If you’re a clinician with a master’s degree, or already hold a clinical doctorate, you may be asking a familiar question: What’s next?

For many health care professionals, the answer is no longer limited to more patient care. Increasingly, clinicians are moving into health care education, academic leadership and faculty roles. And across disciplines, these roles are beginning to require something more: an academic doctorate. As accreditation standards evolve and expectations rise, universities need faculty who are not only experienced clinicians, but also trained educators, researchers and academic leaders.

Accreditation standards are raising expectations for faculty credentials

Across health professions, accrediting bodies are signaling a clear shift: doctoral preparation matters more than ever for faculty and academic leadership roles.

In nutrition and dietetics, the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) has introduced Advanced Practice Doctoral (APD) accreditation standards. While some leadership roles currently allow master’s-level preparation, future-facing standards aligned with 2027 expectations require doctoral-level training for program directors and academic leaders.

This isn’t hypothetical. It’s a directional shift already underway.

Physical therapy shows the future of health care education

Some professions are further along in this transition. Physical therapy offers a clear example of where health care academia is headed.

The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) already requires that at least 50% of core faculty in Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs hold academic doctoral degrees, such as a PhD, EdD or DHSC. Program directors and core faculty are expected to meet doctoral standards or formally document exemptions.

In other words: if you want to teach, lead or advance in physical therapy education, an academic doctorate is often no longer optional; it’s expected.

Why academic doctorates are different from clinical doctorates

Faculty with academic doctoral training bring a different skill set to health care education:

• Stronger research literacy and evidence-based decision making
• Better instructional design and assessment skills
• Experience with program evaluation and accreditation demands
• Active scholarship: publishing, presenting and shaping the field

For students, this means stronger programs and deeper academic preparation. For institutions, it means faculty who can lead, mentor and adapt as educational standards continue to rise.

More health professions are reaching the same conclusion

Nutrition and physical therapy aren’t outliers.

Other disciplines, including physician assistant education are actively debating whether master’s-level preparation will be sufficient for the future. These conversations echo earlier transitions in nursing, pharmacy and physical therapy, where doctoral expansion followed increased clinical complexity, accountability and educational expectations.

The pattern is consistent: as professional and accreditation standards rise, faculty preparation rises with them.

How Pacific prepares health care educators and academic leaders

At University of the Pacific, the Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) and Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) programs are designed specifically for clinicians who want to teach, lead and shape the future of health care education.

These programs emphasize:

• Applied research
• Educational leadership
• Scholarly writing and dissemination
• Practical preparation to succeed as faculty and academic leaders

Eighty-four percent of graduates publish in a peer-reviewed journal within six months of finishing the program. That level of productivity reflects both academic rigor and hands-on mentorship, not just theory.

“The DHSc program gave me exactly what I needed to pursue a tenured faculty position,” said Pacific graduate Michael Robinson, PT, DPT, DHSc, faculty at Howard University. “The interdisciplinary approach and focus on scholarship elevated my ability to contribute meaningfully to my field.”

Health care education is changing. Accreditation expectations are rising. And institutions need faculty who can teach, research, lead and evolve with the field.

For clinicians considering their next step —or current master’s students thinking long-term—an academic doctorate isn’t just another credential. It’s a distinct career path into higher education, leadership and lasting professional impact.

Pacific’s Pacific’s Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) and Doctor of Medical Science (DMSC) programs are built to help you step into that role with confidence and credibility, ready for what’s next.

It’s no secret that graduate school is a big decision and a big commitment—of time, money, and energy. So how do you know if you’re ready? It’s not just about meeting admission requirements. It’s about having a clear understanding of why making this commitment is important to you, whether the timing is right and whether you have the motivation, preparation and support to see it through to completion.

Here are some checklist items that will help you know when you’re ready for grad school:

You have a clear purpose and goal
Earning a graduate degree can have a transformative impact on your life and those you share it with. Whether you wish to advance or gain deeper expertise in your field, change careers or be a positive role model for your family and community, success in graduate school starts with having a clear purpose and goals and developing an informed plan for achieving your them.

You’re intellectually and emotionally prepared
Graduate school is challenging and rigorous, but the truth is that most people who have earned a bachelor’s degree are better prepared to be successful grad school students than they might think. Many of the most successful graduate school students are the same ones who, at one point, had been wrongly led to believe that they weren’t “grad-school” material. If you’re excited about learning at a deeper level, can manage independent work and are ready to contribute to a community of your peers, you may be ready for graduate school.

You’ve explored your options
Being ready means doing your research: comparing program designs and outcomes (graduation and job placement rates), talking to an admission adviser and attending program information sessions (such as those regularly offered at University of the Pacific). When you’ve taken the time to learn what’s out there and what fits your needs, you can make well-informed decisions about the options that will work best for you.

You’ve thought about timing
Whether you’re thinking about starting grad school right after completing your bachelor’s degree or returning several years later, there’s no single “right” time to go to graduate school. Being “grad school-ready” often means you’ve made space in your personal and professional life to grow, have the support needed to stay focused and on-track, and you’re excited about what lies ahead. If you’ve been able to check some or all these boxes, giving graduate school a more serious look may be your next step. Schedule a personal chat with one of our graduate advisers who are ready to help you create a graduate school plan that works best for you.

