Life threw its share of challenges along the way, including her mother鈥檚 battle with cancer, but recent 国产主播 graduate Bianca C. never lost sight of her goal.

鈥淟ife happens鈥� but I鈥檓 happy to say that none of them stopped me,鈥� she said.

After spending the past 12 years working as a dental assistant while slowly chipping away at her coursework, earning her bachelor of science in dental hygiene from 国产主播-Orange County was the culmination of more than a decade of dedication to the dental field.

Her decision to join West Coast came after encouragement from a WCU graduate she met at a clinic. 鈥淭here鈥檚 no time like now to鈥� finish my degree and do dental hygiene,鈥� she recalled. While she considered other programs, 国产主播鈥檚 accelerated format and bachelor鈥檚 degree option aligned perfectly with her long-term ambitions.

Bianca praised the program鈥檚 hands-on approach, including simulation stations that mimicked real dental hygiene stations. 鈥淚t was kind of like having our own little practice鈥� we were able to cultivate our own environment in that cohesive unit,鈥� she said.

Beyond the classroom, she embraced 奥颁鲍鈥檚 community service focus. She participated in outreach through the Elimination Foundation, Children鈥檚 Dental Health Clinic, and even traveled to Catalina Island to provide care for children in need. 鈥淎bove all鈥� it鈥檚 just so rewarding to give back to the community鈥� and educate our patients on oral health diseases and how there鈥檚 a correlation between the systemic body and the oral cavity,鈥� she said.

Her advice to future dental hygiene students is straightforward: 鈥淪tay adaptable, open-minded, willing鈥� and never stop working hard for the dreams you showed up for. Every single day is going to be difficult鈥� but it鈥檚 so rewarding to know that at the end of it, you鈥檙e going to get your degree.鈥�

Bianca already has a job lined up and plans to expand her career into military service as a dental hygienist in the reserves. Her long-term vision includes earning her RDHAP (Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice) credential, becoming a dentist, and continuing to serve underserved communities.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a milestone,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t took several years to get here, but I鈥檓 blessed with this opportunity 鈥� and I鈥檓 ready for what鈥檚 next.鈥�

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For recent 国产主播 graduate Max L., the path to healthcare leadership has been anything but linear. 

鈥淚 have always wanted to do management and then I was originally trying to do physical therapy,鈥� Max explained. 鈥淚 applied twice, and I didn鈥檛 get in both times.鈥� 

That redirection led him to 国产主播鈥檚 Online Master of Health Administration program, and now he can shape the future of healthcare leadership. 

Balancing Full-Time Work and Graduate School 

Currently serving as a rehabilitation aide in Roseville, California, Max was recently named the 2024 recipient of the Patrick E. Fry Administrative Fellowship Grant. The award provides up to $30,000 for graduate tuition, books, and fees, and secured Max a place in the highly competitive 2025-26 Sutter Health Administrative Fellowship cohort. 

鈥淚 was able to look up different schools that allowed me to do school and work at the same time, [and be flexible] if I needed to accelerate it or flex it backwards and slow it down. I found this in 国产主播.鈥� 

Max began his program in March 2024 while working full-time. The program鈥檚 flexibility allowed him to accelerate his studies and stay on track to graduate by June 2025, all while transitioning into new administrative roles at work. 

Support from Faculty and a Busy Lifestyle 

鈥淚 felt like I was able to keep up with the two classes at a time and still work 40 hours a week,鈥� Max said. 鈥淎t first, I was kind of like, 鈥極K, am I going to have to cancel some stuff?鈥� because I also play on four softball teams and I travel a lot. I went to eight weddings last year and I was able to still get all the stuff done. It was a good experience to be continuously busy. I鈥檝e always been super busy, and so I鈥檓 grateful that I was able to do that with 国产主播鈥檚 online program.鈥� 

Winning the Patrick E. Fry Administrative Fellowship Grant 

Winning the Patrick E. Fry Administrative Fellowship Grant wasn鈥檛 just about funding, it was about opportunity. 

