Mercy College of Health Sciences and Des Moines University Medicine (DMU) have entered into a new partnership that opens doors for Mercy College students seeking graduate and, in some cases, dual-credit pathways into DMU’s full range of advanced health sciences programs.
Effective August 2025, Mercy College students who meet academic benchmarks are eligible for streamlined interview consideration at DMU in the following programs:
- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
- Doctor of Podiatric Medicine
- Doctor of Physical Therapy
- Doctor of Occupational Therapy
- Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies
- Master of Health Care Administration
- Master of Public Health
- Master of Science in Anatomy
- Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences
“Our partnership with Des Moines University opens new doors for students who feel called to pursue terminal degrees and make a lasting impact in healthcare,” said Dr. Adreain Henry, OD, EdD, MBA, president of Mercy College of Health Sciences. “This collaboration reflects our shared mission to prepare compassionate, highly skilled professionals and establishes clear pathways to advanced degrees—strengthening Iowa’s healthcare workforce and keeping talent right here in our state.”
“This partnership builds a bridge for motivated students who want to advance their healthcare education,” says Angela L. Walker Franklin, Ph.D., DMU president and CEO. “By working with Mercy College of Health Sciences, we are helping shape a stronger healthcare workforce for Iowa.”
Mercy College students who meet established GPA thresholds, prerequisite coursework, and application timelines will receive an interview invitation to their program of interest if they fulfill the admissions criteria set by DMU.
The partnership reflects both institutions’ shared commitment to improving access to advanced healthcare education while maintaining rigorous academic and professional standards.
For more information about DMU’s programs and admissions requirements, visit dmu.edu. To learn more about Mercy College of Health Sciences, visit mchs.edu.
