ALLIANCE, Ohio — The University of Mount Union is pleased to announce that current and future undergraduate students of the University will be eligible for early assurance into its Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies (PA) and Doctor of Physical Therapy (PT) degree programs beginning Fall 2022.

Mount Union’s PA at PT programs will offer early assurance of up to 10 seats and 8 seats, respectively, to enrolled undergraduates at Mount Union during their time of application.

“Mount Union is emerging as a powerful destination for students interested in becoming highly skilled, compassionate health care providers,” said Dr. Sandra Madar, founding dean of Mount Union’s College of Natural and Health Sciences. “These early assurance pathways allow our highly motivated students to bypass the highly stressful, and often expensive graduate application processes in the health professions. They can then focus on their studies, experiential learning, and service – which benefits all of us!” 

To be eligible for consideration for the PA pathway, students must complete three semesters at Mount Union in a Bachelor of Science degree program, maintain a grade-point average of 3.4, and complete a list of prerequisite courses.

“The PA Program is pleased to offer this early assurance to Mount Union students who are interested in becoming a physician assistant from the start of their undergraduate studies,” said Betsy Ekey, professor of physician assistant studies and chair and director of the program. “This will enhance the opportunity for undergraduate Mount Union students to be directly on the path to entering the PA graduate program and ultimately meet the surrounding areas need for qualified healthcare providers.” 

The PT pathway requires students to have earned at least 32 credit hours, 24 of which must be in a science-related field, maintain a 3.3 grade-point average for all coursework, and complete eligibility requirements prior to matriculation. Students earning a 3.6 gpa as a junior will not be required to take a Graduate Record Exam (GRE).

"We believe in the exceptionality of our DPT program, and we invest in making it stronger every day,” said Dr. Sheryl Holt, director of Mount Union’s PT program. “We also believe in the students who are drawn to make Mount their choice. Together, we become a force of healing and hope to a world in need. The DPT early assurance program allows us to invest even sooner in students destined to join us. It's compelling and fulfilling to be part of all that's exceptional at Mount Union." 

Mount Union has also established an early assurance agreement with Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) for students seeking a Doctor of Medicine degree. Students will be able to apply as sophomores or juniors at Mount Union.

Learn more about these opportunities at mountunion.edu/admission/early-assurance-programs.