Thomas Jefferson University and Penn State Abington
Sign 3+3 Physical Therapy Transfer Agreement

Philadelphia, PA, June 13, 2003 - Thomas Jefferson University has entered into a program agreement with Penn State Abington enabling students to earn both the Bachelor of Science (BS) and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degrees in six years after graduation from high school. Students will spend the first three years at Penn State Abington and then proceed to Jefferson College of Health Professions, Thomas Jefferson University for the final three years of graduate physical therapy coursework. The BS in Science with the Life Science Option from Penn State Abington will be awarded after successful completion of the first year at Jefferson College of Health Professions. The DPT degree from Thomas Jefferson University will be awarded after successful completion of the third year at JCHP.

Over the years, Jefferson College of Health Professions has worked closely with Penn State Abington to enable their students to complete bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees without leaving the Philadelphia area. Starting this September, Penn State students who meet the requirements will be eligible, on a space-available basis, for a seamless transition into the Jefferson DPT program. Other joint programs include the 2+2 (BS) in specialized sciences (nursing, bioscience technologies, diagnostic imaging), the 2 + 3 (BS/MS) in occupational therapy and the 3 + 2 in biotechnology, cytotechnology or medical technology (BS/MS).

According to Karen Wiley Sandler, PhD, dean at Penn State Abington, "Penn State Abington is proud to partner with Thomas Jefferson University to provide an outstanding opportunity for future physical therapists. This partnership exemplifies the advantages to our region of collaboration between two leading Philadelphia institutions."

For more information about the articulation and transfer agreements, contact director of admissions at JCHP, karen.jacobs@jefferson.edu 215 503-1040 or director of enrollment management at Penn State Abington, Dr. Bob McCaig, rdm1@psu.edu 215-881-7600.

Jefferson College of Health Professions, founded in 1969 and located in the heart of Philadelphia, provides academic programs to a highly qualified, culturally diverse student population with the primary goal of developing outstanding professionals and future leaders in healthcare. The College offers fully accredited bachelor's and master's degree programs in diagnostic imaging, bioscience technologies, nursing, occupational therapy and physical therapy. In addition, selected health certificate programs are offered and associate degrees in arts and sciences can be earned through the Department of General Studies.

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