鈥淭he administrative grant and fellowship鈥� you have to be doing an accredited master鈥檚 program, you have to be working full-time, it had to be in health administration, a master鈥檚 in business or nursing,鈥� Max said. 鈥淵ou had to get letters of recommendation, go through a Zoom interview with executives, and then an in-person interview in Sacramento. It was stressful, but it worked out.鈥� 

Preparing for a Healthcare Leadership Role 

That process led to a life-changing next step. 

鈥淲ith the administrative fellowship, I get paired with one of the CEOs in the company for a year,鈥� Max said. 鈥淚 am going to be paired with the CEO of all surgery centers of Northern California for Sutter and work with a couple doctors and be a project manager. It鈥檚 a paid fellowship, and then on top of that I won the grant with it, and that covers $30,000 for school.鈥� 

Encouragement for Future Graduate Students 

Max credits his ability to balance the demands of work, graduate school, and the fellowship process to the support he received from his professors and managers. 

鈥淭he teachers have been great,鈥� he said. 鈥淲hen I send them messages, they had time to respond and set something up. My jobs have been very flexible with allowing me to do some schoolwork and meetings. They鈥檝e also understood this is a good career opportunity for me to build.鈥� 

Looking ahead, Max plans to use the Administrative Fellowship as a launching pad for his healthcare leadership career at his current workplace. For those considering advancing their education while working full-time, Max offers encouragement: 

鈥淎 lot of people feel that they鈥檙e beyond going back to school and their window has sailed. It鈥檚 never too late,鈥� Max said. 鈥淭he thing I would definitely recommend is look at all the options available before just writing yourself off. There鈥檚 not one specific path for you to do one thing. And always be open to networking 鈥� talking to people about what they do and what you do, because you never know if they could help you.鈥� 

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October marks National Dental Hygiene Month, a time to celebrate the professionals who work tirelessly to promote oral health and preventive care in our communities. At 国产主播-Orange County, two recent graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program 鈥� Bianca C. and Freddy H. 鈥� are stepping into this important role with inspiring stories of perseverance, service, and ambition.

For Bianca, crossing the stage at the Honda Center was the culmination of more than a decade of persistence. After spending 12 years working as a dental assistant, she finally realized her dream of becoming a dental hygienist. Her journey wasn鈥檛 without challenges 鈥� including supporting her mother during a battle with cancer 鈥� but she never wavered in her commitment.

鈥淟ife happens鈥� but I鈥檓 happy to say that none of them stopped me,鈥� she reflected.

Encouraged by a WCU graduate she once met in a clinic, Bianca chose 国产主播 for its accelerated format and bachelor鈥檚 degree pathway, which aligned perfectly with her long-term goals.

Bianca credits 奥颁鲍鈥檚 hands-on learning environment for preparing her to thrive in the field. The simulation stations, she said, felt like running their own small dental practice, while the clinical experience taught her to work with confidence and precision. Beyond the classroom, she also embraced 奥颁鲍鈥檚 focus on giving back, volunteering with the Elimination Foundation, the Children鈥檚 Dental Health Clinic, and even traveling to Catalina Island to provide care for children in need.

鈥淎bove all鈥� it鈥檚 just so rewarding to give back to the community and educate our patients on oral health diseases and how there鈥檚 a correlation between the systemic body and the oral cavity,鈥� she said.

Looking ahead, she is preparing to serve as a dental hygienist in the military reserves while also pursuing long-term goals of earning her RDHAP credential, becoming a dentist, and continuing to serve underserved communities.

Like Bianca, Freddy took a unique path into dental hygiene. After six years of active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps, he knew he wanted to pursue a career in the dental field 鈥� though the Marine Corps itself doesn鈥檛 offer dental or medical programs.

鈥淚 always wanted to do the dental field,鈥� Freddy recalled. 鈥淲e rely on the Navy for that. So either stay in or get out. I decided to get out and pursue my career in the dental field.鈥�

His transition wasn鈥檛 immediate, but after completing online courses while overseas and exploring different programs, he eventually enrolled at 国产主播 in 2022.

