UM-Flint and Alma College partner to advance occupational therapy education

The University of Michigan-Flint's Occupational Therapy program and Alma College signed a collaborative agreement Sept. 20 that will foster new educational opportunities for students in the region. The agreement will provide two Alma College students with direct conditional admission into the doctor of occupational therapy program at UM-Flint every year, creating an exciting pathway for students passionate about entering the dynamic and rewarding field.

A new chapter in collaboration

The partnership marks a significant step forward in the relationship between the two institutions, and both parties have emphasized the impact it will have on the future of OT education in the state. The agreement reflects a growing need to not only prepare highly skilled occupational therapists but also to respond to the increasing demand for health care professionals capable of improving the quality of life for individuals across various communities.

"Alma College educates students to think critically, serve generously, lead purposefully, and live responsibly," said Donna Fry, dean of UM-Flint's College of Health Sciences. "These are exactly the type of students who will become excellent health care practitioners in fields such as occupational therapy. We are thrilled to immediately implement this collaboration."

At the signing event, Julie Jacob, director of UM-Flint's OT program, expressed her excitement for what the partnership means for both schools and their students. "This partnership marks a significant step forward in fostering collaboration between our institutions, and more importantly, it creates an exciting new pathway for Alma College students to pursue their passion in occupational therapy," said Jacob.

Sean Burke, Alma College provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs (left), and Yener Kandogan, UM-Flint interim provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs (right), sign the agreement on Sept. 20.

Through this unique agreement, Alma College students will have the opportunity to enter the OTD program at UM-Flint without the typical competitive admissions process, a benefit that recognizes Alma College's strong academic reputation. According to Jacob, "By offering non-competitive admission for two Alma students each year, we're not only recognizing the high caliber of Alma's students but also making a commitment to their future success in a field that is so critical to improving the quality of life for individuals and communities."

A focus on student success and regional impact

For both Alma College and UM-Flint, this partnership goes beyond simply admitting students into a doctoral program. It represents a commitment to fostering academic growth, professional development and long-term career success. As part of the agreement, students will be immersed in a curriculum that blends classroom learning with clinical experiences, providing them with the hands-on skills they need to thrive as future occupational therapists.

Jacob emphasized how the collaboration will benefit not only the students but also the wider health care sector in Michigan. "We believe this agreement will create opportunities for academic growth, professional development and ultimately contribute to the advancement of healt hcare in our region," she said.

As the agreement takes effect, both institutions look forward to the positive impact it will have on their students, their programs and the communities they serve. "I want to thank everyone who has worked hard to make this partnership a reality, and I am excited about the positive impact this will have on both our institutions and the students we serve," said Jacob.

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