91AV

Graduate Catalog

Graduate Catalog uneadmin

Financial Information for Graduate Programs

Financial Information for Graduate Programs uneadmin

Graduate Tuition and Fee Rates (2018-2019 fees are subject to change)

Athletic Training (Master of Science)

General Services Fee (semester, non-refundable)

$225
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (per credit hour) $880
Program Fee (semester, non-refundable) TBD
Malpractice Insurance Fee (annual, non-refundable) $65

Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Educational Leadership

General Services Fee (semester, non-refundable) $55
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (per credit hour) $560

Doctorate in Education

General Services Fee (semester, non-refundable) $55
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (per credit hour) $890

Health Informatics (Master of Science or Graduate Certificate)

General Services Fee (semester, non-refundable)

$55
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (per credit hour) $710

Master of Science: Applied Nutrition

General Services Fee (semester, non-refundable)

$55
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (per credit hour) $710

Master of Science:  Biological Sciences & Marine Sciences

Application Fee  (non-refundable) $40
General Services Fee (semester, non-refundable) $340
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (Academic year) $34,350

Master of Science in Education - On-line Instruction

General Services Fee (semester, non-refundable) $55
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (per credit hour)

$560

Nurse Anesthesia (Master of Science)

Application Fee (non-refundable) $40
General Services Fee (semester, nonrefundable) $225
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (per credit hour) $1,350
Malpractice Insurance Fee (annual, non-refundable) $80
Program Fee (semester, non-refundable) $338

Occupational Therapy (Master of Science)

General Services Fee (semester, non-refundable) $225
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (Academic Year) $36,570
Program Fee (semester, non-refundable) $114
Malpractice Insurance Fee (annual, non-refundable) $75

Physician Assistant (Master of Science)

General Services Fee (semester, non-refundable) $225
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (Academic year) $43,960
Program Fee (semester, non-refundable) $1,053
Malpractice Insurance Fee (annual, first and second years, non-refundable) $240

Physical Therapy (Doctor of Physical Therapy)

General Services Fee Yr. 1 (semester, non-refundable) $340
General Services Fee Yrs. 2-3 (semester, non-refundable) $225
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (Fall and Spring combined) $34,140
Tuition (Summer) $8,830
Malpractice Insurance Fee (non-refundable) $75

Public Health (Master of Public Health or Graduate Certificate)

General Services Fee (semester, non-refundable) $55
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (per credit hour) $710
Registration Fee (nonmatriculated students per semester) $25

Social Work (Master of Social Work)

Application Fee (on-campus, non-refundable) $40
General Services Fee (on-campus, semester, non-refundable) $340

General Services Fee (online, semester, non-refundable)

$55
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90
Tuition (per credit hour) $920
Malpractice Insurance Fee (annual, non-refundable)  $50

Teacher Certification Program (TCP)

Application Fee (non-refundable)

$40

General Services Fee (one time, non-refundable)

$145
Parking Permit Fee (Resident) $300
Parking Permit Fee (Commuter) $90

Tuition (per credit hour)

$670

Explanation of Fees

Student Malpractice Insurance

A group insurance policy is purchased and provided by the 91AV for those students involved in clinical training rotations in the amount of $1,000,000/$3,000,000.

General Services Fee

This mandatory fee is billed to graduate students and provides the following services.

  1. Graduation activities including cost of banquet, speakers, and diplomas.
  2. Student Senate (Government) activities including support for clubs, programs, cultural events, etc.
  3. Orientation activities.
  4. Student Health Services providing high quality health care services.
  5. Finley Center gymnasium.
  6. Access to Biddeford Campus facilities, including: Harold Alfond Forum, Campus Center, Library, Bookstore.
  7. Athletic events including intramural programs and all intercollegiate home games.
  8. Transcripts available at no charge.

Health Insurance

Graduate students are required to enroll in 91AV's Student Medical Insurance Plan unless proof of comparable insurance can be demonstrated. Please refer to the health insurance brochure for additional information.

Parking Fee

Students, Faculty and Staff wishing to park a vehicle on campus must purchase a parking permit from www.thepermitstore.com. Enter your destination as 91AV.  Permit prices vary. Failure to register a vehicle will result in a fine and having your vehicle towed from campus.

Payment Options

Students may pay the college charges as they fall due each semester or in accordance with 91AV's Monthly Payment Plan offered through Tuitionpay. They may also arrange to pay the total due by using a mixture of these payment arrangements.

The payment dates in the 91AV sponsored payment plans cannot be deferred for the convenience of students using student loans, or other tuition payment programs. Both long and short-term financial arrangements should be made far enough in advance to assure payment on the required dates. Special problems or emergency situations can be discussed with the Student Financial Services Center at any time.

Option I: Payment by Semester

Approximately six weeks prior to the start of a semester, bills will be sent for the tuition, room and board, and fees. Payment of this bill is due by the start of the semester. The payment due is the total of all the semester charges less any previous payments or financial aid credits.

Option II: Monthly Payment Plans

The Ten-Pay Payment Plan spreads the full year charges over ten months beginning June 1st. This plan is offered through Tuitionpay and is designed to relieve the pressure of “lump sum” payments by spreading the cost over 10 months. There is an application fee. There are no interest charges.

In addition to these options for payment, 91AV accepts MasterCard, VISA, and Discover.

Applicants are urged to apply by May 15th. Applications made after the start of the program (June 1st) must be accompanied by an initial payment sufficient to become current with the regular 10-month payment schedule. Applications for the 10-month plan will not be accepted after September 15th.

Late Payment Charge

The balance due each semester will be considered overdue if not paid by the specified date, and any unpaid balance will be subject to a late charge of 12% per annum or 1% per month. Students with unpaid bills will not be able to register for courses or be placed on the official school roster nor can they attend classes until they have received clearance from the Student Financial Services Center.  Students with overdue accounts are not eligible for academic credit, transcripts, or degrees.

Course Withdrawal Tuition Refund Policy

Course changes for matriculated students are allowed during the add/drop period during the fall and spring semesters.  After the add/drop period, no refunds are made for course withdrawals.

University Withdrawal

Matriculated students who intend to withdraw from the University must complete official forms available from the program director, Student Affairs Office, or Registration Services on either campus. Documentation must be signed by the appropriate academic dean. Student responsibilities include: a) knowledge of the University's policies regarding refund of tuition and/or fees as stated in this catalog; b) return of University identification (ID) card to the Office of Student Affairs; c) return of any University keys to the appropriate departments. The University reserves the right to withhold the issuance of refunds and transcripts until the process has been completed. Following withdrawal, any student wishing to re-enroll at the 91AV must apply through the Office of Admissions.

For purposes of computing refunds, the date of withdrawal recorded by the academic dean's office upon receipt of the withdrawal notice from the student, shall be considered official and will be used to compute refunds, if any, due to the student.

Tuition refunds for matriculated students leaving the University during a semester will be made as follows: 
  Fall\Spring\Summer Refunds 
  During first two weeks - 80%
  During third week - 60%
  During fourth week - 40%
  Over four weeks - No refunds
     
  Short-Term and Online (except MD and WI) Courses (3-10 weeks) 

  Before second class - 100% 
  During first week - 40%
  During second week - 20%
  Over two weeks - No refunds 

Loan/Grant/Scholarship Adjustments

Adjustments to scholarships, grants, and loan programs will be made in accordance with respective program regulations and University policy before a refund to the student is calculated. In cases where a refund may be due and the student has received funds through the Guaranteed Student Loan Program, it is our policy to refund those funds directly to the bank which made the loan. Refunds will not be made in the case of absence, dismissal, or suspension.

Other Fees

After registration there shall be no refund of fees.

Refunds for Maryland Residents

MARYLAND

91AV's Refund Policy follows the Federal Return of Title IV Aid Refund Policy for Maryland residents. If a student withdraws from 91AV prior to the 60% point in the semester (based on calendar days from the first day of the semester through the last scheduled day of the semester), eligible charges due or paid will be refunded on a pro rata basis within 40 days of termination date. Some fees are non-refundable, and therefore, not pro-rated. Fees not refunded are: General Service (one-time fee), Application (one-time fee), and Technology (charged each semester fee). Financial aid awarded (if any) will be returned to the federal, state, and 91AV programs on a pro rata basis. Outside scholarship or non-federal loan assistance will not be returned unless specifically requested by the provider.  After the 60 percent point in the semester, financial aid will not be reduced for any withdrawal, nor will any refund be granted. This policy applies to all university withdrawals whether student initiated or administrative withdrawals.  Students should note that withdrawal may or may not result in an actual refund of money to the student. Circumstances may occur in which the student still owes money to the University even after appropriate withdrawal credit.

MARYLAND STUDENTS - PROPORTION OF TOTAL COURSE, PROGRAM OR TERM COMPLETED AS OF WITHDRAWAL OR TERMINATION DATE

TUITION REFUND

Less than 10%

90%

10% up to but not including 20%

80%

20% up to but not including 30%

60%

30% up to but not including 40%

40%

40% up to but not including 60%

20%

more than 60%

No Refund

Contact Student Financial Services with specific questions.

 

Important Notes

  1. Students should expect annual increases in the cost of attending 91AV since the University is subject to the same inflationary pressures that affect the rest of society.
  2. The Board of Trustees, however, reserves the right to make changes in tuition and fees at any time.
  3. For their own protection while at the University, it is recommended that students carry their own local checking accounts to provide funds for incidental expenses and emergencies. People's United Bank, which is our preferred bank, provides a full-service ATM machine located in the Campus Center and in the Alfond Forum on the Biddeford Campus, and in the breezeway between Proctor and Hersey Halls on the Portland College Campus.  For those students who have People's United Bank checking accounts, ATM transactions are free of charge. Checks may also be cashed daily ($75 maximum) at the Student Accounts Office on the Biddeford Campus. 
  4. The University offers direct deposit to its students. Students with credit balances can have the excess funds directly deposited in the bank of their choice. The sign-up form is available on the Web. 
  5. The University will not be responsible for the loss of property on or off campus although it strives to safeguard students' property on campus.
  6. Students are expected to pay for textbooks at the beginning of the semester. Books, supplies, and other items available at the University Bookstore may be paid for with cash, check, Master Card, VISA, and Discover.
  7. A student in the military reserves will be granted a full leave of absence tuition credit should the student be called to active duty while attending courses during any given semester.

Student Enrollment Status

Student Enrollment Status uneadmin

The 91AV classifies student credit load status for the purposes of financial aid loan deferments.  The following table applies credit hour enrollment to full time, 3/4 time, and half time status.

Program

Classification

Credits       

Graduate/ First Professional / Doctoral Programs

Full Time

Half Time

6.0 or more

3.0 - 5.9

Graduate Level Certification Programs

Full Time

Half Time

6.0

3.0

EDD & GMAR/GBIO (Thesis Course Only) Full Time 1.0 or more

Master of Science Nurse Anesthesia

Full Time Only

Full Time Only

Academic Policy and Regulations

Academic Policy and Regulations uneadmin

Petition to Graduate and Receipt of Diploma

In the last year of enrollment, students who anticipate completion of all degree requirements must submit an online petition to graduate. The Petition to Graduate form is available via the "Apply to Graduate" link in UOnline. The completed form sets into motion all final processing towards: verification of the degree completion, correct spelling of name on the diploma, correct mailing address, and indication of plans to participate in the commencement ceremony.

If a mailing address should change after submission of the form, the student is responsible for notifying the Registrar's office of a new address. It is the goal of the office to verify/post degree completions and mail out diplomas within six to eight weeks of a student's completion of studies.

Commencement is held at the end of each spring semester (usually May) and students who successfully complete all degree requirements per academic policy are considered to be in the "Class of...[that particular year]." Student names must be approved, on recommendation of the faculty, by the Board of Trustees prior to being authorized a degree and diploma from the 91AV.

Under some circumstances, verification of degree completion may be possible for students who complete all of their degree requirements prior to the end of the semester. Requests of degree completion letters should be made to the Office of the University Registrar.

 Guidelines for submission of the petition to graduate form are as follows:

IF GRADUATION IS ANTICIPATED BY THE END OF: SUBMIT THE PETITION TO GRADUATE BY:
Summer Semester June 30th
Fall Semester September 30th
Spring Semester January 30th

The degree awarded date will correspond to the term where the last course requirement was completed and graded.  The exception is where one or more courses are completed late (after the end of the term in which the course was provided).  In the case of late completion of course requirements (e.g due to an "Incomplete" grade), the degree will be awarded in the current term (in progress) when the final course requirements are completed. This practice is consistent with graduation reporting to external sources.  Further information regarding graduation procedures can be obtained through the Office of the University Registrar.

Federal Definition of the Credit Hour 

Federal regulation defines a credit hour as an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutional established equivalence that reasonably approximates not less than 

  1. One hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out of class student work each week for approximately fifteen weeks for one semester or trimester.
  2. At least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph (1) of this definition for other academic activities as established by the institution including laboratory work, internships, practical, studio work, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours.

Registration and Enrollment Confirmation

Students matriculated in any undergraduate program must be pre-approved to register for courses, or change course registration, through their advisor.  First-time students will be registered by the Registrar's office staff and will go through a new student orientation where they receive their course schedule. Returning students can preregister for courses at dates established in the University's Academic Calendar.

Course registration must be confirmed through Registrar's office. This is accomplished only after matriculated students have cleared all other offices on campus, i.e., Student Accounts, Financial Aid, Health Center, Security, or other offices through which arrangements must be made in order to become fully enrolled at the University. All students must confirm their enrollment at the beginning of each semester within certain time lines by methods identified by Registrar's office. Instructions regarding enrollment confirmation are e-mailed to each student. 

Course changes are allowed during a designated add/drop period only, as specified on the current academic calendar. Detailed instructions as well as designated time lines regarding the add/drop process are e-mailed to each student. Tuition and/or financial aid may be adjusted, depending on number of credit hours enrolled.

Reinstatement

Reinstatement to the University after a Leave of Absence will require written communication from the student's official 91AV Email stating they wish to be reinstated as a student for a given term.  In some cases, if leave exceeds allotted leave time, the student will need to contact Admissions to complete a re-admission application.  If a re-admission application is required, this will change the student's catalog year and possibly their degree requirements.

Class Attendance

All students are expected to attend all classes for which they have registered. Attendance policies regarding unexcused absences are established and announced by the individual instructor for his/her classes. If a student is absent to the extent that his/her work is adversely affected, the instructor will report the student's absence to the department chair/program director with comments on the status of the student in the course. Ordinarily, for each course, absences per semester should not exceed the number of times that the course meets weekly.

Whenever a student is specifically reported in writing by an instructor to the department chair/program director as being excessively absent from class, the instructor, with the approval of the department chair/program director, may drop the student from that course with an appropriate grade.

When a student misses class for any religious observances, it is an excused absence. The student should not suffer any academic penalty because of this absence. Before the absence, the student is responsible for initiating collaboration with faculty to arrange to obtain all information contained in each missed class. The student must plan, at the discretion of the faculty member, to take any missed exam either prior to or following the scheduled exam time. All assignments must be handed in on time.

Athletic Competition and Class Attendance

When an athlete misses class for a scheduled varsity intercollegiate competition, it is an excused absence. The student athlete should not suffer any academic penalty because of this absence. This policy does not apply to students on clinical rotations.

When such absences occur, the student athlete is responsible for initiating collaboration with faculty and making arrangements to obtain all information and/or training contained in each missed class. The athlete must make arrangements to take exams scheduled for a day of absence early or late, at the instructor's preference. All assignments must be handed in on time.

Faculty are not required to remediate student athletes as a result of these absences.

Incomplete Policy

An incomplete (I) grade notation may be given by the instructor to a student who is doing passing work in a course, but who, for reasons beyond his/her control, is not able to complete the work on time. The I grade notation must be changed within the time limit determined by the instructor and may not extend beyond six weeks following the end of the semester or 30 days following the end of an eight-week session. Until changed, the I grade notation defers computation of credits and grade points for the course to which it is assigned. Failure to complete the work before the limitation date, or within the time imposed by the instructor, results in the assignment of an administrative *F grade for the course. Some programs have established more restrictive or differing policy regarding incomplete grades. Students should consult the program in which they are enrolled for exceptions to this policy. Once an I grade notation is removed, academic standing will be updated according to  good standing or probationary standards. If one or more courses are completed late (after the end of the term in which the course was provided due to an "I" grade), then the degree awarded date (if applicable) will be posted in the current term (in progress) when the final course requirements are completed. This practice is consistent with graduation reporting to external sources.  Students receiving Incompletes are not eligible for Dean's List.

Course Withdrawal Policy*

In the fall and spring semesters, a student may withdraw from a course without academic penalty with a grade of W at any time during the first two-thirds of the semester as specified in the current academic calendar. If withdrawal occurs after that date, the grade of WP (withdrew passing) or WF (withdrew failing) will be entered. The grade of WF is computed in the grade point average.

*A Withdrawal from a course(s) at any point after the Add/Drop period will be reported to the National Student Clearinghouse.  A withdrawal which changes a student’s enrollment status could impact re-payment of loans/deferment of loans.

 

Leave of Absence Policy

A leave of absence for a specified period of time, not to exceed one (1) academic year, may be granted to a matriculated student with the authorization of the academic dean, program/school director or designate and upon completion of the required Request for Leave of Absence form available from the respective program/school director, Student Affairs, Registrar's office or online.  A student who is on an approved leave of absence has the status "active/not enrolled" and may not may enroll in courses for credit at another institution. Application for readmission is not necessary if the student returns as planned; however, the student who does not return at the specified time will be administratively withdrawn and will be subject to readmission procedures. A student returning from a leave of absence should contact the Registrar's Office well in advance of  returning semester so that status changes are made allowing the student to access courses. Policy on leave of absence tuition credit is found in respective Financial Information sections of this catalog. Students with Financial Aid should meet with a Financial Aid representative prior to completing leave of absence paperwork.

Note: It is the responsibility of the student to contact the office of the appropriate academic dean or program/school director (graduate) or Registrar (undergraduate) to indicate change of plans.

University Withdrawal

All matriculated students who wish to withdraw from the University must complete notification documentation available .  Documentation must be signed by designated academic and administrative authorities. Student responsibilities include: (a) knowledge of the University's policies regarding refund of tuition and/or fees as stated in your respective catalog; (b) return of University identification (ID) card to the Office of Student Affairs; (c) return of any University keys in your possession to the appropriate departments. The University reserves the right to withhold the issuance of refunds and transcripts until the process has been completed. Following withdrawal, any student wishing to re-enroll at the 91AV must apply through the Office of Admissions.

Repeat Course Policy

A student may repeat a course in order to improve his/her grade. However, only the second or last course taken will receive credit on the student's transcript, and only the second or last grade received will calculate into the cumulative GPA.

Course Work at Another Institution

Matriculated students who wish to transfer college-level course work taken at other institutions must obtain permission to do so prior to enrolling in the course at another institution. The student should work closely with his/her advisor regarding this process. Request for Course Work at Another Institution forms are available from Registration Services. A minimum grade of "C-" must be earned for the course in order for it to be accepted by the 91AV (further restrictions may apply - check with department regarding transfer-back policy). 

Important note regarding transfer credits: while credits may transfer based on these criteria, grades and/or grade points do not transfer into the student's 91AV academic record. Grades for accepted transfer courses are identified on the 91AV transcript with a "TR" symbol in the grade column, which denotes credit accepted but no GPA calculation value.

Semester and Term Grade Reports

Semester and term grade reports are issued after examinations have been held at the close of each semester or term and are viewable on UOnline. Semester and term grades reported by faculty members to the Registrar's office are final. Notices of deficiency, if reported, will be viewable at mid-semester on UOnline. 

Student Records and Transcripts

Academic Records- Complete records and related documents are maintained in Registrar's office, Decary Hall for 5 years after separation from the University. Under the terms of the Buckley/Pell Amendment to the Family Educational and Privacy Act (FERPA), students have the right to review and inspect all official records, files, and data, including all material that is incorporated into each student's cumulative record folder. However, the Department of Health and Human Services has said that clarifying amendments provide that letters of recommendation submitted on the basis of a pledge of confidentiality prior to January 1, 1975 need not be shown to students, and that a student may be allowed but not required to waive his/her right of access to letters of recommendation received after that date. Under the terms of the Buckley/Pell Amendment, post-secondary institutions must provide students not only access to official records directly related to them, but also an opportunity for a hearing to challenge such records on the grounds that they are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise inappropriate. It is the right of students to file a complaint with the Department of Health and Human Services concerning an alleged failure by an educational agency or institution to comply with section 438 of the Act that guarantees such rights. University students wishing to review their records may do so by providing a written request to Registration Services at least 48 hours in advance of the desired appointment.

Student Conduct Records - Student conduct records and related files are maintained by the Office of the Dean of Students in the Student Affairs offices on each campus. Student conduct records/files are maintained under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

  1. All student conduct and related files are maintained by the Office of the Dean of Students for a period of no less than four years after separation from the University. Records may be destroyed at that time. Disciplinary records may be retained for longer periods of time or permanently if specified in the terms of disciplinary sanctions.
  2. Disciplinary records may be voided by the Dean of Students Office with the concurrence of an Appeals Committee for good cause based upon written petition by student(s).
  3. Denials of petitions to void disciplinary records may be appealed to the vice president of academic affairs.

Student Access and Annual Notification

FERPA (see above) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. They are:

  1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access. The student should submit a written request, that identifies the records which they wish to inspect, to Registrar's office.  The office will notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
  2. The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Students should write to the University Registrar, clearly identifying the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If it is determined not to amend the record as requested by the student, the University will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of the right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding hearing procedures will accompany this notification.
  3. The right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the University has contracted (such as attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her task; or the Veterans Administration for students registered for various GI Bill programs. 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 responsibility.
  4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failure(s) by the 91AV to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
600 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605

Directory Information and Disclosure

The University normally will not supply non-related organizations with personally identifiable student information, including directory information. Two exceptions to this policy are:

THE USA PATRIOT ACT

Section 507 of the USA PATRIOT ACT amends FERPA by permitting educational agencies and institutions to disclose - without the consent or knowledge of the student or parent - personally identifiable information from the student's education records to the Attorney General of the United States or to his designee in response to an ex parte order in connection with the investigation or prosecution of terrorism crimes.  In addition, the school is not required to record such disclosures.

THE SOLOMON AMENDMENT

The Solomon Amendment explicitly states that military recruiters must be given equal access to that provided other recruiters.  91AV is therefore obligated to release data included in the list of "student recruiting information," upon request. 

For this purpose, directory information is defined as:

  • Student's Full Name
  • Address
  • Phone Number
  • 91AV Email Address
  • Date and place of birth
  • Classification and level
  • Dates of Attendance
  • Enrollment Status
  • Most Previous educational institution attended
  • Participation in sports
  • Height/Weight for members of an athletic team
  • Major
  • Degree Received
  • Picture

Active students who wish to have directory information withheld from release must do so in writing on a per-academic-year basis. Request forms are available in the Office of the University Registrar and Student Affairs Offices at either campus. Requests must be submitted prior to September 30th (if first-time enrollment for academic year is fall semester) or January 30th (if first-time enrollment for academic year is spring semester) to affect a withhold status.

Please remember: active students must renew a request for non-disclosure each year to keep such requests in effect. The University may disclose directory information about former students without meeting notification requirements; however, at the last opportunity as a student (just prior to departure from the University), written requests for non-disclosure will remain in effect until a written request to change non-disclosure status is made by the student.

Response Time and End-of-Term Processing

Due to production demands in registration services (both campuses), requests for student records services cannot be processed on demand. Students are advised to plan on a three-to-five-business day turn-around on requests.

At the end of each fall and spring semester, Registration Services must process significant volumes of grades, completions, and verifications after all final grades are submitted by instructors. This end-of-term processing is not finished for a minimum of two weeks after the last final exam.

For students graduating at the end of spring semester: degree verification, posting, and diploma printing/mailing must be done after end-of-term grades are processed. Diplomas are not normally mailed for a minimum of six-eight weeks after the last final exam. Students are advised to anticipate waiting these periods of time, and should plan ahead when working with employers, graduate schools, agencies, or licensing bureaus when ordering transcripts, grade reports, or degree verifications.

Transcripts

No official transcript will be issued until all financial obligations have been met.
Transcripts are issued only at the written and signed request of the student. The purpose of this policy is to protect the privacy of the individual concerned and to minimize the possibility of the use of another's transcripts for fraudulent purposes. Students are advised to plan on a three-to-five-business day turn-around on requests.

Official transcripts are normally issued directly to other educational institutions or prospective employers designated by the student. Official transcripts issued to the student for purposes of transport to another party can be provided in a sealed envelope but will be considered unofficial if opened by the student. Unsealed transcripts issued directly to students are considered unofficial and are stamped Issued to Student.

Applied Nutrition

Category
Department
Degree name
Master of Science Applied Nutrition
Sections

Mission

The mission of the Master of Science in Applied Nutrition is to prepare individuals for leadership roles in the field of nutrition, to advance knowledge and expand skills that promote excellence and innovation in all areas of nutrition practice, and to emphasize evidence-based best practices to support the well-being and health outcomes of individuals, families, and communities through education, research, and service.

Program Description

Goals of the Master of Science in Applied Nutrition Program:

  1. Prepare competent Masters-level nutrition professionals who can interpret, evaluate, communicate and apply complex nutritional concepts to a wide variety of individuals, communities and organizations
  2. Prepare competent Masters-level applied nutrition practitioners to use evidence-based knowledge to inform best practices in nutrition professions
  3. Provide leadership and innovation to the nutrition profession, facilitating the growth and application of best practices in the field to our region and globally
  4. Emphasize a strong background in theory of health behavior and the translation of theory into practice as a valuable tool in public health, community and clinical nutrition settings

Objectives in support of the goals of the Master of Science in Applied Nutrition Program:

Program Objectives:

Graduates of the program are able to

  1. Develop and utilize nutrition concepts and best-practices for nutrition and health promotion initiatives
  2. Apply core research principles to measure the nutrition status and environment of individuals and communities
  3. Develop communications and collaboration strategies with representatives from government, non-profit, community, and business entities regarding nutrition initiatives
  4. Interpret and modify explanations of complex nutrition concepts for various audiences
  5. Research, develop and disseminate evidence-based and theory driven educational materials and work-products at an audience appropriate level for topics related to nutrition and health promotion

There are four degree focus areas that allow the Masters of Science, Applied Nutrition student to concentrate in growing areas of the nutrition industry and to pursue an educational pathway that best address their personal and professional needs. The specific degree focus objectives are based on the student’s chosen area of focus, and are listed below.

Degree Focus Area: Business, Social Media, & Entrepreneurship

Students selecting this focus area will develop skills in and an understanding of the business of nutrition and the supporting of entrepreneurial nutrition-related start-ups with social media and marketing.

Graduates of this focus demonstrate the following abilities/competencies:

  1. Evaluate strategies for the ability to increase return on investment (ROI) in multimedia campaigns for health and wellness
  2. Analyze and communicate the impact of social analytics and social media campaigns on nutrition-related business to a variety of audiences
  3. Employ principles of ethics in social media as they apply to nutrition and wellness
  4. Create Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) plans with a focus on nutritional branding and
  5. Develop business assets for a competitive nutrition and wellness market

Degree Focus Area: Obesity and Health Promotion

Students selecting this focus area will develop skills in and an understanding of the cultural, environmental, psychosocial, physical, and economic factors associated with obesity and how to facilitate initiatives that lessen the impact of obesity in communities and individuals and promote positive health outcomes. 

Graduates of this focus demonstrate the following abilities/competencies:

  1. Define overweight and obesity in children and adults and explain key concepts relating to overweight and obesity to a variety of audiences
  2. Describe the prevalence and trends in child/adult obesity
  3. Develop materials to combat the impacts of overweight and obesity
  4. Analyze and communicate the medical, psychosocial, and economic costs associated with obesity in children and adults to a variety of audiences
  5. Compare obesity prevention and treatment approaches to evaluate their efficacy at the individual and community levels and
  6. Propose and communicate new approaches to combat the incidence of overweight and obesity for a variety of audiences based on analysis of existing policy and regulations

Degree Focus Area: Nutrition and Disease Prevention

Students selecting this focus area will develop skills in and an understanding of nutrition-related disease with a focus on disease prevention through evidence-based practice.

Graduates of this focus demonstrate the following abilities/competencies:

  1. Analyze nutrition research literature to apply it to relevant and current nutrition situations
  2. Analyze and communicate the most recent developments in the field of nutrition to a variety of audiences
  3. Translate theories of health behaviors into applicable practice models
  4. Analyze and communicate trends in nutrition behaviors and nutrition research in nutrition-related diseases prevention and progression to a wide variety of audiences and
  5. Design and implement nutrition and wellness research to include identifying research hypotheses, analyzing data, interpreting research results, and writing publishable reports

Degree Focus Area: Generalist, Applied Nutrition

Students selecting this focus area will develop skills in and an understanding of multiple competency areas of nutrition study and practice, dependent on their individualized course of study. This option allows the student to take the requisite first year classes, and then diversify their educational plan of study to best meet their personal and professional needs.

Graduates of this focus demonstrate the following abilities/competencies:

  1. Analyze and communicate the most recent literature, research and developments in the field of nutrition to a variety of audiences
  2. Translate specialized concepts and theories of health behavior and education into applicable practice and education models
  3. Analyze and communicate trends in nutrition behaviors and nutrition research to a wide variety of audiences and
  4. Design and implement nutrition education interventions that promote healthful behaviors and sound nutrition practices

Accreditation

All programs at the 91AV are accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

Curricular Requirements

REQUIRED COURSES:

APN 601 - Trends and Issues in Nutrition and Global Food Systems
APN 605 - Nutrition Across the Lifespan
APN 610 - Research Methods
APN 615 - Nutrition and Metabolism
APN 620 - Nutrition Education and Health Behavior Change
APN 625 - Nutrition Practice for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

Degree Focus: Generalist

Complete 6 Required Courses (APN 601, 605, 610, 615, 620, and 625)
Complete 5 Courses from APN 700 level course offerings
Complete 1 Capstone Course (APN 725 or 755)

Degree Focus: Business, Social Media, and Entrepreneurship

APN 701 - Nutrition, Wellness, and Multimedia Communication 
APN 705 - Online Research and Advanced Research Methods 
APN 710 - Media and Ethics in Nutrition 
APN 715 - Measuring Social Medial Impact 
APN 720 - Nutrition Branding Using Social Media 
APN 725 - Entrepreneurship and Business Development 

Degree Focus: Obesity and Health Promotion

APN 730 - Medical Nutrition Therapy 
APN 735 - Nutrition Leadership, Community Nutrition and Wellness 
APN 740 - Nutrition and Nutrition Information in the Media
APN 745 - Overweight and Obesity 
APN 750 - Clinical Management of Overweight and Obesity 
APN 755 - Applied Nutrition Capstone

Degree Focus: Nutrition and Disease Prevention

APN 730 - Medical Nutrition Therapy
APN 760 - Micronutrients: Nutrition and Functional Applications
APN 765 - Advanced Practices in Nutrition Therapy 
APN 770 - Nutrition Counseling and Communication
APN 775 - Advanced Nutrition Research
APN 755 - Applied Nutrition Capstone

Academic Policy

Minimum Grade Point Average

Matriculated graduate students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) or better. Failure to do so will result in academic probation and possible termination from the program. Any student receiving a grade below B- on any individual course has failed that course must re-enroll and repeat the course to achieve a grade of B- or better. Students receiving a grade of F in any course will be immediately placed on academic probation.  Any student who receives a grade of F in two or more courses is dismissed from the program.

