clinical coursework. Students must be in good academic standing, and participating employers make final decisions about who is accepted into the program.

“Higher education and healthcare are facing a shared challenge: how to prepare the next generation of clinicians without placing unsustainable financial burdens on students,” said Dr. Sam Maron, founder of Scholars Network. “This partnership with Davenport University reflects a forward-thinking approach that connects education directly to employment, reduces student debt and helps health systems build the nursing workforce they urgently need.” 

Recruitment to the program is currently underway for current Davenport BSN pre-licensure students interested in participating in the program. Learn more about the partnership between Davenport University and the Scholars Network here. 

Learn more about nursing at Davenport University here.