Understanding the Impact of Admissions Variables on Admissions Diversity: A Single Program Review

Abstract Introduction Health profession education serves as the initial pipeline for increasing healthcare workforce diversity. Physical therapy is notably lacking in diversity within the healthcare sector. Admission procedures for healthcare programs play a crucial role in diversifying student populations and, consequently, the profession. This study aimed to characterize applicants' demographic and educational profiles applying to a single accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy program and examine factors associated with admission outcomes. Methods Retrospective data from 1,409 applicants who applied to the Doctor of Physical Therapy program between 2017 and 2022. Data from pre-admission applications encompassed demographic details, overall GPA, prerequisite GPA, GRE scores, average professional reference scores, and admission outcomes. Descriptive statistics were employed, including means, standard deviations, and frequency counts. An Independent Sample T-Test compared variables between minority and White applicants. Additionally, binary logistic regression analyzed the relationship between racial status and admission outcome, with odds ratios indicating significance at p<0.5. Results Pre-admission cognitive factors varied significantly between White and minority applicants. Among admitted students, minorities tended to have lower GRE scores but higher KGPA scores than White students, with no significant difference in OGPA. Additionally, KGPA, reference scores, and residency status significantly influenced acceptance odds, while factors like GRE score, minority status, age, race, and gender did not impact acceptance rates. Discussion and Conclusion A diverse healthcare workforce begins with a varied applicant pool. There is a shift towards holistic admissions, away from solely cognitive factors. Programs must balance cognitive and non-cognitive criteria to meet the needs of healthcare education and the broader population.