Graduation

Candidates must fulfill all program requirements and are required to earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 to be eligible to graduate. All students must file an Application to Graduate with the registrar’s office via U-Online.  Please access the following link for complete instructions and the answers to frequently asked questions:

Adding, Dropping, and Withdrawing from Courses

 

The last day permissible for matriculating graduate students to add or drop a course without financial penalty is the second day of class.

Students who withdraw from a course must do so in writing and will receive a “W” on their transcript indicating withdrawal. Students will receive a partial refund if they withdraw from a course within the first or second week. Be aware that no portion of the tuition will be refunded after the second week of the course. Students who have not participated in the course by the end of the second week will be administratively withdrawn from the course and will not receive a tuition refund.

Email requests for withdrawals must be submitted from a student’s 91AV e-mail to be considered.

Matriculating students who withdraw after completing more than 2/3 of a course will receive a grade of “WF” (withdrawn failing) or “WP” (withdrawn passing), based on the instructor’s assessment of the student’s current standing in the course. A “WF” is calculated as an “F” in the student’s GPA. Upon successful completion of the course, the new grade will be used to calculate the GPA. Students will be dismissed from their program after two failing grades (including a “WF”).

University Withdrawal

All matriculated students who wish to withdraw from the University must complete notification documentation available from Registration Services. Documentation must be signed by designated academic and administrative authorities.

Leave of Absence

Matriculated students must enroll and successfully complete at least one course per term. A leave of absence (LOA) for a specified period of time, not to exceed one academic year, may be granted to a matriculated student with the authorization of the Dean and the Program Manager or designee. If not enrolled for one full term, students must contact their Student Support Specialist and complete the required Request for Leave of Absence form available from Registration Services. Application for readmission is not necessary if the student returns as planned. However, the student who does not return at the specified time will be administratively withdrawn and will be subject to readmission procedures.

The LOA period is considered as part of the time allotted to complete the academic program. Note: It is the responsibility of the student to contact the office of the Program Manager to indicate a change of plans.

Medical Leave of Absence

In the event that a leave of absence is taken due to medical reasons, a doctor’s note may be required in order to return to active standing within the program.

Audit Policy

A student may, with prior consent of the Program Manager or designee, enroll in a course for an audit grade (AU). This must be requested at the time of registration for the course and must be accompanied by signed approval of the instructor and Program Manager or designee. This applies to both matriculated and non-matriculated students. Reversal or change of an audit grade is not possible. Once enrolled for AU the grade becomes permanent on a student's academic record. The student who wishes later to be graded for such a course must re-enroll in and pay for graded credit. In auditing a course, the student is expected to complete all lectures and discussion boards, but is not permitted to submit course work for evaluation, take examinations, receive grades, or earn credit. Auditing a course does not count toward enrollment status (i.e. part-time, full-time, etc.) and therefore cannot be considered for financial aid purposes, veteran's benefits, etc.

Academic Integrity Policy

The 91AV values academic integrity in all aspects of the educational experience. Academic dishonesty in any form undermines this standard and devalues the original contributions of others. It is the responsibility of all members of the University community to actively uphold the integrity of the academy; failure to act, for any reason, is not acceptable.

Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to the following:

1.      Cheating, copying, or the offering or receiving of unauthorized assistance or information.

2.      Fabrication or falsification of data, results, or sources for papers or reports.

3.      Action which destroys or alters the work of another student.

4.      Multiple submission of the same paper or report for assignments in more than one course without permission of each instructor.

5.      Plagiarism, the appropriation of records, research, materials, ideas, or the language of other persons or writers and the submission of them as one's own.

Charges of academic dishonesty will be reviewed by the Program Manager. Penalties for students found responsible for violations may depend upon the seriousness and circumstances of the violation, the degree of premeditation involved, and/or the student’s previous record of violations.  Appeal of a decision may be made to the Dean whose decision will be final.  Student appeals will take place through the grievance process outlined in The College of Graduate and Professional Studies Student Handbook.

Office for Students with Disabilities

The Student Access Center works to ensure that the University promotes respect for individual differences and that no person who meets the academic and technical standards needed for admission and continued enrollment at 91AV is denied benefits or subjected to discrimination due to a disability.  Toward this end, and in conjunction with federal and state laws, the University provides reasonable accommodations for qualified students.

Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is highly valued by the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.  Many courses within the College feature experiential-learning components.  However, at this time, no credit will be awarded to students for purely experiential learning experiences undertaken in lieu of coursework.

Transfer Credit

Upon acceptance, students may apply to transfer up to three, 3-credit courses (maximum of nine credits) into the Master of Science in Applied Nutrition program.

To request consideration for transfer credit, a student must provide an official transcript and a course syllabus for each course. Transfer credit is awarded at the discretion of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies based on specific program details listed below. Requests for approval of transfer credit should be submitted to, and will be granted at the discretion of, the Program Manager.

Transfer courses must:

  • Be classified as graduate level.
  • Have been taken within five years of application.
  • Have been completed with a grade of “B” or better. 
  • Be equivalent to one of the required program courses or an elective course that meets the goals of the student’s education. 
  • Not have been applied toward any other degree. 

Admissions

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

  • A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or its equivalent. See  for details regarding evaluation of international degrees for grade and degree equivalency.
  • Undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.
  • Computer with internet connection, including the hardware and software requirements described in our . Must also possess sufficient computer skills to navigate the internet as all classes are accessed 100% online.

Application Process

  • Completed online application: http://go.une.edu/apply
  • Submission of the non-refundable application fee
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Goal Statement
  • Three professional references
  • Official transcripts reflecting conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.  All transcripts are to be submitted from the original institutions.

Note:  Transcripts for any coursework appearing as transfer credit on the transcript of the conferred degree can be waived if the coursework is unrelated to the degree being sought.  The program admissions committee defines all coursework not eligible for waiver.

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Applications for admission are accepted through 91AV’s online application only. Detailed instructions are included in the online application.
  • Official transcripts, as well as other documents to support the application, must be submitted to the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, 716 Stevens Ave, Portland, ME, 04103
  • Students are admitted to the Applied Nutrition program three (3) times a year:  Summer A, Fall A, Spring A.
  • Applications received and completed by the respective deadlines will be given full consideration.  Applications submitted and/or completed after the deadline will be reviewed for the next available term.
  • Admissions are rolling and decisions are made by the program admissions committee throughout the cycle.
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees must have their transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution.  See 
  • All applicants to 91AV must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university.  91AV accepts several methods of English Proficiency, see
  • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language) are required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application. 

For additional information on the admissions process and requirements, please access the Master of Science Applied Nutrition Program website.

Policy Exceptions

The Master of Science in Applied Nutrition program and Admissions Committee in collaboration with the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions reserve the right to make exceptions to the admissions criteria and to make changes or exceptions to policies and procedures, on a case by case basis, when it deems such a decision is necessary and appropriate.

Financial Information

TUITION AND FEES

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Athletic Training

Category
Contact

Wayne Lamarre
wlamarre@une.edu

Degree name
Master of Science with a major in Athletic Training
Sections

Mission

The mission of the Athletic Training Program at the 91AV is to provide a comprehensive curriculum designed for individuals who want to enhance the quality of health care for active persons and to advance the profession of athletic training through education and research in the prevention, evaluation, management, and rehabilitation of injuries.

Major Description

This graduate degree program is offered in a 3+2 year format and designed for students who want to work to improve individual and team wellness and health. The curriculum in this program combines the study of anatomy and other health-related sciences with the art of preventing, managing, and rehabilitating athletic and orthopedic injuries. Students are provided with a thorough understanding of the effects of sport and sport-related injuries on the individual performer through a series of classroom (didactic) and field (clinical) experiences both on- and off-campus.

Curricular Requirements

COURSES

Credits
First Year  30-32
BIO 105 - Biology I Ecology/Evolution w/lab 4
BIO 106 - Biology II Cellular/Molecular w/lab 4

ENG 110 - English Composition or ENG 122/123- College Reading & Writing I/II

4-6
IHS 130 -Interprofessional Health Care First Year Experience 3
MAT 120 - Statistics 3
PSY 105 - Introduction to Psychology 3
SOC 150 - Introduction to Sociology 3

One (1) Art Course (May be ART, ARH or MUS course) 

3
One (1) Explorations in the Humanities Course 3
   
Second Year  30

 BIO 208 - Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology I w/lab

4

BIO 209 or 209G - Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology II w/lab

4

PUB 200 - Foundations in Public Health

3
CHE 110 - General Chemistry I w/lab 4
IHS 220 - Nutrition or NUTR 220 - Nutrition 3
IHS 310 - Ethics for Interprofessional Practice 3
PSY 250 - Lifespan Development 3
SPC 100 - Effective Public Speaking 3
ATC 105 - Introduction to Athletic Training 3
   
Third Year 26
ATC 333 Human Gross Anatomy w/lab 3

One (1) Advanced Studies (ADV) Course

3
BIO 309 - Pathophysiology 3
EXS  320 - Exercise Physiology w/lab 3
EXS 310 - Kinesiology & Biomechanics w/ Lab 3
PHY 110 - General Physics I w/ Lab 4

ATC 300 - Special Topics in Athletic Training (Elective)

1
One (1) Elective Course (at 300 or 400 level) 3
ATC 420- Research Methods 3
   
Fourth Year 38
ATC 500 - Fundamentals of Athletic Training 3
ATC 505 - Diagnosis of Athletic & Orthopaedic Injuries I 3

ATC 510 - Diagnosis of Athletic & Orthopaedic Injuries II

3

ATC 540 - General Medical Conditions in Athletic Health Care

3

ATC 520 - Clinical Reasoning in Athletic Training

3

ATC 525 - Athletic Training Clinical Practicum I

5

ATC 535 - Athletic Performance & Conditioning

3

ATC 515 - Physical Agents in Athletic Health Care

3

ATC 545 - Pharmacology in Athletic Health Care

3

ATC 550 - Athletic Training Clinical Practicum II

4

ATC 530 - Rehabilitative Techniques in Athletic Health Care

4

ATC 560 - Research Practicum I

1
   
Fifth Year 27

ATC 600 - Administration of Athletic Training Programs

3

ATC 605 - Manual Therapies in Athletic Health Care

3

ATC 610 - Graduate Seminar in Athletic Training

2

ATC 615 - Diagnostic Techniques in Athletic Health Care

3

ATC 620 - Research Practicum II

1

ATC 630 - Athletic Training Clinical Practicum III

6

ATC 635 - Research Practicum III

2

ATC 640 - Athletic Training Clinical Practicum IV

4

ATC 625 - Psychosocial Interventions in Athletic Health Care

3

Minimum required total credits

151-153

Academic and Technical Standards

The 91AV Athletic Training Program is a graduate program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).

Students will be retained within the Athletic Training Program providing the following criteria are maintained throughout the undergraduate experience:

  1. Minimum requirements for successful progression in years 1-3 as outlined in the 91AV undergraduate Catalog must be met.
  2. Students must achieve a minimum grade of "C" in the following courses: MAT 120, BIO 105, BIO 106, BIO 208, BIO 209, IHS 220/NUTR 220, BIO 309, PUB 200, SPC 100, ATC 105, ATC 333, ATC 420, EXS 310, and EXS 320. Failure to achieve a "C" will result in program-level probation, and may affect academic progression. 
  3. Students must achieve a minimum grade of "C-" in the following courses: CHE 110 and PHY 110.  Failure to achieve a "C-" will result in program-level probation, and may affect academic progression.
  4. Students may enroll in any course in the WCHP Common Curriculum a maximum of two times.  Enrollment consists of achieving a "WP," "WF," or a letter grade.  Receiving a "W" in a course is not considered official enrollment and will not result in academic penalty.  Failure to achieve the required grade after a second attempt at a course will result in dismissal from the major. 
  5. Students enrolled in the Professional (graduate) Phase of the AT Program must maintain a minimum cumulative semester GPA of 3.0.
  6. Students enrolled in the Professional (graduate) Phase of the program must maintain a minimum grade of "B" in each required course (or a "P" in each Pass/Fail course). Students may enroll in required courses in the Professional Phase a maximum of two times regardless of the final grade, including "W", "WP" or "WF".  Please refer to the WCHP Graduate Program Progression Policies and Procedures for detailed description of academic standards.

The Athletic Training Program at the 91AV is a rigorous and intense program that places specific requirements and demands on the students enrolled in the program. An objective of this program is to prepare graduates to enter a variety of employment settings and to render care to a wide spectrum of individuals engaged in physical activity. The technical standards set forth by the Athletic Training Program establish the essential qualities considered necessary for students admitted to this program to achieve the knowledge, skills, and competencies of an entry-level athletic trainer, as well as meet the expectations of the program's accrediting agency (Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education [CAATE]). The following abilities and expectations must be met by all students admitted to the Athletic Training Program.

Compliance with the program's technical standards does not guarantee a student's eligibility for the Board of Certification (BOC) entry-level certification examination.

Candidates for selection to the Athletic Training Program must demonstrate:

  1. The mental capacity to assimilate, analyze, synthesize, integrate concepts and problem solve to formulate assessment and therapeutic judgments and to be able to distinguish deviations from the norm.
  2. Sufficient postural and neuromuscular control, sensory function, and coordination to perform appropriate physical examinations using accepted techniques; and accurately, safely and efficiently use equipment and materials during the assessment and treatment of patients.
  3. The ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with patients and colleagues, including individuals from different cultural and social backgrounds; this includes, but is not limited to, the ability to establish rapport with patients and communicate judgments and treatment information effectively. Students must be able to understand and speak the English language at a level consistent with competent professional practice.
  4. The ability to record the physical examination results and a treatment plan clearly and accurately.
  5. The capacity to maintain composure and continue to function well during periods of high stress.
  6. The perseverance, diligence and commitment to complete the athletic training education program as outlined and sequenced.
  7. Flexibility and the ability to adjust to changing situations and uncertainty in clinical situation.
  8. Affective skills and appropriate demeanor and rapport that relate to professional education and quality patient care.

Candidates for selection to the Athletic Training Program will be required to certify with the program director that they have read, understand and meet these technical standards or that they believe that, with certain accommodations, they can meet the standards. Please see the  for more information.

Learning Outcomes

Every graduate from the 91AV Athletic Training Program will be able to:

  1. Successfully challenge the athletic training entry-level Board of Certification (BOC) examination;
  2. Demonstrate knowledge of and clinical proficiency in all five domains of athletic training: 1) injury/illness prevention and wellness protection, 2) clinical evaluation and diagnosis, 3) immediate and emergency care, 4) treatment and rehabilitation, and 5) organizational and professional health and well-being;  
  3. Articulate the importance of interprofessional collaboration in the delivery of high-quality athletic health care;
  4. Communicate effectively with peers and the general public about athletic training as a career and a discipline;
  5. Provide evidence-based, clinically-relevant care to athletes and the physically active; and
  6. Examine athletic training practice utilizing ethical, legal, and regulatory decision-making frameworks in accordance with the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Code of Ethics. 

Transfer Credit

Courses completed at another accredited college can be transferred to this degree program.  Transferred courses must be reasonably close in scope and content to the required courses offered at 91AV in order to count as exact equivalents.  Otherwise, they may transfer as general electives.  All courses completed must be no older than five years.  Other restrictions apply.  See Undergraduate Admissions also.

Admissions

Admission to the Pre-Professional Phase of the program follows the general undergraduate admissions criteria.  See Undergraduate Admissions for details concerning these requirements.

The following criteria must be met for a student to be eligible for admission into the pre-professional phase of the athletic training program:

  1. A high school diploma or the equivalent with a better-than-average achievement record in a college preparatory program including: chemistry (must include laboratory); biology (must include laboratory); mathematics (two mathematics courses - algebra required, geometry preferred); English (three years required - four years preferred).
  2. Academic transcripts must reflect an overall high school grade point average (GPA) of 2.5, in addition to a GPA of 2.5 in all science and math courses.
  3. Scholastic Achievement Test (SAT) scores must be submitted.
  4. A health record must be submitted which indicates specific findings regarding applicant's complete physical exam.
  5. Complete the Common Application.

The Athletic Training Program employs a competitive secondary admissions process at the end of the third year (pre-professional/undergraduate phase).   Athletic training accreditation standards mandate that admission to the professional/graduate phase of the program be criteria-based. Therefore, meeting the coursework requirements does not guarantee a student admission into the professional/graduate phase of the program. The number of students admitted to the professional phase of the program on an annual basis is dictated by the number of available field experience sites and may vary slightly from year to year.  Please contact the program director for additional information

The following criteria must be met for a student to be eligible for admission into the professional (graduate) phase of the athletic training program:

  1. Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
  2. Minimum classification of second-semester junior in good academic standing (internal candidates).
  3. External candidates must demonstrate completion of the following courses with a C or better: Human Anatomy & Physiology w/lab (8 cr), Exercise Physiology (3 cr), Kinesiology/Biomechanics (3 cr), Pathophysiology (3 cr), General Chemistry w/lab (4 cr), and General Physics w/lab (4 cr).
  4. Completion of a minimum of 40 observational hours under the supervision of an approved Clinical Preceptor (Athletic Trainer) in a traditional setting (i.e., high school or college).
  5. Successful completion of yearly OSHA-required blood borne pathogens safety training.
  6. Completion of the Professional Phase Application and formal interview with program faculty.
  7. Proof of full compliance with Westbrook College of Health Professions' Immunization Requirements.
  8. Proof of full compliance with the AT Program Technical Standards.
  9. Proof of current certification in Emergency Cardiac Care* that includes a minimum of the following:
    • Adult & Pediatric CPR
    • AED
    • 2nd Rescuer CPR
    • Airways Obstruction
    • Barrier Devices (e.g., pocket mask, bag valve mask)
    • *Courses that meet the minimum requirement include, but are not limited to, American Heart Association ACLS, American Heart Association BLS Healthcare Provider, and American Red Cross CPR/AED for the professional rescuer.
  10. Proof of current certification in Basic First Aid** that includes a minimum of the following:
    • Burns & Wounds
    • Splinting & Bone/Joint Injuries
    • Sudden Illness
    • Shock
    • Controlling Bleeding
    • Head/Neck/Back Injuries
    • Heat/Cold Emergencies
      ** Courses that meet the minimum requirement include, but are not limited to, American Red Cross First Aid Basics.
  11. All students transferring into the AT Program must meet all admissions requirements and complete the entire professional phase of the program.

See Undergraduate Admissions for details concerning first year admissions requirements.

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Biological Sciences

Category
Contact

Dr. Kathryn A. Ono
Chair, Graduate Program Committee
Department of Marine Sciences
11 Hills Beach Road
Biddeford, ME 04005
(207)602- 2814
kono@une.edu

or

Dr.  A. Christine Brown

Chair, Department of Biology

11 Hills Beach Road

Biddeford, ME 04005

(207) 602-2617

sbrown@une.edu

Degree name
Master of Science (M.S.), Biological Sciences
Sections

Mission

The mission of the Department of Biology at 91AV is to enable students to understand the real-world relevance of the biological sciences, foster scientific literacy and critical thinking skills, and lay the foundation for lifelong learning and meaningful, productive contributions to society. 

The mission of the Master of Science: Biological Sciences program is to prepare outstanding graduate students for careers or further training in science, technology, and education by providing an advanced knowledge base and a working knowledge of research methods in the biological sciences. 

Program Description

The Master of Science: Biological Sciences program offers post-baccalaureate training to students interested in a wide variety of biological topics.  The classroom curriculum features a broad-based exposure to advanced topics in biological subjects that may include physiology, ecology, molecular biology and microbiology. The program also focuses on the research experience: students will conduct research and prepare a thesis on any of a variety of topics selected in consultation with our faculty.

Program Goals

  • Provide a knowledge base in the biological sciences that is deeper than the typical undergraduate experience.
  • Foster participation in the production of biological knowledge through excellence in research.
  • Instill outstanding research skills and a working knowledge of the scientific method by participation in high-quality research.
  • Develop outstanding scientific communication skills through writing and oral presentations.

Curricular Requirements

Program Required Courses Credits
BIO 503 - Research Methods 3
BIO 510 - Graduate Seminar 1
BIO 500 - Level Graduate Topics in Biological Sciences 12+*
Electives - Additional Coursework 6*

BIO 590 - Thesis/Research

12 Min

 

Minimum Total Credits 36
BIO 595 - Thesis Writing/Data Analysis (taken after 36 credits completed) 1

BIO 599 - Masters Thesis

0

*Biological Sciences MS students may request to substitute research credits for coursework with approval from their thesis advisor.  A formal written request must be submitted to the Graduate Program Committee, including a justification for the request.  If approved by the GPC, students will submit a Course Substitution Form (available on the Registrar's webpage), which requires approval by the Chair of the Department of Biology and by the CAS Dean, to the Registrar in preparation for graduation.  

Academic and Technical Standards

Satisfactory Academic Progress

To remain in the MS: Biological Sciences program, the student's cumulative graduate GPA must be a minimum of 3.0.  A student whose GPA falls below 3.0 or who receives a grade below B- in any course taken for graduate credit will be placed on academic probation.

Program Completion Timeline

Students have a maximum of five years to complete the graduation requirements.  After two academic years (fall and spring terms), students who have completed their coursework but are still completing their theses are required to enroll in a minimum of three Thesis credit hours per semester to remain in the program.

Probation/Dismissal

A graduate student whose grade point average (GPA) for any semester falls below 3.0, or whose cumulative grade point average is below 3.0, or who receives a class grade below a B- for any class taken for graduate credit is automatically placed on probation. A student placed on academic probation will be granted one fall or spring semester to raise his/her cumulative GPA to 3.0 or above, will be required to achieve a minimum GPA of 3.0 for the semester, and cannot receive a second class grade below B-.  Any student who fails to meet these criteria will be considered for dismissal by the Department of Biological Sciences and the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

Academic Policy

Course Withdrawal

In normal length semesters, a matriculated student may withdraw from a course without academic penalty (a grade of W is assigned) at any time during the first two-thirds of the semester. If withdrawal occurs after that date, the grade of WP (withdrew passing) or WF (withdrew failing) will be entered, subject to determination by the instructor. The grade of WF is computed in the grade point average. 

Incomplete Grades

A student who believes she/he is unable to complete the work for a given course by the end of the term may apply for an extension by discussion with the instructor. At the time of this meeting, a plan must be agreed upon for completion of the course work, including a date of completion, not to exceed six weeks following the end date of the course. This agreement must be completed by the last day of class for the given course. Any student who does not follow the above guidelines will receive an F for the course. In exceptional circumstances (such as death in family, significant illness, accident), an additional extension may be requested. Any such request must be made in writing, reviewed and signed by the instructor and the student’s advisor.

Learning Outcomes

Program Goals

  1. Provide a knowledge base in the biological sciences that is deeper than the typical undergraduate experience.
  2. Foster participation in the production of biological knowledge through high quality research.
  3. Instill outstanding research skills and a working knowledge of the scientific method by participation in high-quality research.
  4. Develop outstanding scientific communication skills through written and oral presentations.

Student Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will demonstrate expertise in their thesis research field
  2. Students will increase their proficiency to publication level written and professional oral communication skills
  3. Students will demonstrate mastery of the concepts and principals of the Biological Sciences
  4. Students will demonstrate an understanding of research design and have the ability to carry out a research project

Transfer Credit

TRANSFER CREDIT

  • Transfer credits are rarely awarded to students who transfer from another biological science program
  • Transfer credits will be reviewed and awarded on a case-by-case basis

Advanced standing

No advanced standing available

Experiential Learning

No credit awarded for experiential learning

Admissions

program admissions requirements

COURSEWORK PREREQUISITES

  • There are no specific course prerequisites

ACADEMIC/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

  • Completion of Bachelor’s Degree (BA or BS) in Biology or other related area from a U.S. regionally accredited institution, or international equivalent, prior to matriculation
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, required
  • Successful completion of the General Graduate Record Exam  with competitive scores (official score must be submitted from ETS directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions at the 91AV  (code # 3751)
  • Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended must be submitted directly from the issuing institution to 91AV’s Office of Graduate Admissions
  • Three (3) letters of reference from writers who know you and can speak to your academic and/or professional experience (letters from friends and family members will not be accepted)
  • Prior to or early in the admissions process, candidates are advised to communicate with faculty with whom they would like to work
  • Only those applicants who meet minimum requirements will be considered for admission

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Applications for admission are accepted through the 91AV  (detailed instructions are included in the application portal)
    • 91AV application portal opens annually July 1
    • Applications must be electronically submitted by the posted deadline of February 1
      • Please Note: Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit and complete your application well before the deadline for earliest consideration
      • A complete application includes the following:
        • Electronically submitted application
        • Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
        • Official GRE score report sent directly from ETS to 91AV Office of Graduate Admissions
        • Three (3) letters of reference
      • All completed applications will be reviewed by the program admissions committee after the application deadline with decisions mailed beginning in mid-March
      • Applications completed after the posted deadline will be reviewed on a space available basis, only
    • Accepted candidates will be expected to pay a minimal non-refundable deposit to secure your place in the program
      • Deposit is applied to any fees not covered by the assistantship or grant received upon acceptance
      • Deposit will be forfeited should the candidate decide not to matriculate in the program
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees
    • Must have transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited U.S. institution 
    • Must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university
      • 91AV accepts several methods of           
      • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language  or the International English Language Testing System  is required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application

POLICY EXCEPTIONS

  • Policies have been established to ensure fair and consistent admissions practice for all applicants
  • All criteria presented in this summary are subject to change per professional accreditation requirements, changes in curriculum or other institutional standards, and clinical affiliation requirements
  • Exceptions to existing admission policies are rare and made on a case by case basis, only when it is deemed necessary and appropriate to maintain fair and consistent practice for all candidates

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Continued Enrollment

After two academic years, a student who has completed all coursework except his/her thesis will be required to pay for a minimum of three Thesis credit hours plus mandatory fees each semester to remain in the program. 

Other Expenses

Housing is arranged by and financed at the expense of the student.  Currently there is no on-campus housing available for graduate students.

Financial Aid

Detailed information and applications are available on request from the Financial Aid Office at the Biddeford Campus. Call 207-602-2342 or by visiting the Financial Aid website. Information on tuition remission, Research Assistantships and Teaching Assistantships can be found on the Department of Biology graduate programs website.

Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) & Post-Masters Certificate (PMC)

Category
Contact

Degree name
Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) & Post-Masters Certificate (PMC)
Sections

Certificate Description

The goals of the Post-Masters Certificate and CAGS programs are to prepare students to:

  • Lead schools, programs, and classrooms in a humanistic, caring manner.
  • Demonstrate professional responsibility and ethical decision-making.
  • Meet the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (formerly the ISLLC standards):
    • Standard 1. Mission, Vision, and Core Values
    • Standard 2. Ethics and Professional Norms
    • Standard 3. Equity and Cultural Responsiveness
    • Standard 4. Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
    • Standard 5. Community of Care and Support for Students
    • Standard 6. Professional Capacity of School Personnel
    • Standard 7. Professional Community for Teachers and Staff
    • Standard 8. Meaningful Engagement of Families and Community
    • Standard 9. Operations and Management
    • Standard 10. School Improvement

Accreditation

All programs at the 91AV are accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

Curricular Requirements

Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study - Administrator Track

For educators interested in pursuing an administrative certification, the 91AV offers a program track to equip teachers with the foundational knowledge and curriculum required and approved by the State of Maine.

The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Advanced Educational Leadership is a post-master's program of study leading to an educational administrative credential in Maine and has been designed to offer high-quality, cost-effective, and innovative curricula delivered through an online format. This program requires completion of ten post-master's courses (30 credits). Emphasis is on developing the knowledge and skills needed by school administrators and other educators who wish to assume significant leadership roles in their schools, educational institutions, and communities. The program is aligned with the Professional Standards for Educational Leaders (formerly the ISLLC standards).

Core Courses

Credits

EDU 701 Educational Leadership & Ethics

3

EDU 702 School Law    

3

EDU 703 Educational Change/School Reform

3

EDU 704 Supervision and Evaluation of Instructional Personnel

3

EDU 720 Special Education Law

3

EDU 706 School-Community Relations & Communications

3

EDU 707 Instructional Leadership

3

EDU 709 School Finance

3

EDU 715 Organizational Theory & Strategic Planning

3

EDU 791/792 Internship I & II

3

Total program credits:

30

Certificates of Advanced Graduate Study: Generalist Track

The 91AV offers 30 credit certificate programs that allow students to customize their program by choosing electives from different topic areas in education such as curriculum, literacy, educational leadership, and inclusion for teachers looking to advance their education careers. 

30 Credit Certificate in Advanced Graduate Study: Generalist - Choose any ten (10) of the electives listed below. You also have the option to add EDU 791/792 Internship I & II to your curriculum. Note that the CAGS: Generalist is not an approved program for administrative certification in Maine.  For 91AV's approved administrator preparation program see CAGS: Advanced Educational Leadership. Please contact your state’s Department of Education for specific certification requirements.

Electives:

  • EDU 701 Educational Leadership
  • EDU 702 School Law
  • EDU 703 Educational Change/ School Reform
  • EDU 704 Supervision and Evaluation of Instructional Personnel
  • EDU 706 School-Community Relations & Communications
  • EDU 707 Instructional Leadership
  • EDU 709 School Finance
  • EDU 715 Organizational Theory and Strategic Planning
  • EDU 720 Special Education Law 
  • EDU 721 Using Technology within Inclusion Education
  • EDU 722 Special Education Assessment in Inclusion Settings
  • EDU 723 Teaching and Learning in Inclusion Settings
  • EDU 724 Collaboration in Inclusion Settings
  • EDU 740 Supporting Literacy Development for All Learners
  • EDU 741 Literacy Assessments as Teaching Tools
  • EDU 742 Study Skills & Content Literacy Instruction for All
  • EDU 743 Connecting Reading with Writing for Success
  • EDU 744 Meeting Student Literacy Challenges
  • EDU 746 Professional Learning and Literacy Leadership
  • EDU 747 Literacy for English Language Learners
  • EDU 748 Literacy for Inclusion Settings
  • EDU 749 Reading Diagnosis: Clinical Practice I
  • EDU 750 Instruction Intervention: Clinical Practice II
  • EDU 751 The Application Model of Learning – Curriculum Development
  • EDU 753 Working with Special Needs Students
  • EDU 755 Utilizing Literacy Strategies in CTE Learning Environments
  • EDU 757 Health and Safety Implementation for CTE
  • EDU 759 Preparing Students for College, Careers, & Citizenship 

Post-Masters Graduate Certificate

The 91AV offers 15 credit certificate programs that allow students to customize their program by choosing electives from different topic areas in education such as curriculum, literacy, educational leadership, and inclusion for teachers looking to advance their education career. Please contact your state’s Department of Education for specific certification requirements.

