St. Luke’s launches College of Health Sciences to address health care workforce needs
BETHLEHEM, Pa. — St. Luke’s University Health Network has launched the St. Luke’s College of Health Sciences, a new institution aimed at strengthening the regional health care workforce, and is now accepting applications for its inaugural class set to begin in May 2026.
The college, located on the campus shared with St. Luke’s University Hospital–Bethlehem, will initially offer associate degree programs in radiography and respiratory care, as well as a bachelor’s degree program for registered nurses pursuing an RN to BSN. The institution will also provide general education coursework.
Approval to establish the college was granted in October 2025 by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, a move officials said will help address growing workforce shortages in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas.
“This is a historic milestone for the Lehigh Valley,” said Mary Grace Simcox, EdD, RN, the first president of the St. Luke’s College of Health Sciences. “The launch of the St. Luke’s College of Health Sciences reflects a bold commitment to strengthening our health care workforce by providing an affordable, local pathway to high-demand careers complete with guaranteed clinical placements, hands-on learning, small class sizes, and clear opportunities for professional advancement.”
Respiratory care and radiography classes will be held at the Priscilla Payne Hurd Education Center, while the RN to BSN program will be offered fully online to support adult learners seeking nontraditional college options. Students will also have access to simulation and skills laboratories, study spaces and library resources.
St. Luke’s officials said the new college will complement the health network’s longstanding partnerships with regional colleges and universities while expanding its ability to meet workforce needs in critical health care roles.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, health care and social assistance are projected to experience the largest job growth of any sector between 2024 and 2034, driven by an aging population and persistent staffing shortages.
St. Luke’s has a long history in medical education, operating the nation’s oldest school of nursing, offering a four-year medical school through the Temple St. Luke’s School of Medicine, and supporting more than 60 graduate medical education programs.
“The launch of the St. Luke’s College of Health Sciences reflects St. Luke’s ongoing commitment as a national leader in health care education and builds on that foundation, completing a comprehensive education continuum designed to prepare, advance, and retain the health care workforce of tomorrow,” Simcox said. “We are excited to welcome our first class of students and help them start, grow and thrive in a health care career.”
More information about the college and application details are available at www.StLukesCollege.org.