Michael Daly

If you’ve thought about graduate school, you’ve probably wondered: Is it really worth it? The answer depends on your personal goals—but when it comes to return on investment, the numbers speak for themselves. 

According to a 2024 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics report, individuals with a master’s degree earn a median salary of $1,840 per week, compared to $1,543 for those with a bachelor’s degree. That’s over $15,000 more annually—and more than $600,000 over a 40-year work life. For professional or doctoral degree holders, the earnings are even higher, often exceeding $2,200 per week. 

Graduate degrees expand possibilities 

Beyond income, graduate degrees open doors to new career paths, leadership positions and specialized roles that aren’t available to those with only an undergraduate education. Many employers now prefer or require advanced degrees for competitive or supervisory roles, especially in fields like health care, education, business and technology. A graduate degree communicates to employers and those in your professional network that you have taken the initiative to invest in and successfully acquire advanced knowledge to lead and make an impact in your field. 

Graduate degrees can lead to greater community impact 

But, earning a graduate degree isn’t only about the financial return, it’s also about gaining additional personal and professional fulfillment and making positive impacts. Graduate degree holders not only enjoy more job opportunities and job stability, they serve as role models to their family and community members, are more likely to be homeowners, have access to better health care and enjoy longer life longevity, and are more likely to be engaged in civic activities that benefit their communities. 

At the University of the Pacific, our graduate programs are designed with your future in mind. With flexible program formats, career-focused curriculum, and personalized support, you can earn a degree that pays dividends for years to come. 

So, is graduate school worth it? If you’re ready to explore making a graduate degree investment in yourself, contact one of our graduate advisers who are ready to help create a plan that works for you. 

Michael Daly

Some people have trouble communicating. Sometimes they’re born with it, other times they develop it due to neurological disorders or traumatic injuries. These are the people speech-language pathologists worth with. 

Speech-language pathologists, sometimes known as speech therapists or SLPs, work with their patients to address communication disorders and other mouth or throat problems.  

“Our scope of practice is very broad. We see people for feeding and swallowing issues, who may have had a stroke or been in a car accident” says University of the Pacific School of Health Science Professor Madhu Sundarrajan. “We see people who may have neurodegenerative issues like dementia or Parkinson’s. And we see everything in pediatrics. Any child who may have a speech issue, who may have a language issue, who may be deaf, hard of hearing, may be autistic or may be a person who stutters.” 

SLPs work with people at all stages of life in schools, hospitals, retirement communities and private practice. And the need for them is growing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates SLP employment will grow 18% by 2033, much higher than the overall employment growth of 4%. The importance of their work is actually recognized by law, too.  

“We are a growing profession,” Sundarrajan says. “Because, by law, children who require communication support have to get services. Schools may be out of compliance if they don’t provide those services, so they’re constantly looking.” 

Working with children is just one aspect of what SLPs do, but it is a vital one. Before diving into how to become an SLP, let’s explore what it is they do.  

What does a speech-language pathologist do?  

Put simply, speech-language pathologists help people communicate. They diagnose and treat a wide variety of problems, including articulation issues, speech impairments and swallowing disorders. Treatments for these disorders can include therapy or assistive technologies.  

You’ve probably seen their work without realizing it. The famous scientist Stephen Hawking lost his ability to speak and move due to Lou Gehrig’s disease. But he was still able to talk to others with the help of a high-tech augmentative and alternative communication device, also known as AAC. Some AAC systems are high tech, like Hawking’s voice generator, while others are low or no tech.  

“It can be anything that’s considered augmentative,” says Sundarrajan. “It could be texting someone. But we have specific devices and apps that we use. [For] an individual with restricted mobility, we might trial some things that do eye gaze. [For] a child who’s non-speaking but has a lot of physical dexterity, we may use apps that they can swipe very quickly with.”  

What a speech-language pathologist does day-to-day varies based on where they work. School systems employ SLPs to work one-on-one with kids or in special education classrooms. In hospitals, they often focus on swallowing and feeding issues in adult or child patients. SLPs in retirement communities often work with elderly people who need higher levels of support.  

Those are just a few examples. SLPs also work in corporate businesses, public health departments and universities, which highlights how important their work is across all stages of life. Problems with communications, swallowing and feeding can happen in developing infants, after traumatic injuries, due to neurocognitive disorders and as people get older.  

“It is such a vast field,” Sundarrajan says. “And we change settings all the time.” 

Speech-language pathology prerequisites

If you want to become a speech-language pathologist, it helps to start preparing for this career as early as possible. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that preparing early for the degree is helpful but it will not make or break your career.  

What you do in high school or college helps you get into a speech-language pathology master’s degree program and may even open accelerated learning options. But not every program requires a specific degree. Some only require you to take certain classes such as biology, statistics and sociology.  

Sundarrajan, in fact, got her undergraduate degree in computer science before obtaining her speech-language pathology master’s degree. So, you do have flexibility, but preparing early can ease the transition into graduate school or a career.  

If you’re still in high school, you can look for volunteer opportunities in speech-language clinics, hospitals or schools. This experience gives you a better idea of what SLPs do, which allows you to make more informed career decisions. Your school might also have honors, Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate classes in essential subjects including biological, social or physical sciences.  

