Regis College and Waltham High School have developed a new program that provides Waltham students with an easier and more direct route to higher education, financial support, and guaranteed admission into one of Regis’s academic programs.
“This partnership with Waltham High School will provide new and guaranteed pathways for students to earn acceptance to Regis where they may continue their learning journey in pursuit of an undergraduate degree,” said Regis College President Antoinette Hays, PhD, RN. “At Regis, we form students' character and build in them confidence in preparation for a career and life of meaning. As a university renowned for its nursing and health sciences programs, students demonstrated an interest in these fields will be provided unique admission pathways to Regis with a generous scholarship.”
Waltham students in the Health Assisting Program, a certified vocational program that aims to prepare students for careers in the medical field, may apply to Regis through an expedited fast-track process as early as February of their junior year. To qualify, students must meet certain academic criteria, including maintaining a minimum 3.2 GPA and completing a combination of math and science courses. Students accepted will receive a minimum $25,000 academic scholarship with the possibility of additional scholarships upon full admission.
“Our Career and Technical Education programs, particularly the Health Assisting program, equip students with the essential skills and training needed to excel in the healthcare industry—a field in critical need of skilled and compassionate professionals,” said Marisa Mendonsa, Waltham Public Schools Superintendent. “This collaboration will provide a seamless pathway for our students to transition to Regis College, earn their degrees, and achieve their career aspirations. We are deeply grateful to Regis College for their support and commitment to our students' success."
Students will have the opportunity to meet Regis faculty and admissions staff and learn more about college life through events hosted by the university, both at Regis and Waltham High School. Waltham High School and Regis will work together to optimize student success, with Regis providing feedback on the progress of students in the pathway program.
The Memorandum of Understanding establishing the pathway will be in effect for an initial three-year term, with the possibility for renewal based on the outcomes of the partnership.