Admissions, Records, and Registration

Admissions

Admissions Office

The Admissions Office engages candidates from the time of application submission through acceptance into the University. The office ensures that applicants meet the required guidelines for admissions and helps the Admissions Committee in selecting the most qualified students.

Student Acquisition Teams

The Student Acquisition Team consists of Enrollment, Admissions, and Student Services. This team is responsible for providing preadmission, admission, and registration services to prospective students, current students, and alumni. These offices oversee, coordinate, and administer multifaceted activities and student-centered services that include recruitment programs, preadmission advisement, admissions, registrar functions, and alumni services. The staff value excellent customer service, timely and accurate communication, professionalism, and teamwork.

Admission to the University’s Degree Programs

Overview

University students are admitted on the basis of their academic abilities and professionalism. The Student Acquisition Team coordinates admission for all degree-seeking students on all campuses in conjunction with the appropriate Program Director and the program admissions committees. Students who wish to enroll in only the noncredit Continuing Professional Education (CPE) seminars register through CPE Registrations.

Admission to the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences’ programs is competitive. The USAHS admissions process is holistic and may include a review of academic credentials, résumé or vitae, personal statement, recommendations, GRE and TOEFL reviews, observation or practicum hours, and for some programs the process culminates in an admissions interview.

Admission to USAHS is indicated by a formal digital admissions letter sent to the candidate from the Office of Admissions offering a seat into the class and program for an approaching term. Accompanying each admission’s offer is an enrollment agreement. The student and a USAHS representative sign the agreement, which specifies the conditions under which USAHS provides instruction to the student. Additionally, information on costs for the specific program are included. As a prospective student, you are encouraged to review this catalog before signing an enrollment agreement. For California students, you are also encouraged to review the School Performance Fact Sheet, which must be provided to you before signing an enrollment agreement. A completed copy of the enrollment agreement is provided to the student and saved in the University’s permanent files.

Admission Application Types 

Degree Seeking

Candidates who seek admission into a master’s, professional, or doctorate program.

Certificate

Graduate certificate programs (post-baccalaureate and post-masters) are non-degree certifications of focused study in specific disciplines.

Non-Degree/Non-Certificate Seeking

Students who have a bachelor’s degree and are not planning to pursue a degree or graduate certificate program, can apply for non-degree seeking status to take classes in order to prepare for physical therapy licensure or to take program prerequisites or leveling courses necessary to meet the conditions of admission. Non-degree status may limit a student’s course selection and financial aid options. Students should see Non-Degree Seeking Students for details on admissions and other requirements when enrolled with this status.

Readmission

Readmission is an abbreviated application type reserved for former USAHS students who left in good standing* and wish to return to their same program of study, and the start date of the term in which they wish to return is less than one year since their last enrollment.

Previously enrolled students who are dismissed due to student conduct violations are permanently separated from the University and ineligible for readmission.

Students seeking readmission should see Readmission  for important details regarding readmission requirements and application timelines.

^{* Previously enrolled students who are suspended or placed on Administrative LOA due to student conduct violations may apply for readmission once all sanctions have been met.}

Subsequent Application

This application type refers to former applicants and students who fall into one of four categories:

1. Previous applicant who was offered admission and declined that offer but wishes to apply again.
2. Previous applicant who was denied admission but wishes to apply again.
3. Former student who seeks to return to their original program after an absence of more than 12-months (3 trimesters). 
4. Former student who seeks admission into a different program after a withdrawal or dismissal. 

Subsequent Application–USAHS Alumni Benefits and Timelines

USAHS alumni are given the opportunity to utilize an abbreviated application process within specific timeframes, which varies depending on the type of program to which they are seeking admission for a subsequent degree. 

USAHS graduates from the MOT, OTD, DPT, MS-SLP, or MSPAS programs who seek admission to another USAHS entry-level degree program may use the abbreviated application process within three years of his or her graduation date. To be considered for admission to another entry-level degree program, a USAHS graduate must submit a completed Application for Admission; however, the University does not require transcripts and GRE score reports with the new application.

USAHS graduates seeking admission into a post-professional program within five years of their first degree may also use the abbreviated application process. The USAHS graduate must submit a completed Application for Admission; however, the University waives requirements for a letter of reference, essay, and/or statement of purpose and recycles transcripts from the student’s previous application. Admission Application for USAHS Alumni details the requirements.

Regardless of the type of subsequent application submitted under the abbreviated application process, additional transcripts are needed only in instances when the USAHS alumnus attended another college/university after their last enrollment at USAHS. All other application requirements apply, unless specifically identified as waived above.

Consideration for Admission After Dismissal–Reinstatement to Original Program

Students who are dismissed (involuntarily separated) from the University or program due to violations of academic policies or professional misconduct (PMC) violations may be reinstated to the same program upon successful appeal. 

Students who are dismissed for academic reasons may seek reinstatement to their program through the Academic Appeals Process. Academic Evaluation and Appeal  details information regarding the appeals process and requirements.

Students who successfully appeal dismissal by the Professional Misconduct Committee (PMC) are reinstated. Professional Misconduct  details information regarding the appeals process for students seeking to appeal a PMC decision.

Outside of the academic and PMC appeal processes, the University does not consider students who have been dismissed for readmission into the same program in which they were enrolled at the time of dismissal.

Consideration for Admission after Dismissal–New Program

Students previously dismissed from one program for academic reasons may be eligible to apply for admission to a different USAHS program, under specific conditions, as outlined below.

• Students dismissed from an entry-level program may seek admission into a post-professional program or certificate program, but they are not eligible for consideration for admission into a different entry-level program.
• Students dismissed from a post-professional program may apply to a different post-professional program or certificate program; admission decision is at the discretion of the incoming program.
• Students dismissed from more than one program/certificate are ineligible for future admission and permanently separated from the University.

Admission Status

Full/Regular Admission

Full admission status identifies newly admitted students who have met all standards of admission at the time of application; the Admissions department has received all supplemental documents and the student either has met all matriculation requirements or does not have matriculation requirements.

Contingent Admission Status

Contingent admission status identifies newly admitted students who haven’t met the minimum admission standards at time of application but are expected to meet all standards for full admission status by the conclusion of the add/drop process of their first term of enrollment at USAHS. This status is commonly used in instances when an applicant is enrolled in their final term of undergraduate courses to earn their baccalaureate degree or is enrolled in admission prerequisites at the time of application submission to USAHS, and they expect to complete those requirements before matriculation to USAHS. 

Students accepted to the University with contingent admission status must provide required official documentation by the term start date (e.g., final transcripts, health records). Students should see Fingerprints, Background Checks, and Drug Screens for details on important deadlines on completing that process and submitting the required documentation. Students who do not meet the deadlines to submit all required admissions documentation risk rescission of the admission offer. Once all required documentation is received by the admissions office and eligibility to remain enrolled is affirmed, the student’s status is updated appropriately by admissions staff. During the period of contingent admission status, students do not qualify for the release of any applicable federal financial aid.

Denial of Admission

A denial determination means the applicant has been denied admission to their desired program of study. A denial decision may be due to the program having met its enrollment capacity for that term of entry or the applicant had a weak academic profile in comparison to the larger applicant pool, the applicant did not meet the minimum standards of the program or had a limited probability of succeeding in graduate work, or the program and academic leadership concur that the applicant does not meet the professional standards commonly required for a student earning a graduate degree in the discipline.

Candidates who are denied admission to the University are permitted to reapply to any program after the first denial. Candidates whose admission is denied a second time, should refer to the program-specific details regarding eligibility to reapply after multiple denials of admission.

Deferral of Admission

Candidates who are offered admission may request a deferral to a future term in instances when the applicant has extenuating circumstances related to a health or family emergency that would prevent their ability to start in the term offered for admission. Requests for deferral are reviewed for consideration with supporting documentation. Deferral is not guaranteed. If approved, the applicant defers matriculation to the program’s next available term start. Deferrals may not be extended beyond the program’s next available term start date. 

Rescinded Admission

Should the University rescind a candidate’s offer of admission for failure to complete admission prerequisite requirements, the candidate may reapply only when all admission requirements and prerequisites are complete. Candidates whose acceptance is rescinded due to failing to meet the requirements of the background check, drug screen, or fingerprint results may reapply after six months from the date the offer is rescinded unless the admission decision is deemed final with no opportunity to reapply.

Background Checks, Fingerprints, Drug Screens, and Criminal Records (DPT, MOT, OTD, MS-SLP, MSPAS, MSN, DNP, Post-Graduate Nursing Certificates)

Successful completion of clinical practicum experiences is a requirement for graduation from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. In general, the majority of practicum sites (and employers) require that a student/applicant’s criminal background check is clear of any convictions and that the student/applicant provide a negative drug screen. In the interest of ensuring that University students will be eligible to participate in required clinical and field experiences, accepted students are required to complete a criminal background check, 12-panel drug screen, and fingerprint report conducted by a third-party vendor. Students also are required to obtain updated checks and testing at the student’s expense if required by the clinical site prior to participating in any of the required clinical practicum courses in the curricula.

Criminal Background Check: A complete criminal background check includes a county criminal search, nationwide sex offender search, Office of Inspection General (OIG) records, and US General Services Administration (GSA) records.

Drug Screen: A 12-panel drug screen includes testing for amphetamines, Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines, THC (marijuana), Cocaine, Methadone, Opiates, Methaqualone, Phencyclidine, Propoxyphene, MDMA, and Oxycodone. Please note: Although laws regarding recreational drug use vary state by state, USAHS utilizes federal law as its benchmark for its policy against drug abuse. Pursuant to federal requirements, USAHS maintains a drug-free environment at all campus locations. Students are strictly prohibited from misusing controlled substances, intoxicants, alcohol, and prescription drugs, or buying, selling, manufacturing, distributing, possessing, or working under the influence of those substances when conducting USAHS business, while on the campus premises, while working in the University online environment, or while participating in internships, fieldwork, residencies, fellowships, or other university-sponsored activities (on or off the USAHS campuses), except as explicitly authorized by a prescription from a physician.

Fingerprint Report: Fingerprint reports must provide verification of current fingerprint clearance documentation in accordance with the fingerprint policies of the state in which they reside.

When an applicant is accepted to a program, the University provides a list of approved testing providers that students must use, and all checks and screens are completed at the student’s expense. Criminal background, drug screen, and fingerprint results are requirements for admission and must be received by the first day of the trimester. Students who do not submit these documents by the due date may have their admission rescinded. An extension of up to the thirtieth day of the first trimester may be granted for late admits, excluding students in the Speech-Language Pathology program. Note that federal financial aid cannot be disbursed until the background check, drug screen, and fingerprint results have been received and cleared by the University. Students should plan for a delay in the receipt of financial aid funds in their first trimester if these requirements are not met prior to the start of the trimester and an extension was granted. 

A positive drug screen or one not completed when scheduled may result in rescission of admission or dismissal from the University. A background check that includes any felony conviction results in rescission of admission or dismissal from the University. Certain misdemeanor convictions, pending charges, and/or probationary status, including but not limited to those involving drugs, theft, violence, or crimes against a person, may also result in rescission of admission or dismissal from the University. Tuition and fees other than the initial deposit are fully refunded if admission is rescinded or the student is dismissed from the program due to an initial adverse report on the background check, drug screen, or fingerprint report. Students who have their admission rescinded or are dismissed from the program due to a positive drug screen may reapply for the next available term after six months unless the decision is deemed final with no opportunity to reapply. 

