Frequently Asked Questions

Does the master's program require a completion of a research project or masters thesis to meet graduation requirements?

The School of Health Professions offers two Master of Science degree programs. The M.S. in Diagnostic Genetics requires a research thesis. The M.S. in Radiologic Sciences requires a non-thesis project (systematic literature review) or a thesis project (original research study).

Do I have to take the HESI when I first start?

The HESI exam is not required for admissions.

How do I know if I need to take additional Texas Core classes?

All applicants should review the required prerequisite courses listed in the School of Health Professions webpage and complete the courses prior to enrollment. As part of the admissions process, the Office of the Registrar will complete an official evaluation to determine if the prerequisite courses have been met.

Are there classes available for non-native speakers of English?

There are no classes designated specifically for non-native speakers of English.

Where is the registrar's office?

UT Health serves as the Registrar for the School of Health Professions.

7000 Fannin, Ste 2250
Houston, TX 77030

Mailing Address

UT Health
Office of the Registrar
PO Box 20036
Houston, TX 77225-0036

Does the program have a health and technical standards policy for enrollment?

Yes, the technical standards may be found in the current academic catalog on the Current Students page.

What if I still have questions? How can I contact someone in the School of Health Professions?

Email AskSHP@mdanderson.edu or call 713-745-1205.

How do I submit the professional recommendation forms?

Mail both pages of the professional recommendation form (pdf) to

UT Health
Office of the Registrar
PO Box 20036
Houston, TX 77225-0036

To ensure that documents are matched properly, submit your application before you submit the professional recommendation forms.

How do I submit the official transcript from each college I have attended?

Option 1: The applicant sends the official transcript to UTHealth Houston, Office of the Registrar using SPEEDE (electronic data exchange).

Option 2: If the applicant does not have the SPEEDE option at their college or university, or can't figure out how to select SPEEDE, then they simply have their college mail the Registrar an official transcript.

Office of the Registrar
UTHealth Houston
PO Box 20036
Houston, TX 77225-0036

I am applying for more than one SHP program. Do I have to submit documents to each program of interest?

For each program, you will submit the application and three professional recommendation forms (pdf). Inform your professional reference of your interest in more than one program. This way, you can simply update page 1 of the form with your program of interest, and photocopy page 2 of the form.

Regardless of how many programs you apply to, we only require one set of college transcript(s).

I am completing the online application for admissions, and I am not sure how to answer this question. “Please list below all courses planned prior to enrollment at UT MD Anderson.”

List each course you are currently enrolled in this semester AND any course you plan on completing before you enroll at MD Anderson.

Do not list courses you have already completed. These courses will appear on your college transcript(s).

Which Diagnostic Imaging program should I apply to?

Thank you for your interest in the Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Imaging. If you are an applicant without professional credentials in radiologic sciences, you may apply for the Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Imaging (3-year program). This option will include 2 years of radiography and one year of a ONE of the following specializations.
● Computed Tomography
● Computed Tomography with Vascular Interventional
● Education
● Magnetic Resonance Imaging
● Management

I am interested in applying for the one-year program in Diagnostic Imaging (CT, CT/VI, MRI, Education or Management). The prerequisite states that applicants must be certified through ARRT, NMTCB or ARDMS. What does that mean?

If you are a credentialed technologist and would like to expand your knowledge in Diagnostic Imaging modalities while earning a Bachelor of Science degree, you may be eligible to apply directly into the one-year specializations noted above. In order to confirm eligibility to pursue any of these modalities, you would need to refer to your credentialing organization for information on supporting category prerequisites and requirements..

 

Back to the top   |   Admission to Orientation   |   Orientation to Graduation

How do I complete a drug screen and who is responsible for its cost?

Currently, the School of Health Professions is contracted with UT Health and CastleBranch and students have the option to submit their drug screen to either entity.  The cost of initial drug screen and any repeats will be the responsibility of the student. After accepting the offer for admission to the School of Health Profession, students will receive drug screen information.

How do I register for classes?

Students register through the UT Health registration system. Accepted students will receive instructions on registration after they are clear for admission to MD Anderson.

How do I get my CPR certification?

Due to direct patient contact or clinical affiliate agreement, students in Histotechnology, Clinical Laboratory Science, Medical Dosimetry, Radiation Therapy, and Diagnostic Imaging and Diagnostic Medical Sonography are required to take The American Heart Association's two-year CPR with Basic Life Support (BLS), including Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) training.

Clinical Laboratory Science students need to show proof prior to their senior year. The other programs listed above must provide proof prior to arriving for Orientation.

What is my award amount for financial aid?

Visit the UTH Student Financial Services page for information regarding financial aid.

Who do I need to contact if I cannot register for my classes?

Students should contact the Registrar’s Office for issues with class registration.

What do I need to wear for New Student Orientation?