For Freddy, 奥颁鲍鈥檚 accelerated program and direct pathway into the dental hygiene curriculum made all the difference. It was also his first experience with in-person college, and he found himself thriving in the simulation labs and clinical rotations that gave him practical, hands-on skills. As a first-generation college student, he was motivated by the opportunity to make his parents proud.

鈥淭hat was my motivation 鈥� going into college and being the first grad,鈥� he said.

Reflecting on his journey, he admitted he wished he had started earlier but takes pride in achieving his bachelor鈥檚 degree and opening doors for his future.

Both graduates are quick to encourage others considering the field of dental hygiene. Bianca emphasizes resilience and determination: 鈥淪tay adaptable, open-minded, willing鈥� and never stop working hard for the dreams you showed up for. Every single day is going to be difficult鈥� but it鈥檚 so rewarding to know that at the end of it, you鈥檙e going to get your degree.鈥� Freddy agrees, adding that while the program is rigorous, it more than prepares students for the realities of the profession. 鈥淭hey do overprepare you, but that鈥檚 a good thing,鈥� he said.

As they embark on the next chapters of their careers, Bianca and Freddy embody the spirit of National Dental Hygiene Month 鈥� a celebration not just of professional success, but of dedication to service, family, and community. Their stories remind us that behind every bright smile is a dental hygienist whose passion and perseverance make it possible.

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When Varduhi O. walked across the stage at the Honda Center to receive her doctor of pharmacy degree from 国产主播, the moment marked far more than academic achievement. It was the culmination of years of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination.聽

A New Life and a New Language 

Varduhi moved to the United States from Armenia at the age of 23 鈥� without knowing a word of English. 

鈥淚t鈥檚 a really big deal for me and for my family,鈥� she said. 

As a first-generation immigrant and now the first in her family to earn a doctoral degree, Varduhi鈥檚 success is a powerful example of what鈥檚 possible through hard work and grit. 

Balancing Pharmacy School and Motherhood 

Earning a PharmD is demanding for anyone 鈥� but Varduhi did it while raising two young daughters. For her, walking the graduation stage wasn鈥檛 just a personal milestone 鈥� it was a message to her children. 

鈥淚 want them to see how hard work and commitment will help you and others live in a better way,鈥� she said. 

Overcoming Doubt with Support 

Varduhi admitted there were moments of self-doubt, especially after giving birth during her second year of pharmacy school. 

鈥淚 failed my first exam,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ut Dr. Kasan motivated me and reminded me of my strengths. I鈥檓 so glad that I never gave up.鈥� 

Her story is a reminder of how important mentorship and encouragement are in shaping student success. 

Finding Purpose in Community Pharmacy 

Today, Varduhi works at a major retail pharmacy, where she finds meaning in daily patient interactions. Though she trained in both hospital and retail settings, she found her passion aligned more with community pharmacy. 

鈥淲e are very accessible for patients,鈥� she explained. 鈥淓ven over the phone, they can call us and ask for advice.鈥� 

Looking Ahead: Blending Pharmacy with Lifestyle Coaching 

Varduhi鈥檚 long-term vision is to open a clinic-style pharmacy 鈥� one that merges traditional pharmaceutical services with wellness and lifestyle coaching. 

鈥淚 want to help people live better, healthier lives, not just through medicine, but through education and support.鈥� 

The post WCU PharmD Graduate Overcame Barriers, Looks Ahead to Community Care聽 appeared first on 国产主播.

国产主播 Center for Graduate Studies students Madelyn L. and Hayley G. attended the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) Conference in Denver, Colorado, one of the largest national gatherings for current and future Physician Assistants. As the only representatives from the WCU Center for Graduate Studies in Los Angeles, CA, the pair embraced the opportunity to connect with students, alumni, recruiters, and healthcare professionals from across the country.