In college, you also have some flexibility with your degree choice. You can get a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology to focus your studies on communication disorders, biological sciences and similar topics. This degree can ensure that you’re ready to tackle more advanced topics.  

You may see other degrees with similar names, like communication science, communication disorders or even communication sciences and disorders. These are not exactly the same as a speech-language pathology degree, but they have a high degree of overlap.  

Some community colleges offer programs for speech-language pathology assistants. In some states, you can work under the supervision of an SLP after completing a relevant associate or bachelor’s degree. After completing an associate’s degree, you can also transfer into an SLP program at a four-year university.   

Even if you do pursue a BS in speech-language pathology, you should research master’s degree programs you’re interested in to make sure your degree fits its requirements. Not all programs require this degree, but some may offer accelerated pathways if you do get it.  

There are other majors which can also provide a good background for speech-language pathology. Getting a psychology degree, for example, can cover some of the same ground. If you are pursuing another degree, be sure to research master’s degree programs that interest you and make sure your degree covers its prerequisites.  

Speech-language pathology graduate programs

It’s never too early to start looking into master’s degree programs. Beyond making sure you’re taking the prerequisite courses, you also want to ask yourself a few questions as you evaluate those programs.  

When you look at a program, be sure it’s accredited by the Council on Academic Accreditation in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Most states require you to graduate from an accredited program to get your license to practice.  

Here are some high-level questions you should keep in mind as you look at SLP programs.  

• How much does this program cost? When you’re calculating cost, you should definitely consider tuition, campus fees and program fees. You may also want to include the cost of university health insurance, if you aren’t already covered.  

• Where is this program located? You may move to a new town or city for a program. It’s important to consider the cost of living there, expenses like housing, food and transportation. 

• What kind of financial aid is available? Assistance like loans, financial aid and scholarships offset the cost of education. Scholarships may be offered by the university or by an outside source. Universities determine financial aid packages after you apply, but you can reach out to a program with specific questions. 

• Does the program offer graduate assistantships? This is another good way to offset the cost of education.  

• How long is the program? Typically, a full-time SLP master’s program lasts around two years. Part-time programs will take longer. Pacific offers an accelerated 15-month program for students with an undergraduate degree in speech-language pathology.  

• Is there a minimum GPA requirement?  

• Does the program require the GRE? Not all master’s degree programs require that you take the GRE. If you’re not certain, you should reach out to the program. 

• What do I want out of my graduate program? ASHA recommends that you consider your plans after graduation and use them to create personal criteria. These can be questions like, “Does this program offer concentrations?” or “Does it have such-and-such type of clinical experience?” 

Once you’ve created your list of options, you should compare the clinical opportunities available at each program. You need at least 400 hours of supervised clinical experience to get certified, which you get during your master’s degree program. You should pay attention to the quality of experiences they offer you.  

“We have two free, on-campus clinics for our community here in Stockton,” Sundarrajan says. “Our pediatric clinic. We have our Pacific Speech and Language Clinic in the same space. We also have a Language and Literacy Center, where our 24-month students participate. In that same space, we also have TBI groups, caregiver support groups and aphasia groups. So, we have a lot of different, specialized clinical experiences.” 

Master’s degree programs will often highlight their clinical opportunities on their web pages. If you have other questions, you can reach out to the program directly.  

With all that in mind, all that’s left to do is apply! Make sure you’re paying close attention to deadlines. Speech therapy master’s degrees are often competitive, so applying by the priority deadline can give you an edge.  

Application requirements vary by program, but you’ll usually need to submit your official transcripts, some kind of personal essay and three letters of reference. Another benefit of starting your search early is giving your recommenders plenty of time to get their letters done. 

Speech-language pathology certification and continuing education

Once you’ve completed your master’s degree, you still need to pass a test known as the Praxis Examination in Speech-Language Pathology and complete a clinical fellowship before you can get your license to practice. You can, optionally, also get certified. 

In some cases, like Pacific, you may take the Praxis before you graduate.  

“We want to ensure they’re all passing,” Sundarrajan says. “The Praxis is a combination of all these different topics across the lifespan, across all these disorders. We want to ensure they don’t forget anything before they take their big exam and recommend all our students take it over the summer before they go out for externship.” 

After passing the Praxis and graduating, you need to complete a clinical fellowship. During this time, you’ll apply your education to refine your skills and start working more independently. To complete this fellowship, you need to work, at minimum, for 36 weeks and complete 1,260 hours.  

It is your responsibility to find a mentor to practice under, who must meet certain qualifications. You can learn more about those qualifications on the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s website. In California, you need to apply for a temporary Required Professional Experience license to practice during this time.  

Once you’ve completed this fellowship, you are eligible to apply for a license to practice! The exact qualifications vary by state, so be sure to research the state you’re interested in. You can find California’s qualifications on the Department of Consumer Affairs website.  

Optionally, you can apply for ASHA’s Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology, known as a CCC-SLP, after completing these requirements.  

“It’s not necessarily required to practice, but it is required to bill for insurance in some cases, like Medicare and Medicaid,” Sundarrajan says. “So, most SLPs tend to have both.” 

Because speech-language pathology is a constantly evolving field, SLPs need to continue their education while they practice. Every three years, you need to complete at least 30 hours of professional development. Universities that offer SLP master’s degrees may also have professional development courses available.  

