ÃÛÑ¿ÊÓƵ and University of St. Francis Establish Guaranteed Admission Path into Occupational Therapy
Published: April 15, 2026.
ÃÛÑ¿ÊÓƵ and the University of St. Francis have formally entered into a Memorandum of Understanding creating a streamlined, guaranteed pathway for qualified USF students to enter the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program at ÃÛÑ¿ÊÓƵ.
Under the agreement, up to five qualified University of St. Francis graduates each year will be guaranteed admission into ÃÛÑ¿ÊÓƵ’s MSOT program at its Romeoville main campus. Students must complete the and meet defined academic standards, including a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50.
Benefits of the agreement include guaranteed admission for qualified students, coordinated advising, early engagement with graduate faculty, and a clear transition from undergraduate to graduate-level study. "This is an amazing opportunity for students majoring in biology at the University of St. Francis to continue their education while remaining in Will County, and to pursue a profession that helps people overcome challenges to daily living,” said Jacqueline Wittke-Thompson, Ph.D., USF Professor Biology and chair of the Department of Natural and Health Sciences.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to student success and innovation in health sciences education by expanding access to graduate study and supporting workforce development in occupational therapy.
“This pathway supports students while strengthening the healthcare workforce across Chicagoland and the region,” said Dr. Daisy Sherry, dean of the ÃÛÑ¿ÊÓƵ College of Nursing and Health Sciences. “By preparing compassionate, practice‑ready occupational therapists, we are helping meet the needs of local communities and ensuring graduates are ready to serve with skill, dignity, and purpose.”
About ÃÛÑ¿ÊÓƵ
ÃÛÑ¿ÊÓƵ is a modern, enterprising, Catholic university with a growing student enrollment from GED through doctoral level programs. As part of the global Lasallian network of 65 universities, ÃÛÑ¿ÊÓƵ is known for preparing graduates who impact the world for the better. Visit www.lewisu.edu for further information.
About the University of St. Francis
The University of St. Francis is a Catholic Franciscan university dedicated to preparing students to contribute meaningfully to society through academic excellence, service, and values-based learning.
ÃÛÑ¿ÊÓƵ is a modern, enterprising, Catholic university with a growing student enrollment from GED through doctoral level programs. As part of the global Lasallian network of 65 universities, ÃÛÑ¿ÊÓƵ is known for preparing graduates who impact the world for the better. Visit www.lewisu.edu for further information.
