BGSU, Lake Erie College announce expanded academic partnership for students pursuing graduate education in healthcare fields

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BOWLING GREEN, Ohio - Bowling Green State University and Lake Erie College are partnering to strengthen pathways for students pursuing graduate education in health and human performance fields through multiple new formal agreements. This partnership formalizes collaborative routes for Lake Erie College students in exercise science and related pre-professional programs to continue their education at BGSU in athletic training, physical therapy and occupational therapy.

The agreements come just weeks after Lake Erie College's exercise science major received approval from the Higher Learning Commission, marking a significant milestone for the program and the college.

Qualified students enrolled in Lake Erie College's Bachelor of Exercise Science program, including those pursuing a pre-professional concentration, will now have clearly defined pathways to apply for graduate study at BGSU. The agreements support student progression into the BGSU Master of Athletic Training program and growing Doctor of Physical Therapy and Doctor of Occupational Therapy programs.

As the first and only hybrid, accelerated programs of their kind offered at an Ohio public university, the BGSU Doctor of Physical Therapy and Doctor of Occupational Therapy programs are meeting workforce needs and expanding access to education and patient care.

The innovative format of both programs allows students to complete most coursework online while traveling to campus twice per semester for hands-on clinical lab experiences, providing accessible clinical education to students nationwide without requiring relocation.

Guided by respective accrediting standards and experienced faculty, both BGSU programs also embrace holistic admissions processes and do not require GRE scores or interviews, reducing barriers to a quality, in-demand education.

With increased demand for physical and occupational therapists nationwide, the growing programs place graduates in the workforce faster across Ohio and beyond, connecting patients in communities of all sizes and backgrounds to critically needed healthcare services.

The BGSU master's program in athletic training develops competent clinicians through experiential teaching and learning and evidence-based practice.

Emphasizing a holistic approach to healthcare, the accredited program prepares graduates to practice in a variety of settings, broadening clinical knowledge and skills to improve patient care and outcomes.

"These agreements reflect the strength and momentum of our Exercise Science program," said Lake Erie College President Jennifer N. Schuller. "Receiving Higher Learning Commission approval and securing a graduate pathway with a respected public institution like Bowling Green State University underscores our commitment to providing students with clear, high-quality routes to professional and graduate success."

"Bowling Green State University is pleased to partner with Lake Erie College to create this new pathway for students entering these in-demand health fields, strengthening Ohio's workforce and communities, as well as bolstering our region's robust educational ecosystem, providing more choice and options for students seeking a meaningful and relevant education," BGSU President Rodney K. Rogers said. "We look forward to welcoming Lake Erie College graduates at Bowling Green as they continue their education in preparation for great careers and great lives."

Each agreement outlines expectations regarding prerequisite coursework, GPA requirements, clinical or observational experiences, and the standard application processes. While admission is competitive, the partnerships are designed to align undergraduate preparation at Lake Erie College with graduate-level expectations at BGSU.

"This partnership creates meaningful opportunities for our students and reflects our commitment to providing not only a quality undergraduate education, but relevant pathways after graduation as well," said Associate Provost and Dean of the College of Science, Animal Studies and Human Services, Dr. Johnathan Tedesco. "It ensures our Exercise Science majors are well-positioned to be successful in rigorous professional programs."

Together, these agreements represent Lake Erie College's continued investment in strategic academic partnerships, workforce-aligned education and expanded opportunities for students pursuing careers in athletic training, physical therapy, occupational therapy and related health professions.

For more information about Lake Erie College's exercise science program, visit lec.edu.

For more information about the BGSU physical therapy and occupational therapy doctorate programs or the master's program in athletic training, visit BGSU.edu/dpt and BGSU.edu/mat.