In an effort to expand opportunities for students interested in careers in public health, Bryant University and the Brown University School of Public Health are launching a new program that will create a direct pathway for Bryant graduates to enroll in Brown’s master of public health program.
Under the agreement, Bryant students who graduate with at least a 3.25 GPA and meet application requirements will be eligible for guaranteed admission, following review by Brown’s School of Public Health admissions committee. The pathway guarantees admission for a limited number of Bryant students each year and students will receive an automatic scholarship toward 35% of tuition, with select students eligible for additional financial aid up to 50%.
The collaboration between Bryant University’s School of Health and Behavioral Sciences and Brown’s School of Public Health is designed to build on Bryant’s undergraduate strengths in business, health and behavioral sciences while giving students the opportunity to continue their education at Brown, where they will receive rigorous training to conduct research, inform policy change and improve the health of populations in Rhode Island and beyond.
“By creating a direct path for our students into Brown University’s School of Public Health, we are expanding access to advanced training in a field where highly talented professionals are urgently needed,” said Bryant University President Ross Gittell. “This pathway highlights our commitment to developing future leaders in the health care sector and ensuring that a Bryant education positions graduates to make a meaningful difference in our communities.”
The collaboration also highlights how universities can work together in preparing students to address complex public health challenges while deepening academic ties between two of Rhode Island’s leading institutions.
“At a time when public health systems are under pressure, it’s more important than ever for institutions like Brown and Bryant to work together to prepare the next generation of leaders,” said Dr. Francesca Beaudoin, interim dean of the Brown University School of Public Health. “This agreement helps keep the public health workforce pipeline in Rhode Island strong by creating new opportunities for talented students to train and lead in the field.”
Under the agreement, Brown’s School of Public Health will guarantee admission for up to five eligible Bryant students each year, or up to 10% of the incoming MPH cohort, whichever is greater. Students who exceed that cap may still apply through the school’s regular admissions process and receive full consideration.
In addition to the admissions pathway, the agreement also provides opportunities for Brown faculty and leaders to engage with Bryant students through lectures and advising, offering undergraduates early exposure to public health education and careers.
“It’s a great partnership among premier institutions in Rhode Island,” said Dr. Scott Rivkees, acting associate dean for education and professor of the practice of health services, policy and practice at Brown’s School of Public Health. “Students at Bryant get to transition into one of the premier master’s programs in public health in the country and it helps the field expand its pool of students preparing for careers in public health.”