Program Philosophy
Young adults from low-income backgrounds are often forced to choose between low-wage work or taking on debt to pay for the high cost of college. Propel was founded to create a third option: a fast, tuition-free, coach-supported path to a living-wage healthcare career. Propel's 'jobs-first higher education' model ensures fellows earn an industry credential, transferable college credits, and a guaranteed employer placement—all without taking on debt. The goal is to remove barriers so motivated young people can access economic mobility quickly.
Started in 2019
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Recent high school graduates 18–26, interested in healthcare, from low-income backgrounds, not enrolled elsewhere
For first 6 months: onsite hybrid training working 4 days a week and 1 day dedicated to self-paced online coursework; After completing hybrid training and passing the certification exam, spend months 7-14 as an apprentice employed full-time.
Tuition-free Medical Assistant certification, 2000+ hours training, college credits, paid minimum wage during first 6 months of training (on average $24 per hour), a pay raise and on-the-job skill building as an apprentice during months 7-14.
Cost & Outcomes
This tuition-free medical assistant program covers all costs and provides free course materials. Fellows also earn minimum wage ($24/hour) and benefits from the start of the training and into the apprenticeship.
Who This Program is Built For
This program was specifically designed with these communities in mind. If you see yourself, you belong here.
What Sets This Program Apart
Tuition-free training: all program costs covered; fellows leverage Pell grants with no out-of-pocket tuition
Personal career coach: each fellow is assigned a dedicated 1:1 coach for the full program and 6 months post-completion
Guaranteed employer placement: Propel's employer partner network is committed to placing all apprentices in one of their member health clinics
College credit: fellows earn transferable college credits through accredited partner institutions (e.g., Loyola Marymount and CHCP)
Free laptop and course materials provided to all fellows
Day in the Life
- Weekly 1:1 and group coaching sessions with dedicated career coach
- First 6 months hybrid training with dedicated cohort and networking opportunities
- 2000 hour apprenticeship at employer partner health center
- Professional development and job readiness workshops
- Facilitated by experienced medical assistant instructors
Experienced medical assistant instructors with clinical backgrounds; career coaches trained in workforce development and professional coaching
Soft and technical skills you'll gain by program completion.
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam through NHA
100% pass rate
Highs & Lows
Balancing full-time clinical work with concurrent online coursework; meeting immunization and employment onboarding requirements; adjusting to fast-paced clinic environment from the first week; On-time attendance is required.
Earning a real paycheck from day 1 while gaining credentials; a personal coach who knows your situation; working in a real clinic environment with a cohort of peers.
Entry-level MAs typically advance to lead MA or senior clinical roles within 2–5 years. With college credits earned, fellows can pursue LVN, LPN, RN or other nursing/allied health programs. Supervisory or specialty MA roles (e.g., pediatrics, cardiology) are common 5–10 year paths.
Employment Support
Guaranteed employer placement: Propel connects all completers with employer partners
Career coaching: 1:1 support for resume building, interview prep, and certification navigation throughout entire apprenticeship
Professional development workshops: weekly skill-building sessions covering workplace expectations, professional communication, and career readiness
Mock interviewing and resume support
Job placement support continues 6 months after program completion
Hear From the Program
CEO of Propel America
Too many talented young people are shut out of healthcare careers because of cost and complexity. Our model is changing that dynamic — helping learners earn while they learn and preparing them for long-term success.
How It Works
1: Submit application at propelamerica.org/apply
2: Complete Pre-Screen Questionnaire
3: Interview with Propel Admissions staff (and employer partner representative if required by program)
4: Complete onboarding paperwork (proof of high school graduation; may include FAFSA, vaccination records, tax paperwork)
5: Attend welcome event with cohort
6: Complete online professional development before clinical coursework begins
Frequently Asked Questions
If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to contact us.All Propel programs are tuition-free. Some require use of Pell grants if eligible.
No, there are also programs in Philadelphia PA, Newark/New Brunswick NJ, and Baton Rouge LA
Apprenticeship program pays from day one.
Propel provides a laptop, course materials, and lab supplies. Some programs provide scrubs. An emergency fund is available for personal challenges.
Yes, Propel accepts applications for future cohorts. Reapplications not accepted if applicant was unresponsive to admissions staff.
Fellows are invited to a welcome event and complete professional development online before clinical training begins.
Propel does not consider immigration status in applications but cannot sponsor work visas. Fellows must be authorized to work at time of enrollment.