Current and valid fingerprint clearance must be on file throughout the duration of the program. Failure to maintain current and valid fingerprint clearance may lead to immediate termination from the program. Upon acceptance and throughout enrollment at USAHS, the student has a continued obligation to report any criminal arrests or convictions to their program director and the head of the Clinical Services department within 72 hours of the occurrence. Any felony conviction or positive drug screen while enrolled as a student at USAHS results in dismissal from the program. Students who receive misdemeanor convictions or have pending charges while enrolled at the University will have their records reviewed to determine whether there are issues with potential clinical placement and employability based on the individual’s record.

Further, any arrest/conviction record may affect eligibility for licensure. Students with misdemeanor convictions are in no way guaranteed licensure or employment, as licensure is at the sole discretion of the State Boards and external healthcare employers. It is the responsibility of each student to understand the licensure requirements for the state(s) in which he or she intends to seek licensure to practice.

Misrepresentation

Misrepresentation includes presenting information known as false and with the intent of obtaining employment or admission to an educational program at USAHS. Statements made and documents supplied by USAHS applicants and students must be complete and accurate. The University does not tolerate any misrepresentation by a student or applicant of past or current academic programs, degrees, professional accomplishments, health records, or health screening information. If unexplained discrepancies appear between statements or documents provided to USAHS and information obtained otherwise, except in the case of misspellings and other such inadvertent errors, applicants may be rejected for admission and enrolled students may be dismissed.

Records and Documents Submitted for Admission Processing

All documents submitted to the University in support of an Application for Admission become the permanent possession of the University and cannot be returned to the applicant under any circumstances. Students are, therefore, urged to make copies of important documentation and maintain their own files.

Applications for Admission–Program Requirements

College of Rehabilitative Sciences

MS-SLP

Prerequisites

Required ASHA basic prerequisite coursework (completed with a grade of C or better) is as follows:

• 3 semester credits of biology
• 3 semester credits of chemistry or physics
• 3 semester credits of statistics
• 3 semester credits of behavioral or social science

Leveling/Bridge Courses

Leveling courses are a specific type of prerequisite. USAHS has designed leveling courses to serve as a pathway to the MS-SLP program. Applicants who hold bachelor’s degrees in fields other than Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD), Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), or the equivalent must complete leveling CSD courses per admissions guidelines. Applicants with a CSD or SLP degree may also need to complete one or more leveling courses if the transcript of the undergraduate program does not include the required prerequisite leveling coursework. An undergraduate degree is required to enroll in USAHS leveling courses.

Required prerequisite leveling courses for all applicants include the following:

• Introduction to Audiology
• Aural Rehabilitation
• Speech Anatomy and Physiology
• Introduction to Communication Sciences and Disorders^*
• Phonetics
• Normal Speech & Language Development

Note: Students taking SLP leveling courses may not register for more than nine credits/term. The recommended number of credits per term is six; however, no more than nine credits/term of SLP leveling courses are permitted.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• A baccalaureate degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university. The bachelor’s degree need not be limited to the fields of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD), Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), or equivalent. 
• Official transcripts from each college or university previously attended. An official transcript is one that is sent directly to the Admissions Office by the Registrar of the issuing institution or one forwarded in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.
• Transcripts showing the completion of prerequisite coursework preferably no more than five years old with a recommended minimum GPA of 3.0 calculated on prerequisites and a required grade of C or better earned in each prerequisite course.

  • Applicants with certain pending prerequisites may submit an application provided they acknowledge their understanding of and agreement to the pending prerequisites policy outlined above prior to enrollment (see Pending Prerequisites).

• GRE scores are not required for admission to the MS-SLP program.
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae. 
• A minimum of 25 guided observation hours in a speech-language therapy setting with an ASHA-certified SLP is required.
  • Volunteer opportunities and work experiences do not meet the requirement.
  • MS-SLP applicants can move forward for interviews with zero (0) observation hours completed if the applicant presents one of the following provisions:
  1. Proof they are currently enrolled in a course that has been approved by the Program Director (PD) or Assistant Program Director (APD) that will fulfill the observation hours required on or prior to the orientation date. The applicant must provide documentation of fulfilling the 25 guided observation hours by the end of the course and proof of final grade received for the course no later than the orientation date; or
  2. Attestation to not having completed the full 25 guided observation hours as of the date of signing the MS-SLP Pending Observation Hours Acknowledgment Form and agreement to complete and track the required observation hours on the log form provided by USAHS on or before the orientation date. This form requires the supervising SLP’s signature and ASHA number. Admissions will confirm the SLP is certified through ASHA.

Any prospective student applying with less than 25 guided observation hours (pursuant to #1 or #2 above) must acknowledge and agree to completing the guided observation hours to have their application moved to the next stage. USAHS sends an acknowledgment form to the prospective student for signature. Successful completion of these guided observation hours is a condition to continue in USAHS’ MS-SLP program. The 25 guided observation hours must be completed by the prospective student on or before their orientation date to proceed in the program.

• Two letters of professional recommendation (e.g., professor, supervisor, or employer) preferably on professional letterhead.
• A writing sample of two, double-spaced pages in 12-point, Times New Roman or Arial font answering the question Why do you think you can make a difference in Speech-Language Pathology?
• Virtual (via Zoom) interviews as needed.

Upon acceptance students must complete a comprehensive background check, fingerprints, and drug screen at the applicant’s expense prior to matriculation. See Background Checks, Fingerprints, Drug Screens, and Criminal Records for detailed requirements and time frames for completing comprehensive background checks.

Applicants must apply through https://csdcas.liaisoncas.com/ using USAHS Institution Code 2300.

MOT, Flex MOT, Hybrid Immersion MOT

Prerequisites

Required prerequisite coursework (completed with a grade of C or better) is as follows:

• 8 semester credits of anatomy and physiology (lab required)
• 3 semester credits of sociology or anthropology
• 3 semester credits of human growth and development (lifespan)
• 3 semester credits of abnormal psychology
• 3 semester credits of statistics
• 1 medical terminology course (may be fulfilled with traditional academic credit, continuing education units, certification, or the noncredit USAHS Medical Terminology  course with evidence of successful completion)

Unless candidates have current work experience in a health sciences field, it is recommended that their prerequisites be no more than five years old—especially anatomy and physiology.

Note: Prerequisite substitutions can be considered with the approval of the Program Director.

Application 

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• Official transcripts from each college or university previously attended. An official transcript is one that is sent directly to the Admissions Office by the Registrar of the issuing institution or one forwarded in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.
• Statement of purpose. A short statement of why the applicant wishes to pursue occupational therapy as a career and why he/she chose USAHS for that pursuit.
• Two letters of recommendation. One letter must be from an instructor or occupational therapy practitioner.
• OT Supplemental Questions. Provide five short answers to help the program learn more about the applicant.
  • An occupational therapist enables people to engage in occupations they want to do, need to do, or are expected to do. What is an occupation you enjoy engaging in, and what positive impact does this have on you? (200 words max)
  • Occupational therapists enable people to do what they want to do. Can you explain when you have enabled others through occupation? (200 words max)
  • Please share how you have participated in volunteerism to be a force for good in your community. (200 words max)
  • List two attributes you have that you consider crucial to being an effective occupational therapist. (200 words max)
  • How would your former professors describe you? (200 words max)
• Bachelor’s-degree candidates must also include the following:
  • A baccalaureate degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university.
  • Transcripts showing the completion of prerequisite coursework preferably no more than five years old with a recommended minimum GPA of 3.0 calculated on prerequisites and a required grade of C or better earned in each prerequisite course.
  • Current résumé or curriculum vitae.
• OTA candidates without a bachelor’s degree must also include the following:
  • Transcripts showing a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on at least 84 college credit hours which may include those that were part of the occupational therapy assistant (OTA) degree.
  • A copy of the applicant’s current state OTA license.
  • A copy of the applicant’s initial NBCOT certification.
  • A résumé or curriculum vitae that verifies at least one year of full-time work experience as an OTA and a completed employment verification form (located in the online application).

The University highly recommends that all applicants observe occupational therapy in at least two areas of practice in order to support the application essay and to help applicants ensure they are well suited for this field of study.

Upon acceptance students must complete a comprehensive background check, fingerprints, and drug screen at the applicant’s expense prior to matriculation. See Background Checks, Fingerprints, Drug Screens, and Criminal Records for detailed requirements and time frames for completing comprehensive background checks.

Applicants may apply at https://online.usa.edu/ (free of charge) using GRE code 5325 or by going to www.otcas.org and using GRE code 7352.

OTD, Flex OTD

Prerequisites

Required prerequisite coursework (completed with a grade of C or better) is as follows:

• 8 semester credits of anatomy and physiology (lab required)
• 3 semester credits of sociology or anthropology
• 3 semester credits of human growth and development (lifespan)
• 3 semester credits of abnormal psychology
• 3 semester credits of statistics
• 1 medical terminology course (may be fulfilled with traditional academic credit, continuing education units, certification, or the noncredit USAHS Medical Terminology  course with evidence of successful completion)

Unless candidates have current work experience in a health sciences field, it is recommended that their prerequisites be no more than five years old—especially anatomy and physiology.

Note: Prerequisite substitutions can be considered with the approval of the Program Director.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• A baccalaureate degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university.
• Official transcripts from each college or university previously attended. An official transcript is one that is sent directly to the Admissions Office by the Registrar of the issuing institution or one forwarded in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.
• Transcripts showing the completion of prerequisite coursework preferably no more than five years old with a recommended minimum GPA of 3.0 calculated on prerequisites and a required grade of C or better earned in each prerequisite course.
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae. 
• Statement of purpose. A short statement of why the applicant wishes to pursue occupational therapy as a career and why he/she chose USAHS for that pursuit.
• OT Supplemental Questions. Provide five short answers to help the program learn more about the applicant.
  • An occupational therapist enables people to engage in occupations they want to do, need to do, or are expected to do. What is an occupation you enjoy engaging in, and what positive impact does this have on you? (200 words max)
  • Occupational therapists enable people to do what they want to do. Can you explain when you have enabled others through occupation? (200 words max)
  • Please share how you have participated in volunteerism to be a force for good in your community. (200 words max)
  • List two attributes you have that you consider crucial to being an effective occupational therapist. (200 words max)
  • How would your former professors describe you? (200 words max)
• Two letters of recommendation. One letter must be from an instructor or occupational therapy practitioner.
• OTD essay: An 800–1000-word, double-spaced essay exhibiting the applicant’s understanding of an issue and its potential impact on occupational therapy practice. Applicants select one essay topic from the following:
  • Working with marginalized populations in healthcare
  • Working with other professions as an occupational therapist
  • Telehealth and occupational therapy
  • The rising cost of healthcare and access to occupational therapy
  • Healthcare disparities and access to occupational therapy
  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare
  • Ethical dilemmas in the rehabilitation fields
  • US health trends that will impact occupation in the future
  • Addressing the needs of vulnerable populations in occupational therapy
  • The use of technologies in the delivery of occupational therapy

The University highly recommends that all applicants observe occupational therapy in at least two areas of practice in order to support the application essay and to help applicants ensure they are well suited for this field of study.

Upon acceptance students must complete a comprehensive background check, fingerprints, and drug screen at the applicant’s expense prior to matriculation. See Background Checks, Fingerprints, Drug Screens, and Criminal Records for detailed requirements and time frames for completing comprehensive background checks.

