Seton Hall and TCNJ Partner on Graduate Health Pathways

Seton Hall University’s School of Health and Medical Sciences (SHMS) and The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) have signed a new articulation agreement creating streamlined pathways for undergraduate students pursuing careers in the health professions.

The agreement, developed in collaboration with TCNJ’s Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, allows qualified students to transition into Seton Hall graduate programs in Doctor of Physical Therapy, Master of Science in Occupational Therapy and Master of Science in Athletic Training.

TCNJ students may express interest in Seton Hall’s graduate programs during their sophomore or junior year and, upon consultation with a TCNJ advisor, be considered for admission. Students must confirm their intent to apply with the Kinesiology and Health Sciences Department Chair, Anne Farrell, by January 15 of their junior year.

Those who meet the academic and program-specific requirements will benefit from a more defined and efficient admissions pathway. The agreement offers both structure and flexibility, allowing students to explore career interests early while keeping multiple graduate pathways within reach.

“This agreement reflects a shared commitment to preparing the next generation of health professionals through thoughtful academic planning and strong institutional collaboration,” said Vikram Dayalu, interim dean of the School of Health and Medical Sciences.

Patrick McDermott, assistant dean for the School of Health and Medical Sciences said, “By creating clearer pathways from undergraduate study to advanced clinical education, we are helping students move forward with confidence as they pursue careers delivering high-quality patient care.”

The collaboration builds on the strengths of both institutions. TCNJ students develop a foundation in kinesiology and health sciences, while Seton Hall’s graduate programs provide advanced clinical training and prepare students for compassionate, professional practice across a range of health disciplines.

At Seton Hall, students gain this preparation through hands-on learning at the University’s Interprofessional Health Sciences campus in Nutley, where they train in simulation labs and clinical environments designed to mirror patient care settings. These experiences are complemented by a robust network of 200+ clinical affiliates across the region, offering students diverse training opportunities in hospitals, schools and community-based settings.

The programs included in the agreement reflect continued growth across the health professions. Physical therapists, occupational therapists and athletic trainers play essential roles in patient care, rehabilitation and injury prevention in a range of clinical and community settings.

By aligning undergraduate preparation with graduate-level expectations, the partnership is designed to ease the transition into advanced study and support students as they prepare for professional practice.

Categories: Education, Health and Medicine