Syracuse Sun

Syracuse University has partnered with the Caring Gene Career Pathways Training Program (CPT) to address healthcare workforce shortages in New York state. This initiative aims to reduce barriers to career advancement and support individuals aspiring to become professionals in the healthcare industry.

The partnership offers eligible residents of New York state and certain bordering states full coverage of tuition, books, and academic fees for education in 13 healthcare fields. These include the master of clinical mental health counseling program in the School of Education and the master of social work (M.S.W.) programs in the School of Social Work.

Administered by the Iroquois Healthcare Association and funded by the New York State Department of Health, this program supports both new healthcare workers and current professionals seeking career advancement.

To qualify, students must commit to a three-year service requirement with a provider network serving at least 30 percent Medicaid-reliant or uninsured individuals. Students are expected to complete their degree by spring 2027 and fulfill their service obligation by March 31, 2031.

Carrie Jefferson Smith, Chair and Professor at the School of Social Work, emphasized: “Human services providers—including mental health counselors and social workers—are needed more than ever...This program provides a unique opportunity for students to fulfill their passion for helping others while alleviating part of the financial burden.”

Yanhong Liu from Syracuse University's School of Education added: “We deeply value this opportunity to partner with CPT...Our award-winning faculty brings diverse research expertise and clinical experiences.”

Kevin M. Kerwin, acting president and CEO of Iroquois Healthcare Association, remarked: “Syracuse University shares our commitment...This program is an important step toward strengthening our health care workforce."

Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen status residing in New York state, enrollment in one of the approved educational programs, completion of FAFSA and TAP applications, acceptance of all grants offered through these programs, a three-year service commitment post-graduation, with completion required by March 31, 2031.

For more information or assistance with applications contact Breana Nieves Vergara at bknieves@syr.edu or Adrienne Renfroe at alrenfro@syr.edu.