Post-Masters Certificate · Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach Track

For educators with prior Literacy coursework interested in pursuing a Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach certification, The 91AV offers a program track to equip teachers with the foundational knowledge and curriculum required by the State of Maine.

Core Courses

Credits

EDU 746 Professional Learning and Literacy Leadership

3

EDU 747 Literacy for English Language Learners

3

EDU 748 Literacy for Inclusion Settings

3

EDU 749 Reading Diagnosis: Clinical Practice I

3

EDU 750 Instruction Intervention: Clinical Practice II

3

Total program credits:

15

Post-Masters Certificate: Generalist Track - Choose any five (5) of the electives listed below.  Please contact your state’s Department of Education for specific certification requirements

Electives:

  • EDU 701 Educational Leadership & Ethics
  • EDU 702 School Law
  • EDU 703 Educational Change/ School Reform
  • EDU 704 Supervision and Evaluation of Instructional Personnel
  • EDU 706 School-Community Relations & Communications
  • EDU 707 Instructional Leadership
  • EDU 709 School Finance
  • EDU 715 Organizational Theory and Strategic Planning
  • EDU 720 Special Education Law for the Classroom
  • EDU 721 Using Technology within Inclusion Education
  • EDU 722 Special Education Assessment in Inclusion Settings
  • EDU 723 Teaching and Learning in Inclusion Settings
  • EDU 724 Collaboration in Inclusion Settings
  • EDU 740 Supporting Literacy Development for All Learners
  • EDU 741 Literacy Assessments as Teaching Tools
  • EDU 742 Study Skills & Content Literacy Instruction for All
  • EDU 743 Connecting Reading with Writing for Success
  • EDU 744 Meeting Student Literacy Challenges
  • EDU 746 Professional Learning and Literacy Leadership
  • EDU 747 Literacy for English Language Learners
  • EDU 748 Literacy for Inclusion Settings
  • EDU 749 Reading Diagnosis: Clinical Practice I
  • EDU 750 Instruction Intervention: Clinical Practice II
  • EDU 751 The Application Model of Learning – Curriculum Development
  • EDU 753 Working with Special Needs Students
  • EDU 755 Utilizing Literacy Strategies in CTE Learning Environments
  • EDU 757 Health and Safety Implementation for CTE
  • EDU 759 Preparing Students for College, Careers, & Citizenship 

Academic Policy

Course Drop and Withdrawal Policy

The last date to drop a course with no record is the first day of course. Students who withdraw from a course must do so in writing (e-mail is acceptable) by the end of the fourth week of the course.  Students will receive a “W” on their transcripts indicating withdrawal.  Beyond the fourth week, at the faculty’s discretion, a “WP” or “WF” may be assigned if extenuating circumstances do not allow the student to complete his/her work. Be aware that no portion of the tuition will be refunded after the second week of the course.

Minimal Grade Standard and Academic Progress

Students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (“B”). Failure to do so may result in academic probation and possible termination from the program. Students receiving a grade of “F” in any course will be immediately placed on academic probation.

Dismissal from the Program

Termination from the Program may occur when the Education Program Manager becomes aware of one of the following:

  • Surrender of a teacher license in any jurisdiction for disciplinary reasons.
  • Documented academic dishonesty (Note this also includes course on-line postings and email communications with faculty and staff. Students are advised that their behavior while participating in the Program should exemplify the ethical behavior of a professional educator with respect to all communications.)

Graduation Requirements

To complete the program and receive a Post-Masters Certificate or Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study, a student must:

  • Complete all program requirements.
  • Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • Pay all tuition and fees.

Timeline for Completion/Leave of Absence

A student who has not completed the Post-Masters Certificate or CAGS Program within three (3) years will be administratively withdrawn from the program and be required to apply for readmission. Students are required to take a course every term, otherwise they must request a Leave of Absence, or be withdrawn from the program. These arrangements are the responsibility of the student and must be communicated to the Student Support Specialist along with a completed Leave of Absence Form.

The required Request for Leave of Absence form must be filed with the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.  Application for readmission is not necessary if the student returns as planned; however, the student who does not return at the specified time will be administratively withdrawn and may be subject to readmission procedures. Note: It is the responsibility of the student to contact the College of Graduate and Professional Studies to indicate change of plans.

Re-admission

Students who have withdrawn from the program for a period of one year, either self-initiated or administrative withdrawal, must reapply to the program if they wish to continue their studies. The application procedures, academic policies, and program requirements that are in effect at the time of readmission will apply.

Students who re-enroll following withdrawal will have their previous coursework evaluated for applicability to the existing academic requirements. Coursework that is more than five years old will not be accepted for credit in the program.

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Learning Outcomes

After completing a CAGS program, students should be able to

  • Apply research results to leadership decisions
  • Describe the requirements of the PSEL standards
  • Demonstrate a high degree of specialized knowledge and skills about school administration
  • Exhibit leadership skills in an actual school administrative settings

Transfer Credit

ADVANCED STANDING/TRANSFER CREDIT/ EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

Transfer credit will not be accepted into the Post-Masters Graduate Certificate program.

Admissions

CERTIFICATE OF ADVANCED GRADUATE STUDY (CAGS)

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

  • A master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or its equivalent. See  for details regarding evaluation of international degrees for grade and degree equivalency.
  • Graduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better
  • Employed in an educational setting or ability to regularly access an environment in which you can apply course concepts and strategies.
  • Computer with internet connection, including the hardware and software requirements described in our . Must also possess sufficient computer skills to navigate the internet as all classes are accessed 100% online.

APPLICATION PROCESS

  • Completed online application:
  • Submission of the non-refundable application fee
  • Current Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Goal Statement
  • Supervisor Endorsement
  • Official transcripts reflecting conferral of a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.  All transcripts are to be submitted from the original institutions.

Note:  Transcripts for any coursework appearing as transfer credit on the transcript of the conferred degree can be waived if the coursework is unrelated to the degree being sought.  The program admissions committee defines all coursework not eligible for waiver.

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Applications for admission are accepted through 91AV’s online application only. Detailed instructions are included in the online application.
  • Official transcripts, as well as other documents to support the application, must be submitted to the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, 716 Stevens Ave, Portland, ME, 04103
  • Students are admitted to the CAGS program six (6) times a year:  Summer A & B, Fall A & B, Spring A & B.
  • Applications received and completed by the respective deadlines will be given full consideration.  Applications submitted and/or completed after the deadline will be reviewed for the next available term.
  • Admissions are rolling and decisions are made by the program admissions committee throughout the cycle.
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees must have their transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution.  See .
  • All applicants to 91AV must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university.  91AV accepts several methods of English Proficiency, see  If applicable, the  requirement must be completed and score received by the application deadline.

For additional information on the admissions process and requirements, please access the  website.

POLICY EXCEPTIONS

The Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study program and the CAGS Admissions Committee in collaboration with the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions reserve the right to make exceptions to the admissions criteria and to make changes or exceptions to policies and procedures, on a case by case basis, when it deems such a decision is necessary and appropriate.

 

POST-MASTERS GRADUATE CERTIFICATE

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

  • A master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or its equivalent. See  for details regarding evaluation of international degrees for grade and degree equivalency.
  • Graduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better
  • Employed in an educational setting or ability to regularly access an environment in which you can apply course concepts and strategies.
  • Sufficient computer skills to navigate the worldwide web and effectively participate in an on-line program.
  • Own or have regular access to a computer with internet connection and with appropriate hardware and software requirements.
     

Application Process

  • Completed online application:
  • Submission of the non-refundable application fee
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Goal Statement
  • Official transcripts reflecting conferral of a master’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.  All transcripts are to be submitted from the original institutions.

Note:  Transcripts for any coursework appearing as transfer credit on the transcript of the conferred degree can be waived if the coursework is unrelated to the degree being sought.  The program admissions committee defines all coursework not eligible for waiver.

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Applications for admission are accepted through 91AV’s online application only. Detailed instructions are included in the online application.
  • Official transcripts, as well as other documents to support the application, must be submitted to the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, 716 Stevens Ave, Portland, ME, 04103
  • Students are admitted to the PMC program six (6) times a year:  Summer A & B, Fall A & B, Spring A & B.
  • Applications received and completed by the respective deadlines will be given full consideration.  Applications submitted and/or completed after the deadline will be reviewed for the next available term.
  • Admissions are rolling and decisions are made by the program admissions committee throughout the cycle.
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees must have their transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution.  See 
  • All applicants to 91AV must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university.  91AV accepts several methods of English Proficiency, see  
  • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language () are required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application. 

For additional information on the admissions process and requirements, please access the Post Masters Certificate program website.

POLICY EXCEPTIONS

The Post-Masters Graduate Certificate program and the PMC Admissions Committee in collaboration with the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions reserve the right to make exceptions to the admissions criteria and to make changes or exceptions to policies and procedures, on a case by case basis, when it deems such a decision is necessary and appropriate.

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Financial Aid

Detailed information and applications are available on request from the Financial Aid Office. Call 207-602-2342 or visit the Financial Aid website.

Education (Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership)

Category
Contact

Degree name
Doctor of Education with Concentration in Educational Leadership
Sections

Program Description

The Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership, with a focus on Transformative Leadership, admits cohorts on a semi-annual basis.

This program provides current and aspiring administrative and instructional leaders in diverse settings (e.g., education, health, non-profits, NGOs, public and private organizations and agencies, etc.) with the attitudes, knowledge, experience, and skills needed to transform organizations through the effective use of human and technological resources.

This three-year program requiring completion of thirteen 8 week, 3 credit courses and a 12 credit dissertation representing a total of 51 credits (a maximum of 6 credits can be transferred from another post-Master’s program). The program (including dissertation) will be completed entirely online with no residency requirement.

Program Goals

  • Prepare leaders who are future-focused and capable of fostering innovation and change.
  • Promote a continuing cadre of educators who maintain active connections and collaboration with one another, with schools, communities and professional groups.
  • Establish a higher education program that is technologically sophisticated, educationally effective and academically rigorous.
  • Build a national reputation based upon transformative action research.
  • Provide each candidate with a carefully selected faculty mentoring team contributing actively to the candidate’s progress with their program of study, their research, and their dissertation, beyond what is usually available with a single advisor. 

Curricular Requirements

Courses Credits
EDU 801 - Preparation for Transformative Leadership 3
EDU 802 - Qualitative Research Methods 3
EDU 803 - Interpreting Empirical Data 3
EDU 804 - Technology and Educational Transformation 3
EDU 805 - Managing Change 3
EDU 806 - Policy Analysis 3
EDU 807 - Enacting Transformative Leadership Through Research 3
EDU 808 - Using Theory to Guide Research 3
EDU 809 - Conceptualizing Applied Research 3
EDU 810 - Ethical Leadership 3
EDU 811 - Diagnosing Organizational Dynamics 3
EDU 812 - Dissertation Seminar I 3
EDU 813 - Dissertation Seminar II 3
EDU 814 - 817 - Dissertation 12

Academic Policy

Minimal Grade Standard and Academic Progress

Candidates may proceed to subsequent courses in the curriculum with one Low Pass grade.  A second Low Pass (or below) course grade may result in termination from the doctoral program. For those needing to report course completion status to employers, a Pass equates a B or better.

 

Dismissal from the Program

Termination from the Program may occur when the Education Program Manager becomes aware of one of the following:

  • Surrender of a teacher license in any jurisdiction for disciplinary reasons.
  • Documented academic dishonesty (Note this also includes course on-line postings and email communications with faculty and staff. Students are advised that their behavior while participating in the Program should exemplify the ethical behavior of a professional educator with respect to all communications.)
  • Academic failure (see “Minimal Grade Standard and Academic Progress”.)

Timeline for Completion

A student who has not completed the Doctoral Program within five (5) years will be administratively withdrawn from the program and be required to apply for readmission.

Leave of Absence

Students may take one 8 week term leave of absence per academic year (3 terms) but must enroll for the subsequent term to remain on track for program completion. The course must be made up the next time it is offered. Students may take no more than two course-long leaves of absence within the five-year limit in the Doctoral Program.

The required Request for Leave of Absence form must be filed with the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.  Application for readmission is not necessary if the student returns as planned; however, the student who does not return at the specified time will be administratively withdrawn and may be subject to readmission procedures. Note: It is the responsibility of the student to contact the College of Graduate and Professional Studies to indicate change of plans.

Re-admission

Students who have withdrawn from the program must reapply if they wish to continue their studies. The application procedures, academic policies, and program requirements that are in effect at the time of readmission will apply.  Students who re-enroll following withdrawal will have their previous coursework evaluated for applicability to the existing academic requirements. Coursework that is more than three years old will not be accepted for credit in the program.  Older courses that have been revised or eliminated from the program offerings will not be accepted upon re-admission.

Students who have been administratively withdrawn from the program may petition for re-admission after a full semester has elapsed. The petition letter must provide a justification for re-admission that addresses how past issues have been resolved and will not re-occur. In addition, a letter of recommendation is required from the student's work supervisor that attests to their ability to successfully complete a graduate program. Both letters should be sent electronically to the Education Program Manager prior to applying for re-admission.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

  • Participate fully and responsibly in supportive and action based learning environments of authentic value for colleagues in K-12 education, community college, health, business, and other sectors.
  • Develop and utilize transformative institutional processes to foster, assess the results, and respond to the reported analysis for continued systemic change.   
  • Use technology for research collaboration and dissertation development among colleagues and faculty (e.g., web/videoconferencing).
  • Fully utilize an integrated curriculum that fuses discreet elements of each candidate’s program of study into a coherent whole.
  • Fully utilize online search tools and databases to identify research studies and other relevant resources.
  • Participate in virtual seminars and conferences building a professional learning community.
  • Employ problem and case-based learning strategies extensively in courses and dissertation. 
  • Write and successfully defend a field-based dissertation. 

Transfer Credit

Transfer Credit

Upon acceptance, students may apply to transfer up to two, 3-credit courses (maximum of six credits) into the Doctor of Education program.

To request consideration for transfer credit, a student must provide an official transcript and a course syllabus for each course. Transfer credit is awarded at the discretion of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies based on specific program details listed below. Requests for approval of transfer credit should be submitted to, and will be granted at the discretion of, the Program Manager.

Transfer courses must:

  • Be classified as graduate, post-Master’s level.
  • Be worth 3 credits.
  • Have been taken within five years of application.
  • Have been completed with a grade of “B” or better.
  • Be equivalent to one of the required program courses or an elective course that meets the goals of the student’s education.
  • Not have been applied toward any other degree. 

Admissions

Admissions Requirements

  • A Master's degree from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university, or its equivalent.
  • Graduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better
  • Computer with internet connection, including the hardware and software requirements described in our . Must also possess sufficient computer skills to navigate the internet as all classes are accessed 100% online.

Application Process

  • Completed online application: 
  • Submission of the non-refundable application fee
  • Current Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Application Essay
  • Two (2) letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts reflecting conferral of a master's degree from a regionally accredited institution.  All transcripts are to be submitted from the original institutions.

Note: Transcripts for any coursework appearing as transfer credit on the transcript of the conferred degree can be waived if the coursework is unrelated to the degree being sought.  The program admissions committee defines all coursework not eligible for waiver.

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Applications for admission are accepted through 91AV’s online application only.  Detailed instructions are included in the online application.
  • Official transcripts, as well as other documents to support the application, must be submitted to the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, 716 Stevens Ave, Portland, ME, 04103
  • Students are admitted to the EdD program three (3) times a year:  Summer A, Fall A, Spring A.
  • Applications received and completed by the respective deadlines will be given full consideration.  Applications submitted and/or completed after the deadline will be reviewed for the next available term.
  • Admissions are rolling and decisions are made by the program admissions committee throughout the cycle.
  • Admissions are rolling and decisions are made by the program admissions committee as candidates are interviewed and will continue until the program starts or the class is full.
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees must have their transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution.  See 
  • All applicants to 91AV must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university.  91AV accepts several methods of English Proficiency, see  
  • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language () are required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application. 

For additional information on the admissions process and requirements, please access the 

POLICY EXCEPTIONS

The Doctor of Education program and the EdD Admissions Committee in collaboration with the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions reserve the right to make exceptions to the admissions criteria and to make changes or exceptions to policies and procedures, on a case by case basis, when it deems such a decision is necessary and appropriate.

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Detailed information and applications are available on request from the Financial Aid Office. Call 207-602-2342 or visit the Financial Aid website.

Health Informatics

Category
Department
Degree name
Master of Science Health Informatics
Sections

Mission

The Master of Science in Health Informatics program prepares future leaders in health informatics to leverage technology tools to improve health and healthcare outcomes through the execution of data-driven management techniques and strategies, to adapt to rapidly-changing landscapes, and to provide leadership and innovation to the health informatics profession.

Program Description

The Graduate Programs in Health Informatics prepares students for a career in health informatics through the interdisciplinary study of the design, development, adoption, and application of technology-based innovations in healthcare services delivery, management, and planning. The courses provide a graduate education to individuals with varied backgrounds to learn skills in healthcare, technology, informatics, and leadership. The curriculum is delivered in an online format, with full- and part-time options, and is intentionally flexible and readily applicable to students regardless of where they live.

The Master of Science in Health Informatics is a 36 credit hour curriculum that develops and enhances skills in a variety of professional areas, including healthcare quality, information management, technology, innovation, and leadership. This degree culminates in a practicum, which includes a practical or project experience and capstone paper.

The Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics is an 18-credit hour program that provides students with the core health informatics courses they need to broaden and enhance their professional knowledge. All courses in the Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics are also transferable to the Master of Science in Health Informatics program.

Accreditation

The 91AV is Accredited by: NEASC

Curricular Requirements

 Required Courses:

HIN 601 - The Healthcare and Public Health Landscape

HIN 605 - Introduction to Health Informatics
HIN 610 - Healthcare Quality
HIN 615 - Computer Science for Health Informatics Professionals
HIN 620 - Database Design, Standards, Access, Modeling
HIN 625 - Health Information Legislation, Compliance, Privacy and Security
HIN 700 - Project Management
HIN 715 - Information Visualization: Turning Data into Insight
HIN 740 - Health Informatics Capstone
HIN 745 - Cumulative Experience in Health Informatics

Electives – choose two courses from the following list:

HIN 720 - Leadership and Strategic Management in Health Settings
HIN 725 - Organizational Behavior, Work Flow Design, and Change Management
HIN 730 - Human Factors for System Development
HIN 735 - Measuring the User Experience
HIN 750 - Consumer Informatics

HIN 760 - Healthcare Finance and Economics

HIN 765 - Communications for Health Care Leaders
HIN 770 - Foundations of Data and Analytics
HIN 775 - Advanced Concepts in Data Analytics
EDU 760 - Adult Learning Theory

Degree Plan for Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics:

HIN 601 - The Healthcare and Public Health Landscape
HIN 605 - Introduction to Health Informatics
HIN 610 - Healthcare Quality
HIN 615 - Computer Science for Health Informatics Professionals
HIN 620 - Database Design, Standards, Access, Modeling
HIN 625 - Health Information Legislation, Compliance, Privacy and Security

Academic Policy

Minimum Grade Point Average

Matriculated graduate students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) or better. Failure to do so will result in academic probation and possible termination from the program. Any student receiving a grade below B- on any individual course has failed that course must re-enroll and repeat the course to achieve a grade of B- or better. Students receiving a grade of F in any course will be immediately placed on academic probation.  Any student who receives a grade of F in two or more courses is dismissed from the program.

Graduation

Candidates must fulfill all program requirements and are required to earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 to be eligible to graduate. All students must file an Application to Graduate with the registrar’s office via U-Online.  Please access the following link for complete instructions and the answers to frequently asked questions:

Adding, Dropping, and Withdrawing from Courses

 

The last day permissible for matriculating graduate students to add or drop a course without financial penalty is the second day of class.

Students who withdraw from a course must do so in writing and will receive a “W” on their transcript indicating withdrawal. Students will receive a partial refund if they withdraw from a course within the first or second week. Be aware that no portion of the tuition will be refunded after the second week of the course. Students who have not participated in the course by the end of the second week will be administratively withdrawn from the course and will not receive a tuition refund.

Email requests for withdrawals must be submitted from a student’s 91AV e-mail to be considered.

Matriculating students who withdraw after completing more than 2/3 of a course will receive a grade of “WF” (withdrawn failing) or “WP” (withdrawn passing), based on the instructor’s assessment of the student’s current standing in the course. A “WF” is calculated as an “F” in the student’s GPA. Upon successful completion of the course, the new grade will be used to calculate the GPA. Students will be dismissed from their program after two failing grades (including a “WF”).

University Withdrawal

All matriculated students who wish to withdraw from the University must complete notification documentation available from Registration Services. Documentation must be signed by designated academic and administrative authorities.

Leave of Absence

Matriculated students must enroll and successfully complete at least one course per term. A leave of absence (LOA) for a specified period of time, not to exceed one academic year, may be granted to a matriculated student with the authorization of the Dean and the Program Manager or designee. If not enrolled for one full term, students must contact their Student Support Specialist and complete the required Request for Leave of Absence form available from Registration Services. Application for readmission is not necessary if the student returns as planned. However, the student who does not return at the specified time will be administratively withdrawn and will be subject to readmission procedures.

The LOA period is considered as part of the time allotted to complete the academic program. Note: It is the responsibility of the student to contact the office of the Program Manager to indicate a change of plans.

Medical Leave of Absence

In the event that a leave of absence is taken due to medical reasons, a doctor’s note may be required in order to return to active standing within the program.

Audit Policy

A student may, with prior consent of the Program Manager or designee, enroll in a course for an audit grade (AU). This must be requested at the time of registration for the course and must be accompanied by signed approval of the instructor and Program Manager or designee. This applies to both matriculated and non-matriculated students. Reversal or change of an audit grade is not possible. Once enrolled for AU the grade becomes permanent on a student's academic record. The student who wishes later to be graded for such a course must re-enroll in and pay for graded credit. In auditing a course, the student is expected to complete all lectures and discussion boards, but is not permitted to submit course work for evaluation, take examinations, receive grades, or earn credit. Auditing a course does not count toward enrollment status (i.e. part-time, full-time, etc.) and therefore cannot be considered for financial aid purposes, veteran's benefits, etc.

Academic Integrity Policy

The 91AV values academic integrity in all aspects of the educational experience. Academic dishonesty in any form undermines this standard and devalues the original contributions of others. It is the responsibility of all members of the University community to actively uphold the integrity of the academy; failure to act, for any reason, is not acceptable.

Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to the following:

1.      Cheating, copying, or the offering or receiving of unauthorized assistance or information.

2.      Fabrication or falsification of data, results, or sources for papers or reports.

3.      Action which destroys or alters the work of another student.

4.      Multiple submission of the same paper or report for assignments in more than one course without permission of each instructor.

5.      Plagiarism, the appropriation of records, research, materials, ideas, or the language of other persons or writers and the submission of them as one's own.

Charges of academic dishonesty will be reviewed by the Program Manager. Penalties for students found responsible for violations may depend upon the seriousness and circumstances of the violation, the degree of premeditation involved, and/or the student’s previous record of violations.  Appeal of a decision may be made to the Dean whose decision will be final.  Student appeals will take place through the grievance process outlined in The College of Graduate and Professional Studies Student Handbook.

Office for Students with Disabilities

The Student Access Center works to ensure that the University promotes respect for individual differences and that no person who meets the academic and technical standards needed for admission and continued enrollment at 91AV is denied benefits or subjected to discrimination due to a disability.  Toward this end, and in conjunction with federal and state laws, the University provides reasonable accommodations for qualified students.

Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is highly valued by the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.  Many courses within the College feature experiential-learning components.  However, at this time, no credit will be awarded to students for purely experiential learning experiences undertaken in lieu of coursework.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

  1. Graduates will understand the American healthcare system and the effects technology and data have had on it.
  2. Understand the complex system of legal and regulatory compliance that governs the healthcare system.
  3. Apply core concepts of database design to facilitate managing the large amounts of data produced and captured in the healthcare setting.
  4. Understand foundational concepts and theories of leadership and management, especially with respect to data-driven business intelligence.
  5. Apply technology and the healthcare quality framework to meet the goals of the triple aim of improving the patient experience of care, improving the health of populations, and reducing the per capita cost of health care.
  6. Analyze, evaluate, and apply the range of tools needed to implement new technology, including identifying, evaluating, selecting, implementing, and upgrading technological systems.
  7. Evaluate the ways new and developing healthcare technology trends influence world-wide health outcomes, and propose potential technology-based solutions for increasing world-wide health outcomes.
  8. Understand and apply project management tools, concepts, and best practices to oversee the successful completion of complex projects.

Transfer Credit

TRANSFER CREDIT
Upon acceptance, students may apply to transfer up to three, 3-credit courses (maximum of nine credits) into the Master of Science in Health Informatics program or up to two, 3-credit courses (maximum of six credits) into the Graduate Certificate in Health Informatics program.

To request consideration for transfer credit, a student must provide an official transcript and a course syllabus for each course. Transfer credit is awarded at the discretion of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies based on specific program details listed below. Requests for approval of transfer credit should be submitted to, and will be granted at the discretion of, the Program Manager.

Transfer courses must 

  • Be classified as graduate level
  • Have been taken within five years of application
  • Have been completed with a grade of “B” or better
  • Be equivalent to one of the required program courses or an elective course that meets the goals of the student’s education
  • Not have been applied toward any other degree. 

Admissions

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

  • A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or its equivalent. See  for details regarding evaluation of international degrees for grade and degree equivalency.
  • Undergraduate cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better.
  • Computer with internet connection, including the hardware and software requirements described in our . Must also possess sufficient computer skills to navigate the internet as all classes are accessed 100% online.

Application Process

  • Completed online application: http://go.une.edu/apply
  • Submission of the non-refundable application fee 
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Goal Statement
  • Three professional references
  • Official transcripts reflecting conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.  All transcripts are to be submitted from the original institutions.

Note:  Transcripts for any coursework appearing as transfer credit on the transcript of the conferred degree can be waived if the coursework is unrelated to the degree being sought.  The program admissions committee defines all coursework not eligible for waiver

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Applications for admission are accepted through 91AV’s online application only.  Detailed instructions are included in the online application.
  • Official transcripts, as well as other documents to support the application, must be submitted to the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, 716 Stevens Ave, Portland, ME, 04103
  • Students are admitted to the Health Informatics program three (3) times a year:  Summer A, Fall A, Spring A.
  • Applications received and completed by the respective deadlines will be given full consideration.  Applications submitted and/or completed after the deadline will be reviewed for the next available term.
  • Admissions are rolling and decisions are made by the program admissions committee throughout the cycle.
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees must have their transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution.  See 
  • All applicants to 91AV must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university.  91AV accepts several methods of English Proficiency, see 
  • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language () are required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application. 

For additional information on the admissions process and requirements, please access the website.

POLICY EXCEPTIONS

The Graduate Health Informatics program and the Health Informatics Admissions Committee in collaboration with the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions reserve the right to make exceptions to the admissions criteria and to make changes or exceptions to policies and procedures, on a case by case basis, when it deems such a decision is necessary and appropriate.

Financial Information

TUITION AND FEES

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Marine Sciences

Category
Contact

Dr. Kathryn Ono
Chair of the Graduate Studies Committee
Department of Marine Sciences
91AV
11 Hills Beach Road
Biddeford, ME 04005
(207) 602-2814
kono@une.edu
or
Dr. Barry Costa-Pierce, Chair
Department of Marine Sciences
91AV
11 Hills Beach Rd.
Biddeford, ME 04005

(207) 602-2440
bcostapierce@une.edu

Degree name
Master of Science (M.S.), Marine Sciences
Sections

Mission

The mission of the Department of Marine Sciences at 91AV is to enable students to understand the real-world relevance of the marine sciences, foster scientific literacy and critical thinking skills, and lay the foundation for lifelong learning and meaningful, productive contributions to society.

The Marine Sciences encompass a wide variety of disciplines that seek to understand the way the ocean functions, and how it is related to earth systems sciences, as well as to human interactions with the environment. Students will learn the theoretical underpinnings and applications of disciplines from biology, to chemistry, geology, and physics.  Students will be able to apply these disciplines to solving real problems, not only in ocean sciences, but in fields as far ranging as meteorology and space exploration, as well as aquaculture and marine policy.

The mission of the Master of Science: Marine Sciences program is to prepare outstanding graduate students for careers or further training in science, technology, and education by providing an advanced knowledge base and research skills in marine sciences.

Program Description

The Master of Science: Marine Sciences program offers post-baccalaureate training to students interested in continuing their education in the marine sciences.  The classroom curriculum provides a strong background in all aspects of the marine sciences. The program focuses on a thesis research experience: students will conduct research and prepare a thesis on any of a variety of topics selected in consultation with our faculty.

Program Goals

  • Provide a knowledge base in the marine sciences that is deeper than the typical undergraduate experience.
  • Foster participation in the production of new knowledge through excellence in research.
  • Instill outstanding research skills and a working knowledge of the scientific method by participation in high-quality research.
  • Develop outstanding scientific communication skills through written and oral presentations.

Curricular Requirements

  Credits
Program Required Courses  
MAR 503 - Research Methods 3
MAR 530 - Graduate Seminar 1
MAR 512 - Marine Science Center Seminar 1
MAR 566 - Advanced Oceanography I 3
MAR 568 - Advanced Oceanography II 3
Electives - Additional Coursework 9*
MAR 590 - Research and Thesis 12 min
Total Credits Required 36
MAR 595 - Thesis Writing/Data Analysis (taken after 36 credits completed) 1
MAR 599 - Masters Thesis 0
*Students may substitute Thesis/Research credits for Electives with the approval of their advisor  

Graduation Requirements

Students must successfully complete all required courses with a minimum graduate GPA of 3.0 and successfully pursue, complete and defend publicly an approved research thesis.

Academic and Technical Standards

Satisfactory Academic Progress

To remain in the MS: Marine Sciences program, the student's cumulative graduate GPA must be a minimum of 3.0.   A student whose GPA falls below 3.0 or who receives a grade below B- in any course taken for graduate credit will be placed on academic probation.

Program Completion Timeline

Students have a maximum of five years to complete the graduation requirements.  After two academic years (fall and spring terms), students who have completed their coursework but are still completing their theses are required to enroll in a thesis continuation credit per semester to remain in the program.

