WHAT IS THE M.J. FOSTER PROMISE PROGRAM?
The M.J. Foster Promise Program is administered by the Board of Regents through the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance. All public two-year postsecondary institutions in Louisiana are eligible training providers as well as accredited proprietary schools licensed by the Board of Regents.
The M.J. Foster Promise Program is available to all Louisiana residents (21 years
or older) with individual student awards available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Students will qualify for financial support to earn credentials that align to high-demand
jobs in growing industry sectors, such as construction, healthcare, information technology,
manufacturing, and transportation and logistics. Click here to view the list of approved qualified programs.
Eligibility Requirements
- Meet a family income that does not exceed 300% of the Federal Poverty Level or be
unemployed or underemployed for six months prior to receiving grant.
- Household of 1 = $38,640
- Household of 2 = $52,260
- Household of 3 = $65,880
- Household of 4 = $79,500
- Household of 5 = $93,120
- To view the most updated poverty thresholds and for households of six or more, visit the U.S. ASPE webpage for more information.
- Have earned a high school diploma or equivalent or co-enroll in a qualified program of study and in a program to earn high school credential.
- Have not previously earned an undergraduate degree at the associate level or above.
- Be a Louisiana resident and U.S. Citizen.
- Commit to reside in Louisiana one year after completion and to perform 20 hours of community service, an internship, or a mentorship annually to maintain the award.
The M.J. Foster Promise Program will serve as a “last dollar” award, which means all
applicants will be required to complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for other
sources of federal aid or demonstrate eligibility for federal aid. The Promise funds
would apply to any balances after federal, state, or institutional aid has been disbursed,
so award amounts will differ student by student.
The Promise funds can be used over a period of three years to cover tuition and fees, but no additional funds will be rebated to students. Lifetime individual caps on the awards will match the maximum TOPS Tech benefit in current law ($6,400). The award amount is $3,200 per award year. Students may receive maximum award amount of $6,400 if enrolled in a high-cost program. If a student does not meet the continuation requirements, like the other programs, they can file for an exception.
- Complete a BRCC Application
- Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Complete an application with the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance (LOFSA).
Contact LOSFA staff at MJFoster.Promise@la.gov for more information.
ELIGIBLE PROGRAMS AT BRCC
Workforce Courses
| CIP Codes | Course | Course Description | Certification | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51.0713 | Medical Billing and Coding | This program prepares students for employment in insurance companies, medical facilities, and many other healthcare entities. Professional coders review and interpret health records, orders and billing associated with healthcare documentation for the purpose of claims processing and revenue cycles. Coders work closely with the providers and medical team to ensure accurate billing in accordance with state and federal mandates. You will learn medical terminology, regulatory compliance, claims processing, front and back-end duties, payment adjudication, and how to apply this knowledge to coding and billing. | American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) | $3916.00 (Includes tuition, supplies, textbooks and workbooks) | 272 Hours, In-person, 3 days week, 6-9pm |
| 51.0801 | Certified Medical Assistant | This program provides both didactic and practical instruction regarding the role of the medical assistant in the practical setting. Classroom lectures cover an overview of the human body and its systems (theory, anatomy, medical terminology, etc.). The practical component of this course teaches you skills that will be performed in the clinical environment: blood pressure, glucometer readings, EKG and Phlebotomy, medication administration. Medical Assistants are needed in a variety of settings (clinics, doctors' offices, etc.) and are an integral part of the medical team. | National Healthcareer Association (NHA) | $2915.00 (Includes tuition, supplies, textbooks, study guides, practice exams, certification exam fee) | 164 Hours, In-person, 2 days week, 6-9pm |
| 51.0805 | Certified Pharmacy Technician | Pharmacy Technicians are in demand as one of the fastest growing occupations in healthcare. Pharmacy Technician’s assist the pharmacist as follows: Mixing and packaging prescriptions, Referring clients to the pharmacist for counseling, Inventory control and purchasing, Collecting payment and coordinating billing. | National Healthcareer Association (NHA) | $3000.00 (Includes, tuition, supplies, textbook, study guides, practice exams, certification exam fee) | 180 Hours, In-person, 3 days week, 6-9pm |