Become a speech-language pathologist

Your journey to becoming a speech-language pathologist, not counting undergraduate, will take two to three years. It requires planning and commitment, but it’s also a rewarding career where you’ll make a lasting impact on people’s lives.  

You might help a child form their language ability, support adults recovering from a medical condition or find ways to help someone regain their ability to communicate. SLPs are at the heart of this essential human trait.  

If you’re interested in an always growing and vital health care career, speech-language pathology is worth exploring. 

Every day I talk with prospective graduate students of all ages and backgrounds who wonder if they are “grad school-worthy.” I usually find their self-doubts to be rooted in myths they’ve heard or read about from non-graduate school sources.  It pains me to learn that many of these folks have let these myths hold them back from pursuing their master’s or doctoral degrees for several years.   

If you’re thinking about going to graduate school but feel unsure because of something you’ve heard or read about, you’re certainly not alone. While there are many myths floating around about graduate school, let’s set the record straight on a few of the most common ones here. 

Myth #1: You need a near-perfect undergraduate GPA to get accepted to graduate school

Grad admissions committees believe that past academic performance is a strong indicator of your chances for success in grad school. However, committees take a holistic approach to reviewing applications and consider your entire applicant profile: academic records, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, work experience, etc.  

Evidence of growth, resilience, and commitment on a graduate application can sometimes help compensate for a less-than-perfect undergraduate GPA. 

Myth #2: Grad school is too expensive, takes too much time, and it’s not worth the cost

Grad school is certainly not free, but it can be considered one of the best investments you can make in yourself. It’s an investment that never breaks, never gets lost or stolen, never loses value, and keeps paying you back every year.  

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, master’s degree holders earn nearly 20% more per week than those with only a bachelor’s degree. Over time, that adds up to hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional lifetime earnings—not to mention greater job security and career advancement opportunities.  

Additionally, many Pacific graduate programs offer financial aid opportunities to reduce your out-of-pocket costs, as well as some accelerated graduate degree programs that can be completed in as little as 12 months. Together, these reduce your investment of time and money and allow you to start receiving the benefits of your advanced degree sooner. 

Myth #3: You must quit your job to attend grad school

Not necessarily. Many Pacific graduate programs offer evening, weekend, and hybrid options that allow you to study while working. In fact, many of our grad students (like me) are working professionals.

Myth #4: Grad school is only for people seeking a career in academics

Graduate degrees open career doors in business, healthcare, technology, education, and more. Whether you’re looking to upskill, change careers, or take on a leadership role, grad school can be a practical next step.

Myth #5: Grad school is REALLY difficult! 

Although the process of developing advanced knowledge and skill in a graduate program is challenging and requires strong motivation and commitment, most people who have earned a bachelor’s degree and meet the minimum admission requirements for the program they are interested in have the necessary foundation to succeed as graduate students.  

In addition to the personal knowledge and attributes you bring to a Pacific graduate program, you are provided with a high level of support from our dedicated faculty and a wide range of support services from the university. By looking at the graduation rate for the program you are interested in, you can see the results for yourself.  

Bottom line? Question what you feel is holding you back from pursuing a graduate education. Don’t let graduate school myths guide your decisions or hold you back any longer. Contact a graduate admissions team member to get answers to your questions, get the facts, and explore what a Pacific grad school program could mean for your future. 

Michael Daly

Senior Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions – A proud first-generation student, Mike began his college education at a community college and is currently pursuing his doctoral degree at University of the Pacific. His career in education spans over 30 years in roles that include ESL teaching and curriculum development, school management, college consulting and working in undergraduate and graduate university admissions.

Arguably the best 3-point shooter in NBA history, it’s hard to imagine basketball without Golden State Warriors’ star Stephen Curry. But when the Warriors extended his rookie contract in 2012, it was considered a risky move. The main reason was his injury-prone ankles, which caused Curry to miss dozens of games in prior seasons. 

After getting ankle surgery that year, Curry and his trainers worked to mitigate that issue with targeted exercises. The treatment drastically reduced his number of injuries and kept him on the path to stardom. His experience shows the importance of athletic trainers in sports.  

Athletic trainers work with health care teams to prevent, treat and rehabilitate injuries and other medical conditions.  They often work under or alongside physicians to provide services like wellness education, examination, therapeutic intervention and emergency care.  

Despite the name, athletic trainers don’t work exclusively with athletes. They also work with physically active people in commercial settings, performing arts, civil servants and the military.  

The profession requires a mixture of specialized health care, therapeutic and human body knowledge. You need to complete an accredited master’s degree and pass a national exam to become a certified athletic trainer.  

You can see the importance of athletic trainers in Bureau of Labor Statistics data: it projects a 13% increase in employment by 2033. That’s more than triple the average employment increase, which sits around 4%.  

Being an athletic trainer isn’t just about working in an expanding field. It’s about helping people. Aron West, who earned an athletic training master’s degree from  University of the Pacific, says that’s why he does it.  

“I went to a small high school. So, when I got injured during team sports, I had no one to advise me or even let me know what was wrong with my body,” West says. “One of those instances caused me to almost lose my leg. If I had an athletic trainer, I would have been hurt two weeks instead of months and would not have needed three surgeries.” 

Here’s what you need to know about becoming an athletic trainer.  

