Students at Texas A&M International University in Laredo now have a clearer path to earning an advanced degree in five higher-paying and much needed health professions in South Texas.
TAMIU and UT Health San Antonio signed a memorandum of understanding Sept. 8 for an early acceptance program beginning this fall.
Through the agreement, first-time TAMIU freshmen will be guided through courses and other requirements needed to earn a bachelor of science degree at TAMIU. After meeting the necessary requirements and a successful application process, students will then enter one of four master’s degree programs or a doctoral degree program in the School of Health Professions at UT Health.
The programs include master’s degrees in Physician Assistant Studies, Respiratory Care, Medical Laboratory Sciences and Occupational Therapy, as well as the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.
“This agreement will provide a roadmap for successful entry into our health professions programs through TAMIU,” said UT Health San Antonio President William L. Henrich, M.D., MACP. “Students will know exactly which courses, volunteer work, applications and grade point averages are needed to meet entrance requirements, providing cost savings to students and their families. And the best part is that each student’s success will translate into better health care for every patient they serve in the future,” he said.
“This initiative has remarkable relevance for our students and the provision of health care in our region. Partnering with The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio helps ensure that this collaboration provides TAMIU students with a broad range of high-impact and high-income degree options after they complete their Bachelor of Science degree here. It’s a natural complement to our other health programs,” added Dr. Pablo Arenaz, TAMIU president.