| 51.1009 | Certified Phlebotomy Technician | The Phlebotomy training program will prepare you to draw blood samples from patients in a clinical laboratory or public health setting. The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning. Over the course of the program, you will gain exposure to on-the-job duties that include drawing blood samples from patients, producing quality laboratory results, gaining the trust and confidence of patients, and much more. Students will have the option to participate in an externship with a local hospital, where real-time experience may be gained. There are certain criteria/requirements that will need to be met before being accepted into the externship. These requirements will be provided at the conclusion of the program and passing of the national certification exam. | National Healthcareer Association (NHA) | $1200.00 (Includes, tuition, supplies, textbook, study guides, practice exams, certification exam fee) | 75 Hours, In-person, 2 days week, 6-9pm |
| 51.0706 | Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist | In this program, students will learn the following: What an electronic health record system is, what information is stored in an electronic record, and how to input and navigate through patient records. How to implement a system and understand the importance of these systems versus traditional paper records. Medical terminology, medical conditions and procedures, word parts and structures related to the human body. This course is a great starting point for students interested in the medical billing and coding. You can work in a variety of healthcare settings and they are an integral part of the healthcare process. | National Healthcareer Association (NHA) | $3000.00 (Includes, tuition, supplies, textbook, study guides, practice exams, certification exam fee) | 177 Hours, Online Course (some in-person may be required), 3 days week, 6-9pm |
| 15.0501 | HVAC Principles of Electricity | Introduces fundamental electrical concepts and theories as applied to the air conditioning industry. Topics include alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) theory, Ohm’s law, electric meters and diagrams, distribution systems, electrical panels, voltage circuits, code requirements, and safety. Additional instruction is given on components such as pressure switches, overload devices, transformers, magnetic starters, other commonly used controls, diagnostic techniques, & installation procedures. | HVAC Excellence Electricity | $550.00 | |
| 15.0501 | HVAC Principles of Refrigeration | Theory of the compression refrigeration cycle and the components which make up the refrigeration system, heat transfer, and the change of state of refrigeration. Operation and analysis of basic refrigeration systems, including a study of compressors, condensers, evaporators, metering devices, accessories, evacuation, charging, control adjustments, efficiency checks, and recovery, recycling and reclamation. This course provides instruction in the use and care of hand tools, special tools, as well as tools commonly used in the industry. Other topics and skills include safety, identification of pipe and tube fittings, flaring, soldering and brazing. Also covers identification and characteristics of refrigerants and oils, manifold gauges, and leak detectors. | HVAC Excellence Section 608 Universal, HVAC Excellence A/C | $550.00 | |
| 15.0501 | HVAC Central A/C | This course Introduces fundamental theory and techniques to identify major components and functions of air conditioning systems. Instruction is given on types of air conditioning systems and use of instruments. Topics include types of AC systems, heat load calculations, duct design, air filtration, and safety principles. | HVAC Excellence Light Commercial A/C | $550.00 | |
| 15.0501 | HVAC Commercial & Residential Heating | Theory and study of the principles and practices for the operation, diagnosis and service of residential and small commercial heating systems. Topics covered will include electrical controls, gas valves, piping, venting, code requirements, principles of combustion and safety for gas and electrical heating. The application of service procedures, controls (electrical & gas), gas valves, piping, ventilation, code requirements and safety for gas and electrical heating systems for residential and small commercial uses. Provides installation and servicing heat pumps, and related systems. Topics include installation procedures, servicing procedures, troubleshooting, valves, electrical components, safety, geothermal ground source energy supplies, and dual fuel. Installation procedures, diagnosis, servicing procedures, valves, electrical components and geothermal ground source applications, dual fuel systems, and safety are topics included. | HVAC Excellence – Gas Heat, Oil Heat, Electric Heat, Heat Pump | $550.00 | |