Though many attendees were unfamiliar with WCU or the hybrid model of PA education, Madelyn and Hayley proudly shared their experiences, helping spread awareness of the rigorous and innovative program. 鈥淧eople we spoke to had no idea what our program was or even really about hybrid programs,鈥� Hayley said. 鈥淚 think we were able to share both the pros and cons of a hybrid modality, because it’s so new overall in PA education, and explain how we’re able to still meet excellent academic standards while being hybrid.鈥�

Beyond networking, the students immersed themselves in a variety of educational lectures and workshops tailored to PA students. 鈥淚t was awesome,鈥� Hayley said. 鈥淚t was so much fun. It was really nice to see people who are in the profession, who are excited to see other students excited about the PA profession.鈥�

Hayley also noted that the experience re-affirmed her motivation for attending WCU. 鈥淲hen you’re in PA school, everything is so intense,鈥� she noted. 鈥淵ou’re just kind of in this hole, and you forget what you’re actually working towards. So that was really cool. It was just a great representation of how important PAs are in so many aspects of healthcare.鈥�

While they didn鈥檛 compete in the Student Bowl, they attended as enthusiastic spectators and took note of what would be needed to organize a future CA-based WCU team. They also explored opportunities with organizations they encountered at the conference, building connections they hope will support future WCU students.

For both students, the experience was not only professionally enriching, it was personally energizing. 鈥淸Attendees] were doing all sorts of amazing things out there and really representing our careers and our importance and what we can do in healthcare,鈥� Hayley said. 鈥淚t really got me excited for my future.鈥�

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Thinking about grad school but not sure you鈥檙e ready to spend half a decade in the classroom? There鈥檚 good news: not all healthcare graduate programs require you to put your life on pause for years. In fact, you can step into some of the most impactful roles in the field through accelerated master鈥檚 and doctoral programs in less than three years.

Whether you’re building on a healthcare background or starting fresh, you have numerous options that can lead you to a rewarding career. Keep reading to discover five healthcare graduate degrees that can help you build a successful career 鈥� without the long wait.

What Are Common Graduate Healthcare Degrees?

Medical school isn鈥檛 the only way to build a worthwhile career in healthcare. While it鈥檚 easy to picture years of studying before you can begin working, some healthcare graduate programs offer faster, more flexible avenues into patient care without compromising on quality.

If you鈥檙e exploring your next steps, some common graduate paths include programs for physician assistants, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and pharmacists. These roles let you work directly with patients while also giving you the chance to take on leadership and decision-making responsibilities.

Plus, at an accredited institution like 国产主播, you can prepare for many of these careers in less time. Take a look at some common graduate healthcare degrees:

1. Master of Physician Assistant

Want the advantages of being a medical provider without spending years in medical school? diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, perform exams, and even assist in surgeries, working closely with physicians across a range of clinical settings.

Through the Master of Physician Assistant program at WCU, you can earn your degree in as little as two years. You鈥檒l build a strong foundation through classroom learning and gain real-world experience during a full year of clinical rotations across multiple specialties.

Toward the end of the program, you鈥檒l get individualized support to confidently prepare for the .

2. Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT)

allows you to help people heal physically while also supporting their emotional and social well-being. Whether you’re working with a child facing developmental delays or an adult recovering from surgery, you鈥檙e guiding patients as they regain confidence and independence.

At WCU, the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT) program takes less than two years to complete, with no bachelor鈥檚 degree needed. You’ll learn through a mix of classroom instruction, clinical labs, and fieldwork placements that prepare you for the exam.

Earning a master鈥檚 degree is also a key requirement for becoming a licensed occupational therapist, making this program a smart and practical next step. Learn more about what it takes to become an occupational therapist in California.

3. Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD)

If you鈥檙e ready to build on your occupational therapy background and grow into a leadership role, the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program at WCU can help you get started. Designed for working professionals, this advanced degree helps prepare you for clinical specialization, research, advocacy, and program development.

The program can be completed in as little as 32 months (less than three years) and combines on-campus with online synchronous learning for greater flexibility. Plus, from day one, you鈥檙e matched with an occupational therapy (OT) faculty mentor who can offer personalized guidance and help you explore the many settings where OTs make an impact.

4. Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

You鈥檝e seen them in rehabilitation clinics, athletic facilities, or at private practices. are movement specialists who help patients through recovery from surgery, injury, or chronic conditions.

From stroke recovery to sports rehab, PTs develop personalized treatment plans and guide patients through every stage of healing, often becoming a critical part of someone鈥檚 journey back to independence.