What does an athletic trainer do?

A key part of an athletic trainer’s job is to prevent injuries, whether they happen in practice, during a game or in the workplace. In sports, for example, they conduct physicals, create conditioning programs and educate patients about proper warm-up routines.  

Despite this preparation and risk-mitigation, people do still get hurt. Athletic trainers, especially in sports, are trained to assess an injured person and provide immediate first aid. In emergencies, they stabilize the person until more thorough medical care is available.  

After an injury, athletic trainers also develop rehabilitation plans to help people heal as quickly and safely as possible. These treatment plans can include exercises, therapeutic intervention and other technologies so the injured person can return to a high level of performance and prevent reinjury.  

This work is vital for professional sports leagues, but that’s just part of the story. Many other institutions like universities, hospitals and businesses also rely on these professionals to keep people healthy.  

In fact, the National Athletic Trainers’ Association estimates around 50% of all athletic trainers work for universities, colleges, middle- and high schools. Athletic trainers also work in fields you might not expect, like the performing arts, the military, in occupational health departments or in commercial industry.  

West works as an injury prevention specialist for Amazon, where he tracks and mitigates occupational health concerns that can result in doctor’s visits and lost worktime.  

 “It’s just as busy as an athletic training room,” he says. “In this field, people work their body hard and for long hours, just like our athletes, so we refer to them as industrial athletes. 

Undergraduate education

While many fields have a “standard” undergraduate degree, like psychology or biological sciences, this is not the case for athletic training. Master’s degree programs in athletic training don’t require a particular degree. They do, however, require coursework in areas like biology, anatomy and physiology.  

So, if you want to get a master’s degree, you should research programs you’re interested in and keep their requirements in mind as you choose your classes. Degrees in sports medicine or kinesiology are good options, although they aren’t offered at all universities.  

Another good option is a bachelor’s degree in health and exercise sciences. This degree offers an interdisciplinary education to prepare you for careers or advanced study in athletic training, occupational therapy or physical therapy.  

Master’s degree programs also require a certain number of clinical observation hours verified by a certified athletic trainer. Many undergraduate programs build internships into the degree, but you can also look for opportunities with athletic trainers in high schools, community colleges or universities.  

Graduate school

In a Master of Science in athletic training program, you learn proven techniques to minimize injury risk, handle emergency situations and recover from injuries.  When you chose a program, there are a few things to keep in mind.  

You should be sure the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education, also known as CAATE. Only those programs make you eligible to take the Board of Certification test required to become a certified athletic trainer.  

One of the measures of a program’s success rate is its first-time BOC exam pass rate. In its most recent review, 86% of Pacific’s graduates passed the exam on their first try.  

Your clinical education is one of the most critical parts of your athletic training master’s degree. That’s where you’ll get hands-on opportunities under the supervision of a certified athletic trainer, learn to apply your knowledge and build connections in the industry.  

So, when you’re choosing a master’s degree program, look at what kinds of clinical experiences they can offer you. In Pacific’s program, there are extensive opportunities for direct athlete care at the university itself, with other universities and with sports teams like Sacramento Republic FC and the San Jose Sharks 

Students in Pacific’s program have also done independent internships with the San Francisco 49ers and the Arizona Diamondbacks.  

“I got to work with hundreds of athletes,” West says. “I worked with multiple D1 teams, best-of-the-best athletes whose bodies went through a lot. I worked in a physical therapy clinic as well, so I saw a variety of injuries and learned so much from different experts in the field.” 

Once you’ve finished your master’s program, there is still a major step you need to take before you can start practicing as a certified athletic trainer.  

Athletic trainer certification

The Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers, more commonly known as the BOC, sets the standards for athletic training practices, certification and continuing education the U.S. It is the only body in the U.S. where you can get an certification as an athletic trainer.  

To get this certification, you need to pass the BOC certification exam. The exam tests you on the five domains of athletic training:  

• Risk reduction, wellness and health literacy 
• Assessment, evaluation and diagnosis
• Critical incident management
• Therapeutic intervention
• Health care administration and professional responsibility

You can apply to take this exam once you’ve obtained your CAATE-accredited master’s degree or are in your final semester/quarter before graduation. In either case, you will need your program director to confirm that you have earned or will earn your master’s degree. 

For more information about applying for the exam, test conditions or the scoring process, check out the 2025-2027 BOC candidate handbook.   

Licensing

In most states, once you’ve obtained your BOC certification, the next step is to get licensed. Licensing happens on a state-by-state basis, requiring you to submit an application and get a background check.  

There is one notable exception: California. The state of California does not license athletic trainers, although it is illegal to portray yourself as one if you haven’t graduated from a CAATE-certified program or passed the BOC certification exam.  

Pathways into athletic training 

If you’re interested in the field, chatting with a certified athletic trainer is a great first step. You should also research accredited master’s degree programs with an eye toward the clinical experiences they can offer you, and how they can prepare you for the BOC certification exam.  

Learn more about Pacific’s Master of Science in athletic training program. For specific questions, you can also contact a program director at msat@pacific.edu. 

There’s a distinct moment in every profession when the tides begin to shift. What we’ve always done no longer feels quite enough, and what’s coming next starts to take shape just on the horizon. That moment is now, especially in health care education. Artificial Intelligence is the wave.

