Welcome Message from the Director
Greetings, and welcome to the official webpage of the Title V, Part B (PPOHA) Project at Antillean Adventist University (UAA)!
It is an honor to introduce you to this platform, dedicated to an ambitious initiative: Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Graduate Opportunities through Distance Learning (PPOHA Project P031M240020). Our mission is unequivocal: to enhance access, elevate the quality of education, and provide exemplary student support services tailored for Hispanic graduate students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
At UAA’s PPOHA Project, we are steadfast in delivering innovative academic programs that address the evolving demands of our students and society. We place a strong emphasis on inclusion, accessibility, and holistic psychosocial support, all with the ultimate goal of fostering your academic excellence.
Through the power of distance learning, we aim to expand educational horizons by offering a flexible and superior learning experience. Within this platform, you will discover an array of master’s programs, certifications, and resources meticulously designed to guide you through every stage of your academic journey.
We cordially invite you to explore this site and uncover how the PPOHA Project can serve as a catalyst for your professional growth. We are dedicated to equipping you with the support necessary to achieve your aspirations and transform your life through the power of education. Together, we are building a future brimming with opportunities for everyone to: Connect, Grow, and Share!
Welcome, and let us move forward together toward success.
Dra. Zilma E. Santiago Pabón
Director, PPOHA Project
Antillean’s Proposal Secures Approval from the U.S. Department of Education
Antillean Adventist University proudly announces the approval of its proposal to participate in the Promoting Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans (PPOHA) program, a distinguished initiative by the U.S. Department of Education. The program’s primary objective is to expand graduate-level educational opportunities, emphasizing enhanced access, affordability, and academic success for Hispanic and other underrepresented students in our region.
The approved proposal, titled “Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Graduate Opportunities through Distance Learning,” is designed to elevate program quality, broaden postgraduate academic offerings, and improve the academic performance of UAA’s graduate student population.
“We are elated to have successfully navigated the rigorous evaluation process, which underscores our institution’s capability to execute forward-thinking educational initiatives. Our deepest gratitude goes to the dedicated team whose unwavering efforts brought this project to fruition. We eagerly anticipate its commencement on October 1, 2024,” remarked Dr. Edwin Hernández, President of Antillean Adventist University.
This project entails the development of cutting-edge graduate academic programs, including master’s degrees and postgraduate certificates offered through a flexible, distance-learning modality. These offerings respond to contemporary trends in higher education and address the need for more accessible learning pathways. The certificates will focus on high-demand fields such as Business Sciences, Health Sciences, Education, and Psychology.
To complement academic advancements, the project prioritizes strengthening essential support services, such as academic advising, therapeutic counseling, professional assistance, and mentoring in both face-to-face and virtual formats. Furthermore, the initiative includes significant enhancements to UAA’s technological infrastructure to ensure the delivery of exceptional academic programs. All offerings will adhere to andragogical principles, fostering effective adult learning practices. Eligible students enrolled in these graduate programs may qualify for scholarships to offset tuition expenses.
With an allocation of $3,000,000 over five years from the U.S. Department of Education, Antillean Adventist University is poised to enhance its graduate education offerings. The institution’s consistent federal funding approvals reflect its enduring commitment to educational excellence and its core values of service.
The PPOHA Project at Antillean Adventist University
The PPOHA Project is an ambitious initiative dedicated to expanding postgraduate educational opportunities for Hispanic students. Spanning from 2024 to 2029, this project—titled Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Graduate Opportunities through Distance Learning—aims to improve access, affordability, and academic outcomes for graduate students.
Core Components of the PPOHA Project:
- Innovative Academic Offerings:Comprehensive online programs, including master’s degrees and certifications in high-demand disciplines such as Nursing, Education, and Business, offering unparalleled flexibility and accessibility.
- Comprehensive Student Support:A robust suite of services designed to address academic, emotional, and professional needs, fostering student success.
- Financial Assistance for Qualified Students:Exclusive scholarships for Hispanic and low-income graduate students to reduce financial barriers and enable focused academic engagement.
- Faculty Development:Tailored professional development programs to enrich teaching methodologies and promote an inclusive learning environment.
Project Goals:
- Expand Graduate Academic Offerings:Enhance the availability of online graduate programs and certifications, creating new educational pathways for Hispanic students.
- Improve Student Support Services:Strengthen academic, emotional, and social support systems to ensure the success of graduate students.
- Increase Accessibility and Affordability:Establish scholarship programs and financial aid to make postgraduate education attainable for economically disadvantaged Hispanic students.
- Enhance Technological and Physical Infrastructure:Modernize facilities and technological capabilities to support the delivery of high-quality online education.
- Elevate Institutional Prestige:Bolster UAA’s reputation to attract a broader pool of graduate students.
- Establish a State-of-the-Art Graduate Center:Develop a cutting-edge Graduate Center (GC) featuring:
- Real-World Learning Integration:Advanced technological tools such as simulations and virtual reality to provide hands-on learning experiences.
- Enhanced Technological Infrastructure:Superior resources to ensure the seamless delivery of online graduate programs.
- Research and Academic Enrichment:Opportunities for experiential and research-based learning.