The Doctor of Physical Therapy program at WCU is designed to give you hands-on experience to excel in this growing field through three full-time, end-of-program internships. You鈥檒l also complete coursework that covers topics such as biomechanics, neuromuscular rehabilitation, and ethical practice.

5. Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)

If you picture pharmacists as people who just count pills behind a counter, think again. Pharmaciststoday are patient-facing healthcare providers, and in many states, they can even administer vaccines and consult directly with physicians as part of a comprehensive care team.

奥颁鲍鈥檚 hybrid Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program can be completed in just under three years. The curriculum combines clinical rotations with a strong foundation in drug safety, therapeutics, and healthcare systems. Once you graduate, you鈥檒l be prepared to take the and step confidently into roles across hospitals, research, retail, or even public health policy.

Want to explore this career path in greater depth? Learn more about becoming a pharmacist in California.

How to Choose a Healthcare Graduate Program

Selecting the right graduate program begins with being clear about your professional goals and learning style. It鈥檚 also important to factor in any current responsibilities that might affect your ability to stay focused while enrolled.

If you鈥檙e looking for a hands-on role in clinical care or being part of a care team, paths as a physician assistant or physical therapist can give you the kind of patient interaction that many find especially rewarding. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to medication management or even research, you might feel more fulfilled as a pharmacist.

As you weigh your options, ask yourself questions such as:

• Can the program fit my current work or family schedule?
• Will the program prepare me to sit for any required licensure or certification exams?
• Are there opportunities for diverse clinical rotations?
• Is the learning format (online, hybrid, or in-person) a good match for how I learn best?

In the end, the right program supports your career goals, personal strengths, and lifestyle. If you鈥檙e not sure where to start, reaching out to the admissions team at a school you’re considering is a great first step.

Earn a Graduate Degree in Healthcare in Under 3 Years at WCU

You don鈥檛 have to spend half a decade in grad school to make a difference in healthcare. Whether you see yourself guiding patients as a physician assistant, supporting your community as a pharmacist, or helping people regain independence through occupational therapy, there are healthcare graduate programs that can get you there in less than three years.

At 奥颁鲍鈥檚 Center for Graduate Studies in Los Angeles, each accredited healthcare program is built to prepare you for real-world success with experienced faculty and industry-current simulation labs. From your first assignment to your clinical rotations, 奥颁鲍鈥檚 programs are designed for future healthcare professionals who are ready to lead with purpose.

Advance your education on your own terms 鈥� schedule an information session at WCU today to see how you can earn your graduate degree in under three years.

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If you’re ready to help individuals live healthier, more fulfilling lives, a career in occupational therapy (OT) might be your calling. Whether you’re exploring an Occupational Therapy Masters Program or aiming to earn your OTD degree, California offers pathways to help you reach your professional goals. Here’s what you need to know about the requirements to begin and succeed in this impactful field.

Becoming a Licensed Occupational Therapist in California

To legally practice OT in California, candidates must:

• Complete a program accredited by the
• Pass the exam
• Obtain licensure through the

At 国产主播 (WCU), students can pursue either the OTD degree or the Occupational Therapy Masters Program at our Los Angeles-based Center for Graduate Studies鈥攂oth designed to equip students for licensure and real-world success.

Educational Requirements for OT Programs in California

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Applicants to both WCU programs must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. However, WCU also offers an OTA-to-MSOT pathway for qualified students without a bachelor’s degree.

Step 2: Complete Prerequisite Coursework

For both the MSOT and OTD programs, students must complete prerequisite courses, typically within the last 10 years. Courses include:

• Human Anatomy with Lab
• Human Physiology with Lab
• Statistics
• Lifespan Development
• Abnormal or Behavioral Psychology
• Advanced Writing
• Medical Terminology
• Two courses in the humanities or social sciences

Minimum GPA requirements apply, with most programs seeking a 3.0 or higher.

Fieldwork & Observation Hours

California OT programs require 40鈥�80+ hours of volunteer or observation time under a licensed OT. This experience should span clinical and community-based settings and must be documented for your application.