Preparing occupational therapy students to lead

At University of the Pacific’s Department of Occupational Therapy, we want students to be curious, creative and prepared. We want them to not only keep up with the future of health care but help lead it. That’s why we’ve leaned into AI—not as a replacement for connection, but as a tool to deepen learning and amplify human-centered care.

Clinical knowledge comes first

AI is a tool, not a replacement for building clinical knowledge. OT students need to learn how to use AI, but more importantly, they need to be able to state why it matters clinically. It’s not enough to use technology. They must tie it back to outcomes, performance and the people they serve.

Imagine the possibilities

What if students could walk through a body system in 3D, seeing organs respond to movement? What if they could test their clinical decision-making with AI-generated case studies that adapt in real time? What if they could fail safely, reflect and grow—all before they ever step into a clinic?

We’ve asked those questions—and more importantly, we’ve found answers.

Hands-on learning with AI and XR

Our students are using virtual reality to understand complex anatomy and augmented reality to visualize function. They’re engaging with clinical reasoning tools that adjust scenarios based on their choices. Through it all, they’re becoming more confident, competent and compassionate practitioners.

Making innovation accessible

Students at University of the Pacific also learn how to use AI with both low-cost and high-cost options, making sure they’re equipped to meet the needs of all communities. Innovation doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective. It just has to be accessible, practical and meaningful.

Enhancing—not replacing—the human connection

This is not about taking shortcuts. It’s about sharpening our instincts, reinforcing what we know and expanding what we thought was possible. The goal is not to replace the therapeutic relationship. It’s to enhance it by ensuring our students are prepared with knowledge and perspective.

We still teach with our hearts. We still value human connection. But we are also committed to growth, evolution and preparing clinicians who will carry this profession forward.

AI is not the future. It is now. Our OTD program ensures that we teach students to use AI ethically and with a clinician’s mind.

Natalie Perkins

Natalie A. Perkins, PP-OTD, MEd, OTR/L, FIIE, FAOTA is the dynamic Department Chair, Program Director, and Associate Clinical Professor for the Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program at Pacific. A trailblazer in scholarship, teaching, and clinical practice, Dr. Perkins is passionate about advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the occupational therapy profession.

Darcy Leutzinger brings over three decades of frontline experience in public safety to his role as director of the Master of Emergency Management Systems (MEMS) program at University of the Pacific. A former police lieutenant, Leutzinger spent much of his career coordinating emergency response efforts, building interagency strategies and leading teams through critical incidents. Now, he’s helping students do the same by preparing them to manage complex emergencies with foresight, clarity and confidence. 

“Emergency management isn’t just about responding to disasters. It’s about understanding systems, thinking critically and leading under pressure,” Leutzinger says. “That’s exactly what we’re teaching at Pacific.”  

Experience meets education 

Leutzinger’s law enforcement career shaped his understanding of what effective emergency management really demands: strategic thinking, communication and the ability to coordinate across organizations. At Pacific, he helped shape the MEMS curriculum with that in mind.  

Students gain both theoretical grounding and applied skills in areas such as hazard mitigation, public policy, crisis leadership and disaster science. The program is designed for professionals from a range of sectors—public safety, health care, infrastructure and beyond—who want to lead during times of disruption and uncertainty. 

“Our goal is to graduate professionals who are ready to lead,” says Leutzinger. “We’re building a new generation of emergency managers who can handle today’s complex challenges.”  

Preparing for what’s next 

The MEMS program emphasizes real-world applications. Students engage in systems analysis, leadership case studies, and scenario-based planning exercises that mirror the complexity of today’s emergencies. Whether they’re preparing for natural disasters, cybersecurity threats or large-scale public health events, graduates leave equipped to manage evolving risks and strengthen the resilience of their organizations and communities. 

For Leutzinger, the move into higher education is a continuation of public service. “This work is about more than earning a degree; it’s about preparing others to serve,” he says. “Every student who comes through the MEMS program will go on to make communities safer, stronger, and better prepared for the future.” 

Darcy Leutzinger

Darcy Leutzinger is the director of the Master of Emergency Management Science program at University of the Pacific. With more than 35 years of experience in law enforcement, corporate security and emergency management, he brings real-world expertise to the classroom. He holds a PhD in Emergency and Protective Services and is a nationally recognized leader in active violence response and corporate security strategy.

The next time you buy a medication, take a look at the back of the label. Under the title “Drug Facts,” you’ll generally find its active ingredients, uses and a long list of warnings. Keeping an eye on these warnings is important for using medication safely and you can thank the field of pharmacovigilance for that.  

“When it comes to drugs, we think of two words: safety and efficacy,” says Professor Sachin Shah, who works with University of the Pacific’s Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy. “So, safety is half of the equation. And, for that reason, pharmacovigilance—or drug safety—is important.”   

Pharmacovigilance specialists and scientists detect, assess, understand and prevent unwanted side effects of medications and vaccines. You may not notice their work, but you benefit from it. From preclinical development to post-release monitoring, pharmacovigilance is involved in every stage of a drug’s lifespan.  

The importance of this field is reflected by its business metrics: the U.S. pharmacovigilance market size, which are the total potential revenues in a certain period, was about $2.09 billion in 2024. By 2034, Precedence Research estimates that will nearly double to $5.17 billion. 

