Saint Joseph's is emerging as a model for the 21st-century rural college, developing innovative programs that meet community needs while maintaining affordability. The College is setting a new standard for success in higher education, especially in rural areas, and is committed to pushing the envelope in response to the evolving demands of the workforce.
After a bold step taken in 2017 to voluntarily suspend operations, Saint Joseph’s College is redefining its academic offerings by emphasizing training that equips students with practical, industry-relevant skills tailored to the needs of today’s workforce. Saint Joseph’s has pivoted towards programs that directly prepare individuals for success in hands-on careers, reflecting the increasing demand for skilled professionals in a variety of trades and industries.
A pillar of this transformation is the introduction of four learning pathways which cater to the needs of our community and beyond.
CDL Academy: The Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program provides students with the essential skills and certification required to enter the high-demand trucking and transportation industry.
Building and Trades Program: Responding to the critical need for skilled tradespeople, this program offers comprehensive training in carpentry. A unique feature of the program is the construction of a house each year by the students, which not only provides them with practical experience, but also benefits the community when the completed house is sold.
Certificate Programs in Health Science and Veterinary Science: Certificate programs provide essential training for students seeking careers in healthcare and veterinary care, including certifications for nursing assistants, medical assistants, and veterinary assistants.
Accredited College Courses: To further broaden opportunities, Saint Joseph’s has established partnerships with several universities to offer accredited college courses, enabling our students to earn college credits and pursue higher education degrees.
At the core of these initiatives is a commitment to personalized learning. Small class sizes ensure that each student receives the individualized attention and mentorship needed to thrive, whether they are working toward a certificate or developing trade-specific expertise. The close-knit learning environment fosters deeper connections between instructors and students, leading to better educational outcomes and a more supportive path toward career success.
Saint Joseph’s College is not only focused on equipping students with technical skills, but also on empowering them to enter fulfilling careers that contribute to the community. The programs align closely with the College’s mission to provide affordable, practical education that meets the needs of both students and the wider workforce. By offering these four learning pathways, Saint Joseph’s is helping individuals achieve their professional goals faster, while simultaneously addressing workforce gaps in critical industries.
This reimagined approach is paving the way for a new era of education at Saint Joseph’s – one grounded in our Catholic faith and mission to serve the underserved. Embracing our heritage, we focus on developing the whole person through education that combines practical skills and personal development. By weaving together real-world skills with the values of compassion, service, and integrity central to our Catholic tradition, we provide an accessible, high-quality education that fosters a community empowered to excel professionally with purpose and heart.
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This Article was originally printed in The Catholic Moment, the Diocese of Lafayette Indiana newspaper on November 3, 2024
