SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — Ozarks Tech is expanding its partnership with the University of Missouri to create affordable pathways from community college to advanced health care degrees in Springfield.
Through a new collaboration with the University of Missouri School of Medicine’s Springfield campus, alongside an existing partnership with the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Pharmacy, Ozarks Tech is helping students pursue careers as physicians and pharmacists through a seamless transfer process.
These partnerships centralize education in Springfield by providing affordable, clearly defined routes into advanced health care careers that allow students to remain local while preparing to serve their communities.
“As a result of these partnerships, aspiring doctors and pharmacists can complete their entire education right here in Springfield,” said Ozarks Tech Chancellor Dr. Hal Higdon. “By making high-quality, affordable education accessible locally, we are not only opening doors for our students, we’re strengthening health care in our region.”
Students who qualify for the Missouri A+ Scholarship can complete an associate degree at little to no cost, significantly reducing financial barriers and minimizing student debt before entering doctoral programs.
Springfield Pathway to Medicine
The new Springfield Pathway to Medicine program provides a step-by-step route beginning with the Junior Pathway at Ozarks Tech, continuing through local 4-year transfer partners Missouri State University, Drury University and Evangel University, and culminating at the University of Missouri School of Medicine Springfield Campus.
Beginning this fall, Ozarks Tech students can choose between three degree programs within the Junior Pathway:
- Associate of Science in Chemistry
- Associate of Science in Biology
- Associate of Science in Biology (math track)
Developed in collaboration with the Mizzou School of Medicine, the Junior Pathway aligns with recommended pre-med coursework to prepare students for the academic rigor of medical school.
Students may enter the Junior Pathway as incoming freshmen or first semester of the first year Ozarks Tech. In addition to coursework, the program offers industry-specific training, including workshops and job shadowing opportunities.
After completing an associate degree at Ozarks Tech and gaining admission to a participating university, students become eligible to apply for the Springfield Preadmission Program. If accepted into the program, students must then complete a bachelor’s degree and meet GPA and MCAT requirements before matriculating into medical school.
Applications for the 2027-28 academic year at the Mizzou School of Medicine Springfield campus will open this fall.
Pre-Pharmacy Pathway to UMKC
Ozarks Tech also offers a direct pathway into the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program at the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) School of Pharmacy.
Students can complete a two-year pre-pharmacy associate degree at Ozarks Tech and, if accepted into UMKC, transfer directly into the Pharm.D. program without earning a separate bachelor’s degree, saving both time and money.
Through a partnership with Missouri State University, UMKC offers its live online Pharm.D. program to a cohort in Springfield, allowing students to complete all four years of professional study without relocating.
For more information, explore Ozarks Tech’s biology, chemistry and pre-pharmacy degree programs.