Des Moines University and Benedictine University Partner To Propel Students Into Health Care Careers

by Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences

West Des Moines, IA (06/10/2024) — Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences and Benedictine University have formed an alliance to provide BenU graduates greater access to medical and health sciences careers. The collaboration offers a valuable opportunity to strengthen the nation's future health care workforce.

"Benedictine University is excited to collaborate with Des Moines University to provide our students with greater access to medical and health sciences careers," says Joseph Foy, Ph.D., president of Benedictine University. "This partnership reflects our commitment to academic excellence and establishing pathways to help students achieve their academic and professional goals. By offering guaranteed interview spots, concurrent degree options and reserved seats in DMU's prestigious programs, we are equipping our students with the skills and opportunities necessary to become future leaders in health care."

The alliance between DMU in West Des Moines, Iowa, and BenU - a Catholic, liberal arts university with locations in Lisle, Illinois, and Mesa, Arizona - promises an array of opportunities for BenU graduates pursuing careers in medicine and health sciences professions.

The agreement includes guaranteed interview spots for several DMU programs, options for concurrent degrees and designated seats in DMU's Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree programs.

DMU encourages candidates from rural areas, low socioeconomic status backgrounds and underrepresented minorities to consider entering health careers. Similarly, BenU's Master of Science in Integrative Physiology program aims to provide opportunities for candidates who are underrepresented in health care.

Empowering Opportunities

Under the partnership, BenU students will have access to:

Guaranteed Interviews

BenU students meeting DMU's admission requirements are guaranteed interviews for spots in many of DMU's prominent programs, including Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Doctor of Physical Therapy, Doctor of Biomedical Sciences and Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies.

Concurrent Degrees

Eligible BenU students in undergraduate programs or the university's Master of Science in Integrative Physiology can seamlessly accrue credits toward both their undergraduate degree and select graduate programs at DMU, such as the Doctor of Occupational Therapy and Master of Health Care Administration, positioning them on the fast track to success.

Reserved Seats

The collaboration reserves two seats annually for BenU students in each of DMU's Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and Doctor of Occupational Therapy programs. The seats are available to the most competitive BenU students based on academic excellence, relevant experiences and commendations from BenU faculty. Selected students must meet all DMU admission requirements.

A Shared Vision for Excellence

"DMU and Benedictine University share a common goal of creating opportunities for academically promising students and producing well-prepared professionals for medical and health science careers," says Molly Moeller, senior director of admissions at DMU. "These professionals are essential as they serve others and enhance our quality of life. DMU is thrilled to partner with BenU to open doors for these aspiring students."

Depending on the student's career path, applications can be started as early as their sophomore year. Students are encouraged to work with their advisors and academic program chairs for timely and strategic career planning.

The partnership agreement takes effect immediately. Students interested in learning more are encouraged to contact their academic advisor or program director at Benedictine University, the admissions team at admissions@ben.edu or the DMU admissions team at admissions@dmu.edu.