Colleges unite to expand opportunities, strengthen Arkansas’ health care workforce pipeline
The University of Central Arkansas (UCA) and Hendrix College have entered into a new agreement that establishes a clear and supportive pathway for exceptional Hendrix students to pursue graduate study in health-related fields at UCA.
Dr. Nancy Reese, Dean of the University of Central Arkansas College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, and Dr. Teresa Garrett, Hendrix College Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs & Provost, signed an MOU today that establishes a clear and supportive pathway for exceptional Hendrix students to pursue graduate study in health-related fields at UCA.
Through this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), qualified Hendrix students will have a facilitated route into several graduate programs within UCA’s College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, including:
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
- Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
- Master of Science in Athletic Training (MS-AT)
- Education Specialist in School Psychology (Ed.S.)
The agreement provides a limited number of early assurance or direct-admission opportunities each year for Hendrix students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and professional readiness. These students will benefit from early advising, mentoring from UCA faculty and streamlined admission processes to UCA’s highly competitive health programs.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to developing Arkansas’ next generation of health professionals,” Dr. Nancy Reese, Dean of the UCA College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, said. “By connecting Hendrix’s outstanding undergraduate students with UCA’s nationally recognized graduate programs, we’re building a stronger, more seamless pipeline for student success and workforce development in the state.”
Under the agreement, eligible Hendrix students may apply for early assurance beginning their junior year. Each program has its own academic and experiential requirements, but all emphasize academic excellence and a strong foundation in the sciences and behavioral health.
“Hendrix students are known for their intellectual curiosity and commitment to service,” Dr. Teresa Garrett, Hendrix College Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs & Provost, said. “This partnership gives our students an exciting opportunity to continue that work in graduate study while contributing to Arkansas’ growing need for health care professionals.”
The collaboration strengthens both institutions’ shared mission to expand access to high-quality education and to prepare graduates who will make meaningful contributions to their communities.
The agreement takes effect immediately upon the signatures of authorized officials from both institutions and will remain in place until modified or terminated by mutual consent.
More information about the UCA College of Health and Behavioral Sciences and its graduate programs is available at uca.edu/chbs.