Agreement assures recent WSSU grad a path to doctorate program

A recent Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) graduate is on her way to earning her doctor of physical therapy (DPT) degree thanks to a new program that aims to increase the diversity of two of WSSU’s signature graduate programs.

Alexis McCrea, who earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science in May, began taking courses in WSSU’s DPT program in January. She became the first to take advantage of an Early Assurance Program (EAP) that guarantees admission into the DPT and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy programs for WSSU graduates who meet specific admissions requirements.

“I am grateful to have the opportunity to start my doctoral program a year early,” said McCrea, of Concord. “Having the opportunity to begin this program and continue my education at WSSU is both an honor and a privilege.”

This fall marked another milestone with five WSSU May graduates entering the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (OT) program through a similar assurance agreement.

The agreements, approved by WSSU’s School of Health Sciences in December 2015, are the first-of-its-kind for a Historically Black College and University (HBCU).

“These deserving WSSU students are the first of many who will benefit from this unique Early Assurance Program,” said Dr. Peggy Valentine, dean of the School of Health Sciences. “The School of Health Sciences is committed to helping create a diverse workforce. Through EAP, we are not only meeting the tremendous healthcare workforce needs in North Carolina, but also giving WSSU’s best students the opportunity to earn a head start on their graduate education.”

Last year, DPT received 600 applications for only 30 seats. OT received about 400 applications for 28 seats. The programs also are receiving increasing positive national recognition. In 2016, graduates of both programs received a 100 percent pass rate on their licensure exams.

McCrea, a member of the Powerhouse of Red and White as an undergraduate, plans to graduate in 2019. 

McCrea explains more about the program in the video below.