Applicants may apply at https://online.usa.edu/ (free of charge) using GRE code 5325 or by going to www.otcas.org and using GRE code 7352.

PPOTD

Prerequisites

No additional prerequisites required.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• A baccalaureate or master’s degree in occupational therapy from an accredited institution.
• Official transcripts from each college or university previously attended. An official transcript is one that is sent directly to the Admissions Office by the Registrar of the issuing institution or one forwarded in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae.
• Two recommendations from professional colleagues.
• Applicants should be a licensed occupational therapist or be eligible for licensing and should be employed as an occupational therapist or have a minimum of one year’s experience as an occupational therapist. USAHS MOT graduates may enter the program without a license but must be licensed and employed as an occupational therapist at the beginning of the second term of the program.
• Official copy of foreign credentialing evaluation if applicable. Entry-level coursework taken at an institution in a foreign country must be evaluated for degree credentialing from an agency recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). See Additional Requirements for Domestic, International, and/or Foreign-Educated Students.
• Foreign-trained candidates who do not require a student visa to participate in University courses and/or degrees will be considered for admission.

Applicants may apply free of charge at https://online.usa.edu/.

DPT, Flex DPT

Prerequisites

• 8 semester credits of general college chemistry (lab component required)
• 8 semester credits of general college physics, biomechanics, or anatomical kinesiology (lab component required)
• 6 semester credits of human-based, general college biology
• 8 semester credits of anatomy and physiology (lab component required)
• 9 semester credits of social sciences (e.g., psychology, sociology, or anthropology)
• 1 medical terminology course (may be fulfilled with traditional academic credit, continuing education units, certification, or the noncredit USAHS Medical Terminology  course with evidence of successful completion)

Unless candidates have current work experience in a health sciences field, it is recommended that prerequisites be no more than five years old—especially anatomy and physiology.

Note: Prerequisite substitutions can be considered with approval by the Program Director.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• A baccalaureate degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university.
• Official transcripts from each college or university previously attended. An official transcript is one that is sent directly to the Admissions Office by the Registrar of the issuing institution or one forwarded in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.
• Transcripts showing the completion of prerequisite coursework preferably no more than five years old with a recommended minimum GPA of 3.0 calculated on prerequisites and a required grade of C or better earned in each prerequisite course.
• GRE scores sent directly to the University by Educational Testing Service. GRE score must not be more than five years old. Recommended combined minimum GRE score of 294 for verbal and quantitative sections. Analytical score is also evaluated.
  • NOTE: Candidates who have an overall cumulative GPA of 3.6 or higher or previously earned a master’s degree are exempt from the requirement.
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae. 
• A minimum of 40 volunteer or observation experience hours (volunteer hours, work hours, observation hours, etc.) in a physical therapy setting. Proof of 40 hours must be completed by the applicant’s intended start date.
• References from either two licensed physical therapists (preferred) or one physical therapist and one faculty member or academic advisor.
• Statement of purpose. A short statement of why the applicant wishes to pursue physical therapy as a career and why he/she chose USAHS for that pursuit.

Upon acceptance students must complete a comprehensive background check, fingerprints, and drug screen at the applicant’s expense prior to matriculation. See Background Checks, Fingerprints, Drug Screens, and Criminal Records for detailed requirements and time frames for completing comprehensive background checks.

Applicants may apply at https://online.usa.edu/ (free of charge) or by going to www.ptcas.org and using GRE code 2209.

tDPT^*

Prerequisites

No additional prerequisites required.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• A baccalaureate or master’s degree in physical therapy from an accredited institution.
• Official transcripts from the degree conferring institution. An official transcript is one that is sent directly to the Admissions Office by the Registrar of the issuing institution or one forwarded in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae.
• Professional license.
  • It is expected that all applicants are licensed or eligible for licensure in the United States; however, those international students who are not planning to pursue licensure in the United States are exempt from this requirement. If the student plans to complete a clinical residency, he or she must be a licensed physical therapist in the state where the residency is located.
  • Candidates applying for licensure (if foreign trained) through FCCPT may substitute an FCCPT type 1 review that indicates substantial equivalency satisfying minimum content requirements and length of study as defined by CAPTE.
• Official copy of foreign credentialing evaluation if applicable.
• Entry-level coursework taken at an institution in a foreign country must be evaluated for degree credentialing from an agency recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). See Additional Requirements for Domestic, International, and/or Foreign-Educated Students.
• Physical Therapists who graduated from a physiotherapy program accredited by Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada (PEAC) do not need to submit a credentialing evaluation as part of the application.
• Foreign-trained candidates who do not require a student visa to participate in University courses and/or degrees will be considered for admission.

Applicants may apply by going to https://rfptcas.liaisoncas.com/. 

* This program is not currently enrolling new students. 

College of Health Sciences

MSPAS 

The MSPAS program is not accepting applications at this time.  

Prerequisites

All prerequisite science courses must be designed for science majors. Other courses will not be accepted.

• 8 semester credits/12 quarter credits of general/inorganic chemistry (lab required)
• 4 semester credits/6 quarter credits of organic chemistry (lab required)
• 4 semester credits/6 quarter credits of general biology (lab required)
• 4 semester credits/6 quarter credits of microbiology (lab required)
• 8 semester credits/12 quarter credits of anatomy and physiology
  • Includes 4 semester credits of anatomy plus 4 semester credits of physiology OR a minimum of 8 semester credits of combined anatomy and physiology
  • Includes comparative anatomy and/or physiology
• 3 semester credits of psychology
• 1 semester credit of medical terminology
  • ACE transcripts may be accepted for this prerequisite

Pending Prerequisites

USAHS allows MSPAS candidates to submit an application with two or fewer pending prerequisites.

• Admitted students must complete all prerequisite coursework by the end of the fall term (December) prior to starting the program. Students must earn a minimum grade of a C (2.0) in all prerequisite courses.
• If the eligible prerequisite(s) are not completed by the end of the fall term prior to starting the program, the students offer of admission is rescinded and their decision status is updated to denied. The student may reapply in a future cycle if they can demonstrate successful completion of the pending prerequisite(s).
• Official final transcripts from all schools attended must be received by the Admissions Office no later than 30 days after the start of a student’s first term of enrollment.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, utilizing CASPA, the Central Application Service for Physician Assistants, which is a web-based application service. The application cycle typically opens in late April on an annual cycle.  Carefully follow the instructions given on the CAPSA website and check your application status regularly. Elements of the application process include the following:

• Affirmation of an earned baccalaureate degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale as calculated by CASPA. A specific type of baccalaureate degree or major is not required.
  • Applicants may submit an application prior to obtaining a baccalaureate degree; however, the Admissions Office must receive official confirmation of degree conferral by the last day of the add/drop period and final official transcripts showing conferral of a baccalaureate degree must be received no later than 30 days after the start of the student’s first term of enrollment.
• Official transcripts from all schools from which the student earned a baccalaureate degree or higher and schools from which required prerequisite courses were completed. 
• Transcripts showing the completion of prerequisite coursework with a required grade of C or better earned in each prerequisite course.
  • Applicants with two or fewer pending prerequisites may submit an application provided they are in compliance with the pending prerequisites policy outlined above prior to enrollment (see Pending Prerequisites).
• Successful completion of the Acuity Insights online assessment, including Casper and Duet (https://acuityinsights.app/).
• Three letters of professional recommendation (e.g., professor, supervisor, or employer).
• Completion of an on-campus interview. Virtual interviews may be available upon request and with evidence of extenuating circumstances.
• If the applicant completed his or her education in a foreign country, the applicant must submit an original copy of a degree credentialing evaluation from an agency recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). The evaluation must indicate previous education at the minimum level of a baccalaureate degree earned at an accredited college or university in the United States.

Note: GRE scores are not required for admission to the MSPAS program, and the program does not require a specific number of hours of healthcare experience or observation hours. The program considers all prior activities that demonstrate preparedness to enter the PA profession.

The PA program does not recognize any special populations for the purpose of preference in admissions.

Upon acceptance students must complete a comprehensive background check, fingerprints, and drug screen at the applicant’s expense prior to matriculation. See Background Checks, Fingerprints, Drug Screens, and Criminal Records for detailed requirements and time frames for completing comprehensive background checks.

The MSPAS program is not accepting applications at this time.  

MHA^*

Prerequisites

No prerequisites are required.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• A baccalaureate or master’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university.
• Official transcripts from all schools from which the student earned a baccalaureate degree or higher and with a recommended cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and official transcripts from schools from which required prerequisite courses were completed if applicable. Additional transcripts are required only when transfer credit was utilized to award the degree. An official transcript is one that is sent directly to the Admissions Office by the Registrar of the issuing institution or one forwarded in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae. 
• One recommendation from a professional colleague.
• Statement of Purpose: Essay of approximately 500 words describing the applicant’s short- and long-term career goals and plans to achieve those goals.

Applicants may apply free of charge at https://online.usa.edu/. The University also offers an abbreviated application process for USAHS graduates applying to a post-professional program. Admission Application for USAHS Alumni details the requirements.

*This program is not currently enrolling new students.

MHS^*

Prerequisites

No prerequisite courses are required.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• A baccalaureate degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university—preferably in the health sciences.
• Official transcripts from all schools from which the student earned a baccalaureate degree or higher and with a recommended cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and official transcripts from schools from which required prerequisite courses were completed if applicable. Additional transcripts are required only when transfer credit was utilized to award the degree. An official transcript is one that is sent directly to the Admissions Office by the Registrar of the issuing institution or one forwarded in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae. 
• One recommendation from a professional colleague.
• Essay of approximately 500 words describing the applicant’s short- and long-term career goals and plans to achieve those goals.
• Applicants interested in the Athletic Training Specialization, residents of the United States, Canada, and Ireland will need to provide evidence that the applicant is a Licensed Athletic Trainer (LAT), and/or a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC), a Canadian Athletic Therapist (CAT) or an Athletic Rehabilitation Therapist Ireland (ARTI).

Applicants may apply free of charge at https://online.usa.edu/. The University also offers an abbreviated application process for USAHS graduates applying to a post-professional program. Admission Application for USAHS Alumni details the requirements.

*This program is not currently enrolling new students.

EdD

Prerequisites

No additional prerequisites required.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• A master’s degree or clinical doctorate degree from an accredited college or university.
• Official transcripts from all schools from which the student earned a baccalaureate degree or higher and with a recommended cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and official transcripts from schools from which required prerequisite courses were completed if applicable. Additional transcripts are required only when transfer credit was utilized to award the degree. An official transcript is one that is sent directly to the Admissions Office by the Registrar of the issuing institution or one forwarded in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae.
• Writing assessment.
• References from two professional colleagues.
• Copy of professional license, if applicable.

Applicants may apply free of charge at https://online.usa.edu/. The University also offers an abbreviated application process for USAHS graduates applying to a post-professional program. Admission Application for USAHS Alumni details the requirements.

Graduate Certificates

• Executive Leadership
• Business Intelligence
• Interprofessional Education

Prerequisites

No prerequisite courses are required.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• A baccalaureate or master’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale (if student is successful in the certificate courses and decides to move into the degree program, the minimum GPA for acceptance into the MHA degree program will be waived).
• Official transcripts from all schools from which the student earned a baccalaureate degree or higher and schools from which required prerequisite courses were completed if applicable. Additional transcripts are required only when transfer credit was utilized to award the degree. An official transcript is one that is sent directly to the Admissions Office by the Registrar of the issuing institution or one forwarded in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.
• If the applicant completed his or her education in a foreign country, the applicant must submit an original copy of a degree credentialing evaluation, with transcripts utilized for evaluation, from an agency recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). The evaluation must indicate previous education at the minimum level of a baccalaureate degree earned at an accredited college or university in the United States.
• TOEFL scores sent directly to the University if an applicant completed his/her education in a country where English is not the primary language or if the applicant is from a non-English speaking country or is deemed necessary by the Director of Admissions. See Additional Requirements for Domestic, International, and/or Foreign-Educated Students and International Students Applying for Admission for detailed information.

