Singing River Healthcare Academy will officially open its doors with a Business After Hours celebration on Thursday, Aug. 14, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at 3401 Bienville Blvd. in Ocean Springs. The community is invited to attend and explore the innovative new facility that is transforming healthcare workforce development on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
As the first program of its kind in the state, Singing River Healthcare Academy offers a unique “earn while you learn” model, combining classroom instruction with paid, hands-on clinical training in real-world medical environments. The Healthcare Academy was created to build a sustainable talent pipeline while expanding access to meaningful careers in healthcare.
Students at the Healthcare Academy train in hospital-like settings designed to mirror real clinical environments. The facility includes two simulated hospital suites, an eight-bed clinical skills lab, high-fidelity simulation rooms, seven modern classrooms, and a computer testing center.
Current programs include:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Medical Assistant (MA)
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Phlebotomy Tech
- Pharmacy Tech
- Surgical Tech
Graduates are prepared to step into clinical roles on day one. Through direct employment pathways with Singing River Health System and its regional partners, the Healthcare Academy helps reduce staffing shortages and expands access to rewarding healthcare careers across the Gulf Coast.
Established by Singing River Health System, the Healthcare Academy is part of a larger mission to strengthen Mississippi’s healthcare workforce and improve access to care across the Gulf Coast. Located in the heart of Jackson County, the Healthcare Academy plays a vital role in addressing staffing shortages while delivering long-term economic and community impact.
“We’re not just investing in education—we’re investing in people, in solutions to workforce shortages, and in better care for our communities. It’s a win for students, our health system, and the people we serve.”
Laurin St. Pé, CEO, Singing River Health System
With plans to expand into additional disciplines in the future, Singing River Healthcare Academy invites community partners, educators, and businesses to support its mission and be part of building a healthier Mississippi.