Required Application Materials

To apply, students should prepare:

• A completed application via
• Three letters of recommendation (typically including OTs and academic mentors)
• A personal interview
• Transcripts, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), and prerequisite verification

No GRE is required for WCU’s OTD degree or Occupational Therapy Masters Program鈥攕treamlining the admissions process for applicants.

Admission & Academic Requirements for WCU’s MSOT Program

• Duration: 24 months, 96 credits, 6 trimesters
• Format: On-campus learning and 1鈥�2 days of online synchronous classes weekly
• Bachelor’s Degree: Required, or apply via the OTA Pathway
• GPA: 3.0 minimum preferred for last 60 units
• Prerequisites: Must include anatomy, physiology, statistics, psychology, humanities/social sciences, and more
• Observation Hours: 40 minimum in an OT setting
• Recommendation Letters: Three required
• Scholarships: Available, including the Dean’s and Community Leader Scholarships

The Occupational Therapy Masters Program at WCU provides early fieldwork opportunities and mentorship from day one鈥攕etting you up for success both in and out of the classroom.

Admission & Academic Requirements for WCU’s OTD Program

• Duration: 32 months, 120 credits, 8 trimesters
• Format: Blended learning with on-campus and online synchronous sessions
• Bachelor’s Degree: Required
• GPA: 3.0 minimum preferred
• Prerequisites: Includes advanced coursework in anatomy, physiology, psychology, and writing
• Observation Hours: Minimum of 40
• Recommendation Letters: Three required
• Capstone & Fieldwork: Features Level II fieldwork and a 14-week capstone project
• Scholarships: Available, including the Dean’s and Community Leader Scholarships

The OTD degree from WCU prepares you for leadership in occupational therapy through advanced clinical experiences, scholarly research, and community-based practice.

After Graduation: Licensure & Career Support

WCU graduates are eligible to sit for the exam, after which they can apply for California licensure. Licensure requirements also include:

• Live Scan background check
• application
• 40 hours of continuing education every two years for renewal

From day one, students receive guidance from our dedicated Career Services team and a faculty mentor to help them navigate their professional journey.

Diverse Career Pathways for WCU OT Graduates

Graduates of WCU’s OT programs are prepared to work in a variety of settings, including:

• Hospitals and clinics
• Schools and early intervention centers
• Skilled nursing facilities
• Community-based rehabilitation programs
• Home healthcare agencies

Whether you choose the Occupational Therapy Masters Program or pursue an OTD degree, WCU’s curriculum and mentorship model are designed to help you find your path in this dynamic field.

Take the Next Step Toward a Career in OT

Ready to launch your journey into occupational therapy? At WCU, you’ll gain the hands-on training, personalized mentorship, and professional preparation you need to make a lasting difference in the lives of your clients.

Learn more about our OTD degree
Explore our Occupational Therapy Masters Program

Your career in occupational therapy starts with the right education鈥攁nd 国产主播 is here to guide you every step of the way.

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After more than a decade as a nurse, Trish N. was ready to take the next step in her healthcare journey. She鈥檇 seen it all 鈥� long nights in acute care hospitals, fast-paced days at ambulatory surgery centers, and even staffing shifts across departments in large health systems. What she wanted next was a way to make a bigger impact on the healthcare system, and that鈥檚 where 国产主播鈥檚 Master of Health Administration (MHA) program came in.聽

鈥淚鈥檝e been a nurse since 2012, the same year I had my baby,鈥� Trish shared. 鈥淚 got my vocational nursing license and started working at Kindred Hospital. That gave me a strong foundation 鈥� I saw how critical patients can get, and how important our role is in helping them recover, or sadly, sometimes not.鈥� 

Building on a Strong Foundation in Clinical Care 

With over 10 years of hands-on experience, Trish had developed a passion not only for patient care but for understanding the systems that support healthcare delivery. 