Probation/Dismissal

A graduate student whose grade point average (GPA) for any semester falls below 3.0, or whose cumulative grade point average is below 3.0, or who receives a class grade below a B- for any class taken for graduate credit is automatically placed on probation. A student placed on academic probation will be granted one fall or spring semester to raise his/her cumulative GPA to 3.0 or above, will be required to achieve a minimum GPA of 3.0 for the semester, and cannot receive a second class grade below B-.  The Department of Marine Sciences and the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences will consider for dismissal any student who fails to meet these criteria.

Academic Policy

Course Withdrawal

In normal length semesters, a matriculated student may withdraw from a course without academic penalty (a grade of W is assigned) at any time during the first two-thirds of the semester. If withdrawal occurs after that date, the grade of WP (withdrew passing) or WF (withdrew failing) will be entered, subject to determination by the instructor. The grade of WF is computed in the grade point average.

Incomplete Grades

A student who believes she/he is unable to complete the work for a given course by the end of the term may apply for an extension by discussion with the instructor.  At the time of this meeting, a plan must be agreed upon for completion of the course work, including a date of completion, not to exceed six weeks following the end date of the course. This agreement must be completed by the last day of class for the given course. Any student who does not follow the above guidelines will receive an F for the course. In exceptional circumstances (such as death in family, significant illness, accident), an additional extension may be requested. Any such request must be made in writing, reviewed and signed by the instructor and the student’s advisor.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Students will demonstrate expertise in their thesis research field
  2. Students will increase their proficiency to publication level written and professional oral communication skills
  3. Students will demonstrate mastery of the concepts and principles of the Marine Sciences
  4. Students will demonstrate an understanding of research design and have the ability to carry out a research project

Transfer Credit

TRANSFER CREDIT

  • Transfer credits are rarely awarded to students who transfer from another marine science program
  • Transfer credits will be reviewed and awarded on a case-by-case basis

ADVANCED STANDING
No advanced standing available

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
No credit awarded for experiential learning

Admissions

Program admissions requirements
 

coursework prerequisites

  • Marine Science Track
    • Science (all with labs)
      • Biology, 16 credits
      • General Chemistry, 12 credits
      • Physics, 8 credits
    • Other
      • Calculus, 4 credits
  • Oceanography Track
    • Science (all with labs)
      • General Chemistry, 8 credits
      • Physics, 8 credits
    • Other
      • Calculus, 4 credits
      • Additional 16 credits in Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Geology, or Biology
    • All prerequisite courses must be successfully completed with a grade of “C” or better (“C-“grades, not acceptable)
    • Prerequisite courses may be in-progress or planned at the time of application, but must be completed before enrollment before either
      • Summer term start
      • Fall term start

academic/experience requirements

  • Completion of Bachelor’s Degree from a U.S.regionally accredited institution, or international equivalent, prior to matriculation
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and minimum cumulative pre-requisite GPA of 3.0, required
  • Successful completion of the General Graduate Record Exam  with competitive scores (official score must be submitted from ETS directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions at the 91AV  (code # 3751)
  • Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended must be submitted directly from the issuing institution to 91AV’s Office of Graduate Admissions
  • Three (3) letters of reference from writers who know you and can speak to your academic and/or professional experience (letters from friends and family members will not be accepted)
  • Prior to or early in the admissions process, candidates are advised to communicate with faculty with whom they would like to work
  • Only those applicants who meet minimum requirements will be considered for admission

procedures and policies

  • Applications for admission are accepted through the 91AV (detailed instructions are included in the application portal)
    • 91AV application portal opens annually July 1
    • Applications must be electronically submitted by the posted deadline of February 1
      • Please Note: Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit and complete your application well before the deadline for earliest consideration
      • A complete application includes the following:
        • Electronically submitted application
        • Official transcripts from all colleges/universities attended
        • Official GRE score report sent directly from ETS to 91AV Office of Graduate Admissions
        • Three (3) letters of reference
      • All completed applications will be reviewed by the program admissions committee after the application deadline with decisions mailed beginning in mid-March
      • Applications completed after the posted deadline will be reviewed on a space available basis, only
    • Accepted candidates will be expected to pay a minimal non-refundable deposit to secure your place in the program
      • Deposit is applied to any fees not covered by the assistantship or grant received upon acceptance
      • Deposit will be forfeited should the candidate decide not to matriculate in the program
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees
    • Must have transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited U.S. institution
    • Must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university
      • 91AV accepts several methods of           
      • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language or the International English Language Testing System is required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application

POLICY EXCEPTIONS

  • Policies have been established to ensure fair and consistent admissions practice for all applicants
  • All criteria presented in this summary are subject to change per professional accreditation requirements, changes in curriculum or other institutional standards, and clinical affiliation requirements
  • Exceptions to existing admission policies are rare and made on a case by case basis, only when it is deemed necessary and appropriate to maintain fair and consistent practice for all candidates

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Continued Enrollment

After two academic years, a student who has completed all coursework except his/her thesis will be required to pay for a thesis continuation credit plus mandatory fees each semester to remain in the program.

Other Expenses

Housing is arranged by and financed at the expense of the student.  Currently there is no on-campus housing available for graduate students.

Financial Aid

Detailed information and applications are available on request from the Financial Aid Office on the Biddeford Campus. Call 207-602-2342, or by visiting the Financial Aid website. Information on Research Assistantships and Teaching Assistantships can be found on the

Master of Science in Education

Category
Contact

Degree name
Master of Science in Education (MSEd)
Sections

Accreditation

All programs at the 91AV are accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

Curricular Requirements

Master of Science in Education

The Master of Science in education from 91AV allows students to customize their program by choosing electives from different topic areas in education such as curriculum, literacy, educational leadership, and inclusion for teachers looking to advance their career in education. Contact your state’s Department of Education for specific certification requirements.

Program Requirements

Core Courses

Credits

EDU 600 Teacher as Leader

3

EDU 610 Differentiation Theory & Strategies

3

EDU 615 Motivational Theory & Class Management

3

EDU 690 Action Research

3

EDU 695 Portfolio

3

Total core credits:    

15

Elective Courses (choose any 5)

 

Total elective credits:

15

Total program credits:

30

Available Electives:

EDU 701 Educational Leadership
EDU 702 School Law
EDU 704 Supervision and Evaluation of Instructional Personnel
EDU 707 Instructional Leadership
EDU 709 School Finance
EDU 715 Organizational Theory and Strategic Planning
EDU 720 Special Education Law for the Classroom
EDU 721 Using Technology within Inclusion Education
EDU 722 Special Education Assessment in Inclusion Settings
EDU 723 Teaching and Learning in Inclusion Settings
EDU 724 Collaboration in Inclusion Settings
EDU 740 Supporting Literacy Development for All Learners
EDU 741 Literacy Assessments as Teaching Tools
EDU 742 Study Skills & Content Literacy Instruction for All
EDU 743 Connecting Reading with Writing for Success
EDU 744 Meeting Student Literacy Challenges
EDU 746 Professional Learning and Literacy Leadership
EDU 747 Literacy for English Language Learners
EDU 748 Literacy for Inclusion Settings
EDU 751 The Application Model of Learning - Curriculum Development
EDU 753 Working with Special Needs Students
EDU 755 Utilizing Literacy Strategies in CTE Learning Environments
EDU 757 Health and Safety Implementation for CTE
EDU 759 Preparing Students for College, Careers, & Citizenship

Master of Science in Education · Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach Track

For educators interested in pursuing a Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach certification, the 91AV offers a program track to equip teachers with the foundational knowledge and curriculum required by the State of Maine.

Core Courses

Credits

EDU 600 Teacher as Leader

3

EDU 610 Differentiation Theory & Strategies

3

Required Electives

 

EDU 740 Supporting Literacy Development for All Learners

3

EDU 741 Literacy Assessments as Teaching Tools

3

EDU 742 Study Skills and Content Literacy Instruction for All

3

EDU 743 Connecting Reading with Writing for Success

3

EDU 744 Meeting Student Literacy Challenges

3

EDU 746 Professional Learning and Literacy Leadership

3

EDU 747 Literacy for English Language Learners

3

EDU 748 Literacy for Inclusion Settings

3

EDU 749 Reading Diagnosis: Clinical Practice I

3

EDU 750 Instruction Intervention: Clinical Practice II

3

Total program credits:

36

Master of Science in Education - Teaching Methodology

The Master of Science in Education - Teaching Methodology is available only to 91AV students who have successfully completed the Teacher Certification Program (TCP). The Teaching Methodology program is a 30 credit master’s degree encompassing 15 graduate credits from 91AV’s College of Arts and Sciences Teacher Certification Program and 15 core credits in The College of Graduate and Professional Studies (CGPS) Graduate Programs in Education.  The CGPS graduate education courses are delivered online with in depth study in the areas of professional learning communities, differentiation, motivation, and action research.

CAS Program Requirements

Elementary/Middle Courses

Credits

EDU 502 - Curriculum and Assessment

3

EDU 510 - Exceptionality in the Classroom

3

EDU 561 - Teaching Social Studies, K-8

3

EDU 567 - Teaching Science, K-8

3

EDU 573 - Teaching Mathematics, K-8

3

EDU 581 - Foundations of Literacy Development and Instruction

3

EDU 582 - Literacy Research -Based Instructional Methods

3
Total Credits (15 required for MSM, but 21 required for Maine State certification) 21
   

Secondary or Art Courses

Credits

EDU 502 - Curriculum and Assessment

3

EDU 510 - Exceptionality in the Classroom

3

EDU 582 - Literacy Research-Based Instructional Methods

3

Select one appropriate methods course from the following list:

3

EDU 536 - Teaching Secondary English 

 

EDU 537 - Teaching Secondary Science 

 

EDU 538 - Teaching Secondary Social Studies 

 

EDU 539 - Teaching Secondary Math 

 

EDU 541 - Methods of Art Education 

 

Elective- Must choose ONE elective at the Graduate Level

3
Total Credits 15

CGPS Program Requirements

Courses

Credits

EDU 600 Teacher as Leader

3

EDU 610 Differentiation Theory & Strategies

3

EDU 615 Motivational Theory & Class Management

3

EDU 690 Action Research

3

EDU 695 Portfolio

3

Total Credits:    

15

Academic Policy

Course Drop and Withdrawal Policy

The last date to drop a course with no record is the first day of course. Students who withdraw from a course must do so in writing (e-mail is acceptable) by the end of the fourth week of the course.  Students will receive a “W” on their transcripts indicating withdrawal.  Beyond the fourth week, at the faculty’s discretion, a “WP” or “WF” may be assigned if extenuating circumstances do not allow the student to complete his/her work. Be aware that no portion of the tuition will be refunded after the second week of the course.

Minimal Grade Standard and Academic Progress

Students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (“B”). Failure to do so may result in academic probation and possible termination from the program. Students receiving a grade of “F” in any course will be immediately placed on academic probation.

Dismissal from the Program

Termination from the Program may occur when the Education Program Manager becomes aware of one of the following:

  • Surrender of a teacher license in any jurisdiction for disciplinary reasons.
  • Documented academic dishonesty (Note this also includes course on-line postings and email communications with faculty and staff. Students are advised that their behavior while participating in the Program should exemplify the ethical behavior of a professional educator with respect to all communications.)

Graduation Requirements

To complete the program and receive a Master of Science in Education, a student must:

  • Complete all program requirements.
  • Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • Pay all tuition and fees.

Timeline for Completion/Leave of Absence

A student who has not completed the MSEd Program within three (3) years will be administratively withdrawn from the program and be required to apply for readmission. Students are required to take a course every semester, otherwise they must request a Leave of Absence, or be withdrawn from the program.  These arrangements are the responsibility of the student and must be communicated in writing to the Student Support Specialist.

The required Request for Leave of Absence form must be filed with the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.  Application for readmission is not necessary if the student returns as planned; however, the student who does not return at the specified time will be administratively withdrawn and may be subject to readmission procedures. Note: It is the responsibility of the student to contact the College of Graduate and Professional Studies to indicate change of plans.

Re-admission

Students who have withdrawn from the program for a period of one year, either self-initiated or administrative withdrawal, must reapply to the program if they wish to continue their studies. The application procedures, academic policies, and program requirements that are in effect at the time of readmission will apply.

Students who re-enroll following withdrawal will have their previous coursework evaluated for applicability to the existing academic requirements. Coursework that is more than five years old will not be accepted for credit in the program.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

After completing the MSE program, students should be able to: 

  1. Address the full range of student motivation and differentiation issues encountered in today's school systems
  2. Analyze and conduct research relevant to their teaching or administrative interests
  3. Document professional development in the program via an electronic portfolio of course work
  4. Demonstrate a high degree of specialized knowledge and skills about their chosen concentration area
  5. Exhibit leadership in their classroom and/or school system
  6. Develop online collaborative relationships with peers 

Transfer Credit

transfer credit

Upon acceptance, students may apply to transfer up to two, 3-credit courses (maximum of six credits) into the Master of Science in Education program.

To request consideration for transfer credit, a student must provide an official transcript and a course syllabus for each course. Transfer credit is awarded at the discretion of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies based on specific program details listed below. Requests for approval of transfer credit should be submitted to, and will be granted at the discretion of, the Program Manager.

  • Be classified as graduate level.
  • Be worth 3 credits.
  • Have been taken within five years of application.
  • Have been completed with a grade of “B” or better.
  • Be equivalent to one of the required program courses or an elective course that meets the goals of the student’s education.
  • Not have been applied toward any other degree.

NO transfer credit will be accepted into the Master of Science in Education – Reading Specialist/Literacy Coach Track or any other program leading to State of Maine certification.

Admissions

Admissions requirements

  • A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution or its equivalent. See  for details regarding evaluation of international degrees for grade and degree equivalency.
  • Undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.
  • Employed in an educational setting or ability to regularly access an environment in which you can apply course concepts and strategies.
  • Computer with internet connection, including the hardware and software requirements described in our . Must also possess sufficient computer skills to navigate the internet as all classes are accessed 100% online. 

Application Process

  • Completed online application: http://go.une.edu/apply
  • Submission of the non-refundable application fee
  • Current Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Goal Statement
  • Official transcripts reflecting conferral of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution.  All transcripts are to be submitted from the original institutions.

Note: Transcripts for any coursework appearing as transfer credit on the transcript of the conferred degree can be waived if the coursework is unrelated to the degree being sought.  The program admissions committee defines all coursework not eligible for waiver.

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Applications for admission are accepted through 91AV’s online application only. Detailed instructions are included in the online application.
  • Official transcripts, as well as other documents to support the application, must be submitted to the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, 716 Stevens Ave, Portland, ME, 04103
  • Students are admitted to the MSED program six (6) times a year: Summer A & B, Fall A & B, Spring A & B.
  • Applications received and completed by the respective deadlines will be given full consideration.  Applications submitted and/or completed after the deadline will be reviewed for the next available term.
  • Admissions are rolling and decisions are made by the program admissions committee throughout the cycle.
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees must have their transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution.  See .
  • All applicants to 91AV must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university.  91AV accepts several methods to demonstrate English Proficiency, see  
  • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language () are required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application. 

For additional information on the admissions process and requirements, please access the

exceptions

The Master of Science in Education program and the MSED Admissions Committee in collaboration with the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions reserve the right to make exceptions to the admissions criteria and to make changes or exceptions to policies and procedures, on a case by case basis, when it deems such a decision is necessary and appropriate.

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Financial Aid

Detailed information and applications are available on request from the Financial Aid Office. Call 207-602-2342 or visit the Financial Aid website.

Nurse Anesthesia

Category
Contact

Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions, gradadmissions@une.edu or 1-800-477-4863 for more program information or details about the application process.

For additional curriculum and program information, contact the Department of Nurse Anesthesia at 207-221-4516.

Degree name
Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia (MSNA)
Sections

Mission

The mission of the School of Nurse Anesthesia is to provide an academic environment which allows students to master the intellectual and technical skills necessary to become competent in the safe conduct of anesthesia. This is accomplished by providing a select group of experienced, graduate level acute care nurses with the highest level of didactic, simulation lab, and clinical site experiences. 91AV's graduate nurse anesthetists develop life-long scholarship, critical thinking skills, and professionalism needed to become compassionate, patient-centered Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA's) in solo practice or within a collaborative anesthesia environment.

Program Description

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA's), as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, have been providing anesthesia care in the United States of America for over 150 years. Currently, there are approximately 50,000 CRNA's in the country with more than 2,800 students graduating per year.

CRNA's are anesthesia specialists who safely administer approximately 43 million anesthetics to patients in the United States each year. As advanced practice nurses, they can serve in a variety of capacities in daily practice, such as a clinician, educator, administrator, manager, and researcher.

  • CRNA's administer anesthesia for all types of surgical cases, using all anesthetic techniques and practice in every setting in which anesthesia is delivered, from university-based medical centers to free-standing surgical facilities and offices.
  • CRNA's are the primary anesthesia providers in almost 100% of rural hospitals in the United States, affording access to anesthesia care where it would otherwise not be available.  CRNAs provide a significant amount of the anesthesia in inner cities as well.
  • CRNAs are qualified and permitted by state law or regulations to practice in every state in the nation. They provide anesthesia in collaboration with surgeons, anesthesiologists, podiatrists, dentists, and other healthcare professionals.

The School of Nurse Anesthesia at the 91AV has been an involved in nurse anesthesia education since 1970, serving as an academic affiliate for hospital-based certificate nurse anesthesia programs. In 1988, we initiated a program leading to the Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia. In 1993, the 91AV MSNA program became the sole authority of the education of nurse anesthesia students and the last hospital-based program in Maine closed.

Two-Phase Program

At 91AV, we offer a 27-month two-phase program.

The first phase is conducted on our historic Westbrook College of Health Professions Campus, situated in the picturesque coastal city of Portland.  The first eight months of study consists primarily of didactic instruction in basic sciences and anesthesia taught by our CRNA and basic science faculty. Included within this 8 month didactic curriculum is instruction using state-of-the-art task trainers and simulation labs which prepare students for their clinical curriculum. In the summer of 2017, the Simulation Lab will be moving to its new home in Innovation Hall and increase simulation opportunities for our students.

The second phase of the curriculum entails clinical training based at our hospital affiliates for a period of 19 months.  Didactic instruction continues during the clinical phase through hybrid, web-based courses in advanced principles of anesthesia and research and on-campus courses involving business and leadership in anesthesia practice and anesthesia crisis resource management simulation. The School has contractual relationships with over 35 hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and offices located in New England and throughout the country, which offer our students a varied and diverse clinical education experience. MSNA academic and clinical faculty are proud that our students are trained in collaborative anesthesia environments as well as in non-medically directed, CRNA-only sites. Students will gain experience in all facets of anesthesia management, including ultrasound guided regional anesthesia, pain management, invasive monitoring, and pre- and post-op patient assessment.

With successful completion of the 27 month program, students are awarded a Master of Science degree in Nurse Anesthesia (MSNA). The graduate is then qualified to take the National Certifying Examination.  Upon successful completion of the exam, the graduate becomes a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist capable of practicing in all 50 states. To date, 100 percent of our students have passed the certifying examination in their first year post-graduation and 100 percent have successfully obtained employment.

Transition Plan to the Entry-Level Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program: The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA) requires that all students matriculating into a nurse anesthesia educational program on January 1, 2022 or thereafter be enrolled in a program approved by the COA to award a practice doctoral degree. The 91AV Nurse Anesthesia program plans to submit its application to the COA for approval to award the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in January 2019. Pending approval by the COA, the program plans to enroll its first doctoral cohort of students in May 2020. Further information regarding this transition may be obtained by contacting the Program Director Maribeth Massie, Ph.D., MS, CRNA at 207-221-4519 or mmassie@une.edu.

Accreditation

The School of Nurse Anesthesia is accredited by the Council on Accreditation (COA) of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs, a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council on Post-secondary Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. The School of Nurse Anesthesia is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs through the spring of 2021.  The Program received the full 10-year accreditation length in June 2011.

Curricular Requirements

The MSNA curriculum is designed so that students are based on 91AV's Portland campus for the first eight months (two semesters) of the program. The majority of the basic science and anesthesia didactic courses are offered during this period. The remaining 19 months of the program are clinically-based, with an emphasis on advanced coursework, clinical training, simulation lab experiences, and completion of a capstone project. All students are required to complete the entire curriculum with passing grades. 

Course Requirements    
  Hours Credits
Summer (May - August)    
ANE 504 - Advanced Pharmacology I 45 3
ANE 507 - Basic Principles of Anesthesia I 60 4
ANE 631 - Professional Aspects  45 3
ANE 603 - Advanced Physiology I 45 3
ANE 609 - Research Methods for the Health Professional 45 3
ANE 632 - Advanced Pathophysiology I 45 3
Subtotal  285 19
     
Fall (August-December)     
ANE 512 - Airway Management and Regional Techniques 60 4
ANE 602 - Basic Principles of Anesthesia II 60 4
ANE 604 - Advanced Physiology II 45 3
ANE 606 - Advanced Pharmacology II 45 3
ANE 629 - Advanced Physical Assessment Across the Lifespan 45 3
ANE 633 - Advanced Pathophysiology II 45 3
Subtotal 300 20
     
Spring  (January-April)     
ANE 623 - Advanced Principles of Anesthesia I 45 3
ANE 650 - Clinical Practicum I 15 1
Subtotal 60 4
     
Summer (April - August)     
ANE 624 - Advanced Principles of Anesthesia II 45 3
ANE 652 - Clinical Practicum II 15 1
Subtotal  60 4
     
Fall (August - December)     
ANE 654 - Clinical Practicum III 15 1
ANE 628 - Research Practicum I 15 1
Subtotal 30 2
     
Spring (January-April)     
ANE 656 - Clinical Practicum IV 15 1
ANE 630 - Research Practicum II 15 1
ANE 619 - Business and Leadership in Anesthesia Practice 15 1
Subtotal  45 3
     
Summer (April - August)     
ANE 658 - Clinical Practicum V 15 1
ANE 627 - Anesthesia Crisis Resource Management 15 1
Subtotal  30 2
     
Program Total  765 51

Clinical Training

Upon completion of the didactic portion of the program, the students move on to the 19-month clinical portion of the curriculum. The primary focus is clinical anesthesia training. The clinical experience obtained will be of the width and breadth necessary for the student to achieve clinical competency in anesthesia. This is accomplished through affiliations at various clinical sites.

Each student is required to participate in a minimum number of cases and techniques but program and clinical faculty strive for our students to achieve well above the established standards. The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs has set minimum standards for clinical experience that each student must achieve prior to graduation from the program in order to qualify for the National Certifying Examination.  All of the surgical specialties are included, including hands-on training in regional anesthesia techniques. Specialty experiences (i.e. neurosurgery, open-heart surgery, high-risk obstetrics) when not available at primary hospital affiliation sites, will be obtained from rotations at other medical facilities.

All types of anesthesia techniques and the latest agents are available for student learning. Students are able to obtain experience in general anesthetics, intravenous agents, invasive line placement, and regional anesthesia including spinal, epidural, and peripheral nerve blocks. Students are required to rotate to CRNA-only sites also and gain this valuable experience.

Clinical Affiliates

Please refer to the school website for a list of clinical sites currently utilized by the School of Nurse Anesthesia.

Graduation Requirements

In order for a student to graduate, the following criteria must be met:

  1. Satisfactory completion of all didactic and clinical courses with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
  2. Satisfactory completion of clinical experience as required by the School of Nurse Anesthesia and the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs.
  3. Satisfactory completion and fulfillment of stated 91AV School of Nurse Anesthesia Student Learning Outcomes.
  4. Completion of twenty-seven actual months in program, exclusive of probationary time.
  5. All evaluations must be completed and signed, including University and Program evaluations.
  6. All clinical records must be completed and submitted to the Anesthesia School Administrative staff.
  7. Successful completion of the capstone project.
  8. All fees must be paid in full.
  9. All library books must be returned.
  10. A current RN license and ACLS, PALS, BLS Certifications must be on file.
  11. Successful completion of the Self-Evaluation Exam (SEE) from the NBCRNA. Students are required to obtain a SEE score of 425 or higher before they can complete the program. The program will pay for the first attempt and the student is responsible for subsequent SEE payments until the minimum score is obtained. This may delay graduation for the program

Academic and Technical Standards

WCHP Academic Policy

The Department of Nurse Anesthesia, the Westbrook College of Health Professions, and the 91AV are committed to offering a quality Nurse Anesthesia education program that complies with the evaluative criteria of the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). The program provides learning experiences to enable graduates to achieve the outcomes required for the practice of Nurse Anesthesia.  Please refer to the WCHP Graduate Program Progression Policies and Procedures for detailed description of academic standards.

Academic Policy

PROGRAM COMPLETION TIMELINE

Students are expected to complete 27 actual months in the program.

RULES OF CONDUCT WHILE ON AFFILIATION AT CLINICAL SITES

Success in the Nurse Anesthesia profession requires certain behavioral attributes including but not limited to personal commitment and hardiness, self awareness, resilience, perseverance, empathy, discipline, honesty, integrity, personal regard for others, the ability to work effectively with others in a team environment, and the ability to address a crisis or emergency situation in a composed manner.  Adherence to these attributes requires a high level of maturity and self-control, even in highly stressful situations.  During the clinical phase, students must conduct themselves in a highly professional manner consistent with the patient care responsibilities with which they will be entrusted.  Failure to adhere to these standards, as noted below, or comply with the Clinical Rotation Policies will result in a disciplinary action ranging from a written warning to dismissal from the program (depending upon the violation and the circumstances surrounding the offense).

  1. Creating or contributing to situations that jeopardize patient safety. 
  2. Students are expected to follow all policies in the Student Code of Conduct section of the 91AV Handbook.  Unethical behavior such as academic dishonesty, falsifying case logs or medical records is considered a violation of the Program’s standards of conduct. 
  3. Respect the confidentiality of patients and fellow students.  One is not permitted to discuss any patients by name outside the clinical encounter situation.  Students should not discuss other students with preceptors.  For academic presentations, all identifying data, including name, initials, date of birth and facility where seen will be omitted.
  4. Unauthorized possession, use, copying, or distribution of hospital records or disclosure of information contained in such records to unauthorized persons.
  5. Use, distribution, or unauthorized possession of intoxicating beverages or drugs on hospital premises or reporting to work under the influence of intoxicants.
  6. Unauthorized absence from the Anesthesia Department during regularly scheduled clinical hours.
  7. Failure or refusal to follow instructions of a duly assigned preceptor including refusal to accept clinical assignment.
  8. Use of vile, intemperate or abusive language, or acting in a disrespectful manner to any employee, supervisor, patient, or visitor.
  9. Any disorderly conduct on hospital premises.
  10. Creating or contributing to unsanitary conditions.
  11. Theft, fraud, or unauthorized use of property belonging to the hospital, patient, or visitor.

CLINICAL PRACTICUM COURSE EXPECTATIONS

To successfully complete each clinical practicum course, students must achieve a grade of A or B.    Details regarding clinical practicum expectations will be detailed in the Student Clinical Practicum Handbook and course syllabus.  Briefly speaking, clinical progression will be monitored during each clinical practicum.  If students are not meeting clinical objectives, they will be placed on Probation.   
  
If a student is placed on a 30- day Probationary Status, they will continue with the clinical objectives scheduled for that level.  The student will communicate with program faculty and clinical faculty to develop a plan based on their clinical evaluations, clinical faculty feedback and/or program faculty findings.  The plan will include strategies for improvement of clinical performance. 

At the end of the 30-day Probationary Status, the student’s performance will be re-evaluated by the clinical and program faculty. If they are successful, they will resume their clinical practicum at the same level their peers are at and return to good standing.  Being placed on probationary status will delay the student's graduation date accordingly. If progress continues to be unsatisfactory, the student will receive an 'F' for the course and be dismissed from the program.    

Students may be placed on a second 30-day probationary period for additional (unresolved or newly identified) performance issues.  The process described above would apply for this as well.  Students are granted a maximum of two (2) probationary periods not to exceed 60 days total.  If additional (newly identified) performance issues continue to occur after a student has been granted (2) probationary periods, the student would be immediately dismissed.

ESSENTIAL TECHNICAL STANDARDS

Principles:
Nurse anesthesia education requires that accumulation of scientific knowledge be accompanied by the simultaneous acquisition of specific skills and professional attitudes and behavior. Nurse Anesthesia faculty have a responsibility to society to matriculate and graduate the best prepared nurse anesthetists, and thus admission to this program has been offered to those who present the highest qualifications. The essential technical standards presented in this document are pre-requisite for matriculation, subsequent promotion from year to year, and ultimately graduation from the 91AV School of Nurse Anesthesia. These standards pertain to all matriculated students. All required courses in the curriculum are necessary in order to develop essential skills required to become a competent nurse anesthetist.

The faculty is committed to fostering relationships with its students that encourage human and professional growth. Its policies and procedures attempt to reflect this commitment to proactive and supportive communication.

It is imperative that all students recognize that the primary responsibility for a successful nurse anesthesia education, both in and outside the classroom, rests with the individual. Students, including students with disabilities, must have the capacity to manage their lives and anticipate their own needs. The School has incomplete influence in helping students achieve these personal adaptations. Situations can arise in which a student’s behavior and attitudes resulting from a disability or other personal circumstances represent a secondary problem which impairs the student’s ability to meet the School’s standards, even after implementation of all reasonable accommodations have been made by the School.

Recommendations:

  1. No otherwise, qualified individual will be denied admission to the School of Nurse Anesthesia based solely upon a disabling condition.
  2. Candidates with disabilities applying to the School of Nurse Anesthesia will be expected to have achieved the same requirements as their non-disabled peers.
  3. Matriculation into the School of Nurse Anesthesia assumes certain levels of cognitive, emotional, and technical skills. Nurse anesthetist candidates with disabilities will be held to the same fundamental standards as their non-disabled peers. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to assist the candidates in learning, performing and satisfying the fundamental standards, so long as the candidate provides timely, comprehensive documentation establishing the candidate’s disability status and need for reasonable accommodation.
  4. Reasonable accommodations that facilitate candidate progress will be provided but only to the extent that such accommodation does not significantly interfere with the essential functions of the School of Nurse Anesthesia, fundamentally alter the program, or significantly affect the rights of other candidates.
  5. The School, under the law, is obligated to provide all reasonable accommodations that will eliminate or minimize the barriers disabled candidates may face in the process of successfully completing the requirements for graduation from the 91AV’s School of Nurse Anesthesia.

Abilities and Skills:
A candidate for this program must have abilities and skills of five varieties including observational skills; communication skills; fine and gross motor skills; intellectual skills: conceptual, integrative and quantitative abilities; and behavioral and social/emotional attributes.

I. Observational Skills
The candidate must be able to acquire a defined level of required information as presented through demonstration and experiences in the basic sciences and anesthesia courses including, but not limited to, information conveyed through labs and simulated anesthesia exercises. Furthermore, a candidate must be able to observe a patient accurately, at a distance, and close at hand, acquire information from written documents and visualize information as presented in radiographic images and patient monitors. The candidate must have visual and hearing acuity, including use of depth perception and peripheral vision; hearing normal and faint body sounds (blood pressure and heart sounds) and hearing auditory alarms on monitors and anesthesia delivery systems. Such observation and information acquisition necessitates the functional use of visual, auditory and somatic sensation while being enhanced by the functional use of other sensory modalities.

