Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional and Stockton University Tuesday announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a formal academic-clinical collaboration designed to expand educational opportunities and help meet the growing demand for a highly skilled nursing workforce in southern New Jersey.
“As the leading academic health system in the region, educating the next generation of medical professionals is an integral part of our mission,” said George E. Norcross III, chairman of Cooper University Health Care. “Partnering with Stockton University, we are investing in the future of nursing and the health care workforce in the Jersey shore communities we serve.”
“At Stockton, our mission is rooted in service to our region,” Stockton University President Joe Bertolino said in a release. “This partnership with Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional strengthens that commitment by opening doors for aspiring and current health care professionals while directly supporting the health and well-being of our local communities.”
The agreement creates new pathways for all eligible Cooper University Health Care team members at all locations to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees at Stockton University, including a 20% tuition discount per credit. The academic partnership is focused on workforce development, career advancement, and long-term recruitment and retention of nursing professionals in the region.
“This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to investing in our workforce and ensuring high-quality patient care for the communities we serve,” Cooper Senior Vice President of Nursing Kathy Devine said. “By making advanced education more accessible and affordable, we are strengthening both our team members and the future of health care in Cape May County and southern New Jersey.”
Provost Michael Palladino said the agreement aligns the university’s academic mission with the needs of the South Jersey workforce. Cooper Co-CEO Anthony Mazzarelli said the agreement will help Cooper develop the next generation of nursing leaders.
The MOU formalizes cooperation between the two institutions across education, clinical practice and workforce development. In addition to tuition discounts, the agreement allows Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional and Stockton University to explore the development of new or customized certificates and graduate programs aligned with evolving workforce needs. Stockton University will also engage with Cape Regional through career services and recruitment initiatives.
Participants must meet Stockton University’s standard admission requirements and are responsible for applicable fees in addition to tuition. Cooper University Health Care also provides tuition reimbursement for eligible employees, reinforcing its commitment to professional development and workforce advancement.