Applicants may apply free of charge at https://online.usa.edu/. The University also offers an abbreviated application process for USAHS graduates applying to a post-professional program. Admission Application for USAHS Alumni details the requirements.

School of Nursing

RN-MSN

• Family Nurse Practitioner Role Specialty (RN-MSN-FNP)
• Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner Role Specialty (RN-MSN-AGNP)
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Role Specialty (RN-MSN-PMHNP)

Prerequisites

No prerequisite courses are required.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• An associate degree in nursing (ADN) from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale.
• Official transcripts from all schools from which the student earned an associate degree in nursing or higher. Additional transcripts are required only when transfer credit was utilized to award the degree. 
• Evidence of a current registered nurse (RN) license in the state where currently practicing with no restriction, encumbrance, probationary limitations, or pending actions or hearings imposed by the applicable Board of Nursing, Council of Nursing, or any judicial entity associated with the applicant, the applicant’s license, or the applicant’s practice. The RN license must be current when the application is submitted and remain current throughout the program. RN licenses that expire before classes begin must be renewed and current before starting the program. Nurses working in a federal facility, such as a Veterans Administration Medical Center, and completing their practica in that facility must hold an RN license deemed appropriate by that facility.
• Professional résumé or curriculum vitae showing an equivalent of one year of full-time experience (2,080 hours) as a registered nurse within the past five years, unless enrolled as part of an academic-service partnership between USAHS and the applicant’s employer as negotiated by a partnership agreement.
• Two professional references, submitted electronically, from a nurse educator, preceptor, or immediate supervisor; professional references from peers or personal relationships are not acceptable. At least one reference must validate one year of full-time employment (2,080 hours) within the last five years.
• If the applicant completed his or her education in a foreign country, the applicant must submit an original copy of a degree credentialing evaluation from an agency recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). The evaluation must indicate previous education at the minimum level of a baccalaureate degree earned at an accredited college or university in the United States.

Upon acceptance, students must complete a comprehensive background check, fingerprints, and drug screen at the applicant’s expense prior to matriculation. See Background Checks, Fingerprints, Drug Screens, and Criminal Records for detailed requirements and time frames for completing comprehensive background checks.

Applicants may apply free of charge at https://online.usa.edu/. 

MSN

Prerequisites

No prerequisite courses are required.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• A bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale.
• Official transcripts from all schools from which the student earned a baccalaureate degree or higher and schools from which required prerequisite courses were completed. Additional transcripts are required only when transfer credit was utilized to award the degree; however, additional transcripts may be requested if the following science coursework is not reflected in the transcript of the degree conferred:
  • Anatomy and physiology
  • Pathophysiology
  • Microbiology
  • Physical assessment
  • Pharmacology
• Evidence of a current registered nurse (RN) license in the state where currently practicing with no restriction, encumbrance, probationary limitations, or pending actions or hearings imposed by the applicable Board of Nursing, Council of Nursing, or any judicial entity associated with the applicant, the applicant’s license, or the applicant’s practice. The RN license must be current when the application is submitted and remain current throughout the program. RN licenses that expire before classes begin must be renewed and current before starting the program. Nurses working in a federal facility, such as a Veterans Administration Medical Center, and completing their practica in that facility must hold an RN license deemed appropriate by that facility.
• Professional résumé or curriculum vitae showing an equivalent of one full-time year of experience (2,000 hours) as a registered nurse by the start of the first practicum.
• Two professional references submitted electronically from a nurse educator, preceptor, or immediate supervisor; professional references from peers or personal relationships are not acceptable.
• Essay of approximately 500 words describing the applicant’s short- and long-term career goals and plans to achieve those goals.
• An interview if requested.
• If the applicant completed his or her education in a foreign country, the applicant must submit an original copy of a degree credentialing evaluation from an agency recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). The evaluation must indicate previous education at the minimum level of a baccalaureate degree earned at an accredited college or university in the United States.

Upon acceptance students must complete a comprehensive background check, fingerprints, and drug screen at the applicant’s expense prior to matriculation. See Background Checks, Fingerprints, Drug Screens, and Criminal Records for detailed requirements and time frames for completing comprehensive background checks.

Applicants may apply free of charge at https://online.usa.edu/. The University also offers an abbreviated application process for USAHS graduates applying to a post-professional program. Admission Application for USAHS Alumni details the requirements.

DNP

• DNP (BSN-entry)
• DNP (MSN-entry)
• DNP (USAHS MSN Alumni)

Prerequisites

No prerequisite courses are required.

Application (BSN-entry and MSN-entry)

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN-entry) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN-entry) from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Official transcripts from all schools from which the student earned a baccalaureate degree or higher and schools from which required prerequisite courses were completed if applicable. Additional transcripts are required only when transfer credit was utilized to award the degree.
• Evidence of a current registered nurse (RN) license in the state where currently practicing with no restriction, encumbrance, or probationary limitations imposed by the applicable Board of Nursing, Council of Nursing, or any judicial entity associated with the applicant, the applicant’s license, or the applicant’s practice. The RN license must be current when the application is submitted and remain current throughout the program. RN licenses that expire before classes begin must be renewed and current before starting the program. Nurses working in a federal facility, such as a Veterans Administration Medical Center, and completing their practica in that facility must hold an RN license deemed appropriate by that facility.
• Professional résumé or curriculum vitae showing an equivalent of one full-time year of experience (2,000 hours) as a registered nurse by the time the first practicum course begins. 
• Two professional references from a nurse educator, preceptor, or immediate supervisor; peers or personal relationships are not acceptable.
• Essay of approximately 500 words demonstrating scholarly writing and describing short- and long-term career goals and plans to achieve those goals.
• An interview if requested.
• If the applicant completed his or her education in a foreign country, the applicant must submit an original copy of a degree credentialing evaluation from an agency recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).
  • BSN-entry: The evaluation must indicate previous education at the minimum level of a baccalaureate degree earned at an accredited college or university in the United States for the DNP (BSN-entry) program.
  • MSN-entry: The evaluation must indicate previous education at the minimum level of a master’s degree earned at an accredited college or university in the United States for the DNP (MSN-entry) program.

Upon acceptance students must complete a comprehensive background check, fingerprints, and drug screen at the applicant’s expense prior to matriculation. See Background Checks, Fingerprints, Drug Screens, and Criminal Records for detailed requirements and time frames for completing comprehensive background checks.

Applicants may apply free of charge at https://online.usa.edu/. The University also offers an abbreviated application process for USAHS graduates applying to a post-professional program. Admission Application for USAHS Alumni details the requirements.

Post-Graduate (PG) Nursing Certificates

• Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Nurse Educator Certificate*
• Nurse Executive Certificate

Prerequisites

No prerequisite courses are required.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• A Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Official transcripts from all schools from which the student earned a masters degree or higher. Additional transcripts are required only when transfer credit was utilized to award the degree. 
• Professional résumé or curriculum vitae showing an equivalent of one full-time year of experience (2,000 hours) as a registered nurse by the start of the first practicum.
• Two professional references submitted electronically; one from a nurse educator, preceptor, or immediate supervisor. Professional references from peers or personal relationships are not acceptable.
• Verified professional nursing license; licensure status must be maintained throughout the entire program.
  • FNP, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Executive: Evidence of an unrestricted/unencumbered registered nurse (RN) license.
  • Psychiatric Mental Health NP: Evidence of an unrestricted/unencumbered RN license (MSN-entry) or APRN license (DNP-entry). 
  • Evidence of a current RN/APRN license must be in the state where currently practicing with no restriction, encumbrance, or probationary limitations imposed by the applicable Board of Nursing, Council of Nursing, or any judicial entity associated with the applicant, the applicant’s license, or the applicant’s practice. The RN/APRN license must be current when the application is submitted and remain current throughout the program. RN/APRN licenses that expire before classes begin must be renewed and current before starting the program. Nurses working in a federal facility, such as a Veterans Administration Medical Center, and completing their practica in that facility must hold an RN/APRN license deemed appropriate by that facility.
• Essay demonstrating scholarly writing of approximately 500 words describing the applicant’s short- and long-term career goals and plans to achieve those goals.
• If the applicant completed his or her education in a foreign country, the applicant must submit an original copy of a degree credentialing evaluation from an agency recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). The evaluation must indicate previous education at the minimum level of a masters degree earned at an accredited college or university in the United States.
• TOEFL scores must be sent directly to the University, if an applicant completed his/her education in a country where English is not the primary language or if the applicant is from a non-English speaking country or is deemed necessary by the Director of Admissions and registration services. See Additional Requirements for Domestic, International, and/or Foreign-Educated Students and International Students Applying for Admission for detailed information. See Additional Requirements for Domestic, International, and/or Foreign-Educated Students and International Students Applying for Admission for detailed information.

Upon acceptance students must complete a comprehensive background check, fingerprints, and drug screen at the applicant’s expense prior to matriculation. See Background Checks, Fingerprints, Drug Screens, and Criminal Records for detailed requirements and time frames for completing comprehensive background checks.

Applicants may apply free of charge at https://online.usa.edu/. The University also offers an abbreviated application process for USAHS graduates applying to a post-professional program. Admission Application for USAHS Alumni details the requirements.

^*The Nurse Educator post-graduate certificate program is not accepting new students.

Orthopaedic Certifications

• Clinical Orthopaedic Residency
• Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy Fellowship

Prerequisites

Clinical Orthopaedic Residency

• Applicants must be either licensed or eligible for licensure and licensed before starting the program.

Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapy Fellowship

• Must be licensed or eligible for licensure in the state of the clinic assignment.
• Completion of an APTA-accredited orthopaedic residency program OR successful score on the orthopaedic certified specialist exam.

Application

To be considered for admission, all candidates must submit an online application, which includes the following:

• Official transcripts from all schools from which the student earned a baccalaureate degree or higher and schools from which required prerequisite courses were completed if applicable. Additional transcripts are required only when transfer credit was utilized to award the degree. An official transcript is one that is sent directly to the Admissions Office by the Registrar of the issuing institution or one forwarded in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.
• Physical therapy state license.
• Current resume or curriculum vitae, which lists continuing education and professional publications.
• Two references from professional colleagues.
• Essay.
• Current photograph.

Applicants may apply at https://rfptcas.liaisoncas.com/. The University also offers an abbreviated application process for USAHS graduates applying to a post-professional program. Admission Application for USAHS Alumni details the requirements.

Admission Applications for USAHS Alumni

The University offers an abbreviated application process for USAHS graduates applying to a post-professional program. This process is applicable only if the USAHS graduate applies for admission to another USAHS post-professional program within five years from the date their previous degree was conferred.

To be considered for admission, all candidate applications must submit the following:

• An online application accessed free of charge at https://online.usa.edu/.
• An email from the Registrar stating that the student is in good standing and graduated or is expected to graduate on a specific date.*
• An email from the Bursar stating there is no business hold on the student’s account.*
• Current résumé or curriculum vitae.*
• If applicable to the program to which the student is applying, a verified current state license .**
• Official copy of any transcripts that contain coursework completed since graduating from USAHS.

