November 12, 2024

NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University’s Department of Biology and Microbiology signed a memorandum of understanding with University of Texas at Tyler that will facilitate the transition from undergraduate coursework to a professional degree program for students interested in earning a Doctor of Pharmacy degree.

Eligible NSU undergraduates will have the opportunity to participate in the Early Assurance Program (EAP) administered by UT-Tyler’s Ben and Maytee Fisch College of Pharmacy.  The EAP reduces potential barriers to admission and offers participants earlier exposure to diverse pharmacy career pathways, pharmaceutical sciences, health outcomes and research.

“This is an excellent opportunity for NSU students, providing a clear path to pharmacy school while eliminating the stress of competing in highly competitive admissions cycle,” said Dr. Jerry Brunson, head of the Department of Biology and Microbiology.  The program is ideal for “a student with a high GPA that has all the required pre-requisites,” he added.

Support from the Department of Biology and Microbiology comes directly from the Pre-Professional Advising Committee, which helps students improve their application materials and interview skills.

Applicants for the EAP must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or above and a science/math GPA of 3.0 or above, provide references and official transcripts and prepare a statement.

Students selected for the EAP will work with an advisor who will provide academic and career advising and help build professional relationships for mentoring, research and recommendations. Students in the EAP are assured of an interview with the Doctor of Pharmacy program at UT-Tyler. The EAP and the interview processes are designed to increase candidate familiarity with UT-Tyler’s Fisch College of Pharmacy and for faculty and staff of the college to become familiar with qualified applicants.

Details about the EAP are available at www.nsu.la/EAPprogram.  Resources available through the NSU’s Department of Biology and Microbiology and the Pre-Professional Advising Committee is available at https://www.nsula.edu/sciences/.