In any case where a candidate’s ability to observe or acquire information through these sensory modalities is compromised, the candidate must demonstrate alternative means and/or abilities to acquire and demonstrate the essential information without reliance upon another person’s interpretation of the information. The university will provide appropriate reasonable accommodations to foster the student’s ability to meet these standards, so long as the student registers with 91AV Disability Services.
 
II. Communication Skills
The candidate must be able to effectively and efficiently communicate using verbal, written, and reading skills, in a manner that demonstrates sensitivity to patients, their families and all members of the health care team.  A candidate must be able to accurately elicit information, describe a patient’s change in mood, thought, activity and status. He or she must also demonstrate established communication skills using traditional or alternative reasonable means that do not substantially modify the standard.

III. Fine and Gross Motor Skills
The candidate must be able to, with or without the use of assistive devices, but without reliance on another person, interpret x-ray and other graphic images and digital or analog representations of physiologic phenomenon (such as EKGs).

The ability to participate in basic diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers and procedures (e.g. palpation, auscultation) is required. It is also essential for a candidate to possess the gross motor skills sufficient to provide a full range of safe and effective care to patients. These include the ability to move within confined spaces, reach above shoulders, bend, stoop, squat, stretch and to reach below the waist. Fine motor skills are necessary to perform psychomotor skills such as picking up objects, grasping, pinching with fingers (intubations, manipulating a syringe, starting IVs), twisting and squeezing.

Physical stamina sufficient to complete the rigorous course of didactic and clinical study is required. In addition, physical endurance and strength is a requirement in order to tolerate training during an entire shift (including overtime or call), standing for long periods of time and sustaining repetitive movements (performing CPR, positive pressure ventilation, etc). Candidates must be able to provide hands-on patient care such as lifting, pushing and pulling excessive weight to position patients, pick up and carry children, ambulate patients and transfer anesthetized patients from stretchers and beds. When transporting patients to patient recovery areas, the candidate is required to move not only the patient's weight but also the heavy bed.
The candidate is required to carry heavy equipment and supplies, sit for long periods of time on stools with and without any back support, twist and turn to visualize monitors and the surgical field and possess the strength and flexibility to assist in the restraint of combative patients. In addition, the candidate must be able to move quickly to respond to emergencies. At all times the ability to administer care to patients in a safe manner is paramount.
 
IV. Intellectual Skills - Conceptual, Integrative and Quantitative Abilities
The candidate must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze and synthesize information in a timely fashion. In addition, the candidate must be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and to understand the spatial relationships of structure. Problem-solving, the critical skill demanded of nurse anesthetists, requires all of these intellectual abilities. These problem-solving skills must be able to be performed in a precisely limited time demanded by a given clinical setting. In addition, the candidate must be able to adapt readily to changing environments and deal with unexpected activities.

V. Behavioral and Social/Emotional Attributes
Candidates must possess the emotional health required for full utilization of their intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, the prompt completion of all responsibilities attendant to the diagnosis and care of patients, and the development of mature, sensitive and effective relationships with patients.
Candidates must be able to tolerate physically taxing workloads and to function effectively under stress. They must be able to adapt to changing environments, to display flexibility and to learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the clinical problems of patients. They must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze and synthesize information effectively in a precisely limited time demanded by a given clinical setting, while under stress, and in an environment in which other distractions may be present.
Compassion, integrity, concern for others, interpersonal skills, self reflection, emotional intelligence, interest, and motivation are all personal qualities that will be assessed during the admissions and educational processes.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this educational program, the student shall demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the faculty, specific competencies expected of graduates.  These competencies identify the knowledge and skills necessary for competent entry-level practice of nurse anesthesia.  Upon completion of the program, the graduate will:

1. Demonstrate understanding of the perianesthetic management of patients based on theory and research evidence learned in the basic sciences and basic and advanced principles of anesthesia practice during the didactic phase of the program.

2. Apply theoretical and evidence-based knowledge learned during the didactic phase of the program and demonstrate mastery in the perianesthetic management of the patient in the clinical setting.

3. Effectively communicate with all health care professionals, patients, and families in the delivery of culturally competent perianesthetic care throughout the anesthesia experience.

4. Demonstrate vigilance and adherence to patient safety principles throughout the anesthetic experience.

5. Demonstrate professional responsibility, integrity, and accountability to their peers, interprofessional colleagues, and other health care stakeholders throughout the program and perianesthetic clinical experiences.

Transfer Credit

Transfer Credit

  • Transfer credits are rarely awarded to students who transfer from another nurse anesthesia program 
  • The program director will review and award transfer credits on a case-by-case basis

Advanced standing

No advanced standing placement available

Experiential Learning

No credit awarded for experiential learning

Admissions

Program Admissions Requirements
 

Coursework Requirements

  • Required Science Course
    • Biochemistry (3-4 semester credits)
      • Completed with a grade of “B” or better (“B-“ grade is not acceptable) no more than five years prior to enrollment into the Nurse Anesthesia program
      • Must be completed by December 20 prior to expected enrollment in summer term to meet admissions eligibility (documented completion with a "B" or better or evidence of enrollment in course to be completed by December 20, required at time of application)
      • will be accepted to fulfill the Biochemistry prerequisite, as well as many other courses
  • Recommended Science Courses
    • Anatomy (with lab, 4 semester credits)
    • Physiology (with lab, 4 semester credits
    • Biology (with lab, 4 semester credits)
    • Chemistry (with lab, 4 semester credits)
    • Microbiology (with lab, 4 semester credits)
    • Organic Chemistry (with lab, 4 semester credits
    • Physics (with lab, 4 semester credits)
    • Pharmacology (3-4 semester credits)

academic/experience requirements

  • Completion of baccalaureate or higher degree from a U.S. regionally accredited university in nursing OR Associate degree from a U.S. regionally accredited nursing program and completion of a baccalaureate degree from a U.S. regionally accredited school in another field 
  • Minimum overall cumulative GPA of 3.0, specifically in the science and professional courses is highly recommended
  • Submission of official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended as part of the completed application
  • Proof of current licensure as a registered nurse in your own state at the time of application; licensure in the state where clinical experience occurs, is obtained after enrollment
  • “Shadowing" a nurse anesthetist for at least a day in the operating room prior to application and "shadowing" a student registered nurse anesthetist for a day is highly recommended to more fully understand the commitment involved in studying to become a nurse anesthetist
  • Minimum of one year, 2 or more recommended, of experience as a critical care registered nurse
    • Must be completed prior to application to the program
    • Acceptable areas: ICU, CCU, CVICU, SICU, MICU, NICU, PICU and Neuro ICU)   
    • Note: Emergency Room, Recovery Room or Post-Anesthetic Care Unit (PACU) will be considered on a case-by-case basis but generally not sufficient as the sole critical care experience  
  • Three (3) letters of reference 
    • One letter must be from the immediate acute care nursing supervisor or manager attesting to the total length of time, in years and months, applicant has worked in the acute care setting as a registered nurse
    • All others should be of a clinical nature
    • Letters from friends or family members not acceptable
  • Certifications
    • Current Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Certification
    • Current Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) Certification
    • CCRN and/or other specialty certification (i.e., CEN) highly recommended
      • Submit copy of certification
      • Submit score report
  • Before or upon matriculation, accepted/deposited candidates will be expected to
    • Meet all health immunization requirements (
    • Obtain a physical examination with proof of up-to-date immunization status
  • Accepted/deposited candidates will be subject to passing a criminal background check and drug screen prior to matriculation as well as periodically throughout the program as required by clinical affiliations

procedures and policies

  • Applications for admissions to be submitted through the 91AV's  only
    • Applications submitted and completed by the posted deadline will receive full consideration
    • Applications submitted and/or completed after the deadline will be reviewed on a space available basis only
  • On-campus interviews are granted to qualified applicants
    • Required for admission to the program and by invitation only
    • Interviews held in the fall term prior to the summer admit term
    • Admissions decisions are non-rolling and made by the program Admissions Committee after all interviews are completed
    • Decision letters will be sent to applicants from the Office of Graduate Admissions
      • Candidates required to deposit within two-four (2-4) weeks of receipt of decision letter to secure place in class
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees
    • Must have transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution
    • Must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university
      • 91AV accepts several methods of
  • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language () or the International English Language Testing System is require

Policy exceptions

  • Policies have been established to ensure fair and consistent admissions practice for all applicants
  • All criteria presented in this summary are subject to change per professional accreditation requirements, changes in curriculum or other institutional standards, and clinical affiliation requirements
  • Exceptions to existing admission policies are rare and made on a case by case basis, only when it is deemed necessary and appropriate to maintain fair and consistent practice for all candidates

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog. Miscellaneous fees that students should plan for in the program include but may not be limited to the following (approximate amounts):

Castlebranch/Certified Background $250.00
Ear mold for precordial stethoscope  $80.00
Required texts  $1800.00
Certifications (ACLS, PALS, BLS) $250.00
Nurse Anesthesia Review course  $775.00
Prodigy or other anesthesia software program $400.00
Self-Evaluation Exam (SEE) fee (per attempt) $160.00
National Certification Exam fee (per attempt) $725.00

Financial Aid

Detailed information and applications are available on request from the Financial Aid Office at the Biddeford Campus. Call 207-283-0170, extension 2342 or by visiting the Financial Aid website.

Occupational Therapy

Category
Contact

Kris Winston

kwinston@une.edu

Degree name
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Sections

Mission

Mission

The mission of the Occupational Therapy Department is to develop competent, compassionate occupational therapy practitioners and scholars through a dynamic, student-centered, occupation-based educational program.

Vision

Our vision is to lead the profession in the meeting society’s occupational needs by fostering excellence in occupational therapy teaching, scholarship and service.

Program Description

Occupational therapy is a health profession whose practitioners work with clients of all abilities across the lifespan.  The goal of occupational therapy intervention is to increase the ability of the person to participate in everyday occupations that include activities we need and want to participate in such as, mealtimes, dressing, bathing, leisure, work, education, and social participation. 

Occupational therapy practitioners work in a variety of settings some of which include hospitals, clinics, schools, rehabilitation centers, home care programs, community health centers, psychiatric facilities, and skilled nursing facilities.  With experience, practitioners might function in private practice, as a university faculty member, in administration, as a researcher, or as a consultant.

The graduate occupational therapy (OT) curriculum is designed to facilitate occupation-based, client-centered practice, critical thinking and clinical reasoning. Courses emphasize life-long learning and professional responsibilities and help students become competent and compassionate practitioners. Workshops, lectures, intervention labs, small group classes, and fieldwork experiences help students apply and integrate practice grounded in theory.

The graduate OT program within the Westbrook College of Health Professions emphasizes inter-professional education among nursing, nurse anesthesia, athletic training, applied exercise science, physical therapy, social work, dental hygiene, physician assistant, pharmacy, public health, nutrition, health wellness and occupational studies,  dental, and osteopathic medical students.

Accreditation

The Occupational Therapy Program was first awarded accreditation in January 1985. The OT Program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), located at 4720 Montgomery Lane, Suite 200, Bethesda, MD 20824-3449. [(301) 652-AOTA].

Graduates of the program are eligible to take the National Certification Examination for the Occupational Therapist administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). After successful completion of this exam, the individual will be an Occupational Therapist, Registered (OTR).  NBCOT, Inc. 12 South Summit Avenue, Suite 100 Gaithersburg, Maryland 20877 Phone: 301-990-7979 Email: Info@nbcot.org web:

National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT)
Most states require licensure to practice. (State licensure requires NBCOT Certification Examination results). Eligibility for the National Certification Examination requires:

  • Master's degree, with a major in occupational therapy.
  • Successful completion of an accredited occupational therapy curriculum; and
  • Successful completion of a minimum of six months of supervised fieldwork (Level II).

Curricular Requirements

  Credits
Program Required Courses  
Summer  

OTR 505 - Foundations in OT

3

OTR 520/520L- Clinical Kinesiology & Anatomy

4

OTR 523L Foundational Practice Skills for Rehabilitation, Disability, and Participation

2

OTR 522 - Communication, Culture & Group Process

2
OTR 502- Occupational Analysis 3
  14
Fall  

OTR 521 - Biopsychosocial Dimensions of Mental Health & Wellness

3

OTR 521L - OT Interventions in Mental Health & Wellness (includes level I fieldwork)

2

OTR 527- Rehabilitation, Disability, and Participation in Adulthood

4

OTR 527L - OT Interventions in Adulthood (includes level I fieldwork)

2

OTR 503- Biopsychosocial Dimensions of Adulthood 3

OTR 529 - Integrative Practice w/Adults

2

  16
Spring  

OTR 621 - Health Care Management & Delivery

3

OTR 611 - Biopsychosocial Dimensions of Children & Youth

3

OTR 611L - OT Interventions w/ Children & Youth (includes level I fieldwork)

2

OTR 614 - Therapeutic Use of Self & Group Intervention (includes level I fieldwork)

2

OTR 610 - Integrative Practice w/Children & Youth

3

OTR 628 - Research Methods & Design

3

  16
Summer/Fall  

OTR 601 - Fieldwork IIA

6

OTR 602 - Fieldwork IIB

6

  12
Spring  

OTR 619 - Evidence Based Research Seminar

3

OTR 630 - Essentials for Practice in OT

3

OTR 640 - Neuro-occupation

3

OTR 650 - Leadership/Advocacy within Delivery Systems

3

   
Student must take one (1) of the following as offered:  

OTR 605 - Special Interest Practice Seminar

3

OTR 603 - Exploring Occupation

3

OTR 607 - Hand Therapy

3

OTR 608 - Pediatric Elective

3

OTR 641 - Applied Motor Control

3

OTR 642 - Applied Mental Health Practice and Leadership

3

OTR 665 - Inter-Professional Experience with Older Adults

3

Approved elective

3

  15
   
Overall Total 73

Fieldwork Experiences

Level I Fieldwork Students complete Level I Fieldwork experiences as part of instructional courses in a variety of community and medical settings. This experience reinforces course concepts. Students are supervised by qualified personnel may include occupational therapists, teachers, social workers, public health nurses, and physical therapists.

Level II Fieldwork emphasizes the application of knowledge by providing the student with an in-depth experience in delivery of occupational therapy service to patients/clients. Students complete two full time level II fieldwork experiences, each is 3 months long.

The expenses incurred for room and board during these internships, and travel to and from the fieldwork sites, are the responsibility of each student. Students may complete fieldwork at any approved location.

The requirements for Level II fieldwork include:

  • A minimum of six months (24 weeks, full time) of Level II Fieldwork experience, preferably with at least three months on a full-time sustained basis;
  • Completion of all fieldwork experience no later than 18 months following completion of the didactic portion of the curriculum;
  • Supervision provided by a licensed occupational therapist with at least one year of experience.

Graduation Requirements

Students must successfully complete all courses prior to graduation and fulfill all curriculum requirements.

Academic and Technical Standards

WCHP Academic Policies

The Department of Occupational Therapy, the Westbrook College of Health Professions, and the 91AV are committed to offering a quality Occupational Therapy education program that complies with the evaluative criteria of the ACOTE (Accreditation Council of Occupational Therapy Education). The program provides learning experiences to enable graduates to achieve the outcomes required for the practice of Occupational Therapy.  Please refer to the WCHP Graduate Program Progression Policies and Procedures for detailed description of academic standards.

MSOT Technical Standards

Technical Standards for Occupational Therapy Program  

The following abilities and skills are necessary to engage in the Occupational Therapy Department at the 91AV: 

  • Cognitive abilities to analyze, synthesize, and integrate information related to anatomy, physiology, human development, psychology, sociology, kinesiology, and occupational studies in order to make clinical judgments for planning and implementing effective occupation-based interventions.
  • Critical thinking and judgment that promotes safety, optimal occupational performance, remediation and adaptation.
  • Time management and organizational skills to meet demands of classroom and practice environment.
  • Interpersonal skills that include participating in classroom discussion, conducting interviews, observing body language, listening, responding, collaborative goal setting, and developing intentional relationships.
  • Evaluation of performance of self and others and making adjustments in behavior or promoting behavioral change in others to enhance occupational performance.
  • Communication skills to develop positive client relationships, complete written documentation consistent with OT practice, and participate as a health care team member.
  • Physical abilities to perform physical examinations, such as balance, range of motion, and strength, and to accurately, safely, and efficiently use assessment tools, equipment, and other materials during occupational therapy intervention.
  • Emotional stability to handle the demands of a practice environment.  This includes acting in a professional manner, being dependable, meeting commitments, and being forthcoming about one’s own needs.
  • Ability to maintain personal appearance and hygiene conducive to working in clinical and community settings.

Learning Outcomes

The OT Department’s goal is to develop competent, compassionate practitioners and scholars.

Upon completion of the Occupational Therapy curriculum, the student will be able to:

Foundations in Occupation

Recognize & value the essential contribution/composition of everyday occupations for health promotion, & well-being

Integrate knowledge from the liberal arts and sciences into occupational therapy practice.

Demonstrate understanding, awareness & appreciation of social, global, & cultural issues to meet the occupational needs of individuals, communities, & populations.

Critical Thinking in the Occupational Therapy Process

Select interventions for facilitating a client-centered plan throughout the OT process across the lifespan for individuals with a range of abilities

Utilize multi-modal types of clinical reasoning to implement interventions for client-centered service provision.

Integrate innovative, technological & creative resources and strategies into assessment, intervention, & outcomes across populations and contexts.

Occupation Across the Lifespan

Articulate and apply evidence that supports entry-level competence in person-centered and occupation-based practice for people of all ages.

Utilize assessments and intervention strategies that prioritize client-centered participation in occupations.

Communication, Advocacy, and Leadership

Perform as a competent and compassionate inter-professional practitioner and as an advocate and leader in OT for individuals, communities, & populations.

Advocate for occupational therapy services for/with recipients of those services.

Demonstrate leadership that upholds the Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics, OT standards of practice, & relevant policies.

Scholarship and Research

Formulate & implement a lifelong learning plan through the development of professional goals and aspirations.

Prioritize the utilization & promotion of evidence-based practice to promote professional and/or inter-professional growth.

Demonstrate an investment in and ability to utilize research to guide assessment, intervention, and outcomes across populations and contexts.

Synthesize & assimilate information from all levels of evidence to support practice.

Transfer Credit

Transfer Credit

  • Transfer credits are rarely awarded to students who transfer from another occupational therapy program
  • Transfer credits will be reviewed and awarded on a case-by-case basis

Advanced STANDING

No advanced standing available

Experiential Learning

No credit awarded for experiential learning

Admissions

Coursework requirements

  • Science​ċ
    • Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II (with labs, 8 semester or 12 quarter credits) OR
      • Human Anatomy, 4 semester or 6 quarter credits, and
      • Physiology, 4 semester or 6 quarter credits (Animal or Exercise Physiology not acceptable)
    • Neuroscience (3-4 semester or 5-6 quarter credits); lab component not required but is highly recommended
  • Other (3 semester credits or 5 quarter credits)
    • Statistics (Bio, Math, Psych)
    • Intro to Psychology
    • Abnormal Psychology
    • Human Development (lifespan)
    • Social Science (Sociology/Anthropology)
    • English Composition
    • Courses in Medical Terminology, college Chemistry or Physics, and Introduction to Occupational Therapy are highly recommended
  • Maximum of 3 AP credits may be applied toward the English prerequisite only
  • All prerequisite courses must be successfully completed with a grade of “C” or better (“C-“grades, not acceptable) and completed at a U.S. regionally accredited college or university
  • Prerequisite courses may be in-progress or planned at the time of application, but completed before enrollment in May; include any in-progress or planned coursework in your OTCAS application
    • Transcripts for coursework and/or degrees completed in the Fall term prior to the MSOT program start to be submitted to OTCAS for verification during the Academic Update period
    • Transcripts for coursework and/or degrees completed in the Spring term to be submitted directly to 91AV's Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions as soon as available
  • MSOT program will also accept courses offered through , other online, and community college coursework to satisfy prerequisites, if successfully completed at any U.S. regionally accredited institution with approval of program

ACADEMIC/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

  • Completion of Bachelor’s Degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution, or international equivalent, prior to matriculation
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, as calculated by OTCAS (inclusive of all coursework taken with no forgiveness for retakes)
  • Minimum cumulative prerequisite GPA of 3.0 as calculated by 91AV using the best grade received for repeated course
  • Completion of volunteer or work experience in a health or human service related setting is highly recommended
  • Two (2) letters of reference from writers who know you and can speak to your ability to be successful academically and to practice professionally (letters from friends or family members are not acceptable)
  • Only those applicants who meet minimum requirements will be considered for admission
    • Just meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee an interview or acceptance
    • Average GPAs for students accepted into the program are well above published minimums
  • Before or upon matriculation, accepted/deposited students will be expected to
    • Meet all health immunization requirements (
    • Obtain a physical examination with proof of up-to-date immunization status 
  • Accepted/deposited students will be subject to passing a criminal  background check and/or drug screening periodically throughout the program as required by clinical affiliations
  • All candidates must be able to meet all of the profession

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Applications for admission are accepted through the Occupational Therapy Centralized Application Service (
    • Applications must be electronically submitted to OTCAS by the posted deadline
    • It is highly recommended that students apply as early as possible in the admissions cycle
    • OTCAS application portal opens annually in mid-July
      • Priority application deadline:
        • Applications electronically submitted to OTCAS on or before posted priority application deadline will be considered for invitation to campus interview session from October - December
        • Decisions for priority applicants will be made and letters will be mailed after all priority applicants have interviewed
      • General application deadline:
        • General applicants who electronically submit the OTCAS application after the priority deadline will be considered for invite to interview December-March based on space availability
        • Decisions for general applicants will be made after each interview session on a space available basis until the program starts
  • On-campus interviews are required for admission and are by invitation only
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees
    • Must have transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution
    • Must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university
      • 91AV accepts several methods of
      • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (r the International English Language Testing System is required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application

Policy exceptions

  • Policies have been established to ensure fair and consistent admissions practice for all applicants
  • Exceptions to existing admission policies are rare and made on a case by case basis, only, when it is deemed necessary and appropriate to maintain fair and consistent practice for all can
  • All academic (coursework and degree) and experience requirements presented in this summary are subject to change per accreditation mandates or clinical affiliation requirements

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Physical Therapy

Category
Contact

91AV
Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions
716 Stevens Avenue
Portland, ME 04103
207-221-4225 or 800-477-4863

Degree name
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Sections

Mission

The Department of Physical Therapy believes that optimal 21st century, person-centered health care is best delivered by well-educated, compassionate leaders who think critically, reason intelligently, collaborate inter-professionally, and who promote health and wellness.  In this spirit, the department is dedicated to preparing students for contemporary physical therapy and advances the profession through its steadfast commitment to excellence in academics, clinical education, scholarship, research, and service. 

Core Values

The Department of Physical Therapy values excellence in student-focused teaching and learning, evidence-based practice, service to the community and profession, interprofessional collaboration, scholarship, and clinical practice.

Student-Focused

•  Friendly, collegial atmosphere
•  Low student-to-faculty ratios
•  Supportive faculty and staff

Academic Excellence

•  Expert academic and clinical faculty
•  State-of-the-art equipment and technology
•  Experiential learning, critical thinking and problem solving
•  Quality clinical experiences
•  High standards and expectations of student admission and retention
•  Continuous quality improvement

Evidence-based Practice

•  Critical appraisal of evidence
•  Integrate evidence, expertise and patient values
•  Best practice

Community & Diversity

•  Professional and community service
•  Embrace and learn from diversity
•  Non-discriminatory
•  Academic-Community partnership

Professional Conduct

•  Respect for all individuals
•  Trustworthy and truthful
•  Confidentiality of patient-therapist relationship
•  Sound judgment
•  Competence and professional development
•  Pro bono service
•  Life-long learning

Collaboration

•  Interprofessional Grand Rounds, seminars and symposia
•  Research and scholarship
•  Teaching and learning

Scholarship

•  Student participation and choice
•  Collaborative, interprofessional and individual intellectual pursuits

Health and Wellness

•  Whole person wellness
•  Injury and disease prevention
•  Promotion of healthy environments

Program Goals

  1. Core Attributes: Graduate compassionate, collaborative leaders who are critical thinkers and who promote health and wellness.
  2. Academics: Develop academic excellence.
  3. Clinical Practice: Promote faculty and student involvement in physical therapy practice across the continuum of care.
  4. Research and Scholarship: Generate and disseminate new knowledge.
  5. Service:  Identify, develop and promote opportunities for faculty and students to provide service to the institution, community, and profession.
  6. Administration: Further develop efficient processes and resources to support the Department's operations.

Program Description

The entry-level DPT Program is three calendar years (8 semesters) in length and includes a combination of classroom, laboratory, and clinical practicum experiences. The curriculum begins with the foundational sciences, through which the student explores and studies normal human structure and function, and fundamental physical therapy techniques. From this critical underpinning, the student engages in the evidence-based approach to the physical therapy management of impairments, functional limitations and disabilities related to movement, function and health across the life span. The curriculum sequence is generally organized according to key body systems (i.e., musculoskeletal, cardiopulmonary, neuromuscular, integumentary). Coursework includes study of the functional and psychosocial impacts of health conditions, relevant medical and surgical interventions, and the physical therapy tests, measures, and interventions utilized within the patient/client management model.

The student is also introduced to the physical therapist's role in disease prevention and health promotion, education, consultation, legislation and policy-making, and administration. The student engages in scholarly inquiry, either by completing a case report or conducting research under the direction and mentorship of a faculty member. The student may also explore topics beyond those required in the professional curriculum through elective courses or workshops offered by the Department and College.

Students complete three full-time clinical practical, totaling 36 weeks of clinical experience. Nearly 600 clinical sites around the United States are available to provide a broad base of experiences in a variety of settings. The sites represent the continuum of health care practice settings including acute care hospitals, rehabilitation hospitals, outpatient private practices, ambulatory care centers, skilled nursing facilities, school/ preschool programs, and home health care. Full-time clinical practical experiences are integrated in the second and third professional years, enabling students to apply information learned in didactic courses to patients and clients.

Accreditation

The DPT program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). The Department, through its policies and procedures, is committed to assuring compliance with the evaluative criteria established by CAPTE.

Accreditation indicates that the institution and program have been carefully evaluated and found to meet standards agreed upon by qualified educators. To contact CAPTE:


1111 North Fairfax Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
Email: accreditation@apta.org
Phone: (703)-684-2782 or (703)-706-3245

Curricular Requirements

The Doctor of Physical Therapy Program is eight semesters in length and includes a combination of classroom course work, laboratory coursework, and three, full-time clinical practical. In addition to the 106 required credits, students are invited to take up elective coursework offered by the department and by other graduate programs within the university.

  Credits
Program Required Courses  
BIO 502 - Gross Anatomy 6
BIO 504 - Neuroscience 4
PTH 501 - Foundations of PT Practice 5
PTH 502 - Kinesiology 5
PTH 503 - Normal Development 2
PTH 504 - Integrated Clinical Experience: Musculoskeletal 1

PTH 506 - Psychosocial Aspects of Disability and Illness

1

PTH 507 - Introduction to Clinical Medicine

1

PTH 508 - Pathology and Medical Management – Musculoskeletal System

2

PTH 510 -  PT Mgt Dis Musc/ Skel System

11

PTH 514 - Scientific Inquiry 1

2

PTH 516 - Pathology and Medical Management - Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Systems

1

PTH 522 - PT Management of Patients with Disorders of the Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Systems

4

PTH 524 - Clinical Education Seminar

1

PTH 525 - Practice Management

1

PTH 601 - Clinical Practicum 1

8

PTH 602 - Scientific Inquiry 2

2

PTH 603 - Pathology and Medical Management – Neuromuscular System

3

PTH 604 - PT Management of Children with Special Health Needs

5

PTH 605 - PT Management of Adults with Disorders of the Neuromuscular System

6

PTH 606 - Research Proposal or PTH 608 Case Report 1  or PTH 690 Research Practicum I*

2

PTH 607 - Clinical Practicum 2

8
PTH 610 - Comprehensive Exam I 1

PTH 700 - Administration

2

PTH 701 - Pathology and Medical Management – Integumentary System

1

PTH 703 - PT Management of Patients with Disorders of the Integumentary System

4

PTH 704 - Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

3

PTH 705 - Research Project or PTH 708 Case Report 2 *

2

PTH 706 - Public Policy & Physical Therapy

2

PTH 707 - Clinical Practicum 3

8

PTH 710 - Complex Case Management

1
PTH 711 - Comprehensive Exam 2 1

Total Credits Required

106

*Students complete one of the following course sequences:

PTH 608 and PTH 708 or

PTH 606 and PTH 705 or

PTH 690 and PTH 705

Please note: Curriculum is subject to change.

Graduation Requirements

Conferring of the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree is contingent upon the successful completion of academic and clinical coursework to include a total of 106 academic credits.

Academic and Technical Standards

Academic Standards

The Department of Physical Therapy, the Westbrook College of Health Professions, and the 91AV are committed to offering a quality physical therapist education program that complies with the evaluative criteria of the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education. The program provides learning experiences to enable graduates to achieve the outcomes required for the practice of physical therapy.  Please refer to the WCHP Graduate Program Progression Policies and Procedures for detailed description of academic standards.

Essential Technical Standards

The essential technical standards are pre-requisites for successful completion of the DPT program at the 91AV. Guidelines for reasonable accommodation are discussed. Please read this document carefully to determine whether you possess the abilities and skills reflected in the technical standards below. The standards apply to program activities taking place in classroom, laboratory, and clinical settings.

Principles:

  1. Physical Therapy is an intellectually, physically, and psychologically demanding profession.
  2. The obligation and mission of the 91AV DPT program is to produce effective and competent physical therapists that are best able to serve the needs of society. Therefore, all applicants, regardless of disability, will be held to the same admission standards. Once accepted, all DPT degree candidates will be held to the same technical standards, with reasonable accommodations provided when necessary and appropriate.
  3. Individuals with documented disabilities applying to the 91AV DPT Program will be expected to have completed the same academic prerequisites as their non-disabled peers. No applicant is required to disclose the details of a disability and no otherwise qualified individual will be denied admission to the DPT program based solely upon a disabling condition.
  4. Upon acceptance, the Westbrook College of Health Professions, under the law, is obligated to provide reasonable accommodations to DPT candidates and students with documented disabilities who are registered with the University’s Student Access Center while completing the academic and clinical requirements for graduation from the program.

