Most programs are 100% grant-funded for eligible Rhode Island residents.
Eligibility is determined through RI workforce development grant programs. Requirements typically include RI residency and income criteria. Pre-qualification is free and takes under 5 minutes.
Check Your Eligibility →Allied Health Track
The backbone of patient care.
Four certification pathways covering patient care, cardiac monitoring, and blood collection — the foundational skills required in every Rhode Island hospital, nursing home, and clinical setting.
- Certified Nursing Assistant
The foundational credential for entering Rhode Island's healthcare workforce.
Duration: 8 WeeksFormat: In-Person (Mon–Thu) or HybridSchedule: Daytime & Evening cohorts available100% Grant-Funded - Patient Care Technician — Triple Certification
CNA + Phlebotomy + EKG in one program. The gold standard for ER and ICU hiring.
Duration: 12 WeeksCredentials: RI CNA License + NHA CPT + NHA CET (3 credentials)Format: In-Person with multi-site clinical rotationsTriple Certification100% Grant-Funded - Phlebotomy Technician
A focused 4–6 week course on blood draw techniques and lab processing.
Duration: 4–6 WeeksFormat: In-Person with lab practicumSchedule: Daytime cohorts100% Grant-Funded - EKG Technician
Specialized cardiac monitoring training — a targeted 4-week credential.
Duration: 4 WeeksFormat: In-PersonSchedule: Daytime cohorts100% Grant-Funded
Emergency Medicine Track
The frontline of crisis response.
Three EMS programs taking students from first-response entry level through the highest scope of pre-hospital practice. Evenings and weekends available for working adults.
- Emergency Medical Technician — Basic
The entry point to a career in emergency services. Evenings and weekends available.
Duration: Approx. 16 WeeksFormat: In-PersonSchedule: Evenings & Weekends100% Grant-Funded - Advanced EMT — Cardiac (Rhode Island Specific)Prerequisite required
RI's unique intermediate licensure — the credential RI fire departments actively seek.
Duration: Approx. 6 MonthsFormat: In-PersonSchedule: Evenings & WeekendsRI Exclusive100% Grant-Funded - Paramedic ProgramPrerequisite required
The highest level of pre-hospital care. 12–18 months to the top of the EMS ladder.
Duration: 12–18 MonthsFormat: Hybrid (Online didactic + In-person clinical labs & field internship)Schedule: Evenings, Weekends & Intensive clinical blocks100% Grant-Funded
AHA Training Center
Life-saving certifications for everyone.
American Heart Association BLS, ACLS, PALS, and Heartsaver courses — open to healthcare providers and the general community. No grant eligibility required.
Behavioral Health Track
Launching Year 2 — Join the waitlist.
RIEC is developing a Behavioral Health track to address Rhode Island's critical shortage of community mental health and substance use treatment workers. Program credentials and curriculum details will be announced prior to launch. Add yourself to the interest list now to be notified when enrollment opens.
Join the Waitlist →Ready to Get Started?
Submit your free pre-qualification form and we'll determine which grant-funded programs you're eligible for — usually within 1 business day.
Grant Eligibility
Who Qualifies for 100% Grant-Funded Training?
Most RIEC programs are fully funded through Rhode Island workforce development grants. Grant funding covers tuition, program materials, and fees — with no repayment required. Eligibility is income-based and confirmed during the free pre-qualification process.
Rhode Island Resident
You must reside in Rhode Island at the time of enrollment. Proof of address — such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or government-issued ID — is required during the application process.
Income-Based Eligibility
Grants prioritize applicants at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Many working adults and households with moderate incomes qualify. Apply before assuming you don't — most applicants are eligible.
U.S. Work Authorization
You must be authorized to work in the United States and intend to seek employment in Rhode Island's healthcare sector after completing your program.
Basic Education
A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required for most programs. RIEC staff can connect applicants who need GED support with local community resources before enrollment begins.
Not sure if you qualify? Apply anyway — there is no penalty for checking.
Our pre-qualification form takes under 5 minutes, costs nothing, and carries no obligation. Most applicants are surprised to find they do qualify. If you don't, RIEC will help you explore alternative funding options.