The University waives letters of reference, essays, and/or statement of purpose requirements for USAHS alumni who seek admission to a post-professional program within five years of earning their first degree.

In instances when a prospective USAHS graduate applies to and is accepted into a second program, the University rescinds admission to the new program if the applicant then fails to graduate from their first USAHS program.

^{* An enrollment advisor obtains these items and adds them to the student’s record on their behalf.}

^{** All nursing programs: Evidence of a current RN/APRN license must be in the state where currently practicing with no restriction, encumbrance, or probationary limitations imposed by the applicable Board of Nursing, Council of Nursing, or any judicial entity associated with the applicant, the applicant’s license, or the applicant’s practice. The RN/APRN license must be current when the application is submitted and remain current throughout the program. RN/APRN licenses that expire before classes begin must be renewed and current before starting the program. Nurses working in a federal facility, such as a Veterans Administration Medical Center, and completing their practica in that facility must hold an RN/APRN license deemed appropriate by that facility. MOT alumni applying to the PPOTD program: Evidence of an unrestricted occupational therapy license in the state of residence must be maintained throughout the duration of the program. MOT alumni who graduated within the past six months may enter the program unemployed but must be licensed and employed as an occupational therapist by the second term of the program. Applicants must provide a state OT license verification form as proof of this requirement (a copy of your state-issued license is not adequate).}

Additional Requirements for Domestic, International, and/or Foreign-Educated Students

All instruction at USAHS is provided in English. International applicants from a country where English is not the primary language, who did not complete their undergraduate degree in English, who did not complete at least 60 semester hours of college credit within a U.S. institution, or if deemed necessary by the Director of Admissions, must provide an official TOEFL score report.

• The minimum Internet-based TOEFL score requirement is 89 (including sectional minimums of 26 in speaking, 24 in writing, 21 in reading, and 18 in listening). The date of the reported test must fall within two years of the application deadline.

• For tDPT^*, a minimum score of 550 (paper-based testing), 210 (computer-based testing), or 80 (Internet-based testing [IBT]) is required. If candidate is licensed in the United States a TOEFL is not required. Note: a score of 89 is required if the candidate is pursuing FCCPT evaluation. 

• For PPOTD, students who are foreign trained and educated but have become a licensed rehabilitation practitioner in the United States are not required to submit TOEFL scores unless deemed necessary by the Academic Program Director. Any student may be required to complete a skills assessment to determine the level of professional communication proficiency at the discretion of the Academic Program Director.

• For MOT/OTD, students who are foreign trained and educated but have become a licensed rehabilitation practitioner in the United States are not required to submit TOEFL scores unless deemed necessary by the Academic Program Director. Any student may be required to complete a skills assessment to determine level of professional communication proficiency at the discretion of the Academic Program Director.

If the applicant completed his or her education in a foreign country, the applicant must submit an original copy of a degree credentialing evaluation from an agency recognized by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). If the NACES-approved evaluation service includes a copy of the evaluated official transcripts with the evaluation, and the transcript is in English or accompanied by an English translation, USAHS will consider these transcripts as official. The evaluation must indicate previous education at the minimum level of a baccalaureate degree (or master’s degree, if required for the program) earned at an accredited college or university in the United States. The following are among agencies approved for this purpose; additional evaluators can be found on www.naces.org.

Note: The University does not disclose reasons for nonacceptance of a candidate.

* The tDPT program is not currently enrolling new students. 

International Students Applying for Admission

Foreign-trained candidates who do not require a student visa to participate in university courses and/or degrees can be considered for admission. The residential, entry-level Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy programs in San Marcos, California; Austin, Texas; St. Augustine, Florida; Miami, Florida; and Dallas, Texas are approved by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to admit international students who require an F-1 student visa. While the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) has fees associated with visa applications, USAHS does not charge any fees for student visa services. There are a number of countries that are currently on the US government’s sanctions program, and there is no guarantee that students from any of the sanctioned countries will be able to enter the United States. Affected students are advised to contact immigration resources in their area for specific information on how the sanctions may apply to their individual situation. If a student visa is not required for attendance, non-US citizens might be able to participate in other degree programs, depending on the level of sanctions, if any, on their country of residence. In addition to the items listed above, the following must be submitted prior to issuance of the I-20:

• Financial statement/letter indicating commitment (from parents, government, etc.) to financially support tuition and living expenses for the duration of the degree program.

USAHS distance education programs and the MSPAS and MS-SLP programs are not approved to admit international students who require an F-1 student visa. Foreign-trained candidates who do not require a student visa to participate in university courses and/or degrees will be considered for admission.

Additionally, all international students should note that many countries have their own accrediting and licensing bodies, and degree recognition and licensure differs from country to country. Further, there are a number of countries that do not recognize online degrees for employment or promotion purposes, particularly government agency employment or promotion. University programs are designed to meet accreditation, licensure, and other requirements in the United States. It is important that students residing outside the United States review and understand the requirements of their country of residence to confirm licensure requirements as well as recognition of the student’s program of study for purposes of employment or promotion in those countries.

Alternative Prerequisite Credits

Credit by Exam

College course credit awarded for Advanced Placement (AP) or through the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) can be considered to fulfill program prerequisites. In most instances, CLEP credit that aligns with USAHS program prerequisites and is included on an undergraduate or graduate transcript is sufficient to fulfill the prerequisite requirement.

It is strongly recommended that applicants consult with an enrollment advisor prior to scheduling or taking a CLEP examination. If endorsed by the program and approved by the Admissions department, CLEP credit used to meet a prerequisite requirement is considered passed but is not utilized in the calculation of applicant GPAs.

AP credits are reviewed when they appear on an official college transcript from an accredited undergraduate degree-granting institution and show course code, title, and college credits earned. 

CLEP results on an unofficial score report or transcript from the College Board are acceptable for admissions review provided satisfactory scores were attained. Students must still submit an official transcript to verify satisfactory completion of the course. See clep.collegeboard.org for information on college credit by examination.

The MS-SLP program does not allow the use of CLEP taken independent of college enrollment to fulfill admission prerequisites due to programmatic accreditation standards that restrict such use.

AP credits are reviewed when they appear on an official college transcript from an accredited undergraduate degree-granting institution and show course code, title, and college credits earned. 

American Council on Education (ACE)

USAHS does consider credit recommendations from ACE to fulfill program prerequisites provided the coursework is applicable and deemed acceptable by the program (MS-SLP program excluded). Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact their USAHS Enrollment Advisor prior to engaging in ACE endorsed educational experiences to ensure acceptability by USAHS in fulfillment of admission prerequisites. Candidates with military experience should submit their transcripts for review. If endorsed by the program and approved by the Admissions department, credit used to meet a prerequisite requirement is considered passed but are not utilized in the calculation of applicant GPAs. See the ACE website for information on ACE credit recommendations.

USAHS may, at times, offer discounted tuition, scholarships, or other benefits to eligible students or prospective students enrolling in USAHS. Pursuant to the standards of the Executive Branch, it is the student’s responsibility to consult his or her employer prior to receiving such a discount, scholarship, or other benefit to confirm with the student’s employer and ensure he or she is in compliance with any policies or procedures required by an employee in that position. Further, Veterans Affairs (VA) employees are prohibited from being involved in any recommendations, decisions, approvals, or disapprovals that could affect USAHS. 

VA employees who administer VBA educational benefits are required to obtain a waiver from their employer in order to take classes from a For-Profit Educational Institution (FPEI), such as USAHS. For all other VA employees, a waiver is required if they own an interest in, receive a salary or wage from, or receive gifts from an FPEI. As such, students are advised to consult with their employer to obtain any required approvals prior to enrolling in the University or accepting any discounts, scholarships, or other benefits. Failure to receive the required governmental approvals prior to acceptance could result in corrective action by the student’s employer and/or other penalties, and it could impact the student’s ability to remain enrolled in the University. USAHS makes no representation or guarantees that a student’s or prospective student’s enrollment or acceptance of a discount, scholarship, or other benefit offered by the University is in compliance with standards of the Executive Branch.

Non-Degree-Seeking Students

USAHS offers a range of courses for individuals who wish to apply as a non-degree-seeking (NDS) student. 

Admissions

Students in NDS status must have a bachelor’s degree, and where indicated, they may need to be a properly credentialed professional and meet the appropriate prerequisite requirements. When credentialing/licensure is required, it is noted as a prerequisite requirement in the course description.

The University requires students in NDS status to submit an application to take courses at USAHS. The NDS application is provided on the usa.edu website. International students in NDS status are subject to the same TOEFL requirements as degree-seeking students. 

The ability to take courses as a student in NDS status does not indicate acceptance into the University. Furthermore, the successful completion of one or more courses does not indicate acceptance into the University or guarantee a more favorable review of an applicant seeking acceptance into a degree program. The University requires that students in NDS status who want to undertake a degree program apply and be admitted to a specific degree program.

Registration

Students in NDS status cannot register for more than 15 credits per term*. Students in NDS status register for classes on a space-available basis and regular degree-seeking students receive registration priority. The University does not permit students in NDS status to enroll in courses that involve clinical or internship experiences.

Students in NDS status receive grades and may request academic records. The University prohibits students in NDS status from enrolling in additional courses if they receive two unsuccessful grades. An unsuccessful grade is a D+, D, F. Students in NDS status are subject to all policies governing student conduct as provided in the Catalog/Handbook.

Credits earned by students in NDS status at USAHS may be transferred to a degree program at USAHS and are subject to the rules outlined by the University credit transfer requirements. Please note that no more than 25% of an academic degree may be transferred from courses completed as a student in NDS status.

^{*Students taking SLP leveling courses may take up to nine credits per term, although six credits are recommended. Foreign-trained PTs seeking licensure may take up to 21 credits per term.}

Financial Aid/Bursar

Students in NDS status are not eligible to receive Title IV federal financial aid; tuition must be paid prior to the start of the trimester. Students in NDS status may be eligible for private loans.

Licensure

The successful completion of courses taken by foreign and domestic trained therapists does not guarantee licensure in the United States. Individuals must meet the entry-level requirements of the respective state to be licensed in that state.

University Student Services

Access to the following student services is included as part of the per-credit tuition rate for students in NDS status.

• Academic Advising
• Writing Center
• Registrar
• Counseling
• Library
• New Student Orientation portal and materials
• Technology services and support

New Student Orientation

All new entry-level students are required to attend an in-person orientation as well as complete an online orientation. Orientation activities include an introduction to the Student Services and Financial Aid departments, clinical education at USAHS, and online learning in the University’s learning management system as well as a review of key policies in the Catalog/Handbook, including Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) , Professional Misconduct , and the Student Dress Code .

Prior to beginning online courses, all new Post-Professional students receive a username, password, and directions for logging into the course platform. Students should sign in to the MyUSA portal, Post-Professional tab and view a short tutorial on navigating the Blackboard learning portal. This will provide the student with general information about online learning and assist in navigating the platform software used to complete online courses, and additional online support is available at iLEARN. The Academic Program Advisor sends additional information about the Graduate Learning Orientation and preparatory materials to students.

Student Records, Registration, and Degree Requirements

Student Records

The Registrar’s Office serves as the primary custodian for student academic records and is responsible for maintaining, securing, and archiving the official academic records for all students. Student records and transcripts are maintained electronically and are kept indefinitely. Holds that restrict registration and other engagement may be placed on students’ records in instances when the student has unmet obligations to the University.