Reasonable accommodations:

  • Are provided to help minimize the impact of the student’s disability, provide equal access to the University’s programs and services while upholding the academic, clinical, and technical standards of the DPT Program.
  • Are provided to assist the student in learning, performing and satisfying the fundamental standards, so long as the student provides comprehensive documentation establishing his/her disability status prior to the need for reasonable accommodation
  • Are provided only to the extent that such accommodation does not fundamentally alter the academic and/or technical standards of the Department of Physical Therapy or interfering with the rights of other students
  • Do not exempt DPT candidates from completing certain tasks deemed essential
  • Do not include reliance on peers-when a candidate’s ability to function is compromised (with or without accommodation) the candidate must demonstrate alternative means and/or abilities to acquire essential information and demonstrate essential tasks without reliance upon another person to help perform that essential task.
  • Are determined by the  in consultation with DPT faculty.

In addition, DPT faculty are available to work with candidates with disabilities to help identify strategies that might assist them in performing technical standards.


Candidate Declaration of abilities and skills:

  1. Prior to the start of DPT classes, matriculating students must indicate that they possess the abilities reflected in the technical standards described below, either with or without reasonable accommodation.
  2. A DPT candidate with a disability who wishes reasonable accommodation must contact the Student Access Center, Portland Campus, Lower Level, Ginn Hall, Phone: (207) 221-4418, Fax: (207) 523-1919. An offer of admission may be withdrawn or a DPT candidate may be withdrawn from the program if it becomes apparent at any time (1) that he or she cannot complete the technical standards even with accommodations, (2) that the accommodations needed are not reasonable, or (3) that fulfilling the functions would create a significant risk of harm to the health or safety of the student or others.

Technical Standards: Abilities and Skills

Matriculation into the DPT Program assumes certain essential cognitive, emotional, and technical skills. Reflected in the standards that follow are those abilities and skills that degree candidates must possess to engage safely and competently in required learning activities. The abilities and skills are described in five domains, including observation skills; communication skills; motor skills (fine and gross); intellectual-conceptual, integrative and quantitative abilities; and behavioral and social/emotional attributes.

I. Observation
Observation requires the functional use of vision, hearing, touch, and the use of common sense. Candidates must have visual perception, which includes depth and acuity. A candidate must be able to observe lectures, laboratory dissection of cadavers, and lecture and laboratory demonstrations. The candidate must be able to observe a patient accurately and obtain an appropriate medical history directly from the patient or guardian. Examples in which these observational skills are required include: observation of skin color; breathing regularity; temperature of skin; muscle tone; facial expressions; palpation of peripheral pulses, bony prominences and ligaments; visual and tactile evaluation for areas of inflammation; and visual and tactile assessment of the presence and degree of swelling. A candidate must be able to observe a patient accurately at a distance and close at hand, noting nonverbal as well as verbal signals. The candidate must have sufficient vision, hearing, and touch to detect patient/client needs in a busy clinical environment. The candidate must be able to read and interpret equipment, patient charts, and diagnostic tests. The candidate must also be able to accurately monitor dials, displays, and equipment used in treatment of patients including exercise equipment and electrical modalities.

II. Communication
Communication includes: speech, language, reading, writing and computer literacy. Students must be able to communicate effectively, sensitively, and convey a sense of compassion and empathy with patients and their families, as well as perceive non-verbal communications, and to deal effectively with cultural and ethnic diversity. Physical therapy education presents exceptional challenges in the volume and breadth of required reading and the necessity to impart information to others. Candidates must be able to communicate quickly, effectively and efficiently in oral and written English with all members of the health care team. Candidates must be able to complete forms according to directions in a complete and timely fashion. The candidate must be able to demonstrate the ability to deliver and receive complex information in one-on-one and group settings, respond to questions from a variety of sources and respond appropriately to verbal and non-verbal communication, as well as explain complex information according to the listener’s needs and abilities, both formally and informally. A candidate must be able to complete paper and/or on-line forms and documentation according to directions in a timely fashion, accurately elicit information and describe a patient’s change in mood, thought, activity and posture. Candidates must be able to demonstrate sufficient communication skills to effectively train other DPT candidates, patients, family and support personnel.

III. Motor
The candidate must have sufficient strength, endurance and motor skills to effectuate the coordination of both gross and fine muscular movement, equilibrium, and the integrated use of touch and vision. Sufficient physical stamina is required to complete the rigorous course of didactic and clinical study. The candidate must be able to access and negotiate laboratories, classrooms and workstations, attend clinical internships, and accomplish required tasks in the clinic and academic settings. The candidate must be able to perform emergency procedures such as: cardiopulmonary resuscitation; safely lift, transfer and position patients; safely assist and guard patients during gait training; safely and effectively administer exercise and examination procedures that require resistance or facilitation; perform non-surgical wound debridement, and manually adjust exercise equipment and assistive devices. Long periods of sitting, standing, and moving are required in classroom, laboratory and clinical experiences. The candidate must demonstrate: sufficient balance, coordination and ability to accompany and detect loss of balance in patients who are walking; the ability to support and guard patients who lose their balance during walking on level surfaces, as well as on stairs and uneven terrains/ramps; sufficient freedom of movement to be able to participate in all classroom and clinical activities; and the ability to lift and carry heavy objects. Required movements may include: pushing; pulling; standing; sitting for long periods of time with and without back support; twisting; kneeling; stooping and bending. The candidate must be able to use motor skills to accurately assess changes in: muscle tone, tissue and skin temperature, joint position, chest sounds and peripheral pulses, joint play and other examination tests. The candidate must also be able to: effectively apply compression, traction, resistance, and percussion; and demonstrate sufficient fine motor skills to be able to manipulate small objects and write legibly. The candidate must be able to respond to bells and alarms related to emergencies. At all times the ability to administer care to patients in a safe manner is paramount.

IV. Intellectual-Conceptual, Integrative and Quantitative Abilities
To effectively solve problems, the candidate must be able to: measure, calculate, reason, analyze, comprehend, integrate and synthesize information from the clinical, natural, and social sciences in a timely fashion. For example, the candidate must be able to synthesize knowledge and integrate the relevant aspects of a patient’s history, physical examination, and laboratory data. The candidate must be able to: provide a reasoned explanation for likely therapy, recalling and retaining information in an efficient and timely manner. The ability to incorporate new information from peers, teachers, and the medical literature in formulating treatment plans is essential. In addition, the candidate must be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and to understand spatial relationships of structures. The candidate must have the ability to use computers for searching, recording, storing, and retrieving information. The candidate must be able to understand theory, research literature, and principles that apply to physical therapy practice, and analyze and solve complex patient problems. The candidate must be able to utilize knowledge of natural, clinical, and social sciences to develop appropriate interventions in a clinical setting. The ability to use critical analysis to understand theory, research literature, and principles that apply to physical therapy practice and to apply inductive and deductive clinical reasoning to solve complex patient problems is necessary. The candidate must be able to effectively engage in self-assessment of performance, as well as provide objective and constructive assessments of peers and faculty. The candidate must be able to identify significant findings based upon history and physical examination and interpret laboratory and diagnostic imaging data. The candidate must utilize sufficient judgment to ensure safe encounters with peers and patients and to effectively delegate to support personnel.

V. Behavioral and Social/Emotional Attributes
The candidate must be: dependable, punctual, ethical, and reliable; maintain professional demeanor in all situations; recognize stressors and be able to seek assistance as needed. Candidates must possess the emotional health required for full utilization of their intellectual abilities. They must: exercise good judgment, promptly complete all responsibilities attendant to the care of patients, and develop mature, sensitive and effective relationships with patients. The candidate must also demonstrate a commitment to learning by seeking new knowledge and understanding, formulating their own thoughts and ideas, and taking ownership of their educational advancement. Candidates must be able to tolerate physically taxing workloads and to function effectively under stress. They must be able to: adapt to changing environments, display flexibility and function in the face of uncertainties inherent in clinical practice. They must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze and synthesize information effectively in the limited time demanded by a given clinical setting, while under stress, and in an environment in which other distractions may be present. The candidate must be able to abide by the APTA Code of Ethics, the Standards of Physical Therapy Practice and the Core Values, which can be found on the American Physical Therapy Association website at www.apta.org. Candidates must also be able to establish professional and empathetic relationships with individuals across the lifespan and from various cultures. Candidates must demonstrate integrity and honesty in the academic and clinical environment, as well as being able to engage in respectful interactions with individuals from various lifestyles, cultures, races, socioeconomic classes and abilities. They must be able to develop and maintain respectful working relationships with peers, faculty, professional colleagues, patients, family members and the general public and to recognize the psychosocial impact of movement dysfunction and disability on clients and families. The candidate must be able to accept constructive feedback and respond with suitable action.

Specific Examples of Technical Skills (Essential Functions) and Abilities:
Specifically, candidates must be able to:

  1. Attend and participate in classes for 30 or more hours per week during each academic semester. Classes consist of a combination of lecture, discussion, laboratory, and clinical activities.
  2. Use auditory, tactile, and visual senses to receive classroom instruction and to evaluate and treat patients.
  3. Read, write, speak, and understand English at a level consistent with successful course completion and development of positive patient-therapist relationships.
  4. Complete readings, assignments, and other activities outside of class hours.
  5. Apply critical thinking processes to their work in the classroom and the clinic.
  6. Exercise sound judgment in class and in the clinic.
  7. Participate in clinical experiences, which typically require students to be present 40 or more hours per week on a schedule that corresponds to the operating hours of the clinic.
  8. Gather decision-making pieces of information during patient assessment activities in class or in the clinical setting without the use of an intermediary (classmate, aide, etc).
  9. Perform treatment activities in class or in the clinical setting by direct performance.
  10. Sit for two to 10 hours at a time, stand for at least one to two hours at a time, and walk or travel for at least two hours at a time
  11. Frequently lift weights less than 10 pounds and occasionally lift weights between 10 and 100 pounds.
  12. Occasionally carry up to 25 pounds while walking up to 50 feet.
  13. Frequently exert 75 pounds of push/pull forces up to 50 feet and occasionally exert 150 pounds of push/pull forces for this distance.
  14. Frequently twist, bend and stoop.
  15. Occasionally squat, crawl, reach above shoulder level, and kneel.
  16. Frequently move from place to place and position to position at a speed that permits safe handling of classmates and patients.
  17. Frequently stand and walk while providing support to a classmate simulating a disability or while supporting a patient with a disability.
  18. Occasionally climb stairs and negotiate uneven terrain.
  19. Frequently use hands repetitively with a simple grasp and frequently with a firm grasp.
  20. Frequently perform tasks requiring manual dexterity skills.
  21. Frequently coordinate activities with gross motor and communication skills.

*Information and design from The Essential Standards and Technical Standards documents from the Graduate Program in Physical Therapy at Central Michigan and Sacramento State, and University of Buffalo’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, as well as the generic abilities developed by the physical therapy program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Academic Policy

Students are expected to abide by the academic policies and procedures and conduct code outlined in the 91AV (91AV) Student Handbook, the Department of Physical Therapy Student Handbook and the WCHP Graduate Program Progression Policies and Procedures. Failure to abide by these policies, procedures or codes may result in disciplinary action.  

Learning Outcomes

The Department of Physical Therapy, the Westbrook College of Health Professions, and the 91AV are committed to offering a quality physical therapist education program that complies with the 2016 standards of the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE).

After completing the physical therapy curriculum, students will:

  1. Integrate concepts from the biological, physical, behavioral, and clinical sciences into physical therapy services
  2. Exhibit professional conduct and behaviors that are consistent with the legal and ethical practice of physical therapy
  3. Demonstrate compassion, caring, integrity, and respect for differences, values, and  preferences in all interactions with patients/clients, family members, health care providers, students, other consumers, and payers 
  4. Demonstrate culturally sensitive verbal, nonverbal, and written communications that are effective, accurate, and timely
  5. Collect and critically evaluate data and published literature to apply in the delivery of care, practice management, and to examine the theoretical and scientific basis for physical therapy
  6. Screen patients/clients to determine if they are candidates for physical therapy services or if referral to, or consultation with, another health care professional or agency is warranted
  7. Complete a patient/client examination/reexamination and evaluate and interpret the examination data to determine a physical therapy diagnosis and prognosis
  8. Employ critical thinking, self-reflection, and evidence-based practice to make clinical decisions about physical therapy services 
  9. Collaborate with patients/clients, caregivers, and other health care providers to develop and implement an evidence-based plan of care that coordinates human and financial resources 
  10. Provide services and information related to health promotion, fitness, wellness, health risks, and disease prevention within the scope of physical therapy practice
  11. Advocate for patient/client and profession
  12. Provide consultative services and education to patients/clients, caregivers, health care workers, and the public using culturally sensitive methods that are adapted to the learning needs, content, and context
  13. Employ effective leadership skills in the context of supervising, delegating and mentoring within the profession

Transfer Credit

TRANSFER CREDIT

  • Transfer credits are rarely awarded to students who transfer from another physical therapy program.
  • ​The program director will review and award transfer credits on a case-by-case basis.

ADVANCED STANDING

No advanced standing placement available

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

No credit awarded for experiential learning

Admissions

Coursework requirementS

  • Science (all with labs, 8 semester credits or 12 quarter credits)
    • Biology I & II (no Botany, Anatomy, or Physiology)
    • General Chemistry I & II
    • Anatomy and Physiology I & II OR
    • Human Anatomy, 4 semester or 6 quarter credits, and
      ​Physiology, 4 semester or 6 quarter credits (no Invertebrate or Exercise Physiology)
    • Physics I & II (algebra or calculus based)
  • Other (3 semester credits or 5 quarter credits)
    • Statistics
    • Introduction to Psychology 
  • All science prerequisites must have been completed within seven (7) years prior to the PTCAS application deadline
  • All prerequisite courses must be successfully completed with a grade of “C” or better (“C-“grades, not acceptable)
  • Prerequisite courses may be in-progress or planned at the time of application, but must be completed prior to enrollment
    • Planned or in progress coursework must be listed on the PTCAS application at time of submission; not doing so will result in the applicant not meeting minimum requirements
    • Upper level coursework (with labs) acceptable to fulfill general science requirements
    • Online courses offered through as well as online courses from other U.S. regionally accredited colleges or universities are acceptable with approval of program
    • Transcripts for coursework and/or degrees completed in the fall term prior to the DPT program start must be submitted to PTCAS to be verified during the Fall academic update period
    • Transcripts for coursework and/or degrees completed in the spring or summer terms and not verified by PTCAS must be submitted directly to 91AV’s Office of Graduate Admissions as soon as they are available

Academic/experience requirements

  • Completion of Bachelor’s Degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution, or international equivalent, prior to matriculation
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 calculated by PTCAS (inclusive of all coursework taken with no forgiveness for retakes)
  • Minimum math/science prerequisite GPA of 3.0 calculated by 91AV using the best grade received with multiple repeats (excludes Introduction to Psychology course) 
  • Completed the General Graduate Record Exam 
    • Within 2 years of application to the DPT program
    • Official GRE scores submitted to PTCAS (use PTCAS code 7797)
  • Completed minimum of 40 hours of observation in PT practice at the time of application
    • Applicants are evaluated on their knowledge of the breadth and depth of PT practice; observation in a variety of practice settings and patient populations recommended
    • Observation hours to be completed with, and verified by, a licensed PT (hours with a PTA are not acceptable)
  • Three (3) letters of reference (require 3 and will review only the first 3 received); no additional letters will be used in the review process
    • One from a PT with whom you have worked or observed
    • One academic reference from a professor, research advisor, or academic advisor
    • One from person of your choice who can speak to your ability to be successful academically and to practice  professionally (letters from friends or family member are not acceptable)
  • Only those applicants who meet minimum requirements will be considered for admission
    • Just meeting minimum requirements, however, does not guarantee an interview
    • Average GPAs for students accepted into the program are well   above published minimums
  • Before or upon matriculation, accepted candidates will be expected to
    • Meet all health immunization requirements
    • Obtain a physical examination with proof of up-to-date immunization status 
  • Before or upon matriculation, accepted candidates will be required to pass a criminal background check and/or drug screening, as well as periodically throughout the program as required by clinical affiliations
  • All candidates must meet of the Physical Therapy profession

Procedures and Policies

  • Applications for admission are accepted through the Physical Therapy Centralized Application Service ( only
    • PTCAS application portal opens annually in early July
    • Applications must be electronically submitted to PTCAS by the posted deadline
    • For more information and detailed instructions for completion of the application, visit
    • Candidates are strongly encouraged to submit and complete applications as early as possible in the cycle to ensure consideration for an invitation to interview
    • Early Decision Option offered through  (91AV does participate and applicants must meet all course, academic, experiential, and application requirements, in addition to the following)
      • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.4 as calculated by PTCAS
      • Minimum prerequisite math/science GPA of 3.4 as calculated by 91AV Graduate Admissions, based on the best grade for each course if repeated
      • Official GRE Scores taken within 2 years of your application date
  • On-campus interviews are required for admission and are granted to qualified applicants by invitation only
  • Offers of admission will be made on a rolling basis
    • Decisions are made following each interview session, and continue until the program starts
    • In accordance with the traffic rules for , the first deposit to secure seat deadline is January 15 for all applicants accepted prior to January 1
      • Early Decision candidates and 91AV Early Assurance pre-designates are excluded from ACAPT traffic rules
      • Early Decision and Early Assurance candidates will be required to deposit within 2 weeks of receipt of official decision letter
  • International applicants and applicants with international coursework or degrees
    • Must have transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a U.S. regionally accredited institution
    • Must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university
      • 91AV accepts several methods of
      • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language or the International English Language Testing System is required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application

Policy exceptions

  • Policies have been established to ensure fair and consistent admissions practice for all applicants
  • All criteria presented in this summary are subject to change per professional accreditation requirements, changes in curriculum or other institutional standards, and clinical affiliation requirements
  • Exceptions to existing admission policies are rare and made on a case by case basis, only when it is deemed necessary and appropriate to maintain fair and consistent practice for all candidates

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Other Expenses

Other expenses will include textbooks and lab fees in some courses. Students should also anticipate transportation, housing and living expenses during clinical practical.

Equipment

All students are required to have access to high-speed internet service and a laptop computer with the capability of utilizing Blackboard or similar on-line education format.

Financial Aid

Detailed information and applications are available on request from the Financial Aid Office on the Biddeford Campus. Call 207-602-2342 or visit the Financial Aid website.

Physical Therapy, Transitional (tDPT)

Category
Contact

91AV
Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions
716 Stevens Avenue
Portland, ME 04103

207-221-4225 or 800-477-4863

Degree name
Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT)
Sections

Mission

The Department of Physical Therapy believes that optimal 21st century, person-centered health care is best delivered by well-educated, compassionate leaders who think critically, reason intelligently, collaborate inter-professionally, and who promote health and wellness. In this spirit, the department is dedicated to preparing students for contemporary physical therapy and advances the profession through its steadfast commitment to excellence in academics, clinical education, scholarship, research, and service. 

Program Description

The transitional DPT (tDPT) program culminates in the DPT degree and is “conferred upon completion of a structured transitional educational experience that results in the augmentation of knowledge, skills, and behaviors to a level consistent with the current professional (entry-level) DPT standards. The transitional DPT program enables the US-licensed physical therapist to attain degree parity with therapists who hold the professional DPT by 'filling in' any gaps between their professional baccalaureate or master's degree PT education and the current professional DPT degree education.”* The tDPT program is a logical extension of curricular offerings from the Department serving the needs of our program graduates as well as graduates from other accredited baccalaureate or master’s degree programs

Program Goals

The tDPT program at the 91AV is designed to:

  • Offer physical therapists with a previously obtained baccalaureate or master’s degree the opportunity to update their knowledge base in areas within the profession that have been augmented over the past 10-15 years as reflected in the current DPT degree curriculum.
  • Enhance the student's current knowledge base in a variety of areas, including evidence-based practice, clinical decision-making, management sciences, pharmacology, prevention and wellness, and health care policy.
  • Provide an interactive and flexible distance education environment to meet the learning needs of today’s busy clinician.

Accreditation

The 91AV is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

Curricular Requirements

The tDPT program is an on-line educational experience, requiring the successful completion of six courses totaling 18 credit hours. [Note: A minimum of 15 credits must be completed at the 91AV.] Courses may be completed in any sequence with the exception of the Capstone course, which must be taken after successful completion of all other courses.

Curriculum subject areas and credit hours are listed below:

  Credits
PTH 730 - Pharmacology 3
PTH 732 - Management Sciences 3
PTH 734 - Clinical Reasoning and Evidence-Based Practice 3
PTH 736 - Prevention, Health Promotion and Wellness 3
PTH 738 - Legislation and Policy 3
PTH 740 - Capstone in Clinical Practice 3

Graduation Requirements

Conferring of the Doctor of Physical Therapy degree is contingent upon successful completion of the 18 credits of academic coursework in the tDPT curriculum.

Academic and Technical Standards

Essential Technical Standards

The essential technical standards are pre-requisites for successful completion of the tDPT program at the 91AV. Guidelines for reasonable accommodation are discussed. Please read this document carefully to determine whether you possess the abilities and skills reflected in the technical standards below.

Principles:

1.      Physical Therapy is an intellectually, physically, and psychologically demanding profession.

2.      The obligation and mission of the 91AV tDPT program is to produce effective and competent physical therapists that are best able to serve the needs of society. Therefore, all applicants, regardless of disability, will be held to the same admission standards. Once accepted, all tDPT degree candidates will be held to the same technical standards, with reasonable accommodations provided when necessary and appropriate.

3.      Individuals with documented disabilities applying to the 91AV tDPT Program will be expected to have completed the same academic prerequisites as their non-disabled peers. No applicant is required to disclose the details of a disability and no otherwise qualified individual will be denied admission to the tDPT program based solely upon a disabling condition.

4.      Upon acceptance, the Westbrook College of Health Professions, under the law, is obligated to provide reasonable accommodations to tDPT candidates and students with documented disabilities who are registered with the University’s Disability Services while completing the academic and technical requirements for graduation from the program.

Reasonable accommodations:
Are provided to help offset the impact of the student’s disability, provide equal access to the University’s programs and services while upholding the academic and technical standards of the tDPT Program.

Are provided to assist the student in learning, performing and satisfying the fundamental standards, so long as the student provides comprehensive documentation establishing his/her disability status prior to the need for reasonable accommodation

Are provided only to the extent that such accommodation does not result in lowering the technical standards of the Department of Physical Therapy or interfering with the rights of other students

Do not exempt tDPT candidates from completing certain tasks deemed essential

Do not include reliance on an intermediary - When a candidate’s ability to function is compromised (with or without accommodation) the candidate must demonstrate alternative means and/or abilities to acquire essential information and demonstrate essential tasks without reliance upon another person to help perform that essential task.

Are determined by the 91AV Student Access Center in consultation with tDPT faculty.

Candidate Declaration of abilities and skills*

Prior to the start of tDPT classes, matriculating students must indicate that they possess the abilities reflected in the technical standards described below, either with or without reasonable accommodation.

A tDPT candidate with a disability who wishes reasonable accommodation must contact:

Hahna Patterson, MA
Director of Disability Services
Phone: (207) 221-4418
Fax: (207) 523-1919
Email:hpatterson@une.edu

An offer of admission may be withdrawn or a tDPT candidate may be withdrawn from the program if it becomes apparent at any time that he or she cannot complete the technical standards even with accommodations, that the accommodations needed are not reasonable, or that fulfilling the functions would create a significant risk of harm to the health or safety of the student or others.

Technical Standards: Abilities and Skills

Matriculation into the DPT Program assumes certain essential cognitive, emotional, and technical skills. Reflected in the standards that follow are those abilities and skills that degree candidates must possess to engage safely and competently in required learning activities. The abilities and skills are described in five domains, including observation skills; communication skills; motor skills (fine and gross); intellectual-conceptual, integrative and quantitative abilities; and behavioral and social/emotional attributes.

I. Communication
Communication includes: speech, language, reading, writing and computer literacy. Candidates must be able to communicate quickly, effectively and efficiently in oral and written English. Candidates must be able to complete forms according to directions in a complete and timely fashion. The candidate must be able to demonstrate the ability to deliver and receive complex information in one-on-one and group settings, respond to questions from a variety of sources and respond appropriately to verbal and non-verbal communication, as well as explain complex information according to the listener’s needs and abilities, both formally and informally. A candidate must be able to complete paper and/or on-line forms and documentation according to directions in a timely fashion.

II. Intellectual-Conceptual, Integrative and Quantitative Abilities
To effectively solve problems, the candidate must be able to: measure, calculate, reason, analyze, comprehend, integrate and synthesize information.  The ability to incorporate new information from peers, teachers, and the medical literature is essential. The candidate must have the ability to use computers for searching, recording, storing, and retrieving information. The candidate must be able to understand theory, research literature, and principles that apply to physical therapy practice, and analyze and solve complex patient problems. The ability to use critical analysis to understand theory, research literature, and principles that apply to physical therapy practice and to apply inductive and deductive clinical reasoning to solve complex patient problems is necessary. The candidate must be able to effectively engage in self-assessment of performance, as well as provide objective and constructive assessments of peers and faculty.

III. Behavioral and Social/Emotional Attributes

The candidate must be: dependable, punctual, ethical, and reliable; maintain professional demeanor in all situations; recognize stressors and be able to seek assistance as needed. Candidates must possess the emotional health required for full utilization of their intellectual abilities. The candidate must demonstrate a commitment to learning by seeking new knowledge and understanding, formulating their own thoughts and ideas, and taking ownership of their educational advancement. Candidates must be able to tolerate taxing workloads and to function effectively under stress. They must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze and synthesize information effectively, while under stress, and in an environment in which other distractions may be present. The candidate must be able to abide by the APTA Code of Ethics, the Standards of Physical Therapy Practice and the Core Values, which can be found on the American Physical Therapy Association website at www.apta.org. Candidates must demonstrate integrity and honesty in the academic environment, as well as being able to engage in respectful interactions with individuals from various lifestyles, cultures, races, socioeconomic classes and abilities. They must be able to develop and maintain respectful working relationships with peers, faculty, and professional colleagues. The candidate must be able to accept constructive feedback and respond with suitable action.

*Information and design from The Essential Standards and Technical Standards documents from the Graduate Program in Physical Therapy at Central Michigan and Sacramento State, and University of Buffalo’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program, as well as the generic abilities developed by the physical therapy program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.      

Academic Policy

Students are expected to abide by the academic policies and procedures and conduct code outlined in the 91AV (91AV) Student Handbook, the Department of Physical Therapy Student Handbook and the WCHP Graduate Program Progression Policies and Procedures. Failure to abide by these policies, procedures or codes may result in disciplinary action.

Registration/Add/Drop

Registration for courses will be on a first-come, first-serve basis until maximum enrollment is met. Students will be able to register for classes only after matriculation into the program.

Completion

The tDPT curriculum must be completed within three years of starting the program.

Transfer Credit

Transfer Credit

Transfer credit for up to one course requirement may be granted by demonstration of course equivalency. The criteria for course equivalency include:

  • Successful completion (B or higher grade) of an equivalent graduate level course taken within the past five years prior to enrollment into the tDPT program.
  • Course completed must address the educational outcomes of the tDPT program course.
  • Work or other educational experiences may also be considered in addition to graduate coursework in determining course equivalency.
  • All requests for transfer credit will be reviewed ONLY at the time of matriculation to the program by the Department Admissions Committee.

Advanced Placement

No credit will be awarded for Advanced Placement.

Experiential Learning

No credit will be awarded to students for experiential learning.

 

Admissions

We are no longer enrolling new students into the t-DPT program

 

ACADEMIC PREREQUISITES

All applicants to the tDPT program must meet the following criteria at the time of application:

  • Have completed a baccalaureate (BPT) or master (MPT) level degree in physical therapy from a Physical Therapy program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy (CAPTE) or equivalent
  • Have a current license to practice, and be employed as a physical therapist in the United States

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Applications for admission are submitted through 91AV’s  
  • Applications for new students will only be reviewed for fall and spring terms. (Program courses are, however, offered in the summer, fall, and spring terms.) 
  • Admissions are rolling and applications are reviewed as they are received
  • Official transcripts from all previous colleges and universities must be submitted to the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions as documentation of all coursework and degrees completed 
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees must have transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution and CAPTE accredited Physical Therapy program.  See 
  • All applicants to 91AV must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university.  91AV accepts several methods of English Proficiency, see. English Proficiency requirement must be completed at the time of application.

For additional information on the admissions process and requirements, please access the tDPT website.

POLICY EXCEPTIONS

The tDPT Admissions Committee reserve the right to make exceptions to the admissions criteria and to make changes or exceptions to policies and procedures, on a case by case basis, when it deems such a decision is necessary and appropriate.

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Equipment

All students are required to have access to high-speed internet service. It is recommended that students have their own computer with the capability of utilizing Blackboard or similar on-line education format.

Financial Aid

Detailed information and applications are available on request from the Financial Aid Office at the Biddeford Campus. Call 207-602-2342 or visit the Financial Aid website.

Physician Assistant

Category
Contact

Please call: 1-800-477-491AV or 207-221-4225 for further information. Applications are available online from Central Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA) 

Degree name
Master of Science (M.S.) Physician Assistant
Sections

Mission

The mission of the 91AV Physician Assistant Program is to prepare master's level primary care Physician Assistants to be highly skilled members of interprofessional healthcare teams. The program is committed to developing clinicians who will provide compassionate, competent and evidence-based patient-centered healthcare to people of all backgrounds and cultures throughout their lifespan. The Program places special emphasis on training clinicians who are knowledgeable about the healthcare needs of our aging population and have the skills and passion to provide healthcare to people in underserved rural and urban communities. 

Graduate Professional Competencies

The mission of the Program is accomplished by having graduates who meet the goals of the educational process.  Graduates of the Physician Assistant Program will:

  • Understand the basic sciences of anatomy, physiology and Pathophysiology and be able to utilize this knowledge in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
  • Understand the principles of pharmacotherapeutics and to apply them in the treatment of patients.
  • Elicit a detailed, accurate history and perform a thorough physical examination.
  • Understand how to order and interpret appropriate diagnostic tests in a cost efficient manner.
  • Present patient data and document it appropriately in the medical record.
  • Provide quality acute and ongoing patient care by appropriately delineating patient problems and by formulating and implementing patient management plans, including referrals to other healthcare providers and agencies.
  • Perform or assist in the performance of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and manage or assist in the management of medical and surgical conditions, particularly in life threatening situations.
  • Understand the principles of public health and incorporate health promotion and disease prevention into a patient care practice.
  • Use information technology in the provision of quality healthcare and clinical decision-making.
  • Evaluate the medical literature critically and apply this knowledge and the principles of evidence-based medicine to clinical practice.
  • Provide compassionate and competent healthcare to patients of all ages and backgrounds.
  • Understand the medical and social issues that affect the geriatric patient and provide appropriate management of these problems.
  • Counsel patients, their families and their caregivers regarding issues of health, illness and medical care.
  • Understand the historical and contemporary role of the physician assistant in the healthcare system.
  • Participate effectively as a member of an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
  • Understand the principles of patient oriented healthcare and to communicate clearly with patients.
  • Identify the special dynamics of providing healthcare to rural or underserved populations.
  • Demonstrate appropriate professional behavior by following the American Academy of Physician Assistants' Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the Physician Assistant Profession.

