Greenfield Community College (GCC) and Western New England University (WNE) recently announced an innovative articulation agreement that streamlines the path for students pursuing careers in occupational therapy. This new Associate to Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) Transfer Program provides GCC Allied Health students with a seamless transition to WNE's 3+3 dual-degree programs, culminating in a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy.

Designed to provide a structured and efficient academic journey, the agreement allows eligible students to transfer from GCC’s Associate in Science Allied Health program into WNE’s Bachelor of Science in Health Studies or Bachelor of Arts in Psychology programs. From there, students progress into the university’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy program housed within the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (COPHS).

Current GCC students in the Allied Health program are eligible and can transfer to WNE as juniors in the 3+3 OTD program as early as next fall as long as they have taken the necessary coursework, met the GPA criteria, and have graduated with their Associate degree.  In terms of cost and time, the 3+3 program saves students an entire year of schooling as it takes just six years to earn a doctoral degree in occupational therapy.

Program Highlights and Benefits:

• Guaranteed Transfer: Students who meet program criteria will be guaranteed admission into WNE’s 3+3 OTD programs.
• Junior Standing: GCC graduates will enter WNE with junior status, streamlining the time to degree completion.
• Transfer Credits: Up to 60 credits will transfer, subject to program requirements.
• Waived General Requirements: Completion of GCC’s Mass STEM General Education Foundation ensures key requirements are fulfilled.
• Dual Advising Support: Both institutions will provide comprehensive academic advising, including guidance from WNE’s Occupational Therapy faculty.

How the Program Works:
The transfer program unfolds in three phases:

1. Associate degree at GCC: Students complete their Allied Health degree while preparing for transfer to WNE.
2. Bachelor’s degree at WNE: Students complete coursework for their Health Studies or Psychology degrees, as well as prerequisites for the OTD program.
3. Direct Entry into the OTD Program: Upon meeting all academic requirements, students are guaranteed admission into the three-year OTD program.

According to Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Success Shanni Smith-Arsenault, “We are delighted to add another transfer agreement with our longtime partners at Western New England University. Our efforts will allow students the opportunity to maximize their time and savings toward a doctoral degree in Occupational Therapy and make an impact in the healthcare systems of Western Massachusetts."

Students will be informed of this opportunity during their application process at GCC and can indicate their interest at the time of matriculation. WNE and GCC will collaborate on outreach and advising initiatives to ensure prospective students receive the guidance they need to succeed.

This agreement underscores both institutions’ dedication to equipping students with the skills and credentials needed to thrive in the dynamic field of occupational therapy.