University of Evansville and Vincennes University form partnership for direct-entry athletic training and physical therapy pathways

The University of Evansville and Vincennes University have formed a partnership via Memorandum of Understanding that will provide undergraduate students at Vincennes University the opportunity to enter into the University of Evansville’s competitive graduate programs via a streamlined direct-entry pathway. The pathway is for students in Vincennes University's Bachelor of Science in Health Care Services Administration with a Pre-Doctor of Physical Therapy/Master's of Athletic Training concentration who wish to enter into the University of Evansville’s Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) or Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs.

According to an article on the University of Evansville’s website, Dr. Rachel Lampert, who serves as the Director of the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Vincennes University, was quoted as saying of the partnership, “This partnership represents an exciting step forward for our students at Vincennes University. By creating a clear, direct pathway into the University of Evansville’s graduate programs, we are removing barriers and helping students stay focused on their long-term goals in physical therapy and athletic training. Our priority is preparing highly qualified, compassionate healthcare professionals, and this collaboration strengthens our ability to support students every step of the way, from their first day at VU to successful entry into advanced clinical practice.”

Through this new direct-entry pathway, students in Vincennes University’s Bachelor of Science in Health Care Services Administration program with a Pre-Doctor of Physical Therapy/Master's of Athletic Training concentration will be able to transition directly into the University of Evansville’s Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) program or Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program.

In order to take advantage of the direct-entry pathways, students who have maintained a minimum of a 3.5 GPA, completed an interview, and secured a faculty recommendation after their sophomore year of their bachelor degree program. Annually, up to five Vincennes University students will be admitted into the MSAT program and up to three Vincennes University students will be admitted into the DPT program.

Additionally, the agreement includes provisions for coordinated advising efforts for these students on behalf of both universities. Academic advisors from the University of Evansville and Vincennes University will ensure students are on track with prerequisite course completion and help students seamlessly transition from undergraduate student to graduate student.

Dr. Andy Lampkins, who is the Dean of the College of Education and Health Sciences at the University of Evansville, said, "At the heart of this partnership is student opportunity. We are creating a direct, supportive pathway that allows students to stay focused on their goals while preparing for success in high-demand healthcare fields."

For more information about the University of Evansville, visit the school’s website.

For more information about Vincennes University, visit the school’s website.