Hood College, Meritus School of Osteopathic Medicine Sign Agreement to Expand Pathways to Medical Careers

Hood College and the Meritus School of Osteopathic Medicine (MSOM) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) establishing a new pathway for Hood students pursuing careers in medicine. Through the partnership, eligible Hood students and recent graduates who meet established academic and admission criteria will be guaranteed an interview for admission to MSOM’s Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program.

The agreement strengthens the connection between undergraduate education and medical training while supporting the growing need for highly qualified health care professionals in Maryland and the surrounding region.

“This partnership represents the kind of meaningful collaboration that creates opportunities for our students while addressing the needs of the communities we serve,” said Hood College President Debbie Ricker, Ph.D. “At Hood, we believe in preparing students not only for successful careers but for lives of purpose and service. By connecting our strong foundation in the sciences with Meritus’ commitment to medical education, we are helping aspiring physicians take the next step toward careers that will make a lasting difference in the health and well-being of our communities.”

Under the agreement, Hood students and alumni who graduated within the previous two years may qualify for a guaranteed admission interview by meeting specific requirements. Beyond the guaranteed interview, the partnership provides opportunities for enhanced advising, mentorship and access to medical school preparation resources. 

Through its preprofessional program in medicine, Hood will provide dedicated academic advising to help students navigate course requirements, prepare for the MCAT and successfully complete the medical school application process.

“MSOM’s mission is to train physicians who will be socially responsible, professionally accomplished and community-oriented,” said Chanté Richardson, PhD, MBA, Associate Dean of Student Services and Community Engagement at MSOM. “It is exciting to partner with Hood as we continue to remove barriers and expand opportunities for promising future physicians.” 

The collaboration reflects both institutions’ commitment to educational opportunity, academic excellence and regional workforce development. By connecting Hood’s undergraduate preparation with MSOM’s medical education program, the institutions aim to support the next generation of physicians and strengthen the pipeline of health care professionals serving Maryland.

The agreement will remain in effect for five years, with both institutions committed to ongoing assessment and opportunities for future collaboration.

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