| 15.0614 | AWS Welding – 120 Hours | Instruction is provided in various processes and techniques of welding – SMAW, GMAW, FCAW, & GTAW. Weld positions for welding processes is also covered. | AWS Certification | $550.00 | |
| 47.0603 | Collision Repair – Non Structural Damage | Training will consist of up to 14 modules. Class topics range from introduction to repair process, procedures, terms, parts, tools, equipment, attachment methods, mechanical and safety systems, vehicle and construction material. Types of hardware and an overview of their uses during the repair process is also covered. Additional topics covered include, removing damaged and undamaged fasteners, thread reinstallation, adhesive bonding materials, and basic knowledge of Gas Metal Arc welding. | I-Car Pro Level 1 Non Structural Technician | $1,050.00 | |
| 47.0603 | Collision Repair Paint & Refinish | Training will consist of up to 14 modules. Class topics cover refinishing and corrosion protection. Also, covers color maps, electronic paint formulation systems, and techniques to make spray out panels for color evaluation and tri-coat finishes for the paint class. Other techniques include final sanding, masking, color mixing and tinting, spray booth operations, and applying primers, sealers, and clear coats. | I-Car Pro Level 1 Paint & Refinish Technician | $1,200.00 | |
| 47.0603 | Collision Repair Structural Damage | Covers types of damage and initial steps in developing a repair plan. Also covers making decisions about removing parts versus keeping parts attached, anchoring, and locating anchoring points. | I-Car Pro Level 1 Structural Technician | $500.00 | |
| 47.0603 | Collision Repair Appraisal | Covers common industry terms to use in a damage report along with collision-estimating guides to identify additional information that should be obtained from the customer prior to writing a damage report. | I-Car Pro Level 1 Estimator | $1,000.00 | |
| 49.0205 | Commercial Driver's License (CDL) | This course prepares students for employment as professional commercial drivers and follows all Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Entry-Level Driver Training rules, regulations, and guidelines. Classroom theory and behind-the-wheel training is provided covering topics such as DOT rules and regulations; pre and post trip inspections; backing and maneuvering; driving on rural, urban, and interstate highways; handling cargo; hours of service; and defensive driving. | CDL Class A-tractor trailer or CDL Class B-straight truck | $5,500 | Mon-Fri, 7am-4pm (6 weeks) |
| 46.0000 | Construction Site Safety Technician Program | This is a 2 course program consisting of CSST Field Safety & CSST Safety Technology. Topics covered in this course include: hazard communication, work zone safety, personal protective equipment, fall protection, trenching safety, job safety analysis and task safety analysis, safety meetings, permit policies, risk analysis and assessment. Those who complete the course and pass all examinations receive certification as a construction site safety technician through the National Center for Construction Education and Research. | NCCER Construction Site Safety Technician, NCCER Construction Site Safety Supervisor, NCCER Field Safety, NCCER Safety Technology | $350.00/Course | |
| 47.0605 | Diesel Engine ASE Medium/Heavy | Diesel engine repair trains for the service and repair of diesel engines. This course covers the design, construction, operation, diagnosis, and repair of both mobile and stationary diesel engines, as well as those preparing for ASE Medium/Heavy Truck Test T2-Diesel Engines, Test T6-Electrical/ Electronic Systems, and Test T8- Preventive Maintenance Inspection (PMI). This course is compressed training and utilizes the NATEF curricula for medium/heavy truck systems. Students will be introduced to the field and learn various topics such as: cylinder head and valve training, engine block, cooling system, air induction and exhaust systems, fuel system, electronic fuel management system, engine brakes, A/C system – general, air/ mechanical , refrigerant recovery, recycling, and handling, preventive maintenance and inspection, and heating and cooling systems. | ASE Certifications T1-T8 | $500.00 | |
| 15.0702 | Non Destructive Testing | Non Destructive Testing (NDT) is the process of inspecting, testing, or evaluating materials, components, or assemblies for discontinuities, or differences in characteristics without destroying the serviceability of the part or system. The NDT course involves the use of visual inspection, liquid penetrant inspection, magnetic particle inspection, ultrasonic inspections and radiography inspection. | ASNT Liquid Penetrant, ASNT Magnetic Particle, ASNT Radiation Safety, ASNT Radiographic Testing, ASNT Ultrasonic Testing, ASNT Visual Testing | $4,000.00 | |
