University of New England

Health Professions Programs

Students are advised to gain knowledge of the various health professions programs and to choose a program on the basis of their interest, ability, and scholastic achievements.

Admission to professional schools is highly competitive. In selecting a professional school, applicants are advised to select prospective schools to which it is feasible to apply.

Outside information manuals tend to be expensive. They typically include a list of accredited schools in the United States and information on admission requirements, evaluation processes, acceptance decisions, academic costs, and financial aid.

Accreditation is the method that the schools use to ensure that they are meeting the necessary standards for education, including necessary support structures for students. Schools outside of the United States (foreign medical schools) may not meet the accreditation standards within the country and choosing to go to those schools may make it difficult to practice in this country.

Students should think carefully about what they want in a professional school program, and then look for appropriate programs that match those characteristics. It is generally a good idea to apply to multiple programs, in case you do not get into your "first choice" school. Most health professional programs in the U.S. will provide you with a quality clinical program.

It should be noted that many state schools and state-funded private schools accept a higher percentage of residents or regional applicants. Also, there are some private schools of standing that place emphasis on research and accept only the highest caliber students from all over the United States.

Doctor of Allopathic Medicine (MD)

Few fields offer a wider variety of opportunities. Most doctors' professional lives are filled with caring for people and continuously learning more about the human body. Every day in communities around the country, doctors work in neighborhood clinics, hospitals, offices, even homeless shelters and schools to care for people in need.

But physicians also do many other things. Physician researchers are at work today developing exciting new treatments for cancer, genetic disorders, and infectious diseases like HIV / AIDS. Academic physicians share their skills and wisdom by teaching medical students and residents. Others work with health maintenance organizations, pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, health insurance companies, or in corporations directing health and safety programs. People with medical skills are in demand everywhere. Website

This is a 4-year academic / clinical program that is followed by a residency program. The length of the residency varies by the medical specialization.

For more information on the profession, contact:
Association of American Medical Colleges
2450 North St. NW
Washington, DC 20037-1126
Phone: (202) 828-0400
Website
Careers in Medicine

Application Service
American Medical College
1776 Massachusetts Ave. NW
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 828-0600
Website

Admissions Test
Application Service Medical College Admissions Test
PO Box 451
Iowa City, IA 52243
Website


Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) / Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)

Dentists are often the first health care professionals to recognize and identify a wide variety of diseases, ranging from hypertension to cancer. They diagnose and treat problems affecting the teeth, gingival tissue, tongue, lips and jaws, using new technology such as computers and magnetic resonance imaging. Dentists improve patients' appearance by using a wide variety of cosmetic dental procedures. These services can make patients feel better about their smiles. To repair, restore and maintain the teeth, gums and oral tissues that have been lost or damaged by accidents or diseases, dentists perform trauma surgery, implants, tissue grafts and laser surgery. They teach good habits for good health. They educate their patients, as well as the general public, on how to achieve oral health and prevent disease. Dentists treat people, not just teeth and mouths.

Dentists are artists as well as scientists. To brighten one tooth or realign an entire jaw, dentists must have an artist's esthetic sense to help their patients look their best. They provide an essential health care service. Website

This is a 4-year academic / clinical program. There is no difference between the two degrees; dentists who have a DMD or DDS have the same education. Universities have the prerogative to determine what degree is awarded. Additional post-graduate training is required to become an orthodontist, periodontist or oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

For more information on the profession, contact:
American Dental Educational Association
1625 Massachusetts Ave. NW - Suite 600
Washington, DC 20036-2212
(202) 667-9433
Website

Application Service
American Dental Educational Association
1625 Massachusetts Ave. NW - Suite 600
Washington, DC 20036-2212 202) 667-9433
Website

Admissions Test
Association American Dental Association
211 East Chicago Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611-2678
(312) 440-2500
Website


Doctor of Optometric Medicine (OD)

As primary eye care providers, doctors of optometry examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eyes and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions.

Optometrists examine the internal and external structure of the eyes to diagnose eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts and retinal disorders; systemic diseases like hypertension and diabetes; and vision conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia. They also determine the patient's ability to focus and coordinate the eyes, to judge depth and to see color accurately.

They prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, low vision aids, vision therapy and medications to treat eye diseases as well as perform certain surgical procedures.

Optometrists work in private practices, multidisciplinary medical practices, hospitals, teaching institutions, research positions, community health centers and the ophthalmic industry. Optometrists can also build successful careers in the military, public health or government service. Website

This is usually a 4-year academic/clinical program.

