The University of Memphis and Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare have formed a new partnership with a joint program called MAAP (Methodist Associate Advancement Program), aimed at removing barriers to the pursuit of higher education for MLH Associates.
“We are excited to add Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare as a corporate partner,” said Dr. Richard L. Irwin, executive dean of UofM Global & Academic Innovation. “The MLH vision for fostering Associate advancement aligns with our goals of building on the success of the FedEx LiFE program and extending that success to remove barriers to post-secondary education.”
Through MAAP, UofM Global offers online education for scheduling flexibility, direct billing to MLH for tuition expenses (MLH covers up to $4,000 per year) and Experiential Learning Credit for knowledge, training and skills from previous work/life experience.
The MAAP Prep Academy provides a resource for students needing to earn high school equivalency or those with little to no college or online course experience. The Prep Academy offers self-paced online coursework and covers topics such as academic success skills, life skills and professional skills development.
Those who complete the Academy earn admission to the UofM plus 12 college credit hours. A UofM Global Advocate serves as the point of contact from enrollment through completion, and 24-hour tutoring is available. The Advocate will also evaluate transcripts and help Associates find the shortest path to completion.
Methodist Associates can choose from four bachelor’s programs: Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Leadership or Health Sciences, or a Bachelor of Professional Studies with a concentration in Organizational Leadership or Health Services. Two professional certification programs will be added to the program in March, Certified Nursing Assistant and Surgical Technologist.
“When an Associate walks through our doors on their first day of work, we believe that day can represent the very beginning of a rewarding journey of advancement and career progress,” said Michael Ugwueke, president and CEO for Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare.
“Education and skill development are the fuel of anyone’s career advancement, which is why we are so excited to offer these new opportunities to our Associates.”
