The MGH Institute has added another partner to its academic pathway network: Merrimack College. 

The Institute has reached an articulation agreement with the North Andover college that will create expanded academic pathways for students pursuing careers in health professions.

The agreement with the MGH Institute, the only degree-granting member of the Mass General Brigham health system, guarantees admission for qualified Merrimack students in four programs: Doctor of Physical Therapy, Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Doctor of Audiology, and Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology.

“This partnership reflects our commitment to preparing students for meaningful and rewarding careers in healthcare,” said John “Sean” Condon, provost, and sr. vice president of academic affairs at Merrimack College.

Under the agreement, qualified Merrimack students will benefit from dedicated seats in these programs and a streamlined admissions process, creating direct pathways into MGH Institute graduate study.

“Our institutional values align closely,” said Reamer Bushardt, Provost of the MGH Institute. “What Merrimack does exceptionally well—developing capable, purpose-driven students—we are able to extend through graduate education grounded in clinical practice and leadership. This agreement is about creating a more seamless transition for students who are ready to continue that trajectory in the health professions.”

Students who meet program-specific requirements will follow defined preparation pathways outlining prerequisite coursework, application timelines, and enrollment expectations, allowing them to plan early for graduate study. Both Merrimack College and the MGH Institute will provide dedicated advising support to help students stay on track throughout the process.

Leaders from both institutions said the collaboration will expand access to advanced training and strengthen the pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals.

“More and more students and their families want to know, what’s the return on an educational investment?” said Kevin Finn, Associate Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students. “Well, partnerships like these provide it with pathways to high demand careers in the healthcare sector. An education like this is worth the time and money, and schools that are partnering with us see that.”

Merrimack College joins Bridgewater State University, Bryant University, Providence College, St. Michael's College, Suffolk University, The Citadel Military College of South Carolina, and the University of New Hampshire as MGH Institute academic pathway partners.