Business casual unless your Program Director directs you otherwise.

What do I need to wear for my program orientation?

Your Program Director or Associate Program Director will provide that information prior to Orientation.

When and where do I need to order scrubs or uniforms?

Your Program Director or Associate Program Director will provide that information prior to Orientation.

Do I have to purchase my own laptop?

At this time, MD Anderson will issue each student a laptop which is property of MD Anderson and must be returned prior to leaving the School of Health Professions.

Do I need to have my books ready for the first day of class?

Students should secure their books as soon as possible and should be prepared for school on the first day of class.

Can I start my program without completing the background check and drug screen?

It is the policy of MD Anderson that all employees, faculty, contract workers and students complete and be cleared of a background check and drug screen prior to accessing campus. The third clearance is verification of immunizations. After accepting the offer for admission to the School of Health Professions, students will receive background check and drug screen information.

How do I get the School of Health Professions ID badge?

The School of Health Professional will distribute ID badges at the end of Orientation Day to students that have all their clearances and necessary documents.. Students who did not have an interview photo or send in a photo by the due date will have to go to Human Resources (HR) to request a badge.

How do I find my way around the MD Anderson Cancer Center?

The MD Anderson Directions app offers driving directions to MD Anderson and walking directions from location to location while on campus. Learn more about the MD Anderson Directions App or dowload the app on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

Where do I park my car and who is responsible for my parking expenses?

Students are responsible for their own parking expenses. Visit the MD Anderson Parking page for complete information. Garage 10 is the closest and most convenient location. Students will have the opportunity for discounted parking and will receive information prior to Orientation.

Is housing available? If not, is there a list of convenient options?

The School of Health Professions does not have housing available to students. Students may qualify for UT Housing. For more information, please visit the UT Health Auxiliary Enterprises University Housing page.

How do I purchase health insurance?

It is the policy of School of Health Professions to require all students entering into one of the School's programs to carry health insurance. Students will be automatically assessed The University of Texas insurance plan but may have this fee waived by if proof of comparable coverage is presented by the 12th class day. Students will have a "Health Information Hold" placed on their account prior to each semester. Students will have the opportunity to accept student insurance, renew their student insurance, or show proof of personal insurance.

For more information, go to the UT Health Auxiliary Enterprises Student Insurance page.

Where and how do I upload my immunizations?

All immunizations must be documented through your myUTH account “Holds and To Do’s”.  After accepting the offer for admission to the School of Health Professions, students will receive background check and drug screen information.

Do I need to repeat a "dilute negative" drug screen?

Yes, a drug retest is needed if the initial result comes back as a “dilute” per the MD Anderson Drug Test Policy (ADM0309). The cost of the repeat test is the responsibility of the student.

How do I remove the Health Certificate hold on my account?

After accepting the offer for admission to the School of Health Professions, students will receive information to remove the hold.

How do I get to the Student Health Clinic?

UT Health Services is conveniently located across the street from the METRO Transit Center at the corner of Fannin and Pressler in the Texas Medical Center. The building offers five floors of parking (to be paid by the student) and is just minutes away from bus and rail stops. Clinic hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m..

7000 Fannin, Ste 1620
Houston, TX 77030

Where is the bookstore and how do I place a book order?

The School of Health Professions does not currently have a bookstore. Students may secure textbooks from any source. However, the Research Medical Library offers the SHP Textbook Reserves service. This is a program that allows students to borrow programmatic required books either in print or eBook.

Back to the top   |   Application to Admission   |   Orientation to Graduation

Do I have to travel for clinical rotations and who is responsible for its cost?

Each program is different and may offer clinical rotations in Houston and surrounding areas, Texas, and nationally. The student is required to cover all travel costs to clinical rotations. 

Contact your Program Director or Associate Program Director for further information.

Do I have to attend clinical rotations on evenings and/or weekends?

Each program assigns students to different clinical rotations to include day and night shifts during the week and/or weekends. Clinical rotations allow equal opportunity for students to complete clinical competencies and requirements enhancing their clinical education.

Contact your Program Director or Associate Program Director for further information.

During the course of my program, will I need to repeat the drug screen, background check and skin TB test?

Due to clinical affiliate contracts, students may be required to repeat drug screen, background check and the TB test.

Contact your Program Director or Associate Program Director for further information.

Do I have to wear my program’s uniform to attend class?

Some programs may require students to wear uniforms to attend class.

Contact your Program Director or Associate Program Director for further information.

Do I have to be a member of professional societies?

While students are not required to become members of any professional society, students are highly encouraged to do so. Professional organizations enhance professional development and provide endless networking opportunities.

Contact your Program Director for information on participation requirements at different professional organizational events.

Will I have the opportunity to attend conferences and other educational events?

Yes, students will have opportunities to attend conferences and other educational events. Travel costs will be the responsibility of the student.