| 15.1103 | Practical Hydraulics & Hydraulics Safety | This course covers, safety, symbols, hydraulic laws & principles, types of valves, pumps, hydrostatic systems, reservoirs, coolers, hoses, & connectors. | Fluid Power Training Institute – Practical Hydraulics & Hydraulics Safety | $500.00 | |
| 15.1103 | Troubleshooting Hydraulic Systems & Components | This course covers troubleshooting & testing hydraulic pumps, pressure control valves, directional valves, check valves, hydrostatic transmissions, & motors. | Fluid Power Training Institute – Troubleshooting Hydraulic Systems & Components | $500.00 | |
| 46.0502 | NCCER Pipefitting | Pipefitters plan and install detailed pipe systems for commercial and industrial projects. These pipes may carry water, chemicals, or gases to the crucial building systems. Pipefitters use many tools to cut and bend pipes to exact specifications. This program covers four levels of training based on curriculum developed by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). Topics covered include threaded pipe fabrication, excavations, and steam traps. Students who successfully complete the program will be nationally certified by NCCER. | NCCER Certification | Levels 1 & 2, $850 each, Levels 3 & 4, $1275 each (Includes textbook and materials) | Core & Level 1, 150 Hours, Level 2, 150 Hours, Level 3, 160 Hours, Level 4, 180 Hours |
| 49.0202 | NCCER Heavy Equipment Basics | This course begins NCCER’s CORE curriculum, which is a prerequisite to all other craft courses. The modules covered in CORE include topics such as basic safety, construction math, hand tools, power tools, blueprint reading, basic rigging, basic communication skills and basic employability skills. Completing the CORE curriculum gives the trainee the basic skills needed to continue education in any craft area. Students will receive 350 clock hours of training in NCCER’s Heavy Equipment Operator Level 1 curriculum plus three modules from Level 3 in addition to OSHA standards. Training will be comprised of heavy equipment safety, identification of heavy equipment, introduction to earthmoving, dozers, backhoes, and excavators. Equipment types included in this program are bulldozer, backhoe loader, skid steer loader, and mini-excavator. Equipment is subject to change. Students will receive a certificate of completion from the NCCER’s National Registry. | NCCER Certification | $2000 (Includes textbook and materials) | 350 Hours |
| 46.0302 | NCCER Electrical | This course begins NCCER’s CORE curriculum, which is a prerequisite to all other craft courses. Electricians install and maintain all the electrical and power systems for our homes, businesses and factories. Electricians in large factories usually do maintenance work that is more complex. These kinds of electricians may repair motors, transformers, generators, and electronic controllers on machine tools and industrial robots. Electrical Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4. | NCCER Certification | Levels 1 & 2, $850 each, Levels 3 & 4, $1275 each (Includes textbook and materials) | Core & Level 1, 180 Hours, Level 2, 145 Hours, Level 3, 155 Hours, Level 4, 180 Hours |
| 15.0404 | NCCER Instrumentation | This course begins NCCER’s CORE curriculum, which is a prerequisite to all other craft courses. Instrument Fitters and Technicians perform key installation and maintenance functions across several industries. The field of instrumentation covers important processes and knowledge areas, including piping, tubing, fasteners, and metallurgy. Instrumentation Technicians and Fitters are familiar with electrical systems, craft-specific drawings, and are experts in the hand and power tools specific to their trade. NCCER’s Instrumentation curriculum addresses all learning objectives associated with this broad and demanding field, in areas such as fasteners, relays and timers, and grounding and shielding of instrumentation wiring. Students will be introduced to the field and will learn various topics such as fasteners; anchors; oxy-fuel cutting; tools of the trade; valves; pumps and drivers; and test instruments. Classes will utilize classroom and hands-on training. | NCCER Certification | Levels 1 & 2, $850 each, Levels 3 & 4, $1275 each (Includes textbook and materials) | Core & Level 1, 180 Hours, Level 2, 185 Hours, Level 3, 150 Hours, Level 4, 150 Hours |
| 47.0303 | NCCER Millwright | This course begins NCCER’s CORE curriculum, which is a prerequisite to all other craft courses. Millwrights work on construction sites and in factories assembling and disassembling machinery. This work can involve intricate technical repairs or heavy machining tools, depending on the project. Millwrights have to be able to understand technical manuals for many different types of machines and have a high level of problem-solving skills. | NCCER Certification | Levels 1 & 2, $850 each, Levels 3 & 4, $1275 each (Includes textbook and materials) | Core & Level 1, 150 Hours, Level 2, 150 Hours, Level 3, 160 Hours, Level 4, 150 Hours, Level 5, 165 hours |