Student Record Holds

The University does not place financial holds on transcripts as the primary inducement for recouping student debt to the University. Financial holds include money owed to the University for tuition and fees, missing library materials, or other holds related to something of value.

When students do not comply with requirements necessary for their enrollment at the University, an administrative office may continue to place a hold on other student privileges. Holds may restrict a student’s ability to register for classes, to receive verifications or certifications, to access online coursework, or to reenroll after a withdrawal or leave of absence. Holds may be placed on these privileges for financial reasons, for not meeting obligations in a timely manner (including registration, enrollment forms, medical forms, return or replacement of library materials, financial aid paperwork, etc.), or for failure to comply with other University policies and procedures.

Satisfaction of the hold is required before records are released. 

Personal Information

Students must ensure all personal information is current and correct to enable USAHS to authenticate identity and provide authorized administrative and support services to students. Students can update their personal information, such as phone number, social security number, date of birth, personal email address, permanent address, local address, and emergency contact, through the MyUSA portal, My Info tab.

Address Changes

It is important to have a local address on file for all campus-based students in the event of emergency situations as well as for administrative purposes, such as validating enrollment at the campus where the student’s program is offered and ensuring students are located in a state where USAHS is able to offer their respective program.

Although a student’s legal home or permanent address (mailing address) is provided on the Application for Admission and subsequently on the returned, completed Enrollment Agreement, students are required to update their local address before the first day of class each trimester.

Students whose legal home or permanent address (mailing address) is the same as their local address are also required to update their local address before the first day of class each trimester.

Students who move for a clinical placement must update their local address in the MyUSA portal, My Info tab before the first day of the clinical rotation.

Students are advised to visit usa.edu to check their program-specific web page prior to relocation to another state to ensure they are aware of any limitations on the University’s ability to operate and/or place students in clinical experiences in that state.

Alumni should email address changes to registrar@usa.edu.

Name Changes

Requests for a change in the name as it appears on the respective student’s academic record must be made in writing and accompanied by a copy of one of the following: social security card, drivers’ license, passport, military ID, divorce decree, or professional license bearing the student’s new name. The name change form may be found on the MyUSA portal, Student Services tab, under Forms.

Health Records (MOT, OTD, DPT, MS-SLP, MSPAS, and Nursing)

The University sets guidelines for required immunizations and health screenings based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The University requires that students submit certain medical records at matriculation and throughout the student’s enrollment. Detailed instructions regarding required medical records are sent to new students prior to registration. Students must complete required immunizations and health screenings and are responsible for all associated costs. Students participating in elective international clinical experiences are also required to meet CDC immunization recommendations for international travel to the specified region. Details of each program’s health policy are located in each program’s Clinical Education Handbook, which is available to students at the MyUSA, Clinical Services tab.

Each student is required to provide a completed Student Medical Record Form to be kept on file by the Clinical Services department by the date provided each term. Failure to submit the Student Medical Record Form will prevent the student’s participation in practicum, internships, fieldwork, and clinical experiences.

Liability Release and Claim Waiver

Students are asked to sign a general Liability Waiver Form on behalf of the University prior to their participation in any athletic or extracurricular event while enrolled as a student. A copy of this form is located on the MyUSA portal, Students tab, Forms link. These forms are maintained in the University’s files for record-keeping purposes.

Student Information and Records Notification of Rights Under FERPA

Student educational records at USAHS are governed by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

FERPA affords eligible students certain rights with respect to their education records. (An “eligible student” under FERPA is a student who is 18 years of age or older or who attends a postsecondary institution.) These rights include the following:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days after the day USAHS receives a request for access. A student should submit to the Registrar, Dean, head of the academic department, or another appropriate official, a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the school official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. A student who wishes to ask the school to amend a record should write the school official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants to be changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested, the school will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to provide written consent before the University discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. The school discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the USAHS in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position; a person serving on the board of directors; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee. A school official also may include a volunteer or contractor outside of USAHS who performs an institutional service or function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent, or a student volunteering to assist another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for USAHS. Additionally, on occasion, USAHS may be asked to supply student PII data as part of general regulatory reporting requirements, including with respect to the student financial aid process and other legal requirements.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by USAHS to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is as follows:

Student Privacy Policy Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-8520

Directory Information

Directory information is information in a student’s education record that may be disclosed to outside organizations without a student’s prior written consent.

FERPA defines “directory information” as follows:

“Directory information” means information contained in an education record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. Directory information includes, but is not limited to, the student’s name; address; telephone listing; electronic mail address; photograph; date and place of birth; major field of study; grade level; enrollment status (e.g., undergraduate or graduate, full-time or part-time); dates of attendance; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; weight and height of members of athletic teams; degrees, honors and awards received; and the most recent educational agency or institution attended. Directory information does not include a student’s social security number or student identification (ID) number (unless certain safeguards are in place).

USAHS currently defines directory information as the following:

• Student Name
• Address
• Telephone numbers
• Email
• Major field(s) of study, degree sought, school/college/department affiliation
• Enrollment status, including academic level (e.g., first-term student), full-time, half-time, or part-time status, and credit load
• Dates of attendance and total cumulative credits
• Expected graduation date/term, and intent to participate in commencement
• University recognized activities (type and date/term participated)
• Photograph
• Degrees, honors, and awards received (type and date/term granted)
• Previously attended educational agencies or institutions

In addition, USAHS has designated date of birth as limited directory information; it may be used only as detailed below:

• Date of birth is only released to official agencies as required for matching student records (e.g., National Student Clearinghouse) or as a validation of positive identification of a student when furnished by a person making an inquiry.

All other information contained in students’ education records is protected, non-directory information. Non-directory information includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Social security number
• Student identification number
• Race/ethnicity
• Academic and disciplinary actions
• Class schedule
• Courses completed
• Grades and grade point average (GPA)

A student has the right to restrict the release of their public directory information by placing a FERPA restriction on that data.

Release of Student Information

USAHS complies with the provisions of Public Law 93-380, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, in reference to student records.

Students must consent to the release of any student information other than directory information to any person or agency. This consent must be in writing, signed, and dated. The consent must specify the information to be released, and the names of the individual or agency to whom the information is to be released. The Registrar’s Office is responsible for fulfilling requests for student information.

Transcripts

To ensure the confidentiality of student records, the University issues official transcripts of academic information only by written or electronic signature from the student or graduate using Parchment, a contract partner with the University. 

The fee for transcript ordering is as follows:

• Electronic: $8.50
• Paper: $10.00

For more information on ordering transcripts, please visit the MyUSA portal, My Info tab, My Transcripts link. Alumni may order transcripts by going to usa.edu/about/alumni/.

Registration

All students in an entry-level program (MOT, OTD, DPT, MS-SLP, and MSPAS) who are clear of registration holds on their account are block registered for regularly scheduled courses according to the program’s plan of study by the Registrar’s Office before each term. Any student not following the planned curriculum should work with his or her advisor and submit an advisor-approved alternative schedule to the Registrar’s Office as early as possible for next term’s registration. Delays in the submission of the alternate schedule may delay financial aid packaging. Additionally, holds preventing registration must be resolved before financial aid can be dispersed.

All post-professional and certificate students (MHA, MHS, MSN, DNP, EdD, tDPT, PPOTD, and Certificate programs) self-register for coursework online. Students must log into the MyUSA portal, Student Services tab, Registrar link, then Post-Professional Registration. From there, students are able to register for coursework with step-by-step instructions. If assistance is required regarding registration, consult the Program Coordinator.

To register for Continuing Education seminars for CEU credit, please go to the Continuing Education website. If assistance is needed, please call 1-800-241-1027 x1400. 

Grade Reports

Grade Posting

In compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), grades are not publicly posted and grades cannot be given out via email or telephone. Students have access to grades online as faculty members make them available.

All grades including course assignments, exams, and other assessments will appear in the online grade book located in the course learning platform. Many grades may be recorded automatically (such as completion of an online examination) and be visible before the instructor has an opportunity to review the assessment; therefore, such grades are subject to revision. Students should consult with their instructor or review the course announcement page for information about any changes that may occur to a grade after posting.

At the time of course completion, the final course grade is transferred to the University’s record system and becomes a permanent part of the student’s transcript.

Accessing Grades

Official final grades are made available electronically to students via the MyUSA portal, My Info tab. Students may access grades, print unofficial transcripts of grades, access/change personal student information, and keep track of all current course information from this secure location. Because the Registrar records official course grades through the MyUSA portal, students should monitor their final course grades in the MyUSA portal rather than solely through the online grade book in the course learning platform.

Grade Changes

The course instructor or the Program Director may initiate grade changes within the first four weeks of the subsequent term. The instructor must first submit the grade change form to the Program Director for initial approval. The Registrar’s Office posts approved grade changes to the student’s official academic record.

A student may appeal a final grade received for a course through the first week of the subsequent term. The request must be made in writing to the course instructor. If the course instructor approves a grade correction, a Grade Change Form must be completed by the instructor and submitted to the respective Program Director. Upon the Program Director’s approval, the Registrar records the corrected grade in the student’s academic record and a revised copy can be viewed by the student on the MyUSA portal, My Info tab.

Students may appeal the instructor’s decision by following the process appealing an individual course grade as outlined in the Academic Evaluation and Appeal Policy .

Leave of Absence Policy

USAHS expects degree-seeking students to maintain continuous registration in an academic program. To accommodate circumstances in which a student requires a break in continuous registration, the University has developed the following Leave of Absence (LOA) policy.

To be considered for a leave of absence, students must submit a signed, dated request for LOA that includes the reason for the LOA and the expected date of return as well as any required documentation; LOA forms are available at MyUSA, Forms. Except in verified cases of emergency, students who fail to submit the required documentation and be approved for an LOA are withdrawn two weeks after the University becomes aware that the student has stopped participating. Students on an LOA must return within 180 days and at the start of a subsequent trimester.

There are four types of LOA:

1. Short-Term Emergency (up to two weeks)
2. Long-Term (full or remainder of the trimester)
3. Military
4. Administrative

Common reasons for a Short-Term Emergency or Long-Term LOAs include the following:

• medical emergency (student or immediate family member)
• bereavement (death of an immediate family member)
• financial hardship (job relocation, job termination, loss of housing)
• military short-term LOA (not to exceed two weeks)

Types of appropriate supporting documentation include the following:

• doctor’s note
• hospital release form
• proof of job relocation
• proof of job termination
• eviction notice
• military orders
• obituary or death certificate

An immediate family member is defined as a spouse, parent, child, sibling, grandparent, grandchild; a spouse’s parent, child, sibling, grandparent, grandchild; and a child’s spouse. Appropriate documentation is defined as official documents supporting or describing the reason for the request and is subject to approval by the University.

Students returning from a medical emergency LOA due to injury or illness must also submit documentation from a medical professional indicating the student is able to return to school.

Short-Term Emergency LOA

Students may request a Short-Term Emergency LOA by contacting their advisor and/or program director. The LOA Form (MyUSA, Forms) should be completed and submitted to the Registrar’s Office as soon as possible to properly account for the student’s absence. If the request is not received within two weeks of the date the student has stopped attending, the student is withdrawn from the University.

Two weeks of emergency leave allows a student to resume their coursework with the support of the faculty and program director. If the leave is taken at the end of a trimester, arrangements acceptable to both parties must be made to complete final exams or remaining coursework prior to the beginning of the subsequent trimester. Students who are unable to complete the exams prior to the beginning of the next trimester are given grades of W and are required to repeat those courses in the next term before progressing in the program.