鈥淚 started in long-term acute care, then moved into ambulatory surgery, which was fast paced. I liked seeing patients recover quickly after surgery and go home to their families. That was very rewarding,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ut I also started noticing how each facility operated differently鈥攕ome were more efficient, some had more complaints, delays, or issues. That got me interested in the management 蝉颈诲别.鈥�&苍产蝉辫;

That curiosity sparked something deeper 鈥� a desire to lead, influence, and improve the healthcare system from the inside. 

Taking the Leap into an MHA Program 

During the pandemic, Trish received a message about 奥颁鲍鈥檚 online MHA program. At first, she thought it might be spam. But after researching, she took a leap of faith. 

鈥淚 wasn鈥檛 sure if it was real, but I thought 鈥� why not give it a try? I didn鈥檛 even know a program like this was out there for someone like me. But I applied, and I got accepted.鈥� 

Despite having earned a bachelor’s degree in Vietnam, Trish was nervous about returning to school 鈥� especially in a new country and in a new language. 

鈥淚 was excited but scared,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t had been over 10 years since I鈥檇 been in school, and everything had to be in APA format, professional writing, with proper grammar and layout. But I learned. I asked for help when I needed it, and I stayed up until 2 a.m. sometimes to get my work done.鈥� 

A Program Designed for Working Professionals 

One feature of the online MHA program at 国产主播 is its flexibility 鈥� designed for working healthcare professionals to balance jobs, families, and education. 

鈥淚f I can do it, anyone can,鈥� Trish said. 鈥淭he school has a great system. The professors, even the dean, were supportive. If I was a little late for an assignment, I鈥檇 get a gentle reminder. They motivate you and guide you.鈥� 

Over the course of the two-year program, Trish explored ethics, leadership, healthcare finance, and more. 

鈥淵ou start with topics like ethics, which are so important in healthcare. Then you move into business topics, IT, and management. By the end, you鈥檙e thinking about the whole healthcare system 鈥� not just your department.鈥� 

From Student to Educator and Leader 

After graduating in 2024, Trish found a role that was directly tied to her MHA degree. 

鈥淣ow I鈥檓 working as a clinical instructor for an LVN program,鈥� she said proudly. 鈥淚 get to pass on what I鈥檝e learned and continue growing. I鈥檓 still learning too, building confidence and communication skills.鈥� 

Looking ahead, Trish isn鈥檛 stopping anytime soon. 

鈥淚 want to do more. I want to see change in the medical field. We need more leadership in healthcare 鈥� people with a good heart, with passion. People who can guide others and help teams work together toward something bigger.鈥� 

Trish believes the MHA program at WCU helped her put fuel in the tank for that next phase of her journey. 

鈥淚t鈥檚 like you fill up your gas tank with knowledge and now the engine is ready to go. You just have to turn the key.鈥� 

Advice for Future MHA Students 

For anyone considering enrolling in 奥颁鲍鈥檚 Master of Health Administration program, Trish鈥檚 message is clear: 

鈥淒on鈥檛 hesitate. If you have the desire to lead and make a difference in healthcare, this program gives you the tools. You can work while going to school, and time goes by fast. Before you know it, you鈥檙e done 鈥� and you鈥檙e ready.鈥� 

Interested in Becoming a Leader in Healthcare? 

国产主播鈥檚 online MHA program is designed for working professionals who want to make a greater impact in the healthcare field. Learn from experienced faculty, gain practical leadership skills, and graduate prepared to take on management roles across the healthcare industry. 

The post From Nurse to Health Leader: How 奥颁鲍鈥檚 MHA Program Helped One Nurse Level Up Her Career聽 appeared first on 国产主播.

Hybrid PharmD students returned to 国产主播 Center for Graduate Studies for the Spring Trimester Immersive Week 鈥� an energizing blend of academic assessments, service learning, professional development, and face-to-face connection. 

鈥淚t provides the faculty and associates the opportunity to engage face-to-face with the students and students to likewise engage with one another,鈥� WCU School of Pharmacy Dean Kurt Wargo said. 鈥淚t is an important aspect of creating and maintaining the sense of community we all feel with one another.鈥�  

Academic and Experiential Learning 

The week began with final exams, lab sessions, and Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), giving students 鈥� particularly those in the second-year cohort 鈥� a chance to apply what they’ve learned in real time. 

