Millersville Paves New Career Path in Doctorate Programs

Millersville University students looking to pursue a doctorate degree in the fields of osteopathic medicine, dentistry and pharmacy will now be eligible for early acceptance thanks to a new agreement with Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM). While students will still be required to take specific courses at Millersville University and meet set qualifications, LECOM will hold up to five seats in each of these three programs for each graduating class at Millersville.

“This academic affiliation with LECOM will provide our students majoring in biology and chemistry opportunities to pursue post-graduate careers in medicine, pharmacy and dentistry, three of the most highly competitive health profession programs,” said Dr. Vilas Prabhu, provost and vice president for academic affairs.

Students would be assured a seat in LECOM’s program as early as their sophomore year at Millersville University, as long as the academic expectations are met. All students are able to enroll in the program, although the required coursework lies mostly in science and mathematics.

“Students will now know at a very early point what they will be doing after graduation. They should have additional motivation to maintain high grades and to keep their post graduate studies targeted,” said Dr. Robert T. Smith, dean of science and mathematics.

Additionally, the departments of biology and chemistry are working toward developing a 3+4 program for the 2012-2013 school year. This will allow students to begin their programs at LECOM upon completion of three years at Millersville University and complete their Millersville degree through coursework at LECOM. The coursework would also count toward the students’ post graduate program, which would save students a year in their total programs.

Smith also notes that the projections in these job fields are expected to grow 20-25 percent within the decade.

For more information, contact Dr. Tim Ladd, director of allied health, at Timothy.Ladd@millersville.edu or 717-872-3792.