The purpose of the IMAA Nursing Career Academy (NCA) is to prepare refugees and asylees for the RCTC Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program and for the CNA workforce.  The NCA is made up of five major components that create a career ladder into the nursing profession. 

First, selected refugee/asylee candidates (ESL level 4-5) receive a 40 hour personal care attendant training to provide them with the skills needed for employment.  Through their work experience and continued ESL classes, some of these candidates can then apply for step 2 of the NCA program.

Second, selected refugee/asylee students (ESL level 7 with a GED) participate in a 40 hour evening pre-CNA class.  Students learn English, math, and study skills needed for success at RCTC.  This class is taught by an RCTC CNA instructor.  Based on their in-class performance, 10 students will be selected each year to receive a full scholarship to attend RCTC for their Extended CNA program (See Step 3.)

Third, 10 selected students will enroll in the RCTC Extended CNA program which includes all 3 CNA classes and 3 English classes.  The scholarship includes the cost of all tuition, books, fees, and the MN State CNA certification exam.  All classes are offered in the evenings or on weekends.

Fourth, all students from the personal care attendant and pre-CNA classes (including the students who enroll at RCTC) receive assistance finding a job through 1:1 employment services.

Fifth, all students from the personal care attendant and pre-CNA classes (including the students who enroll at RCTC) receive follow up and mentoring to ensure academic and employment success.