A Short-Term Emergency LOA request must be accompanied by appropriate documentation of the emergency. Students who do not submit the required documentation will be withdrawn from the program under the Withdrawal Policy.

Long-Term LOA

Students may request a Long-Term LOA (full trimester or the remainder of trimester not to exceed 180 days) by contacting their Advisor and/or Program Director. The LOA form should be completed and submitted to the Registrar’s Office as soon as possible to properly account for the student’s absence. If the request is not received within two weeks of the date the student stops attending, the student is withdrawn from the program under the Withdrawal Policy.

A Long-Term LOA request must be accompanied by appropriate documentation of the need for the LOA and results in a grade of W for all currently enrolled courses. Grades of W that result from an approved LOA will not be calculated in the maximum number of course withdrawals. Students who do not submit the required documentation receive are withdrawn from the program under the Withdrawal Policy.

Students must return to classes at the beginning of a subsequent trimester and must submit a completed Return from LOA Form (MyUSA, Forms) to the Registrar’s Office to activate the student account and register the student for classes. Students who fail to return the following trimester are withdrawn from the University.

Long-Term LOA is not to be used in lieu of the failure of coursework.

Military LOA

Current students called to active military service are required to follow the same procedures for requesting any other LOA. Acceptable supporting documentation for this type of request is military orders. Students who begin Military LOA during a trimester are refunded their tuition for that trimester. A Military LOA may be for the duration of military service and is not limited to the leave time frame set forth in the Short-Term, Long-Term, or Planned Educational LOA guidelines.

Administrative LOA

The University reserves the right to place students on Administrative LOA for reasons such as the inability of the University to secure a clinical site, noncompliance of University policy, or to maintain the health and/or safety of the University community. Students may not request Administrative LOA; it is used solely at the University’s discretion. Students who have any hold that prevents registration (e.g., clinical education hold) and who have not cleared the hold prior to the end of the add/drop period cannot be placed on Administrative LOA and are withdrawn from the program under the Withdrawal Policy.

Students placed on Administrative LOA must return within 180 days and at the start of a subsequent trimester. Students who are unable to return within 180 days are subject to withdrawal from the program. 

General Notice to Students Considering an LOA

• A long-term LOA cannot exceed 180-days in any 12-month period (excluding Military LOA). The 12-month period begins on the first day of the initial LOA. Students requiring an additional break from coursework (within a 180-day period) may want to consider the program withdrawal and reinstatement process. 
• For loan purposes, an LOA is a temporary interruption in a student’s program of study. LOA refers to the specific period during a program when a student is not in attendance. USAHS offers trimester-based programs. A Long-Term LOA taken mid-trimester is considered a withdrawal from the program for Title IV purposes, and the Registrar reports the withdrawal to the NSLDS Clearinghouse.
• All students requesting an LOA are subject to space availability upon return. If a cohort has reached or exceeded its enrollment cap as set forth by accreditors or regulators, the student may be required to wait to return until space is available in the program. The University makes every effort to accommodate a student’s return but cannot guarantee it.
• Students who fail to return from an LOA are withdrawn from the University. The student’s withdrawal date is the date the student began the leave and stopped attending classes.
• Students who are withdrawn or dismissed for failure to return from an LOA may reapply to USAHS as a prospective student.
• The University reserves the right to decline or conditionally approve student’s resumption of classes if he or she is unable to meet the essential functions with reasonable accommodations.
• Upon returning from an LOA, a student who has previously received reasonable accommodations must reapply under the Accessibility and Accommodations  policy to have accommodations reinstated.

Return from LOA

Students must submit the Return from LOA form, which is available on the MyUSA portal, Student Services tab, under Forms. Students returning from a health-related LOA must also submit documentation from a medical professional indicating the student is able to return to school.

Failure to Return from LOA

One possible consequence of not returning from an LOA is that a student’s grace period for a federal and private loan might be exhausted. When a student fails to return from an LOA or a student does not return to the school at the expiration of an approved LOA (or a student takes an unapproved LOA), the student’s enrollment status is considered withdrawal, and for loan deferment purposes, the withdrawal date is considered the date the student began the LOA.

Prior to requesting an LOA of any type, the University strongly encourages students who are currently receiving Title IV funding or who have received it in the past to contact the Office of Financial Aid to fully understand the impact of an LOA on their funding and/or repayment terms.

Scholarship Students

Depending on the specific scholarship guidelines, students on an LOA may have to forfeit their scholarship funds upon their return. Scholarships are not affected for students who are on an LOA.

Students with Private Education Loans

Students with private education loans who request an LOA of any type must consider how it will impact their loan status. Specifically, students should consider how the LOA impacts the grace period for repayment of the loan. Prior to requesting an LOA of any type, the University recommends that students receiving private education loans contact their lender.

Students Receiving Title IV Funds

Students receiving Title IV Funds (Federal Student Loans) should be aware that an LOA from the University may impact their financial aid. A University-approved LOA may not qualify a student for a loan repayment deferral as it relates to federal financial aid. The student must consult with the Office of Financial Aid prior to submitting the LOA request form. Students receiving Title IV funds and considering a Planned Educational LOA or a Long-Term LOA lasting longer than 14 calendar days (two weeks) must be aware of the following:

• The LOA, together with any additional leaves of absence, must not exceed a total of 180 days in any 12-month period. The 12-month period begins on the first day of the initial LOA.
• Title IV students who are withdrawn from the University due to failure to return from an LOA may have affected their student loan repayment terms, including the expiration of the student’s grace period.
• Students approved for an LOA are required to complete exit counseling prior to the beginning of the leave.

International Students

International students must meet with an advisor before submitting an LOA Request Form to ensure compliance with their visa status.

Course Withdrawal

Students requesting to withdraw from a didactic/nonclinical course must submit the Course Withdrawal e-form available on the MyUSA portal, Student Services tab, under Forms.

It is the student’s responsibility to refer to their program handbook and consult with their faculty advisor before withdrawing from a course to determine the availability of a course in subsequent terms and to continue a path to completion. A course withdrawal could significantly impact a student’s time to completion and satisfactory academic progress because some courses are not offered every term, some courses are a required prerequisite for subsequent courses in the program, and some courses are subject to space availability. Additionally, certain programs consider a course withdrawal without an approved leave of absence as withdrawal from the program, which could require the student to reapply and/or restart the program.

Students must also contact the Financial Aid Office  and should refer to the Financial Aid Terms and Conditions located at https://www.usa.edu/admissions-aid/financial-aid/ when withdrawing from a course to assess the impact to the student’s financial aid. Students should also see Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)  for important details regarding course withdrawals.

Students may not continue to attend in-person or online class sessions after withdrawing from the course.

Course Withdrawal Timelines

Students may drop a course within the first seven (7) days of each term (see Refund Policy ). If a student drops a course via written request within the first seven days of the term (the add/drop period), the course is not subject to tuition or fees and does not appear on the student’s transcript.

After the add/drop period, the withdrawal period starts. All course withdrawals submitted after the end of the add/drop period (first seven days of the term) are subject to tuition and fees and the corresponding refund policy and appear on the transcript as a course withdrawal. 

The deadline for the withdrawal period varies depending on the length of the course. The withdrawal deadline for a 15-week course is the third week before the last day of regularly scheduled classes (not including finals). Courses offered in an abbreviated format have a withdrawal deadline that reasonably equates to the same percentage of completion as a full-term course. Students should refer to the 2023-2024 Academic Calendar  for the date of the withdrawal deadline in 15-week courses and refer to the course syllabus for the withdrawal deadline in courses that are less than 15 weeks.

Course Withdrawal Limits

• All students are allowed only one withdrawal from any single course regardless of program.
• Entry-level degree programs: Students are limited to two withdrawals in total throughout the duration of the program.
• Post-professional degree programs: Students are limited to three withdrawals in total throughout the duration of the program.
• Certificate programs requiring 23 or fewer credits for completion: Students are limited to one course withdrawal in total throughout the duration of the program.
• Certificate programs requiring 24 or more credit hours for completion: Students are limited to two course withdrawals in total throughout the duration of the program.
• Course withdrawals resulting from an officially approved leave of absence are excluded from maximum withdrawal limits.

The Registrar’s Office notifies students when they reach the maximum withdrawal limit for the program. Students with extenuating circumstances may request an exception to the withdrawal limit, which must be approved by the Dean/Associate Dean and Program Director prior to the student initiating the withdrawal. Students who exceed the course withdrawal limit are dismissed from their program.

Clinical Course Withdrawal

Students cannot cancel or withdraw from a clinical experience, practicum, or fieldwork once the course has started; exceptions may be permitted upon approval from the program director.

Iowa Residents

Students should refer to the Iowa Refund Policy  for specific information regarding the add/drop period and refund policy for students residing and receiving instruction in Iowa.

Program Withdrawal

Students wishing to withdraw from a program should consult first with their program director and faculty advisor (or student success advisor only when a faculty advisor is not assigned to the student). Students who decide to withdraw from a program must submit the Program Withdrawal e-form available in the MyUSA portal, Student Services tab, under Forms. 

Students may not continue to attend in-person or online class sessions for any course after withdrawing from the program. The student is responsible for all tuition and fees for the current trimester. Students who withdraw from a program prior to the course withdrawal deadline receive a W grade on their transcripts for all enrolled courses in that term. Students who withdraw from a program after the last date to withdraw from a course are assigned final grades earned with all incomplete work calculated as a zero at time of withdrawal.

Students who wish to change programs or campus locations rather than withdraw from the University entirely should refer to the Program/Specialty Change and Location Change policy.

Program/Specialty Change and Location Change

All program change requests are considered on an individual basis and are contingent on space availability.

Incoming Students–Program Change

Incoming (new) students who want to request a change of their admission to another degree program must make a request in writing (email is acceptable) to the Director of Admissions at least six weeks prior to the start of the trimester. To be considered, the student must have successfully completed all the required prerequisites for the program to which he or she is requesting to change. The Director of Admissions notifies the student via email of the outcome of the request. Note: The start and completion dates may be extended for students who change degree programs.

First Term and Beyond Students–Program Change

Program Change Request Forms (MyUSA, Forms) must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office (registrar@usa.edu) by midterm of the trimester prior to the effective date of the program change. Program change requests not received by the midterm deadline are considered during the subsequent trimester. To be considered, the student must have successfully completed all the required prerequisites for the program to which he or she is requesting to change.

In order to be considered for a program change, a student must be in good academic standing at the time of the request; program change requests are not considered from students who are currently remediating or retaking coursework, who are under review for appeal or professional misconduct, or who are on academic probation. Program change requests from students who are on an approved leave of absence may be considered if all other criteria are met. Note: Program completion dates may be extended as a result of a program change. Students are required to sign and return a new Enrollment Agreement prior to beginning the new program.

MOT/OTD Students–Program Change

Students who enter USAHS in the MOT program and wish to transfer to the OTD program must consult with their advisor and their Program Director regarding the opportunities for this change at which time the following criteria are considered: 

• Availability of a seat in the OTD program as determined by the program director.
• Students must have completed a statistics course as a prerequisite.
• Students must be in good academic standing.

Students who enter USAHS in the OTD program and wish to transfer to the MOT program must consult with their advisor and their Program Director regarding the opportunities for this change at which time the following criteria are considered.

