Utah Valley University students with their eyes set on continuing their education will have a new, and cheaper, opportunity by going just north. UVU announced on Tuesday a partnership with the University of Utah to offer a Masters of Healthcare Administration program through the U’s David Eccles School of Business.

UVU students will receive fast-track admissions, and those with a healthcare administration undergraduate degree will be given special consideration for acceptance into the program.

Any UVU student admitted with a 3.0 GPA or higher will receive the partnership scholarship for up-to two years in the program. They must maintain their GPA throughout their time in the program to retain their scholarship.

Utah residents can receive $5,000 per year in scholarships per year compared to $22,000 for out-of-state students. Alumni or undergraduate students are able to take advantage of this partnership immediately by applying before June 1 for the fall 2023 semester.

“This new agreement benefits both the University of Utah and Utah Valley University but is a big win for our graduates who want a career in healthcare administration,” Cheryl Hanewicz, dean of UVU’s College of Health and Public Service, said in a press release. “There is an overwhelming demand for healthcare workers, and this is one way both schools are working together to fill that demand and to help students succeed.”

The idea for the partnership began in 2021 when faculty from the two universities determined that a partnership would benefit both programs due to shared qualities — having hardworking students and a rigorous, engaged curriculum.

Since beginning in 2021, UVU’s undergraduate healthcare administration program has graduated 34 students, with 65 more to graduate this April.

“UVU is being recognized as a place for healthcare professions. All of our current students applying to graduate schools have gotten accepted in every program they have applied to, including many in top 10 MHA programs throughout the country. They are dedicated, diligent, and innovative students that are well prepared for the UofU’s MHA program,” Heather Thiesset, director of UVU’s undergraduate Healthcare Administration program, told the Daily Herald.

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