Rowan University and Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) in the US have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for collaborating on a series of healthcare education programmes.

Under the MoU, they will create dual degree programmes, articulation agreements, and accelerated pathways aimed at enhancing New Jersey's healthcare workforce.

The agreement brings together Rowan University and FDU to establish collaborative initiatives to create additional opportunities for students and professionals seeking training in the healthcare sector.

Rowan University president Ali A Houshmand said: "This partnership represents a bold step forward in transforming healthcare education and innovation across New Jersey.

“By partnering with Fairleigh Dickinson University, we will expand access to high-quality health education but also accelerate research, workforce development and community wellness."

FDU president Michael Avaltroni said: “The two institutions complement each other in so many ways.

“By combining our institutions' strengths, we are creating unprecedented opportunities for students whilst addressing the critical healthcare workforce needs of our state and region. Together we can truly have a dynamic impact on healthcare training and delivery.”

The agreement includes four components.

First, the universities will collaborate to establish a dual Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine/Master of Public Health degree programme.

A 3+4 accelerated programme allows qualified FDU premedical students to complete three years of undergraduate coursework before progressing to the four-year Rowan-Virtua Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine programme.

The universities plan to introduce 2+4 and 3+3 accelerated pathways for Rowan undergraduate students into FDU’s Doctor of Pharmacy programme.

Enhanced pre-health articulation agreements will allow FDU students to gain entry into the Doctor of Medicine, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, and Veterinary Medicine programmes at Rowan.