Contact your Program Director or Associate Program Director for further information.

Can I still work while attending the program?

Students may work while attending school, however, employment must not interfere with regular academic and clinical responsibilities. Outside activities and employment will not be considered valid excuses for poor academic or clinical performance. If you are employed, or gain employment during your academic preparation, you must maintain separate schedules or hours for work and academic and/or clinical education.

How do I get access to the program lab and classroom areas as well as the student lounge?

The MD Anderson ID badge will provide you with door access to classrooms, labs, and the student lounge. If your ID badge is not granting you access, communicate with your Program Director, Faculty, or Staff to solve this issue. You will need to provide the your MD Anderson ID, badge ID (8-digit number on the back of your ID), door/room numbers you cannot access, and when the problem started.

Is there an area to store my food?

You may store your food in refrigerators in the Student Lounge (Y1.5765).

Do I have access to a locker?

Yes, each student is assigned a locker through their program. Students are required to provide their own lock.

How will I get access to the library?

The Research Medical Library is located on Floor 21 of the Pickens Academic Tower (FCT). While on campus, you can access the Library’s online collections of databases, journals, books, as well as document delivery services by accessing the Library site while on the MD Anderson intranet. When off campus, log in with your MD Anderson username and password on the Off Campus Login page.

The Library offers after hours access to MD Anderson students and employees. You must complete the online registration form in order to have after-hours access. After hours access is Monday-Friday 6-10 p.m. and Saturday–Sunday 7:30 a.m.- 10 p.m.

Do I have access to School of Health Professions classrooms and labs after hours?

Each program may have specific rules and regulations for students to access classrooms and labs after hours. Please refer to your Program Director or Associate Program Directors for information specific to your program.

Students must have their MD Anderson ID badge at all times and should exercise caution and safety. Report suspicious persons immediately to UT Police at Houston at 713-792-2890. If there is immediate danger, call 911.

Can I eat or drink in the classrooms?

Food and drinks are prohibited in all School of Health Professions classrooms and labs.

Where do I purchase lunch?

You may purchase lunch at any of the dining centers located throughout the MD Anderson. Visit the Dining Services page for a complete list of dining, food and drink options.

Where do I check in if I have an appointment with my instructor?

You should check in or register at the School of Health Professions Reception Desk located near the YB Elevators on Floor B (Basement) prior to entering the faculty and staff office area.

Where can I print and make copies?

The Student Lounge (Y1.5765) is equipped with computers and printers for student use. In addition, you may use the computers and printers located in the School of Health Professions classrooms area at Y2.6003.

Are there any shuttles for students to commute from the bus stations to the School of Health Professions? If yes, how much is the fee for a trip?

The School of Health Professions does not have any shuttles available for student travel. The MD Anderson shuttle system serves the business needs of employees and students at no cost. It is intended to move employees and students across MD Anderson buildings. All students and employees must show their ID badges before boarding shuttles.

MD Anderson shuttle system only operates between the following buildings: 1MC, Mitchell Building (BSRB); Duncan Building; Fannin Holcombe Building (FHB); Life Science Plaza (LSP); Main Building; Pickens Tower (PAT); Smith Research Building; South Campus Research Building 1, 2 (SCRB 1/2), and 3 (SCRB 3); and Zayed Building.

Visit the MD Anderson Bus Tracker to see routes and track shuttle buses.

Is there any tutoring service at the School of Health Professions?

The School of Health Professions does not have an independent tutoring service. Any tutoring needs are directly provided by your program’s faculty and staff members upon the corresponding arrangement. Faculty and staff are committed to provide the highest level of education and support in order to address the students’ academic needs.

Is there a time limit I can be in the school after hours?

There is not time limit for students to be in the School of Health Professions’ property after hours.

However, students must have their MD Anderson ID Badge at all times and should exercise caution and safety. Report suspicious persons immediately to UT Police at Houston at 713-792-2890. If there is immediate danger, call 911.

Do we have a lost and found?

Currently, the School of Health Professions does not have a lost-and-found program. However, all found items should be turned in to The University of Texas Police at Houston (UTPH). If you have lost or misplaced an item, please refer to the UTPH Found Property page..

Lost my ID badge. How do I get a replacement?

You will need to report this incident to any of your program’s faculty or staff members. A full explanation of the incident must be provided. In turn, the faculty or staff member will directly communicate with the School of Health Professions Program Manager in order to request the replacement of your badge. Please allow two to three business days for an email stating you new badge is ready for pickup at MD Anderson Human Resources, Floor 2, 1MC Building (7007 Bertner Ave.)..

Are there shuttles to the registrar's office?

No. MD Anderson shuttle system only operates between the following buildings: 1MC, Mitchell Building, Duncan Building, Fannin Holcombe Building, Life Science Plaza, Main Building, Pickens Tower, Smith Research Building, South Campus Research Building 1, 2, and 3, and Zayed Building.