Program Description

The Master of Science - Physician Assistant Program (MSPA) has been planned to effectively utilize faculty expertise from the University's five colleges. Some faculty hold joint appointments with responsibility for teaching medical and physician assistant students as well as other health profession matriculants. Similarly, physician assistant candidates will receive clinical supervision as part of an integrated team of health providers. It is our expectation that these collaborative strategies toward teaching and learning will ultimately result in high quality, cost-effective health care delivery, particularly in medically under- served regions of New England.

Upon successful completion of the Physician Assistant Program, the 91AV awards the master of science degree. The program operates on a twenty-four month full-time calendar, beginning in late May of each year with a new incoming class.

What is a PA?

Physician Assistants (PAs) are health professionals licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision. Physician Assistants are qualified by graduation from an accredited physician assistant educational program and/or certification by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. Within the physician/PA relationship, physician assistants exercise autonomy in medical decision-making and provide a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic services under the general supervision of the physician.

Other

The 91AV's Master of Science - Physician Assistant Program was designed according to the Essentials and Guidelines for an Accredited Educational Program for the Physician Assistant. The 91AV Physician Assistant Program is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).

Curricular Requirements

Note: The curricular requirements below apply to the class entering J91AV 2018 (Class of 2020). 

Phase I of the program of study consists of 56 credit hours in pre-clinical didactic course work. The summer, fall and spring terms include instruction in the fields of biomedical sciences, clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, clinical assessment, anatomy, physiology, evidence based medicine, ethics and professionalism, specialty disciplines, surgery, geriatrics and emergency medicine.

Twelve months of clinical rotations will take place upon successful completion of the didactic phase. The program ends with a final week on campus, which provides a forum for the presentation of students' research projects to peers and faculty; offers assistance in preparing the graduating students for certification; and gives physician assistant candidates an opportunity to integrate the didactic and clinical portions of their training in preparation for the Physician Assistant National Certification Exam.

Course/Program Area Credits
Summer I
June - August (10 weeks)
 
PAC 550 - Anatomy 4
PAC 503 - Clinical Assessment I 2.5
PAC 558 - Pharmacology I 2
PAC 548 - Principles of Biological Science 3
PAC 509 - Clinical Medicine I 1
PAC 582 - Professional and Ethical Issues for Physician Assistants 1
Semester total  13.5
   
Fall
September - December (15 weeks)
 
PAC 553 - Clinical Assessment II 2
PAC 567 - Pharmacology II 3
PAC 519 - Clinical Medicine II 8
PAC 564 - Interprofessional Geriatric Education Practicum I 2
PAC 565 - Integrating Seminar I 3
PAC 526 - Evidence Based Medicine I 2
Semester Total 20
   
Spring
January - May (20 weeks)
 
PAC 551 - Introduction to Public Health 1
PAC 556 - Evidence Based Medicine II .5
PAC 566 - Specialty Disciplines 6
PAC 585 - Integrating Seminar II 3
PAC 533 - Clinical Assessment III 3
PAC 587 - Pharmacology III 3
PAC 589 - Clinical Medicine III 4
PAC 584 - Interprofessional Geriatric Education Practicum II 2
Semester Total 22.5
   
Spring II - Summer II
June - June (12 months)
 
Clinical Rotations  
PAC 600 - Internal Medicine  Inpatient (6 Weeks) 6
PAC 601 - Internal Medicine Outpatient (6 Weeks) 6
PAC 602 - Emergency Medicine (6 Weeks) 6
PAC 603 - Surgery (6 Weeks) 6
PAC 607 - Family Medicine I (6 Weeks) 6
PAC 608 - Family Medicine II (6 Weeks) 6
PAC 612 - Primary Care Selective 6
PAC Elective 6
PAC 614 - Preparation for Clinical Practice I 1
PAC 615 - Preparation for Clinical Practice II 1
PAC 616 - Preparation for Clinical Practice III 1
PAC 628 - Clinical Therapeutics I .5
PAC 629 - Clinical Therapeutics II .5
Semester Total 52

Graduation Requirements

Students must complete all program requirements prior to the issuance of their Master of Science degree and the certificate of completion of the program. 

Academic and Technical Standards

WCHP Academic Policies

The Department of Physician Assistant, the Westbrook College of Health Professions, and the 91AV are committed to offering a quality Physician Assistant education program that complies with the evaluative criteria of the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant. The program provides learning experiences to enable graduates to achieve the outcomes required for the practice of Physician Assistant.  Please refer to the WCHP Graduate Program Progression Policies and Procedures for detailed description of academic standards.

Technical Standards

All students must be able to meet the following 91AV Physician Assistant Program technical standards to successfully complete the Physician Assistant Program.  A candidate for the Physician Assistant Program must have abilities and skills in five categories: observation, communication, motor, intellectual, and behavioral/social. Reasonable accommodation for persons with documented disabilities will be considered on an individual basis, but a candidate must be able to perform in an independent manner. The following skills are required, with or without accommodation:

Observation:  Candidates must have sufficient sensory capacity to observe in the lecture hall, the laboratory, the outpatient setting, and the patient's bedside. Sensory skills adequate to perform a physical examination are required. Functional vision, hearing and tactile sensation must be adequate to observe a patient's condition and to elicit information through procedures regularly required in a physical examination, such as inspection, auscultation and palpation.

Communication:  Candidates must be able to communicate effectively in both academic and health care settings. Candidates must show evidence of effective written and verbal communication skills.

Motor:  The ability to participate in basic diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers and procedures (e.g. palpation, auscultation) is required. Candidates must have sufficient motor function to execute movements required to provide care to patients. Candidates must be able to negotiate patient care environments and must be able to move between settings, such as clinic, classroom building, and hospital.

Physical stamina sufficient to complete the rigorous course of didactic and clinical study is required. Long periods of sitting, standing, or moving are required in classroom laboratory, and clinical experiences.

Intellectual:  Candidates must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze and synthesize. Problem- solving, one of the critical skills demanded of physician assistants, requires all of these intellectual abilities. In addition, candidates should be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and understand the spatial relationships of structures. Candidates must be able to read and understand medical literature. In order to complete the Physician Assistant Program degree, candidates must be able to demonstrate mastery of these skills and the ability to use them together in a timely fashion in medical problem-solving and patient care.

Behavioral and Social Attributes: Candidates must possess the emotional health required for full utilization of their intellectual abilities, the exercise of good judgment, and the prompt completion of all academic and patient care responsibilities. The development of mature, sensitive and effective relationships with patients and other members of the health care team is essential. Flexibility, compassion, integrity, motivation, interpersonal skills and the ability to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in clinical practice are all required.

For more information on disabilities and accommodation, please contact 91AV Student Access Center at (207) 602-2815.

Grading

Upon completion of a course of study, the faculty member in charge of that course submits the number of hours taught and a grade for each student to the academic coordinator. The MSPA program uses a standard letter grading system.

Academic Policy

Course Add/Drop or Withdrawal Policy

Due to the standard curriculum sequence within the MSPA Program, students are not allowed to add or drop courses. Students may not withdraw from an individual  MSPA course; to do so indicates a complete withdrawal from the MSPA Program.

Repeat Course Policy

Courses in the MSPA Program are offered once per year. All courses within the program must be completed with a minimum final grade of at least 74%.  Students must successfully complete each course within a given semester to progress to the next semester. The Program Student Development Committee in association with the Program Director determines whether or not a course or part of it must be repeated. It may be necessary for the student to await the next time the course is offered in the MSPA Program schedule which may make it necessary for the student to apply for a leave of absence and if granted, return to the program when the course in next offered. 

Upon completion of a repeated course, a new listing and assigned grade are placed on the student's transcript. The original course listing and grade remain on the student's transcript. All courses are listed chronologically on the transcript by semester or academic period in which they are enrolled.

Please refer to the  Westbrook College of Health Professions Graduate Progression Policy and Procedures for further information regarding graduate program progression. 

Learning Outcomes

The mission of the Program is accomplished by having graduates who meet the goals of the educational process.  Graduates of the Physician Assistant Program will:

  • Understand the basic sciences of anatomy, physiology and Pathophysiology and be able to utilize this knowledge in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
  • Understand the principles of pharmacotherapeutics and to apply them in the treatment of patients.
  • Elicit a detailed, accurate history and perform a thorough physical examination.
  • Understand how to order and interpret appropriate diagnostic tests in a cost efficient manner.
  • Present patient data and document it appropriately in the medical record.
  • Provide quality acute and ongoing patient care by appropriately delineating patient problems and by formulating and implementing patient management plans, including referrals to other healthcare providers and agencies.
  • Perform or assist in the performance of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and manage or assist in the management of medical and surgical conditions, particularly in life threatening situations.
  • Understand the principles of public health and incorporate health promotion and disease prevention into a patient care practice.
  • Use information technology in the provision of quality healthcare and clinical decision-making.
  • Evaluate the medical literature critically and apply this knowledge and the principles of evidence-based medicine to clinical practice.
  • Provide compassionate and competent healthcare to patients of all ages and backgrounds.
  • Understand the medical and social issues that affect the geriatric patient and provide appropriate management of these problems.
  • Counsel patients, their families and their caregivers regarding issues of health, illness and medical care.
  • Understand the historical and contemporary role of the physician assistant in the healthcare system.
  • Participate effectively as a member of an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
  • Understand the principles of patient oriented healthcare and to communicate clearly with patients.
  • Identify the special dynamics of providing healthcare to rural or underserved populations.
  • Demonstrate appropriate professional behavior by following the American Academy of Physician Assistants' Guidelines for Ethical Conduct for the Physician Assistant Profession.

Transfer Credit

Transfer Credit

  • Transfer credits are rarely awarded to students who transfer from another physician assistant program
  • Transfer credits will be reviewed and awarded on a case-by-case basis

Advanced standing

  • No advanced standing available

Experiential Learning

  • No credit will be awarded  for experiential learning

Admissions

program admissions requirements
 

COURSEwork Requirements

  • Science (all with labs, 8 semester credits or 12 quarter credits)
    • Biology
    • General Chemistry
    • Human Anatomy & Physiology
      • Completed within seven (7) years of matriculation
      • Must include all body systems and be a full-year, two-semester, sequence or the equivalent
      • Combination of courses must consist of both 4 credits of anatomy with lab and 4 credits of physiology with lab OR 8 credits of A&P I & II (both with lab)
      • Animal Physiology will not satisfy the physiology prerequisite
  • Other
    • Psychology/Sociology or related behavioral science (6 semester, 10 quarter credits)
    • English (6 semester, 10 quarter credits)
    • Statistics (3 semester, 5 quarter credits)
    • Courses in Advanced Physiology, Pathophysiology, Microbiology, Physics, and Biochemistry are highly recommended
  • Maximum of three (3) AP credits may be applied toward the English prerequisite only
  • All prerequisite courses must be successfully completed with a grade of “C” or better (“C-“grades, not acceptable)  
  • Prerequisites may be in-progress or planned at the time of application, but must be completed by December 31 of the application year
    • Planned or in progress coursework must be listed on the on the CASPA application at time of submission; not doing so will result in the applicant not meeting minimum requirements
    • Upper level coursework (with labs) acceptable to fulfill general science requirements
    • Online courses offered through as well as online courses from other U.S. regionally accredited colleges or universities are acceptable with approval of program
    • Transcripts for coursework and/or degrees completed in the Fall term prior to the PA program start to be submitted to CASPA for verification during the Fall Academic Update period
    • Transcripts for coursework and/or degrees completed in the Spring term to be submitted directly to 91AV's Office of Graduate  Admissions as soon as available

ACADEMIC/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

  • Minimum 90 undergraduate semester credits (135 quarter credits) from a U.S. regionally accredited institution(s) at time of application, and a Bachelor's Degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution, or international equivalent, prior to matriculation 
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, as calculated by CASPA which includes  all coursework taken with no forgiveness for retakes (average for matriculated students has been 3.5 for the past few years)
  • Minimum CASPA BCP GPA of 3.0 (average for matriculated students has been 3.5 for the past few years)
    • BCP is GPA calculated by CASPA for all biology, chemistry, and physics courses completed
    • Additional credit hours beyond the minimum pre-requisites, especially upper level coursework, in the Biology, Chemistry, and Physics areas, will enhance your application and make you a stronger candidate
  • 91AV no longer requires GRE score report
  • Minimum 500 hours of direct patient care required (average for matriculated students has typically been in the range of 2500 – 3500 hours over the past few years)
  • PA shadowing, minimum 20 hours required 
    • “Shadowing” of PAs in more than one practice facility and practice area is very important for a clear understanding of the role of the PA on the medical team
    • Applicants will be required to show evidence of PA shadowing hours in a primary care, inpatient or outpatient setting and must record in the “Health Care Shadowing Experience” section of CASPA (“Shadowing” does not count toward direct patient care hours)
  • Proficiency with computer technology strongly recommended
  • Three (3) letters of reference from writers who know you and can speak to your academic abilities and/or professional experience (letters from friends or family members are not acceptable)
  • Only those applicants who meet minimum requirements will be considered for admission
    • Just meeting minimum requirements, however, does not guarantee an interview
    • Average GPAs for students accepted into the program are well above published minimums
  • Before or upon matriculation, accepted candidates will be expected to
    • Meet all health immunization requirements
    • Obtain a physical examination with proof of up-to-date      immunization status
  • Before or upon matriculation, accepted candidates will be required to pass criminal background checks and/or drug screenings, as well as periodically throughout the program as required by clinical affiliations
  • Must have a current American Heart Association Basic Life Support (BLS) course for the provider and must maintain current BLS throughout the program
  • Must meet all of the Physician Assistant profession

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Applications for admissions accepted through the Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA) only
    • CASPA application portal opens annually in late April
    • Applications must be electronically submitted to CASPA by the posted deadline
    • For more information and detailed instructions for completion of the application, visit
    • Given the normally heavy volume of applications, candidates are strongly encouraged to submit and complete applications as early as possible in the cycle to ensure consideration for an invitation to interview
  • On-campus interviews are required for admission and are granted to qualified applicants by invitation only 
  • Offers of admission will be made on a rolling basis
    • Decisions are made following each interview session and continue until the program starts
    • If accepted two (2) deposits will be required to secure your seat in the class
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees
    • Must have their transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution ()
    • Must be able to understand and communicate (in writing and with speech) in English to be admitted to the university
      • 91AV accepts several methods of
      • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language or the International English Language Testing System is required and official score report must be submitted as a part of the completed application

policy exceptions

  • Policies have been established to ensure fair and consistent admissions practice for all applicants
  • All criteria presented in this summary are subject to change per professional accreditation requirements, changes in curriculum or other institutional standards, and clinical affiliation requirements
  • Exceptions to existing admission policies are rare and made on a case by case basis, only when it is deemed necessary and appropriate to maintain fair and consistent practice for all candidates

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Lab Fees

A fee is charged to cover the expenses for specific science courses (e.g., anatomy), certain specific course or program component (Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), evaluative testing, including the use of high-fidelity simulators, etc.) and an equipment fee for personal medical equipment.

Clinical Fee

The Clinical Fee is dispersed to clinical sites during the student's clinical year. It is an honorarium paid to the clinical site in appreciation for clinical training. While dispersed to clinical sites during the clinical year, to better equalize charges and award financial aid, a portion of the fee is billed to students during both the didactic and clinical year.

Tuition and fees are refunded per 91AV policy. The refund policy can be found in the University Catalog section on Financial Information for Graduate Programs.

Equipment

Students are required to have certain personal medical equipment. This equipment is group purchased (at a significant discount) for each entering Class and the equipment is delivered to students during the first week of the program.  Please do not purchase personal medical equipment from sources other than the Program's group purchase.

Books

Students in the didactic phase can plan on spending approximately $1,500 to $2,000 on required textbooks. Course syllabi and the program book list may also include recommended books which students are not required to purchase, but may wish to have as important reference materials.  Most of the texts used in the Program are available digitally via the 91AV Library's Portal and can be accessed without additional expense.

Other Expenses

Students are responsible for expenses involved with travel, parking, living expenses and meals.

Student Employment

The program discourages students from having outside employment while attending the PA Program. If a student feels that it is necessary to work while in the program, it is advisable that the student inform his/her academic advisor.

Financial Aid

Detailed information and applications are available on request from the Financial Aid Office on the Biddeford Campus. Call 207-602-2342 or visit the Financial Aid website.

Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification Program

Category
Contact

Audrey Bartholomew

abartholomew1@une.edu

Degree name
Eligible for Teaching Certification by State of Maine
Sections

Certificate Description

The Teacher Certification Program (TCP) is for individuals who hold a baccalaureate degree and are interested in acquiring elementary/middle or secondary teacher certification. Through course work designed to satisfy department and state requirements, certification in elementary/middle education (K-8), secondary education (7-12 in either life science, physical science, English, history, mathematics), or art education (K-12) can be obtained.  All coursework must be completed at the graduate level (EDU 500 - 600).  After completion of this certification program, a student is eligible to enroll in the Master of Science in Education degree program with a concentration in Teaching Methodology.  This program builds on the Teacher Certification Program and, with the addition of 5 online core courses (15 credits), one may earn a Master of Science in Education degree. 

Prior to admittance into the Teacher Certification Program a student can take courses as a continuing education student. Continuing education (CE) students may enroll in two courses (6 credit hours).  To enroll in any more courses for subsequent semesters, CE students must be admitted into the TCP.

Recent 91AV graduates can enroll as Continuing Education students to complete student teaching in the Department of Education to achieve State of Maine’s Elementary or Secondary teacher certification.

In order to be admitted to student teaching through Continuing Education, students must:

  • Have a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 upon graduation from 91AV;
  • Apply to student teach within 2 years of graduation;
  • Be recommended by a 91AV advisor;
  • Show evidence of passing PRAXIS I and PRAXIS II;
  • Provide contact information for three references;
  • Have completed the State of Maine recommended certification courses prior to student teaching.

Application deadlines for Student Teaching are October 1st for the following Spring semester and April 1st for the following Fall semester.

Once students are approved, the Chair of the Department of Education will forward the approval paperwork to the Continuing Education program. The student will be eligible to register for the 12-credit student teaching experience.

Accreditation

The Education Certification Programs are approved by the Maine Department of Education and meet documented state standards.  Please note that state requirements can change over time, which can affect curriculum and test requirements for students. Please check with your education advisor to obtain any updates. 

Curricular Requirements

Elementary/Middle Certification Credits
Program Required Courses  
EDU 502 - Curriculum and Assessment 3
SPE 510 - Exceptionality in the Classroom 3
EDU 561 - Teaching Social Studies, K-8 3
EDU 567 - Teaching Science, K-8 3
EDU 573 - Teaching Mathematics, K-8 3

EDU 581 - Foundations of Literacy Development and Instruction

3
EDU 582 - Literacy Research -Based Instructional Methods 3
EDU 1025 - K-8 Internship and Seminar 12
Total Elementary Certification Credits  33
   
Secondary or Art Certification  
EDU 502 - Curriculum and Assessment 3
SPE 510 - Exceptionality in the Classroom 3
EDU 582 - Literacy Research-Based Instructional Methods 3
Select one appropriate methods course from the following list: 3
EDU 536 - Teaching Secondary English   
EDU 537 - Teaching Secondary Science   
EDU 538 - Teaching Secondary Social Studies   
EDU 539 - Teaching Secondary Math   
EDU 541 - Methods of Art Education   
EDU 1030 - Secondary Internship and Seminar  or
EDU 1035 - K-12 Internship and Seminar
12
Elective- Must choose ONE elective at the Graduate Level 3
Total Secondary or Art Certification Credits  27

Field Experience

The faculty in the Department of Education is committed to providing students with ongoing and frequent observation and involvement in schools. The teacher education programs at 91AV have a specific, competency-based focus to meet the InTASC standards for teacher certification. All students engaged in the TCP will spend time in a field setting during each of the semesters for which they are registered for professional education courses. Involvement in the schools will be connected to specific, course-related tasks (e.g., conducting observations, teaching lessons, administering assessments, etc.).

Internship

Courses may not be taken during the internship semester. Therefore, all required coursework must be completed by the end of the semester prior to start of the internship.  Admission to the internship is not guaranteed (see section on “Admission Requirements and Successful Progression in the Program”). In addition, the student should have each of the following:

  1. Sufficient knowledge regarding the components of effective instruction.
  2. Sufficient knowledge of appropriate grade-level content and teaching methods.
  3. Sufficient knowledge of the developmental needs of students.
  4. Sufficient knowledge of how to establish and maintain effective cooperative relationships with school personnel, students, and parents.
  5. Understanding of and empathy for working with students.

The selection of individual internship sites will be made by the Certification and Placement Officer. Geographical location relative to 91AV is a consideration. 91AV has a collaborative relationship with many districts and selects schools and teachers based on their interest in and ability to assist interns in demonstrating mastery of the InTASC  standards. Placement in an internship is not guaranteed. The Department of Education, through its Certification and Placement Officer, will make a good faith effort to negotiate an appropriate placement. Schools have the right to refuse placement requests. The University, at its discretion, will not place students in internship settings (1) where an intern's children or relatives are enrolled, or (2) where a spouse or relative of an intern is currently employed.

Professional Educator Review Board (PERB)

All students enrolled in the internship must demonstrate their teaching competence to the Professional Educator Review Board (PERB) with respect to the InTASC standards. This board is comprised of professional educators from area schools, as well as 91AV faculty. Students are required to develop a portfolio that attests to their proficiency in meeting the InTASC standards; they must present and defend their portfolio in front of the PERB. Receiving a passing evaluation from the PERB is a requirement for completion of all the certification programs and, subsequently, being recommended to the Maine State Department of Education for teacher licensure.

Academic Policy

Students in the Teacher Certification Program must maintain a 3.0 grade point average in order to continue in the program.  If a student does not pass an education course with a C or better, they are eligible to retake the course only once.  Grade point averages will be calculated using only courses taken at 91AV (the cumulative grade point average) and using accepted transfer courses as meeting professional program requirements but will not be figured into the GPA. All TCP courses must be taken at graduate level.

No student will be able to student teach without showing evidence of passing PRAXIS II. All students must show evidence of passing Praxis II before the internship application deadline, which is February 1st for a Fall internship and October 1st for a Spring internship.

Students may obtain Praxis I registration information and Praxis II registration information from the Department of Education office or from the Educational Testing Service website: .

In addition to these achievement requirements, students admitted to 91AV's teacher certification programs are assessed periodically for the purpose of determining their professionalism and suitability for teaching.  If serious reservations arise, a committee will convene to determine a student's continuance in the program.  Finally, students must pass the Professional Education Review Board (referenced later in this section of the catalog) at which competency in the InTASC standards must be demonstrated.

Course Withdrawal Policy

In the fall, spring, and summer semesters, a student may withdraw from a course without academic penalty with a grade of W at any time during the first two-thirds of the semester as specified in the current academic calendar. If withdrawal occurs after that date, the grade of WP (withdrew passing) or WF (withdrew failing) will be entered. The grade of WF is computed in the grade point average.

Incomplete Policy

An Incomplete (I) grade may be given by the instructor to a student, who is doing passing work in a course, but who, for reasons beyond his/her control, is not able to complete the work on time. The Incomplete grade must be changed within the time limit determined by the instructor and may not extend beyond six weeks following the end of the semester or 30 days following the end of an eight-week session. Until changed, the Incomplete grade defers computation of credits and grade points for the course to which it is assigned. Failure to complete the work before the deadline date, or within the time imposed by the instructor, results in the assignment of an administrative F grade for the course. Once an Incomplete grade is removed, academic standing will be updated according to dean's list, good standing or probationary standards.

Completion Requirements

All coursework, including the internship, should be completed within a five-year timeframe.  A delay beyond the five years might warrant the retaking of course work.  Furthermore, if state certification requirements change prior to your completion even within the five-year timeframe, those changes must be incorporated into a revised program plan, in order to meet state certification regulations.

Learning Outcomes

This program prepares candidates for teacher certification. The learning outcomes for this program are as follows:

  • Students will analyze and apply research relevant to their teaching interest.
  • Students will show competency in the Maine Department of Education InTASC Standards (see below).

Maine Department of Education InTASC Standards

Standard One: Learner Development

The teacher understands how students learn and develop, recognizing that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas, and designs and implements developmentally appropriate and challenging learning experiences.

Standard Two: Learning Differences

The teacher uses understanding of individual differences and diverse cultures and communities to ensure inclusive learning environments that allow each learner to reach his/her full potential.

Standard Three: Learning Environments

The teacher works with learners to create environments that support individual and collaborative learning, encouraging positive social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self motivation.

Standard Four: Content Knowledge

The teacher understands the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) he or she teaches and creates learning experiences that make these aspects of the discipline accessible and meaningful for learners

Standard Five: Innovative Applications of Content

The teacher understands how to connect concepts and use differing perspectives to engage learners in critical/creative thinking and collaborative problem solving related to authentic local and global issues.

Standard Six: Assessment

The teacher understands and uses multiple methods of assessment to engage learners in their own growth, to document learner progress, and to guide the teacher’s on-going planning and instruction.

Standard Seven: Planning for Instruction

The teacher draws upon knowledge of content areas, cross-disciplinary skills, learners, the community, and pedagogy to plan instruction that supports every student in meeting rigorous learning goals.

Standard Eight: Instructional Strategies

The teacher understands and uses a variety of instructional strategies to encourage learners to develop deep understanding of content areas and their connections, and to build skills to access and appropriately apply information.

Standard Nine: Reflection and Continuous Growth

The teacher is a reflective practitioner who uses evidence to continually evaluate his/her practice, particularly the effects of his/her choices and actions on others (students,  families,  and  other  professionals  in  the  learning  community),  and adapts practice to meet the needs of each learner.

Standard Ten: Collaboration 

The teacher seeks appropriate leadership roles and opportunities to take responsibility for student learning, to collaborate with learners, families, colleagues, other school professionals, and community members to ensure learner growth, and to advance the profession.

Standard Eleven: Technology Standards for Teachers - (NETS.T)

Effective teachers model and apply the National Educational Technology Standards for Students (NETS.S) as they design, implement, and assess learning experiences to engage students and improve  learning; enrich professional practice; and provide positive models for students, colleagues, and the community. All teachers will meet the following standards and performance indicators. 

Admissions

program admissions requirements


coursework prerequisites

  • No specific prerequisite coursework

ACADEMIC/experience requirements

  • Completed a baccalaureate degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution or international equivalent
  • Submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
  • Submit official report of passing scores on all sections of the PRAXIS I.
  • Submit approval credential or official copy of Education Tech III certification from the State of Maine (documentation of this security clearance must be submitted as a part of the application) 
  • Transcript analysis from the  (Please note: Analysis may take up to 12 weeks to complete)
  • Only those applicants who meet minimum requirements will be considered for admission
  • Before or upon matriculation, accepted candidates will be expected to
    • Meet all health immunization requirements

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Students may enroll in no more than two (2) TCP courses (maximum of 6 credits) through the Office of Continuing Education before application to the program
    • Applicants must understand that registering for courses as a non-matriculated student will prohibit the accepted candidate from enrolling in the same semester as a matriculated student
    • Students are not eligible for financial aid to cover the cost of coursework completed as a non-matriculated student
  • Applications for admission are submitted through the 
    • Completion of the electronic application includes         
      • Professional statement/essay
      • Names and email addresses of three references
        • Reference letters should be from people who know you well and can speak to your academic skills and your professional experience
    • Applications for new students will be accepted for the summer, fall, and spring terms
      • Applications submitted and completed by the deadline will be considered by the Admissions Committee for the term of application
      • Applications submitted and/or completed after the deadline for one term will be reviewed on a space available basis or for admissions into the next available term
  • International students and students with international degrees
    • Must have transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a U.S. regionally accredited institution 
    • Must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university
      • 91AV accepts several methods of
      • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language () or the International English Language Testing System is required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application.


​ċ​POLICY EXCEPTIONS

  • Policies have been established to ensure fair and consistent admissions practice for all applicants
  • All criteria presented in this summary are subject to change per professional accreditation requirements, changes in curriculum or other institutional standards, and clinical affiliation requirements
  • Exceptions to existing admission policies are rare and made on a case by case basis, only when it is deemed necessary and appropriate to maintain fair and consistent practice for all candidate


TRANSFER CREDIT

  • Individuals who have full acceptance in the Teaching Certification Program can transfer up to, but no more than six (6) education credits from other universities
  • In-service or workshop-type courses that do not carry college credit will not be accepted for transfer equivalency
  • No courses of any kind will be accepted from other institutions after your acceptance into the program at 91AV without a course equivalency granted prior to the course being taken

 

Financial Information

TUITION AND FEES

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

FINANCIAL AID

Detailed information and applications are available on request from the Financial Aid Office. Call 207-602-2342 or visit the Financial Aid website.

Public Health

Category
Contact

 

Department
Degree name
Master of Public Health (MPH) and Graduate Certificate in Public Health (GCPH)
Sections

Program Description

Overview

The Graduate Programs in Public Health are generalist track programs designed to provide foundational skills desirable for professionals engaging in the practice, education, and research of public health.  The MPH program competencies align with the competencies outlined by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) in 2016.  Required and elective courses in the MPH program help students attain these competencies that are at the center of knowledge, skills, and abilities needed by emerging leaders in public health.

Major Description

The College of Graduate and Professional Studies offers a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree and a Graduate Certificate in Public Health (GCPH). These programs provide a graduate education to individuals currently working in the public health field, allied health professionals, clinicians, and individuals in the beginning stages of a career in public health. The curriculum is delivered in an online format, with full- and part-time options, and is intentionally flexible and readily applicable to students regardless of where they live.

The Master of Public Health is a 46-credit hour curriculum that develops and enhances skills in a variety of professional areas, including social and behavioral health, program development and evaluation, and public health practice and management. This degree culminates in a practicum, which includes a public health practical experience and capstone research project.

The Graduate Certificate in Public Health is an 18-credit hour program that provides students with the core public health courses they need to broaden and enhance their professional knowledge. All courses in the Graduate Certificate in Public Health are also transferable to the MPH degree program.

Program Mission:

The Graduate Programs in Public Health are globally accessible programs committed to improving the health and well-being of communities through education, research, and service using a scholar-practitioner model.

Program Goals:

Education

  1. Enroll and support qualified, diverse, and dedicated students who demonstrate a passion for improving public health.
  2. Cultivate a learning environment that values communication, collaboration, and diversity.
  3. Ensure all graduates possess the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become successful public health practitioners.
  4. Recruit, retain, and support qualified instructors.

Research

  1. Sustain a dynamic research agenda driven by emerging public health priorities and identified needs of the workforce.
  2. Encourage scientific inquiry among students and provide practical learning opportunities that allow the honing of research skills and generation of new knowledge.
  3. Support a collaborative learning environment for students and faculty that allows engagement with public health practitioners, community partners, and each other to develop new endeavors.