Second-term students also explored new technology through a Virtual Reality Pharmacy simulation and engaged in Interprofessional Education (IPE) by collaborating with Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy students on patient care planning. 

鈥淭hey worked on a patient care plan together, understanding how each discipline plays a crucial role in patient care,鈥� WCU-CGS Student Advisor Annie Mouradian noted. 

Community Engagement 

Students stepped beyond campus to serve the local community at the St. Francis Center, where they provided blood pressure and diabetes risk screenings, offered health education, and supported food pantry operations. 

鈥淪tudents were able to apply their knowledge in real-world settings while also making a positive impact on the local community,鈥� Mouradian shared. 

Career Development 

Fifth-year students preparing for fall Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPEs) attended a Career and Professionalism Workshop hosted by Career Services. They also took part in an informative session with Dr. Colleen Le-Leavitt, residency program director at Walgreens. Her team shared insights into California healthcare laws, upcoming legislation, and Walgreens鈥� ongoing advocacy with the Board of Pharmacy, helping students better understand the broader landscape of pharmacy practice. 

Celebration and Reflection 

The week wrapped with the annual Honors and Awards Ceremony, recognizing student achievements and offering a moment of celebration and reflection. 

鈥淲e ended the week celebrating their achievements, reflecting on all they鈥檝e accomplished and how far they鈥檝e come in their journey,鈥� Mouradian added. 

The post WCU PharmD Onsite Immersive Week: Hands-On Learning, Service, and Connection聽 appeared first on 国产主播.

For Emma T., graduating with a Master of Physician Assistant (MPA) degree from 国产主播 marks the culmination of years of effort, perseverance, and a deep love for medicine. Standing proudly in her graduation regalia, Emma reflected on the significance of the moment. 

鈥淚t blows my mind, actually,鈥� Emma said. 鈥淚 never thought I鈥檇 be standing here. This is something I鈥檝e dreamed about and worked so hard for.鈥� 

A Baylor University undergraduate with a degree in health science studies, Emma knew early on that she wanted to pursue a career as a physician assistant. She was drawn to the PA profession for its team-oriented approach and versatility. 

鈥淚 didn鈥檛 want to go to medical school 鈥� I鈥檓 not the type of person who needs the title or to be the top dog in the room,鈥� she said. 鈥淚鈥檓 team-oriented, and I love that PAs have the ability to learn constantly, switch fields, and provide intentional, patient-centered care.鈥� 

While the program was rigorous, Emma found joy in the challenges and camaraderie of her peers and faculty. 

鈥淭he hardest part wasn鈥檛 the material itself 鈥� I loved learning medicine, and it clicked for me,鈥� Emma said. 鈥淭he challenge was figuring out what kind of provider I want to be. Medicine isn鈥檛 black and white. We always talk about the 鈥榓rt of medicine,鈥� where two things can be true, and you have to work with both to give the best care.鈥� 

Emma also highlighted the positive culture within her program. As a student leader, she played a role in shaping that experience. 

鈥淥ur faculty really care about us as people, providers, and now colleagues,鈥� she said. 鈥淭heir investment in us made us want to be great.鈥� 

As for her next steps, Emma hopes to work in pediatric surgery, where she will assist in procedures, conduct hospital rounds, and manage clinic visits. 

鈥淚 love the mix of surgery, hospital work, and clinic 鈥� it keeps me on my toes,鈥� she explained. Emma advises future PA students to savor the experience, even when it feels overwhelming. 

鈥淟ean in and lean on the people around you,鈥� she urged. 鈥淪tart every day with a mindset of learning something new, even if it鈥檚 hard. You鈥檒l grow as a person and a provider.鈥� 

Now, with her white coat and the world of medicine ahead, Emma is thrilled as she prepares for her board exams and a new career. 

鈥淚鈥檓 excited to start this next chapter and see who else I can help in the future,鈥� she said. 鈥淭his is the start of something amazing.鈥� 

The post WCU-Texas MPA Graduate Excited to 鈥楽tart Next Chapter鈥� at Pediatric Surgery Center appeared first on 国产主播.