Collaboration provides Clarkson College students with a direct path into UNMC Pharmacy programs.
Some partnerships just make sense. Clarkson College and the University of Nebraska Medical Center have created a new academic pathway that brings together two disciplines with a shared purpose: helping people live healthier lives. Through the Early Assurance Program, Clarkson College students can seamlessly continue their education at UNMC and pursue a career in pharmacy, building on a foundation rooted in improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities.
How it works
The program features two pathways for students to choose the best fit.
- Students enrolled in the Associate of Science in General Studies at Clarkson College can receive guaranteed admission to UNMC's Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences program.
- Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Community Health (pre-pharmacy track) program at Clarkson College can receive guaranteed admission to UNMC's Doctor of Pharmacy program.
Students must meet course requirements and GPA criteria.
Why the partnership?
Community Health and Pharmacy are closely connected through a shared commitment to improving health outcomes. Both disciplines work to understand the challenges patients face and empower people with the resources, knowledge, and support needed to live healthier lives.
“The Community Health program at Clarkson College offers a well-rounded education by blending topics such as health equity and patient advocacy with math and science," says Andreia Nebel, EdD, PT, DPT, FNAP, president and CEO, Clarkson College. "It provides a solid foundation for a student to understand health from multiple perspectives and prepares them for a successful transition to professional programs, such as medical, dental, pharmacy, or physical therapy school.”
The Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences at UNMC was created in 2024 to provide a new pathway into the Doctor of Pharmacy program or other professional programs at UNMC, such as medical school or dental school. The program is open to any student who meets the criteria.
Donald Klepser, PhD, the Joseph D. Williams Endowed Dean of the UNMC College of Pharmacy, says the UNMC College of Pharmacy is excited to be partnering with Clarkson College on the program.
“Any time we can make it easier for prospective students to reach their career goals and ultimately, serve the people of Nebraska, we should embrace and celebrate it. This partnership, by opening a new avenue for prospective pharmacists to enter our program, is precisely the kind of collaboration that provides that pathway.”
Andreia Nebel, EdD, PT, DPT, FNAP, president and CEO of Clarkson College, and Donald Klepser, PhD, MBA, dean of the UNMC College of Pharmacy, officially sign an agreement Sept. 10 to create the Early Assurance Program, an innovative partnership between the two institutions.