Service

  1. Encourage and facilitate meaningful community service activities with a public health focus by students and faculty.
  2. Maintain a cadre of competent public health professionals with the mindset of activism who collaborate to improve the wellbeing of their local and global communities.

Accreditation

The Master of Public Health degree program is accredited by the Council of Education for Public Health (CEPH). All courses completed by June 1, 2019 are guaranteed CEPH-accredited; the program will host a site visit by CEPH in December 2018 to renew the accreditation status. The Master of Public Health and the Graduate Certificate in Public Health are programs approved by the Maine State Board of Education and accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

Curricular Requirements

The Graduate Certificate in Public Health includes the following required courses (18 credits):

GPH 702 Public Health Policy and Management

3 credits

GPH 712 Principles of Epidemiology

3 credits

GPH 714 Principles of Public Health

3 credits

GPH 716 Biostatistics

3 credits

GPH 722 Introduction to Environmental Health

3 credits

GPH 726 Social and Behavioral Health

3 credits

The Master of Public Health program includes the following courses (46 credits):

The following core and required courses (31 credits):

GPH 702 Public Health Policy 

3 credits
GPH 706 Public Health Administration 3 credits

GPH 712 Principles of Epidemiology

3 credits

GPH 714 Principles of Public Health 3 credits

GPH 716 Biostatistics

3 credits

GPH 719 Research Methods 3 credits

GPH 722 Introduction to Environmental Health

3 credits

GPH 726 Social and Behavioral Health

3 credits

GPH 738 Program Planning and Evaluation 3 credits
GPH 743 Applied Practice Experience 3 credits
GPH 744 Integrated Learning Experience  1 credit

5 of the following 14 electives (15 credits):

GPH 704 Public Health Law and Ethics

3 credits

GPH 705 Community-Based Participatory Research

3 credits

GPH 709 Public Health Emergency Preparedness

3 credits

GPH 713 Infectious Disease Epidemiology

3 credits

GPH 717 Applied Epidemiology

3 credits

GPH 721 Foundations of Maternal and Child Health

3 credits

GPH 724 Occupational Health

3 credits

GPH 725 Public Health Financial Management

3 credits

GPH 728 Health Literacy and Plain Language

3 credits

GPH 730 Health Care Economics

3 credits

GPH 732 Community Assessment 

3 credits

GPH 733 Health Informatics 3 credits

GPH 734 The Obesity Epidemic: A Public Health Perspective 

3 credits

GPH 740 Global Health

3 credits

Practicum

GPH 743: Applied Practice Experience  (3 credits) and GPH 744: Integrated Learning Experience  (1 credit)

The Applied Practice Experience (APE) provides students with the opportunity to apply classroom learning in a public health environment and to work with experienced public health professionals. The APE should address five (5)  , and demonstrate the application of public health concepts learned throughout the Master of Public Health (MPH) program and to enhance skills such as leadership, communication, and collaboration.

 

The Integrated Learning Experience (ILE) is a required one-credit hour course during which the MPH student will create a high quality written product that synthesizes public health ideas reflecting program competencies. This course assesses students’ application of knowledge as well as written communication skills, and is to be taken in the student’s final semester in the program. Planning for this course will start when the student is enrolled in the Applied Practice Experience course (GPH 743).

Competencies

The Graduate Programs in Public Health adopted programmatic competencies that align with the competencies outlined by the Council of Education for Public Health (CEPH) in 2016.  Relevant competencies are listed on each course syllabus. 

Graduation Requirements

To qualify for completion of and receive the Graduate Certificate in Public Health (GCPH) students must:

  • Satisfactorily complete 18 credits of specified course work within three consecutive years.
  • Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • Have no outstanding financial obligations to the University.

To qualify for completion of and receive the Master of Public Health (MPH) students must:

  • Satisfactorily complete 46 credits of specified course work within six consecutive years.
  • Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • Have no outstanding financial obligations to the University.

Academic Policy

Minimum Grade Point Average

Matriculated graduate students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) or better. Failure to do so will result in academic probation and possible termination from the program. Any student receiving a grade below B- on any individual course has failed that course and must re-enroll and repeat the course to achieve a grade of B- or better. Students receiving a grade of F in any course will be immediately placed on academic probation.  Any student who receives a grade of F in two courses is dismissed from the program.

Graduation

Candidates must fulfill all program requirements and are required to earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 to be eligible to graduate. All students must file an Application to Graduate with the registrar’s office via U-Online.  Please access the following link for complete instructions and the answers to frequently asked questions:

Adding, Dropping, and Withdrawing from Courses

The last day permissible for matriculating graduate students to add or drop a course without financial penalty is the second day of class.

Students who withdraw from a course must do so in writing and will receive a “W” on their transcript indicating withdrawal. Students will receive a partial refund if they withdraw from a course within the first or second week. Be aware that no portion of the tuition will be refunded after the second week of the course. Students who have not participated in the course by the end of the second week will be administratively withdrawn from the course and will not receive a tuition refund.

Email requests for withdrawals must be submitted from a student’s 91AV e-mail to be considered.

Matriculating students who withdraw after completing more than 2/3 of a course will receive a grade of “WF” (withdrawn failing) or “WP” (withdrawn passing), based on the instructor’s assessment of the student’s current standing in the course. A “WF” is calculated as an “F” in the student’s GPA. Upon successful completion of the course, the new grade will be used to calculate the GPA. Students will be dismissed from their program after two failing grades (including a “WF”).

University Withdrawal

All matriculated students who wish to withdraw from the University must complete notification documentation available from Registration Services. Documentation must be signed by designated academic and administrative authorities.

Leave of Absence

Matriculated students must enroll and successfully complete at least one course per term. A leave of absence (LOA) for a specified period of time, not to exceed one academic year, may be granted to a matriculated student with the authorization of the Dean and the Program Manager or designee. If not enrolled for one full term, students must contact their Student Support Specialist and complete the required Request for Leave of Absence form available from Registration Services. Application for readmission is not necessary if the student returns as planned. However, the student who does not return at the specified time will be administratively withdrawn and will be subject to readmission procedures.

The LOA period is considered as part of the time allotted to complete the academic program. Note: It is the responsibility of the student to contact the office of the Program Manager to indicate a change of plans.

Medical Leave of Absence

In the event that a leave of absence is taken due to medical reasons, a doctor’s note may be required in order to return to active standing within the program.

Audit Policy

A student may, with prior consent of the Program Manager or designee, enroll in a course for an audit grade (AU). This must be requested at the time of registration for the course and must be accompanied by signed approval of the instructor and Program Manager or designee. This applies to both matriculated and non-matriculated students. Reversal or change of an audit grade is not possible. Once enrolled for AU the grade becomes permanent on a student's academic record. The student who wishes later to be graded for such a course must re-enroll in and pay for graded credit. In auditing a course, the student is expected to complete all lectures and discussion boards, but is not permitted to submit course work for evaluation, take examinations, receive grades, or earn credit. Auditing a course does not count toward enrollment status (i.e. part-time, full-time, etc.) and therefore cannot be considered for financial aid purposes, veteran's benefits, etc.

Academic Integrity Policy

The 91AV values academic integrity in all aspects of the educational experience. Academic dishonesty in any form undermines this standard and devalues the original contributions of others. It is the responsibility of all members of the University community to actively uphold the integrity of the academy; failure to act, for any reason, is not acceptable.

Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to the following:

1.      Cheating, copying, or the offering or receiving of unauthorized assistance or information.

2.      Fabrication or falsification of data, results, or sources for papers or reports.

3.      Action which destroys or alters the work of another student.

4.      Multiple submission of the same paper or report for assignments in more than one course without permission of each instructor.

5.      Plagiarism, the appropriation of records, research, materials, ideas, or the language of other persons or writers and the submission of them as one's own.

Charges of academic dishonesty will be reviewed by the Program Manager. Penalties for students found responsible for violations may depend upon the seriousness and circumstances of the violation, the degree of premeditation involved, and/or the student’s previous record of violations.  Appeal of a decision may be made to the Dean whose decision will be final.  Student appeals will take place through the grievance process outlined in The College of Graduate and Professional Studies Student Handbook.

Office for Students with Disabilities

The Student Access Center works to ensure that the University promotes respect for individual differences and that no person who meets the academic and technical standards needed for admission and continued enrollment at 91AV is denied benefits or subjected to discrimination due to a disability.  Toward this end, and in conjunction with federal and state laws, the University provides reasonable accommodations for qualified students.

Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is highly valued by the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.  Many courses within the College feature experiential-learning components.  However, at this time, no credit will be awarded to students for purely experiential learning experiences undertaken in lieu of coursework.

Transfer Credit

Transfer Credit

Upon acceptance, students may apply to transfer up to three 3-credit courses (maximum of nine credits) into the Master of Public Health program or up to two 3-credit courses (maximum of six credits) into the Graduate Certificate of Public Health program.

To request consideration for transfer credit, a student must provide an official transcript and a course syllabus for each course. Transfer credit is awarded at the discretion of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies based on specific program details listed below. Requests for approval of transfer credit should be submitted to, and will be granted at the discretion of, the Program Manager.

Transfer courses must

  • Be classified as graduate level
  • Be from a CEPH accredited institution
  • Have been taken within five years of application 
  • Have been completed with a grade of “B” or better
  • Be equivalent to one of the required program courses or an elective course that meets the goals of the student’s education
  • Not have been applied toward any other degree. 

Individuals who earned a Graduate Certificate in Public Health from the 91AV within the last five years may apply for admission to the MPH program and request that all courses be accepted.  Current GCPH students, who are in good standing, may apply to the MPH program at any time during the certificate program by requesting a "change of major" with their Student Support Specialist.

Admissions

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

  • A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or its equivalent. See  for details regarding evaluation of international degrees for grade and degree equivalency.
  • Undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better.
  • Demonstrated academic ability to succeed in graduate level work as evidenced by consistent academic performance in science and math courses.
    Please note: In lieu of college-level courses in either, students may submit GRE subject test scores in mathematics or science.
  • Computer with internet connection, including the hardware and software requirements described in our . Must also possess sufficient computer skills to navigate the internet as all classes are accessed 100% online.

Application Process

  • Completed online application: http://go.une.edu/apply
  • Submission of the non-refundable application fee
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Goal Statements
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts reflecting conferral of a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.  All transcripts are to be submitted from the original institutions.

Note:  Transcripts for any coursework appearing as transfer credit on the transcript of the conferred degree can be waived if the coursework is unrelated to the degree being sought.  The program admissions committee defines all coursework not eligible for waiver.

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES

  • Applications for admission are accepted through 91AV’s online application only. Detailed instructions are included in the online application.
  • Official transcripts, as well as other documents to support the application, must be submitted to the College of Graduate and Professional Studies, 716 Stevens Ave, Portland, ME, 04103
  • Students are admitted to the GPH program three (3) times a year:  Summer A, Fall A, Spring A.
  • Applications received and completed by the respective deadlines will be given full consideration.  Applications submitted and/or completed after the deadline will be reviewed for the next available term.
  • Admissions are rolling and decisions are made by the program admissions committee throughout the cycle.
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees must have their transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution.  See .
  • All applicants to 91AV must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university.  91AV accepts several methods of English Proficiency, see  
  • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language () are required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application. 

For additional information on the admissions process and requirements, please access the  website

POLICY EXCEPTIONS

The Graduate Programs in Public Health and the GPPH Admissions Committee reserve the right to make exceptions to the admissions criteria and to make changes or exceptions to policies and procedures, on a case by case basis, when it deems such a decision is necessary and appropriate.

Financial Information

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include course textbooks. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.

Financial Aid

Detailed information and applications are available upon request from the Financial Aid Office. Call (207) 602-2342 or visit the Financial Aid website.

Science Prerequisites for the Health Professions

Contact

Call 855-325-0894 or E-mail prehealth@une.edu.

Department
Degree name
Science Prerequisites for the Health Professions
Sections

Mission

The University is committed to ensuring the success of all online students. The mission of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies reads, "CGPS educates and supports future leaders in industry and service via programs designed to catalyze meaningful career development."

Program Description

The Science Prerequisites for the Health Professions (SPHP) program is for students who have completed a baccalaureate degree and wish to enter a health professions program, but lack the necessary prerequisite courses. Most students enrolled in these courses will be working professionals. Students may enroll in SPHP courses at any time and from anywhere in the world.  The courses are designed to be completed in 16 weeks, but they are self-paced, so students may complete the courses at an accelerated pace in order to meet their personal academic needs.

All of the courses are accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

Many health professions programs accept these courses, but we encourage you to check with specific schools to verify that the courses are transferrable before you apply and/or register.

For more information on the courses offered within the SPHP program, including prerequisites, registration information, and a description of laboratory components, please call 855-325-0894 or e-mail prehealth@une.edu.

Course Options

Courses Credits
MEDT 1000 - Medical Terminology 3
MATH 1005 - Statistics  4
PHYS 1010 - Physics I 4
PHYS 1011 - Physics II 4
CHEM 1010 - Medical General Chemistry I/Lecture 3
CHEM 1010L - Medical General Chemistry I/Lab 1
CHEM 1011 - Medical General Chemistry II/Lecture 3
CHEM 1011L - Medical General Chemistry II/Lab 1
CHEM 1020 - Medical Organic Chemistry I/Lecture 3
CHEM 1020L - Medical Organic Chemistry I/Lab 1
CHEM 1021 - Medical Organic Chemistry II/Lecture 3
CHEM 1021L - Medical Organic Chemistry II/Lab 1
BIOL 1010 - Medical Biology I w/Lab 4
BIOL 1011 - Medical Biology II w/Lab 4
CHEM 1005 - Medical Biochemistry 4
PHSL 1010 - Medical Physiology 4
BIOL 1020 - Microbiology for Health Professions/Lecture 3
BIOL 1020L- Microbiology for Health Professions Lecture & Lab 4
ANAT 1005 - Medical Anatomy for the Health Professions 4

BIOL 1030 - Pathophysiology for Health Professions

4
BIOL 1040 - Genetics 4
NTRN 1010 - Principles of Human Nutrition 3

Academic Policy

Course Length:

 1. Courses in the SPHP program are equivalent to one-semester courses, designed to be completed in 16 weeks.

2. Enrollment in the course begins the day your section opens, which is listed in the Academic Calendar found on the SPHP Webpage.

Upon completion of a course, the course instructor submits a grade for each student.   The instructor will notify students once their final grade has been calculated.

Technology requirements may differ by course. Please email prehealth@une.edu regarding technology requirements for a specific course.

Students take proctored exams online using Proctor U.  For instructions on taking online exams, please visit .

Withdrawal from the Course and Refunds

To withdraw from a course, please use go to http://www.une.edu/registrar/registration/registration-forms and complete the withdrawal form under "Science Prerequisite Course Forms."  All correspondence with the 91AV Registrar's office must be from your 91AV email address. Please complete all sections of the withdrawal form, including your PRN, the CRN, course subject and number (Example: ANAT 1005). This action will result in a W grade for the course.  For withdrawal deadlines, please refer to the academic calendar.

Refund POLICY

To learn about the refund policy, please refer to the College of Graduate and Professional Studies' . 

Admissions

Students may enter the program at any time, as long as they meet the prerequisites for the individual courses.  They may take as many courses as needed to meet the prerequisite requirements for the health professions program to which they are applying, but they are encouraged to limit enrollment to a maximum of two courses simultaneously.  For students wishing to take more than two courses at a time, please email an Enrollment Counselor at prehealth@une.edu or call 855-325-0894. 

Financial Information

We do not accept any type of financial aid or payment plan at this time, with the exception of military assistance.  Students are expected to make payment in full at the time of checkout. 

Social Work

Category
Contact

On-Campus Contact: Shelley Cohen Konrad, Director scohenkonrad@une.edu

Online Option Contact: Jennifer O’Neil, Program Manager joneil4@une.edu

 

On-Campus: For program and curricula questions, please contact the School of Social Work administrative office at 207-221-4508.  For application and admissions information, please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at 207-221-4225 or at gradadmissions@une.edu

A traditional on campus face-to-face option where students attend classes on the Portland, Maine campus.  The on-campus option offers fully face-to-face and hybrid courses options.  Hybrid course options meet every third week on campus and in the intervening weeks meet online.

The Campus-based MSW provides Information Sessions for the Master of Social Work degree program throughout the year.  Some take place on campus and include presentations by students and faculty followed by question and answer sessions and the opportunity to meet one-on-one with faculty or staff, while others take place online in the form of chats.  Please contact the School of Social Work at 207-221-4508 for a schedule of events, or learn more at the Social Work Department Website.

Online Master of Social Work: For program and curricula questions, as well as application information, please contact Online Social Work Enrollment at the College of Graduate and Professional Studies at (877) 863-6791 or locally at (207) 221-4143.  We can also be reached via email: socialworkonline@une.edu.

The Online Social Work program provides 100% online asynchronous classes in an eight week format.  Virtual information sessions are provided for the Online Master of Social Work throughout the year.  Please contact the online program at 207-221-4143 for a schedule of events or learn more at the .

Degree name
Master of Social Work (M.S.W.)
Sections

Mission

Vision:

The 91AV School of Social Work envisions a world where social workers are at the forefront of advocating with individuals and communities for human dignity and social inclusion by mobilizing efforts to end inequities, exploitation, and violence. 

Mission:

The mission of the School of Social Work is to provide transformative and collaborative learning that embraces the values of social inclusion and promotes enhanced quality of life for individuals and communities. 

Values:

Our values promote social inclusion1 conceptualized as actions taken to improve quality of life, access to equitable resources, enhancement of human bonds within the context of cultural diversity, and engagement of people, populations, and communities to fully participate in society. Towards this end:

  • We promote culturally informed practice that is respectful of the complexity and diversity of people’s lives and circumstances.
  • We recognize that social exclusion prevents people from full and just participation in their communities as a consequence of inequities, discrimination, and disadvantage arising from adversity in early life and continuing across the life course.
  • We practice social responsibility by raising public awareness of social exclusion, challenging discrimination and acting with and on behalf of groups, populations, and communities.
  • We support person-centered collaborative practices and partnerships that bring together diverse workers and community members to meet the best interests of individuals, families, and groups.
  1. “The process of improving the ability, opportunity, and dignity of people, disadvantaged on the basis of their identity, to take part in society.” (2013, World Bank Publication)

References:

Program Description

The School of Social Work prepares people for advanced professional practice and is accredited to offer the Master of Social Work (MSW) degree by the Council on Social Work Education. MSW graduates learn to understand the potential for individual and collective human development when people live with dignity and social justice; to identify people's strengths across diverse populations and how to build upon them; to understand the multiple social, cultural, political and economic factors influencing the design, development and evaluation of social policies and programs; to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to carry out multiple social work interventions consistent with the School's mission and the profession's ethics; and to develop intervention strategies that empower individuals, families, groups, or communities.

The MSW degree offers graduates the opportunity to play active roles in health and mental health, alcohol and substance abuse, poverty and public welfare, women's and children's services, domestic violence, homelessness, corrections, applied arts and social justice and other emerging areas of service delivery. The program prepares graduates to work with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities in an array of settings and with diverse populations. The values and commitments embedded in the School's Mission Statement permeate our work in every area.

Program Goals

Prepare competent Master-level professional social workers who at every system level provide leadership to:

  • Promote social inclusion to enable people, populations and communities to fully participate in society.
  • Create person-centered collaborative and sustainable relationships across diverse communities and practice settings.
  • Develop and apply ethical reflection, critical consciousness and shared decision-making based in social work values and with consideration of the broader contexts of the world in which we live. 

These goals are integrated into the social work curriculum. Through their presence in courses, fieldwork internships, and internal School governance we bring our Mission Statement to life.

Accreditation

The School of Social Work at the 91AV is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education to offer the master's degree in social work.

Curricular Requirements

Students in the campus-based program option can select from several progression plans. They may choose the 2-year, full-time program, a 3-4 year part-time program or complete their degree in as little as 16 months through the accelerated track. 

Students in the campus-based program option can earn certificates in Applied Arts and Social Justice, Trauma-Informed Practice, or Diversity in Aging. Certificates can be completed within the required 64 credit course structure.

Students who have graduated from an accredited BSW program can apply for advanced standing and complete their MSW in one year (See Advanced Standing). Advanced Standing status can completed full- or part-time students.

All traditional students are required to complete 64 credit hours of graduate study divided between classroom and fieldwork education. Field placements, or internships, consist of four semesters of supervised practice in approved social work settings; each semester includes 280 hours of practice experience. The curriculum is designed to provide an integrated foundation or knowledge base and advanced skills for social work practice within a concentration (Clinical Practice, Community Practice, or Integrated Practice).

Foundation Year courses emphasize an integrated social work perspective involving the social context and its impact on social policy, programs, and the social work profession. Courses include Human Behavior and the Social Environment I and II; Social Work Policy and Programs I and II; Social Work Practice I and II; Research I and II; and Field Integrating Seminars I and II. In addition, students spend 560 hours in a field setting, which permits students another learning mode through placements in social agencies and programs with structured on-site professional supervision.

Concentrations are offered in Clinical Practice, Community Practice, and Integrated Practice.  The Clinical Concentration prepares students with knowledge and skills for advanced practice primarily focused on individuals, families, and groups in multiple settings.   The Community Concentration provides students with knowledge and skills in an array of advanced practice roles in the areas of program and policy development, administration, supervision, political advocacy, community practice, and evaluation.  The Integrated Concentration combines the core curriculum of both the Clinical and Community Practice Concentrations. All concentrations prepare graduates for professional leadership positions within their communities, and all are enriched by a selection of electives.

Traditional STUDENT PROGRESSION

Credits

Foundation

 
SSW/SSWO 501 Human Behavior & the Social Environment I 3
SSW/SSWO 502 Human Behavior & the Social Environment II 3

SSW/SSWO 503 Social Work Research I

3

SSW/SSWO 504 Social Work Research II

3
SSW/SSWO 505 Social Welfare Policy and Programs I 3
SSW/SSWO 506 Social Welfare Policy and Programs II 3
SSW/SSWO 510 Social Work Practice I 3
SSW/SSWO 511 Social Work Practice II 3
SSW/SSWO 520 Field Practicum I/Seminar 4
SSW/SSWO 522 Field Practicum II/Seminar 4
Foundation Year Total 32
   
Concentration  

SSW/SSWO 552 Contemporary Theory of SW Practice: Individuals and Families (Clinical & Integrated)

OR

SSW/SSWO 564 Program Dev & Community Practice (Community & Integrated)

3

SSW/SSWO 553 Advanced Social Work Practice with Families (Clinical & Integrated) 

OR 

SSW/SSWO 685 Community Organizing & Social Inclusion (Community & Integrated)

3

SSW/SSWO 597 Advanced Psychosocial Assessment (Clinical & Integrated) 

OR  

SSW/SSWO 608 Grant Research & Program Writing (Community)

3

SSW/SSWO 565 Administration and Supervision (All Concentrations)

3
SSW/SSWO 580 Field Practicum III/Seminar (All Concentrations) 4
SSW/SSWO 582 Field Practicum IV/Seminar (All Concentrations) 4

Elective (All Concentrations)

3
Elective (All Concentrations) 3
Elective (Clinical & Community) 3
Elective (Clinical & Community) 3
Concentration Year Total  32
Total Program  64

Advanced Standing Progression (Online and On-Campus)

Credits
Foundation Year waived with BSW from CSWE accredited program  

SSW/SSWO 526 Integrating Clinical/Community Practice Frameworks

*Campus Advanced Standing students take this course at the end of August, prior to the New Student Orientation and start of the Fall semester.

3

SSW/SSWO 552 Contemporary Theory of SW Practice: Individuals and Families (Clinical & Integrated) 

OR  

SSW/SSWO 564 Program Dev & Community Practice (Community & Integrated)

3

SSW/SSWO 553 Advanced Social Work Practice with Families (Clinical & Integrated) 

OR 

SSW/SSWO 685 Community Organizing & Social Inclusion (Community & Integrated)

3

SSW/SSWO 597 Advanced Psychosocial Assessment (Clinical & Integrated) 

OR  

SSW/SSWO 608 Grant Research & Program Writing (Community)

3

SSW/SSWO 565 Administration and Supervision (All Concentrations)

3
SSW/SSWO 580 Field Practicum III/Seminar (All Concentrations) 4
SSW/SSWO 582 Field Practicum IV/Seminar (All Concentrations) 4
Elective (All Concentrations) 3
Elective (All Concentrations) 3
Elective (Clinical & Community) 3
Elective (Clinical & Community) 3
Total Advanced Standing Online and On-campus Program 35

Graduation Requirements

Students must successfully complete all courses with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 prior to graduation and fulfill all curriculum requirements.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the 91AV SSW will demonstrate knowledge, skills, and leadership in the following:

1.   Practice social inclusion to enable people, populations, and communities to fully participate in society, enhance human bonds in the context of cultural diversity and ensure improved quality of life and equitable resource distribution.  

2.   Engage in culturally-informed relationship building respectful of the complexity and diversity of contexts and circumstances. 

3.   Utilize theories of human behavior, social systems and social inclusion when offering interventions with people and their environments. 

4.   Promote ethical reflection, critical consciousness and shared decision-making based in social work values and with consideration of the broader contexts of the world in which we live. 

5.   Balance the roles of helpers, activists, and advocates through collaboration with communities to build healthy and sustainable resources. 

6.   Engage as critical consumers and producers of research and evaluation applied to clinical and community practices. 

7.   Practice person-centered and collaborative community partnerships across diverse settings. 

Transfer Credit

  • Petitions for transfer credits for graduate social work courses to be submitted at the time of acceptance to the School of Social Work
    • Up to nine (9) credits may be transferred for courses completed with a minimum grade of “B” and equivalent to 91AV SSW foundation courses
    • P/F courses will not be accepted for transfer credit 
    • No course electives nor courses from programs outside of social work will be considered for transfer credit
    • All courses to have been completed within seven (7) years of anticipated enrollment in the School
    • Applicants petitioning for transfer credits must include the following
      • Professional statement to include reasons for requesting transfer to the 91AV School of Social Work
      • A syllabus for each course being submitted for transfer credit
  • Transfer students required to adhere to the degree-requirement progression plan in effect at the time of your admission (Note: Individualized provisions may, at times, increase the total credit hours required for graduation from the School of Social Work)
    • SSW reserves the right to require transfer students to enroll in SSW 526 Integrating Clinical\Community Frameworks as part of their progression plan
    • Consideration of transfer credit beyond nine (9) credits and/or any exception to the 7-year matriculation deadline will be on a case-by-case basis at the time of admission

Advanced Standing

  • Qualified graduates of BSW programs accredited by the Council on Social Work Education may be considered for Advanced Standing under the following conditions:
    • Graduation from a CSWE accredited BSW program within seven (7) years of enrollment in the School of Social Work (exceptions to this time frame may be made on a case-by-case basis depending on work experience and the quality of the application materials)
    • Advanced Standing applicants must have received a “B” or better in all BSW courses (if you do not meet this expectation you must address this in your professional statement)
    • Evidence of work or volunteer experience working with people in a human service environment
    • Two (2) letters of reference including:
      • A letter from a faculty member within the BSW program who can speak to your academic abilities
      • A second letter from someone of your choice who can speak to your professional qualifications for an MSW program (letters from friends and family members are not acceptable)
    • Submit field evaluations documenting grade and hours completed (if BSW program is not able to supply a copy of the original field evaluations, a letter must be provided confirming that student received a passing grade and documenting the number of field hours completed)
  • Students admitted into advanced standing must enroll in the required SSW 526 – Integrating Clinical/Community Practice Frameworks 3-credit course

Experiential Credit

  • No academic credit awarded for life experiences or previous work experience

Admissions

PROGRAM ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

(Both Campus-based and Online Delivery Options)

  • ACADEMIC/EXPERIENCE Requirements
    • Traditional Track
  • Bachelor’s Degree from a US regionally accredited institution, or international equivalent, prior to enrollment
    • Cumulative Undergraduate GPA of 3.0
    • Evidence of work or volunteer experience working with people in a human service environment
    • Demonstration of graduate-level writing skills as evidenced in the required professional statement
      • With reference to 91AV’s School of Social Work Mission Statement and the definition of “social inclusion” provided therein
        • Please share your views on how you understand social inclusion and its connection to social justice, cultural diversity, and human dignity
        • Please share two examples that you have observed in society where social inclusion was absent. What are your recommendations for how to address these issues?
      • Why are you interested in the field of social work? What personal strengths and areas of development relate to you becoming a professional social worker?  In addition, if you are applying for the online delivery option, please assess your technological proficiencies from an online graduate program standpoint.
      • Please discuss a challenge or conflict you faced while working with people in a professional or volunteer setting and how you dealt with it.  Briefly describe the situation and share what, if anything, you would do differently.  Describe how this experience has affected you as a professional.
  • Advanced Standing
  • All requirements listed above for Traditional Track
  • Additional requirements
    • Graduation from CSWE accredited BSW program [preferably within the last seven (7) years]
    • Equivalent coursework at the undergraduate level to 91AV’s Foundation courses completed with a “B” or better, strongly preferred
    • Evidence of significant experience in the human services field with MSW supervision
  • PROCEDURES AND POLICIES
    • Applications for admission to the MSW program options
      • for campus options only        
        • Please follow detailed instructions on the application
      • for 100% online option only
        • Please follow detailed instructions on the application
  • Only those applications completed by the application deadlines will be considered for admission; complete applications include
    • Traditional Track (Bachelor’s degree required)
    • Electronic application form to include
      • Professional statement
      • Current resume
      • Two (2) references from writers who can speak to your academic abilities and/or professional experience (letters from friends or family members are not acceptable)       
    • Official transcript/s reflecting conferral of Bachelor’s degree
      • Submitted directly to 91AV from the originating college or university
      • Additional transcripts MAY be required or requested (you may always submit additional transcripts if you feel they would strengthen your application)
  • Advanced Standing (BSW required)
    • All items listed in Traditional Track
    • Additional requirements
      • Official transcript reflecting conferral of Bachelor of Social Work degree from CSWE accredited BSW program
      • Copies of field evaluations and verification of field hours completed
  • International applicants and applicants with international degrees
    • Must have transcripts evaluated for degree and grade equivalency to that of a regionally accredited US institution
    • Must be able to understand and communicate in English to be admitted to the university
      • 91AV accepts several methods of  
      • If an applicant cannot prove English Proficiency in another way, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language or the International English Language Testing System is required and must be submitted as a part of the completed application

POLICY EXCEPTIONS

  • Policies have been established to ensure fair and consistent admissions practice for all applicants
  • All criteria presented in this summary are subject to change per professional accreditation requirements, changes in curriculum or other institutional standards, and clinical affiliation requirements
  • Exceptions to existing admission policies are rare and made on a case by case basis, only when it is deemed necessary and appropriate to maintain fair and consistent practice for all candidates

Financial Information

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.