If you’re interested in a pharmaceutical career, here are some things to know about pursuing jobs in pharmacovigilance.  

What is a pharmacovigilance specialist?

Pharmacovigilance specialists may have many different job responsibilities depending on the company. Keep in mind that pharmacovigilance is involved in most stages of drug development, which the FDA defines as a five-step process: discovery and development, preclinical research, clinical research, FDA review and then post-market safety monitoring.  

Pharmacovigilance specialists may be involved in multiple steps or focus on a single area. Specialists in the preclinical or clinical research step ensure compliance with company or regulatory policy, assist with safety databases and collaborate with other departments. In post-market safety monitoring, specialists work with safety data to identify trends indicating a drug may have unexpected side effects.  

This information is essential to determine if a trend of side effects is caused by the drug, caused by the drug interacting with something else or if another factor is causing it. Depending on their findings, they may update those warning labels or change their usage guidance usage for healthcare providers. 

Getting into pharmacovigilance

You might be wondering what degree you should get to go into pharmacovigilance, also known as PV for short. There actually isn’t one “right” way to enter the field.  

“It allows you to enter it through many different avenues, rather than having a set pathway,” says Mark Vingralek ‘24, who now works as a pharmacovigilance system solutions and innovations associate for Genentech. “I’ve met tons of different professionals who had very strange pathways to getting into PV. Some worked in academia before transitioning to PV. One was a longtime career nurse and then transitioned into it.” 

Vingralek’s pathway into the field was through the life sciences. He earned a degree in cellular and molecular biology prior to becoming a Doctor of Pharmacy, also known as a PharmD, at Pacific. Some universities offer specialized tracks like his degree, while others offer more general biological sciences degrees. Your choice of electives in these degrees can allow similar specialization.  

Another pathway into the field is through a pharmaceutical science degree, which focuses on the development and manufacture of new drugs. This can open doors to jobs like scientific research, manufacturing or regulation. It’s also a pathway into pharmacovigilance, which is involved in each stage of drug development.  

Sophia Luu ’19, for example, got her degree in pharmaceutical science before earning her PharmD at Pacific. She now works as a pharmacovigilance manager at Corcept Therapeutics.  

You may have noticed that both Vingralek and Luu went on to Pacific’s PharmD program, which offers another possibility: a pre-pharmacy advantage program. These programs guarantee admission into a university’s PharmD program and can position you to complete them in a shorter-than-normal timespan. This is an option Shah highlights.  

 “A good safety person has a good realization of what’s happening in the field as a pharmacist,” Shah says. “You have to do clinical training for at least a year and that makes you very relevant.” 

Doctor of Pharmacy program

After you graduate, you can also consider graduate school. While not necessarily required, a graduate education is an opportunity to build more specialized skills, practical experience and professional networks.  

Just like for an undergraduate degree, there isn’t one “right” graduate degree for pharmacology. There are pathways into it through advanced nursing, health sciences or medical degrees.  

One option, which Luu and Vingralek took, is a PharmD program that teaches you about treating disease through pharmaceuticals, medical chemistry and therapeutics. You develop a stronger foundation in managing clinical cases and learn how to operate in different environments like hospital, community or retail pharmacy.  

It’s a common misconception that PharmD programs only train pharmacists for retail settings, which is only one of the options available. Depending on the experiences you get in your program, you can use your specialization in a variety of different areas, including working directly for the pharmaceutical industry. 

“Every time a patient gets a drug, a pharmacist has a duty to counsel them on the safety profile and what the benefits are, too,” Shah says. “And that’s why pharmacists are positioned to be good drug safety leaders.” 

Important skills for pharmacovigilance

Because pharmacovigilance specialists may play different roles, there are a couple skills you can focus on while getting your degree.  

It’s important to have a strong basis in life sciences or the health care field, which is essential for understanding the products and conditions you work with. You can build this knowledge in degrees like pharmaceutical science, biological sciences and others in that realm.  

Data analysis and management is also a strong skill to have. Many pharmacovigilance specialists are tasked with managing or analyzing large amounts of data about patients, reports or drug safety. So, it’s helpful to be familiar with database management and data analysis.  

That’s some of the work Vingralek does day-to-day, collecting and auditing safety data from post-market drugs.   

“We have to analyze all our patient safety data to be up to date with FDA regulations. And another thing we do is look at safety data from clinical trials that Genentech is running, ensuring our patient safety there as well,” he says.  

Collecting this kind of data isn’t limited to post-market drugs. Analyzing safety data is also helpful during a drug’s development. This information helps companies determine who is a good fit for the medication.  

If you’re looking for pharmacovigilance roles other than specialist, Luu recommends having some project management experience. Pharmacovigilance jobs can be focused on science or operations. She’s worked both and now handles the latter as a pharmacovigilance manager.  

“Pharma companies will outsource projects, so a big part of it is actually vendor management,” Luu says. “I know colleagues who did not get a PharmD, but did get into the operational part of PV.” 

Finally, as Shah points out, having clinical experience can be very useful. Drug development and clinical trials happen at all pharmaceutical companies, so it’s great to have hands-on experience with that process.  

Studying for pharmacovigilance at Pacific

Studying at Pacific, whether for an undergraduate or advanced degree, can help launch your career.  