• Availability of a seat in the MOT program as determined by the program director.
• Students must be in good academic standing.

If it is determined that there is availability in the requested program, a Program Change Form must be completed by the student and submitted to the registrar no later than midterm of Term 1 of the Residential curriculum and Term 3 of the Flex curriculum. The deadline for submitting the request is determined by the curriculum sequencing of each program.

Requests for an exception to this policy can be made by appeal to the Associate Dean of Occupational Therapy. 

Post-Professional Specialty Track Change

Post-Professional Specialty Track Change Forms (MyUSA, Forms) must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office (registrar@usa.edu) by midterm of the trimester prior to the effective date of the specialty track change. Specialty change requests not received by the midterm deadline may be considered during the subsequent trimester. To be considered, the student must have successfully completed all required prerequisites for the specialty to which he or she is requesting to change.

To be considered for a specialty change, a student must be in good academic standing at the time of the request. Specialty change requests are not considered from students who are currently remediating or retaking coursework, who are under review for appeal or professional misconduct, or who are on academic probation. Specialty change requests from students who are on an approved leave of absence are considered. Note: Program completion dates may be extended for students who change specialties. Students are required to sign and return a new Enrollment Agreement prior to beginning the new specialty.

Location Change

Students who wish to change to another campus location to complete their program must submit a Campus Location Change Request Form (MyUSA, Forms) to the Registrar’s Office (registrar@usa.edu) by midterm of the trimester prior to the requested change. Such requests are considered on an individual basis and are contingent on space availability and the student must be in good academic standing. Campus location changes are not considered from students who are currently remediating or retaking coursework, who are under review for an appeal or professional misconduct, or who are on academic probation. The student is notified of the outcome of the location change request via email from the Registrar’s Office. Note: Program completion dates may be extended for students who change campus locations. Students are required to sign and return a new Enrollment Agreement prior to beginning at the new location.

Campus Exchange Program (MOT, DPT, MS-SLP)

Students who wish to study at a USAHS campus other than their home campus for one trimester may apply to do so provided their program is available at another campus and they meet qualifications described below.

A student who wishes to exchange must meet the following criteria:

• A student must be in good academic standing.
• A student must not have any misconduct issues in his or her record.
• A student must receive his or her Program Director’s approval.
• A DPT student must be willing to exchange in Term 3, 4, or 6 (due to clinical experiences, scheduling, graduation, and other factors). Flex DPT students should consult with the Associate Program Director to discuss options.
• An MOT student must be willing to exchange in Term 3 or 4 (due to fieldwork experiences, scheduling, graduation, and other factors). Flex MOT students do not currently have this opportunity unless they are requesting a transfer to a campus-based program.
• A student must provide travel and lodging arrangements. (Students may want to visit housing.usa.edu or contact their new campus’ student association leaders to see which students may have room occupancies available due to internships or other factors.)

A student who believes he or she meets the criteria must complete the following process in order to become an exchange student:

1. Fill out the Campus Exchange Application found on the MyUSA portal, Student Services tab, Forms link.
2. Submit the completed application (and application fee) to the student’s home campus Program Director no later than the end of the fourth week of the trimester preceding the trimester the student wishes to exchange.
3. Await Program Director’s approval (students should note that although they meet the criteria, they may not be approved due to classroom seat availability or other factors).

For students who participate in an exchange, the following apply:

• If a student receives a grade while on the exchange that requires repeating a course, the student is expected to repeat the course at his or her home campus in the following trimester.
• A temporary advisor on the host campus is assigned to MOT/DPT exchange students during the exchange trimester. MS-SLP students retain their assigned advisor.
• Academic progression for the student occurs on the host campus on which the student exchanges for the trimester the student is on that campus.
• Professional misconduct issues are handled on the campus at which the incident took place.
• The appeal process is handled through the student’s home campus appeals committee.
• Tuition remains at the home campus rate.

At this time the Campus Exchange Program is not available to OTD and MSPAS students.

Enrollment Certifications

National Student Clearinghouse is the University’s authorized agent for providing enrollment verifications through its Student Self-Service program. Students can print enrollment verification certificates free of charge through the MyUSA portal, My Info tab, under My Verification, which provides a link to Clearinghouse Self-Service.

Transferability of Course Credit

NOTICE CONCERNING TRANSFERABILITY OF CREDITS AND CREDENTIALS EARNED AT THIS INSTITUTION: The transferability of credits students earn at USAHS is at the complete discretion of an institution to which a student may seek to transfer. Acceptance of the degree earned at USAHS is also at the complete discretion of the institution to which the student may seek to transfer. If the degree earned at this institution is not accepted at the institution to which the student seeks to transfer, the student may be required to repeat some or all of his or her coursework at that institution. For this reason, students should make certain that their attendance at this institution will meet their educational goals. This may include contacting an institution to which a student may seek to transfer after attending USAHS to determine if the degree will transfer. The University actively pursues a policy of requesting other graduate programs to accept our credits for transfer. However, the University has not entered into an articulation or transfer agreement with any other college or university.

Washington State Residents

The transferability of credits earned at University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences is at the discretion of the receiving college, university, or other educational institution. Students considering transferring to any institution should not assume that credits earned in any program of study at USAHS will be accepted by the receiving institution. Similarly, the ability of a degree, certificate, diploma, or other academic credential earned at USAHS to satisfy an admission requirement of another institution is at the discretion of the receiving institution. Accreditation does not guarantee credentials or credits earned at USAHS will be accepted by or transferred to another institution. To minimize the risk of having to repeat coursework, students should contact the receiving institution in advance for evaluation and determination of transferability of credits and/or acceptability of degrees, diplomas, or certificates earned.

Commencement Ceremony and Graduation (Degree Conferral)

Commencement refers to the celebratory event, officiated by University leadership, where students who have completed their degree requirements share in the excitement and importance of their academic accomplishments with peers, family, friends, and members of the campus community. Graduation is synonymous with degree conferral and involves a multistep process that consists of (1) the student applying for graduation, (2) University personnel confirming that the student has satisfied all degree requirements and securing graduation approval through relevant internal governance structures, and (3) the Registrar’s Office posting the degree conferral date to the student’s official record.

Graduation Application and Commencement Participation Eligibility

Students submit applications for graduation in the term in which the student anticipates completing all degree requirements. All applications must be submitted during the application period. All commencement related information, including the graduation application form and deadline is available to students at MyUSA, Student Services tab, Graduation link. Students who miss the deadline should contact their academic department to determine eligibility and request a late submission. Students who submit a late application risk not being included in important graduation communications and the commencement ceremony. 

Students who have successfully completed the program requirements are eligible to participate in commencement. Students who are unable to successfully complete one of the final courses but have successfully met all other degree requirements may be allowed to participate in commencement with their respective cohort class.

Graduation Honors

The University recognizes the scholastic achievement of graduates by awarding honors/high honors designations, which are posted to the students’ transcript and diploma when all final grades are received, final cumulative grade point averages (GPA) are calculated, and degree requirements conferred. Cumulative GPAs are calculated to the second decimal and are not rounded. 

Because commencement ceremonies frequently occur prior to the official conferral of the degree, it is the operational practice of the University to allow graduates to wear honor cords at the commencement ceremony based on their cumulative GPA calculated in the second to last trimester of coursework. In instances when official final cumulative GPA calculations change a student’s designation to a higher honor, the appropriate cordage is mailed to the student with their diploma. An honors designation is given to students who earn a cumulative GPA of 3.50–3.64. High honors designation is given to students who earn a cumulative GPA of 3.65–4.0.

Degree Conferral

Degree conferral is an administrative process that is completed within two weeks of commencement ceremonies. In most cases, the degree conferral date is the last day of each trimester; however, a degree is conferred only after the student meets all program requirements. Students who are unable to successfully complete one of the final courses have a degree conferral date based on when they complete all coursework. If a student completes pending coursework by the conclusion of the add/drop period in the immediate subsequent trimester, the student’s degree conferral date on the diploma and transcript reflects the actual date of course completion as reported by the instructor during final grade submission. When a student completes the coursework after the add/drop deadline in the trimester immediately following the student’s originally anticipated final term of enrollment, the degree conferral date coincides with the next graduating cohort, which is the last day of the respective trimester.

Diplomas for New Graduates (Digital and Printed)

When the University posts a graduate’s degree conferral date to their official record, Parchment (USAHS’ third-party diploma provider) issues a digital and printed diploma to the graduate. The physical/printed diploma is mailed to the student’s last known address according to University records. A digital diploma is delivered to the graduate’s USAHS email address. A digital diploma is a true and official diploma, which is secure and comes with Parchment’s Blue-Ribbon seal. The digital diploma is available to graduates quickly and is always accessible for download at no cost through the graduate’s Parchment Credential Profile. More information is available at Parchment. 

Awards

College of Rehabilitative Sciences

Outstanding OT, PT, SLP Student Awards

The MOT, OTD, DPT, and SLP programs recognize an outstanding student of the respective graduating class. This award is based on the criteria listed below and is given to the graduating student whose characteristics most support the OT, PT, or SLP program mission statement. 

Outstanding Student Awards Criteria

Stanley V. Paris and Catherine E. Patla Award

The Paris and Patla Award is presented to a DPT graduate in recognition of excellence in spinal and extremity manual therapy in professional physical therapy education.

Scholastic Achievement Award

The Scholastic Achievement Award is presented to the PT, OT, and SLP graduate who has achieved the highest cumulative GPA. Grades from both foundational science courses and professional courses are included in the cumulative grade point computation.

Post-Professional Awards

Excellence in Scholarship Award

The Excellence in Scholarship award is granted to a graduating student whose culminating project demonstrates excellence in the scholarly areas of discovery, integration, application, and teaching.

Excellence in Interprofessional Collaboration Award

The Excellence in Interprofessional Collaboration award is granted to a graduating student whose performance across the program, including in the classroom, the healthcare setting, and the professional community, demonstrates excellence in interprofessional collaboration.

Excellence in Dissertation Research Award

The Excellence in Dissertation Research Award is granted to a graduating student whose dissertation demonstrates excellence in one of the following areas of scholarship: discovery, integration, or application.

Other Awards

Patricia King Alumni Award for Professional Excellence

The Patricia King Alumni Award is presented to an alumnus of the University’s Post-Professional programs in recognition of commitment to professional development and achievement in the advancement of clinical practice.

Recognition for the Residency in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy

The University’s Residency in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy is credentialed by the American Physical Therapy Association. This postgraduate program includes a minimum of one year of clinical mentoring as well as didactic learning.

Recognition for the Fellowship in Manual Physical Therapy

The University’s Fellowship in Manual Physical Therapy is credentialed by the American Physical Therapy Association and recognized by the American Academy of Manual Physical Therapists. This postgraduate program includes a minimum of one year of clinical mentoring as well as didactic learning.

Replacement Diploma

All replacement diplomas are printed in the current format with the current signatures. Each replacement diploma has “Duplicate” printed in small print on the bottom to discern it from the original.

For more information on ordering a replacement diploma, please visit the MyUSA portal, My Info tab, My Transcripts link to locate the information for purchasing a replacement diploma via Parchment. Alumni may order a replacement diploma by going to usa.edu/about/alumni/.

The cost for a replacement diploma is $30.00 plus shipping.

Licensure Forms

The Registrar’s Office completes all forms required for state licensure for new graduates and alumni at no cost. Form requests may be emailed to registrar@usa.edu or mailed to USAHS Registrar, 1 University Blvd. St. Augustine, FL 32086.