Visit the MD Anderson Bus Tracker to see routes and track shuttle buses.

Can I bring my child to class?

Only in the event of an emergency, and if there are no other alternatives, students may have children present in the institution and the school for brief periods (single classroom meetings) provided the parent obtains the instructor’s prior approval. Such arrangements are only to be temporary in nature and may be granted only in circumstances where the student and instructor have considered and satisfactorily addressed the factors related to the child’s presence in the classroom. When authorized, the parent/student must supervise the child at all times and should not leave such child in the custody of another MD Anderson employee or student, even for brief periods of time. Children who are on MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Campus must clear the Child Visitation Screening Criteria and wear an Official Visitors Passport sticker.

Under no circumstance will children be permitted in any laboratory or clinical areas (MD Anderson Institution Policy # ADM0223).

Do we have a daycare?

The School of Health Professions does not provide childcare or daycare.

When is it appropriate to go the ER here versus the Student Health Clinic?

In the event of an emergency or life threatening event, students may take themselves to the emergency center to be cared for. The Student badge must be presented upon check in. MD Anderson and its affiliates will provide emergency medical care for enrolled students during program hours at the student's expense. Students are required to carry their own health insurance coverage to defray the cost of any medical service rendered.

The University of Texas System offers medical insurance policies to eligible students. The program/institution and/or its affiliates are not responsible for any costs incurred by the student.

I accidentally left my Student ID badge at home, can I still be on campus?

Students are not allowed to enter any lab, clinical department, or the Fitness Center without the proper student identification badge. Only under the discretion of an Instructor, students would be allowed to attend class without an ID badge; however, students will need to request someone to grant them door access to their classroom.

I worked out at the fitness center. Can I still come to class in the my gym clothes?

No. Business casual attire to attend classes is expected. Students must apply common sense and good taste regarding personal and professional appearance.

Do we have Greek fraternities and sororities?

The School of Health Professions does not have any fraternities or sororities.

Do we have athletics department with sport teams?

The School of Health Professions does not have an athletics department. Each program may have special events such as a field day to give the students an opportunity to enjoy and celebrate their educational experience at SHP. For further information, please communicate with your Program Director and/or Associate Program Director.

I am dealing with personal issues. Who can I talk to?

You may communicate with your Program Director and/or Associate Program Director, or you may seek counseling by contacting The University of Texas Employee Assistance Program (UTEAP) office, which provides students access to a variety of resources. Visit UTEAP site for additional information or call 713-500-3327 or 800-346-3549.

UTEAP Office

7000 Fannin Street, Ste 1670
Houston, TX 77030

How do I report a threat?

If you are in a life threatening situation, please call 911.

If you need to report inappropriate/aggressive behaviors you may

• Inform your immediate Program Director and/or Associate Program Director, who can enlist the help of managers, Human Resources representatives, department chairs, division heads or senior leaders to address the issues.
• Report the behavior through MD Anderson’s Incident Reporting Tool.
• Call 5-myHR (713-745-6947).
• If the incident involves your direct supervisor, contact your HR generalist, or report it through the Incident Reporting Tool or myHR.
• UT Police Dispatch call 713-792-2890.
• To report potential workplace violence call 713-792-7867 or (2-STOP).
• UT Police Crime Prevention call 713-563-7794.

How do I request an official transcript?

You may request an official transcript in person, online via myUTH, or by mail.

The transcript includes only the academic record accumulated at MD Anderson. Unofficial copies of transcripts from other institutions are furnished by the registrar in accordance with the Texas Open Records Act (a fee may be charged).

The Registrar’s Office

7000 Fannin, Ste 1200
Houston, TX 77030

Mailing Address

Office of the Registrar
PO Box 20036
Houston, TX 77225-0036

I finished my prerequisite courses and need to submit my updated transcript. How do I do this?

Option 1: Send the official transcript to UTHealth Houston, Office of the Registrar using SPEEDE (electronic data exchange).

Option 2: If the SPEEDE option is not available at the college or university or cannot figure out how to select SPEEDE, then have the college mail an official transcript.

Office of the Registrar
UTHealth Houston
PO Box 20036
Houston, TX 77225-0036

Once enrolled, can I choose where I complete my clinical rotations?

Each program reserves the right to assign students to a clinical affiliate and schedule all rotations within MD Anderson Cancer Center, its satellites and other clinical education sites.

Clinical rotations allow equal opportunity for students to complete clinical competencies and requirements enhancing their clinical education. Students will receive a rotation schedule outlining each phase of clinical education at the beginning of each semester. It is the student’s responsibility to know and report to the clinical area to which he or she is assigned.

 

Back to the top   |   Application to Admission   |   Admission to Orientation