In 2024, Pacific’s Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy graduates taking the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination—one of the ways a state’s board of pharmacy determines someone’s ability to practice as a pharmacist—had the highest pass rate in the west. Over 90% of Pacific’s first-time test-takers passed, far exceeding the national average of 77.5%.  

Pacific can help you step into this career through a combination of hands-on education and other special opportunities. Having clinical experience, as Shah highlights, is especially important.  

One way to better prepare for industry roles is through the pharmacy school’s Innovative Clinical and Outcomes Research Center, known as iCOR for short. There, students can collaborate with peers, faculty and industry pharmacists on research projects and clinical trials. This work has an effect on the world outside of Pacific, too.  

“Just this past weekend at the American College of Cardiology we presented a poster on the safety profile of Mounjaro when it comes to the risk of gall bladder diseases,” Shah says.  

The school also provides fellowship programs to graduate students, including its Fellowship in Industry program. This fellowship partners with major biotechnology companies to give PharmD graduates experience with cutting-edge pharmaceutical companies.  

You can also build connections in school with your peers and through on-campus organizations like the Industry Pharmacists Organizations, known commonly as IPhO. As a member of the executive board, Vingralek says he met and received mentorship from Shah. He also credits his work with shaping his interest in pharmacovigilance.  

“I got to meet a lot of different people in different fields,” Vingralek says. “And I got to hear a good earful about clinical operations, pharmacovigilance, what each job entailed and what the work-life balance was like.” 

Building these informal networks at Pacific and beyond are helpful for understanding your career options, and they can also help when you’re actually getting a job. Luu got her start in pharmacovigilance thanks to networking.  

“That’s actually how I got my foot in the door at Genentech. I knew someone from another PharmD school. They helped me get into the company,” Luu says.  

Through a combination of school activities and informal relationships, you can build a foundation for entering the world of drug safety as a pharmacovigilance specialist.  

If this sounds up your alley, check out some of the pathways available to you, whether that’s through a pharmaceutical science, a pre-pharmacy or a life science degree.  

And while getting a graduate degree isn’t strictly necessary, obtaining something like a PharmD can help you build your resume and professional network. Though pharmacy isn’t the only path into pharmacovigilance, it will set you up to understand the systems and drugs you’re working with.  

“People joke that death and taxes are a guarantee,” Shah says. “I sometimes wonder if it’s ‘disease, death and taxes are a guarantee,’ because everyone gets sick at some point. You have to take medications, right? Understanding the safety of medications is very important, so I want to stress the importance of safety and the role that pharmacists can play in that capacity.” 

Emergency management has long been tied to public health and government agencies, but that’s changing. As private companies face mounting risks like cyberattacks, natural disasters and global health emergencies, the need for skilled professionals who can help organizations prepare, respond and recover is growing rapidly.

From tech and finance to health care and manufacturing, businesses are investing in emergency management to protect operations, people and reputation. As a result, demand for qualified professionals is on the rise – as much as 25% through 2032* – making this a smart, future-focused career path. *Data provided by labor market analyst Lightcast.

Turn your emergency management degree into a meaningful career

Emergency management is a highly interdisciplinary field, making it a natural fit for individuals from a variety of undergraduate backgrounds. A Master of Emergency Management Science (MEMS) is perfect for people with backgrounds in business, engineering, communication and even political science. Your existing strengths will transition into a high-impact role where your unique background becomes a powerful asset.

Career outcomes: Where a master’s in emergency management science can take you 

Graduates of emergency management programs are finding exciting opportunities across a range of industries. Here are some of the roles you could pursue with a MEMS degree:

• Business continuity manager – Develop and implement plans to keep operations running during and after a crisis.
• Corporate emergency manager – Lead preparedness, response and recovery efforts for major corporations.
• Risk analyst or risk manager – Assess vulnerabilities and develop mitigation strategies for private organizations.
• Crisis communications specialist – Manage internal and external messaging during emergencies.
• Health care emergency preparedness coordinator – Oversee readiness and response plans for hospitals and health care systems.
• Logistics and supply chain resilience manager – Ensure supply chain continuity during disruptions.
• Cybersecurity incident response coordinator – Prepare for and respond to digital threats and breaches.
• Environmental risk consultant – Advise companies on mitigating risks from natural and technological hazards.

These roles are not only essential in today’s complex risk environment, but also make lucrative careers. According to Lightcast, these occupations earn average salaries as high as $102,897, and they offer the unique opportunity to make a tangible difference while building a rewarding career.

Why choose Pacific’s MEMS program?

Pacific’s MEMS program is designed to meet the demands of this fast-growing field. It combines leadership development with hands-on training in risk assessment, crisis communication and disaster logistics. You’ll gain the interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills employers are looking for, whether you’re pivoting careers or leveling up in your current role. 

Looking to make a meaningful impact while advancing your career? Explore the Master of Emergency Management Science program at University of the Pacific to see how it can help you step into this in-demand field. 

Darcy Leutzinger

Darcy Leutzinger is the director of the Master of Emergency Management Science program at University of the Pacific. With more than 35 years of experience in law enforcement, corporate security and emergency management, he brings real-world expertise to the classroom. He holds a PhD in Emergency and Protective Services and is a nationally recognized leader in active violence response and corporate security strategy.