American Optometric Association
243 North Lindbergh Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63141
(314) 991-4100
Website

Application Service
Contact individual school for application forms

Admissions Test
Optometry Admission Testing Program
211 East Chicago Ave - Suite 1840
Chicago, Illinois 60611-2678
(312) 440-2693
Website


Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)

Osteopathic medicine is a distinctive form of medical practice in the United States. Osteopathic medicine provides all of the benefits of modern medicine including prescription drugs, surgery, and the use of technology to diagnose disease and evaluate injury. It also offers the added benefit of hands-on diagnosis and treatment through a system of therapy known as osteopathic manipulative medicine. Osteopathic Medicine emphasizes helping each person achieve a high level of wellness by focusing on health education, injury prevention and disease prevention. Website

University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine.
This is a 4-year academic / clinical program that is followed by a residency program.
The length of the residency varies by the medical specialization.

For further information on the profession, contact:
American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM)
5550 Friendship Blvd. - Suite 310
Chevy Chase, MD 20815-7231
(301) 968-4100
Website

Application Service
American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM)
5550 Friendship Blvd. - Suite 310
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
(301) 968-4190
Website

Admissions Test
Medical College Admissions Test
PO Box 451
Iowa City, IA 52243
Website


Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)

Pharmacists play a vital role in the health care system through the medicine and information they provide.

Pharmacist responsibilities include a range of care for patients, from dispensing medications to monitoring patient health and progress to maximizing their response to the medication. Pharmacists also educate consumers and patients on the use of prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, and advise physicians, nurses, and other health professionals on drug decisions. Pharmacists also provide expertise about the composition of drugs, including their chemical, biological, and physical properties and their manufacture and use. They ensure drug purity and strength and make sure that drugs do not interact in a harmful way. Pharmacists are drug experts ultimately concerned about their patients' health and wellness. Website.

This is a 4-year academic / clinical program. May pharmacists also participate in a residency program.

Many schools have specific admissions tests and requirements. Please contact each school for information.

For further information on the profession, contact:
American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy
1426 Prince St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 739-2330
Website

Application Service:
PharmCAS
American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy
1426 Prince Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
(703) 739-2330
Website

Admissions Test:
Pharmacy College Admission Test
The Psychological Corporation
555 Academic Court
San Antonio, TX 78204-2498
(800) 622-3231
Website


Master / Doctor of Physical Therapy (MPT/DPT)

Physical therapists take a personal and direct approach to meeting an individual’s health needs and wants, whether a patient’s goal is walking independently or breaking a high-jump record. Along with the patient and other health care practitioners, the physical therapist shares the hard work and commitment needed to accomplish each individual patient’s goals.

For people with health problems resulting from injury or disease, the physical therapist assists in the recovery process to make them stronger, relieve their pain, and help them to regain use of an affected limb or to relearn such activities of daily living as walking, dressing, or bathing. Because recovery does not end for patients as soon as they are out of the physical therapist’s direct care, physical therapists must teach patients and their families what to do so that healing continues through self-care at home.

Physical therapists also seek to keep people well and safe from injury. They do this by teaching the importance of fitness and showing people how to avoid hurting their bodies at work or play. By designing and supervising individualized conditioning programs, physical therapists promote optimal physical performance and help health-conscious people to increase their overall fitness level and muscular strength and endurance. Website

The University of New England has a graduate program in Physical Therapy.

This academic / clinical program varies based upon the school and the type of degree obtained.

For more information on the profession, contact:
American Physical Therapy Association
1111 North Fairfax Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-1488
(703) 684-2782 / (800) 999-2782
Website

Application Service
Contact individual school for application forms

Admissions Test
Graduate Record Examination
Education Testing Service
P.O. Box 6000
Princeton, NJ 08541-6000
(609) 771-7670
Website


Physician Assistant Certification (PA-C)

Physician assistants are health care professionals licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. PAs employed by the federal government are credentialed to practice. As part of their comprehensive responsibilities, PAs conduct physical exams, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, counsel on preventive health care, assist in surgery, and in most states can write prescriptions. PAs are trained in intensive education programs accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).

Because of the close working relationship the PAs have with physicians, PAs are educated in the medical model designed to complement physician training. Upon graduation, physician assistants take a national certification examination developed by the National Commission on Certification of PAs in conjunction with the National Board of Medical Examiners. To maintain their national certification, PAs must log 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years and sit for a re-certification every six years. Graduation from an accredited physician assistant program and passage of the national certifying exam are required for state licensure.

The University of New England has a Masters of Science - Physician Assistant Program.

This is typically a 2-year academic / clinical program that results in a Master's of Science degree. Website.

