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Whitworth University to Offer Dual Degree Programs in Graduate Business and Health Science

January 3, 2023

Whitworth University’s Graduate Studies in Business Program and Graduate Health Science Program have partnered to offer dual graduate degree programs, the first of their kind in Washington.

Students enrolling in Whitworth’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) or Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) programs may now simultaneously work toward a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master of Business Leadership (MBL). These programs will prepare graduates for a variety of career paths and advancement opportunities by equipping them to integrate leadership training and business practices with their knowledge of healthcare.

“These interdisciplinary programs are at the heart of Whitworth,” says Sinead Voorhees, assistant dean of Graduate Studies in Business. “We allow dual degree students to finish faster, with less debt than earning both degrees individually and through an accelerated admissions process so they can start their healthcare career holistically equipped. We already have students admitted into this program, and I could not be more excited for our future graduates.”  

The dual degree programs will allow students to earn their graduate business degree in the evening or online alongside their doctoral degree and finish in just three years. Students can also fulfill certain courses required for the MBA or MBL with classes they’ve already taken for their doctoral degree.

Occupational and physical therapists assist and empower people recovering from injuries or those trying to engage in life’s everyday activities. These healthcare professionals serve the public in rehabilitation centers, workplaces, schools, community programs and hospitals. Students who complete the dual degree program will be prepared to start their own clinics or work in healthcare management.

“Our mission in health science at Whitworth is to train expert therapists with a heart to serve others,” says Mike Ediger, associate dean and professor of health sciences. “Partnering with our nationally accredited School of Business on these new dual degrees, we will be able to graduate clinicians who aspire to be leaders in their field and have the tools to have a transformative impact on their community.”

Prospective OTD, DPT and graduate business students may apply to a dual degree program at the time of their initial application or within their first year of study. All application materials initially submitted for admission will be accepted to satisfy the requirements of the secondary program application. An admission decision may be given concurrently for both programs. Satisfactory academic standing in the applicant’s current Whitworth program will be a factor in their secondary application process. Based on current university guidelines, dual degree-seeking students must graduate with both degrees during the same academic year.

To learn more about these programs and how to apply, click here

About Whitworth University:

Located in Spokane, Wash., Whitworth is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church. The university, which has an enrollment of more than 2,500 students, offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

Contacts: 

Trisha Coder, media relations manager, Whitworth University, (509) 777-4703 or tcoder@whitworth.edu