For more information on the profession, contact:
American Academy of Physician Assistants
950 North Washington St.
Alexandria, VA 22314-1552
(703) 836-2272
Website

Application Service
Central Application Service for Physician Assistants
PO Box 70958
Chevy Chase, MD 20813-0958
(240) 497-1895
Website

Admissions Test
Graduate Record Examination
Education Testing Service
P.O. Box 6000
Princeton, NJ 08541-6000
(609) 771-7670
Website


Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM)

Podiatrists, also known as doctors of podiatric medicine, diagnose and treat disorders, diseases, and injuries of the foot and lower leg to keep this part of the body working properly. Podiatrists treat corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, bunions, heel spurs, and arch problems; ankle and foot injuries, deformities and infections; and foot complaints associated with diseases such as diabetes. To treat these problems, podiatrists prescribe drugs, order physical therapy, set fractures, and perform surgery. They also fit corrective inserts called orthotics, design plaster casts and straps to correct deformities, and design custom-made shoes. To diagnose a foot problem, podiatrists also order x-rays and laboratory tests. The foot may be the first area to show signs of serious conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. Podiatrists consult with and refer patients to other health practitioners when they detect symptoms of these disorders.

Most podiatrists have a solo practice, although more are forming group practices with other podiatrists or health practitioners. Some specialize in surgery, orthopedics, primary care, or public health. Besides these board-certified specialties, podiatrists may practice a subspecialty such as sports medicine, pediatrics, dermatology, radiology, geriatrics, or diabetic foot care. Website.

This is a 4-year academic / clinical program similar to medical education models.

For more information on the profession, contact:

American Association of American
Colleges of Podiatric Medicine (AACPM)
1350 Piccard Dr. - Suite 322
Rockville, MD 20850
(800) 922-9266
Website

Podiatric Medical Association
9312 Old Georgetown Road
Bethesda, MD 20814
(301) 571-9200 / (800) ASK-APMA
Website

Application Service:

American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine Application Service
1350 Piccard Dr. - Suite 322
Rockville, MD 20850-4307
(800) 922-9266
Website

Admissions Test:

Medical College Admissions Test
PO Box 451
Iowa City, IA 52243
Website


Doctorate / Masters in Public Health (DPH/MPH)

Public Health professionals have been influencing policies and setting priorities in public health for over 125 years. Throughout their history, they have been in the forefront of numerous efforts to prevent disease and promote health. They bring together researchers, health service providers, administrators, teachers, and other health workers in a unique, multidisciplinary environment of professional exchange, study, and action. They are concerned with a broad set of issues affecting personal and environmental health, including federal and state funding for health programs, pollution control, programs and policies related to chronic and infectious diseases, a smoke-free society, and professional education in public health. They help to set public health practice standards and working closely with national and international health agencies to improve health worldwide. Website.

The University of New England has a Master in Public Health program and a Graduate Certificate in Public Health program. More information. ....

The UNE Master of Public Health program is primarily online and is typically a 2-3 year program.

Many schools have specific admissions tests and requirements. Please contact each school for information.

For more information on the profession, contact:
American Public Health Association
800 I Street NW
Washington, DC 20001-3710
(202) 777-2742
Website

Council on Education for Public Health
800 Eye Street, NW, Suite 202
Washington, DC 20001-3710
(202) 789-1050
Website

Application Service:
Contact individual schools
for application information

Admissions Test:
Graduate Record Examination
Education Testing Service
P.O. Box 6000
Princeton, NJ 08541-6000
(609) 771-7670
Website

Medical College Admissions Test
PO Box 451
Iowa City, IA 52243
Website


Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

Doctors of Veterinary Medicine are medical professionals whose primary responsibility is protecting the health and welfare of animals and people. Veterinarians diagnose and control animal diseases, treat sick and injured animals, prevent the transmission of animal diseases ("zoonoses") to people, and advise owners on proper care of pets and livestock. They ensure a safe food supply by maintaining the health of food animals. Veterinarians are also involved in wildlife preservation and conservation and public health of the human population.

Today's veterinarians are members of an important health profession. In taking the veterinarian's oath, a doctor solemnly swears to use his or her scientific knowledge and skills "for the benefit of society, through the protection of animal health, the relief of animal suffering, the conservation of livestock resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge."

Today more than 67,000 veterinarians are professionally active in the United States. They provide a wide variety of services in private clinical practice, teaching, research, government service, public health, military service, private industry, and other areas. Website.

This is a 4-year academic / clinical program similar to medical education models.

For more information on the profession, contact:

American Veterinary Medical Association
1931 North Meacham Rd. - Suite 100
Schaumburg, IL 60173
(847) 925-8070
Website and Website

Application Service:

Veterinary Medical College Application Service
1101 Vermont Ave, NW
Suite 701
Washington, DC 20005
(877) 862-2740
Website

Admissions Tests:

Graduate Record Examination
Education Testing Service
P.O. Box 6000
Princeton, NJ 08541-6000
(609) 771-7670
Website

Medical College Admissions Test
PO Box 451
Iowa City, IA 52243
Website

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