- Collaborative and Innovative Spaces:Modern tools and resources to foster creativity and academic excellence.
Specialized Services
- Personalized Academic Coaching:Tailored guidance to support students in skill development and overcoming academic challenges.
- Psychological Counseling Services:Professional support to help students navigate stress, anxiety, and other emotional needs.
- Retention Coordination:Dedicated personnel to monitor student progress, identify challenges early, and provide targeted support to ensure success.
- Technical Support for Distance Learning:Dedicated technicians ensuring seamless virtual learning experiences.
- Virtual Library Resources:Assistance in accessing digital libraries, e-books, databases, and research tools essential for academic achievement.
- Scholarship Opportunities:Financial aid for eligible Hispanic students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Community Impact
This project is poised to significantly enhance graduation rates among Hispanic students in high-growth fields, equipping them for successful careers and transforming educational opportunities across the region.
Scholarship Distribution Plan for Graduate Students
The PPOHA Project offers exclusive scholarships for eligible students enrolled in UAA’s master’s programs and graduate certifications. Applicants must complete an application demonstrating their eligibility.
Scholarship applicants will be evaluated by the PPOHA Scholarship Committee based on criteria such as GPA, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement of financial need. To qualify, students must be Hispanic U.S. citizens or permanent residents and meet additional requirements. Annual scholarships of up to $1,880 ($626 per term) will be awarded to eligible students, subject to fund availability. Recipients must actively engage in project activities to enhance their skills and maintain eligibility.
Evaluation Criteria:
- Academic Excellence:Demonstrated academic merit (minimum GPA of 3.25 for new students; maintaining a GPA of 3.50 for subsequent terms).
- Financial Need:Assistance for students with economic challenges, evaluated through financial aid criteria.
- Commitment to Diversity:Scholarships designated for Hispanic students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
| CRITERIA | DESCRIPTION | CRITERIA 1 | CRITERIA 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Merit | For students with an academic history of academic progress according to the established minimum GPAs. | For new incoming students, it will be 3.25 or higher. | To maintain the scholarship in subsequent trimesters during the first year of study, you must maintain an average of 3.50 or higher to be eligible. |
| Financial Need | Provides financial support to students facing economic difficulties in accessing higher education. | Using criteria for Economic Assistance. | Full load of 6 credits - $626 Partial load of 3 credits - $323. |
| Focus on Diversity | For students from Hispanic groups, U.S. citizens, and permanent residents. |
Master’s Degrees
The MSN in Critical Care or Geriatric Care equips registered nurses with advanced expertise to deliver top-notch care to critically ill patients or older adults. It trains nurses for leadership, education, and teamwork roles within interprofessional care teams. The program blends theoretical learning with practical experience in the chosen specialty.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 16 (44 credits)
Completion Time: 2 years
The MSN in Critical Care or Geriatric Care equips registered nurses with advanced expertise to deliver top-notch care to critically ill patients or older adults. It trains nurses for leadership, education, and teamwork roles within interprofessional care teams. The program blends theoretical learning with practical experience in the chosen specialty.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 16 (44 credits)
Completion Time: 2 years
The Master in Health Sciences program is designed for health care professionals seeking career advancement and leadership in healthcare field. The Leadership and Administration curriculum covers health policies, human resources, finance, patient safety, ethics, leadership, and decision-making. Students develop skills in team leadership, program management, resource allocation, evidence-based practices, and patient safety promotion. Practical experiences in various clinical or management settings complement theoretical courses.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 14 (30 credits)
Completion Time: 2 years
The Master in Health Sciences program is tailored for health care professionals aspiring to leadership positions in healthcare. The Educational role specialization prepares registered nurses as educators in higher education or hospital settings, covering teaching methods, learning assessment, and curriculum development. Practical experiences complement theoretical courses, providing opportunities to apply knowledge in various clinical or management settings.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 14 (30 credits)
Completion Time: 2 years
The MBA program with a specialization in Human Resources offers students the opportunity to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to excel as specialists in human capital management. They will be prepared to meet the demands of an increasingly complex and competitive business environment at both local and international levels.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 13 (39 credits)
Completion Time: 2 years
Professional Certificates
Tailored for nursing professionals, this program enhances their ability to address the unique needs of older adults. Through a blend of theoretical coursework and hands-on experiences, participants gain expertise in areas such as geriatric assessment, chronic disease management, dementia care, pharmacology, and ethical considerations. Upon completion, graduates are skilled in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. The program includes online theory sessions and a concluding 180-hour practical component in elderly care.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 5 (16.5 credits)
Completion Time: 1 years
This specialized program is designed for healthcare professionals seeking advanced skills in skin and wound care. Topics include skin assessment, wound identification/classification, acute and chronic wound management, dressing application, and pressure injury prevention. Students are thoroughly prepared in this specialty.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 5 (16.5 credits)
Completion Time: 1 years
The Graduate Certificate in Educational Technology empowers educators to integrate technology effectively into teaching. It emphasizes innovative tools and strategies across diverse educational models. Participants develop skills to navigate teaching challenges and foster educational excellence through technology. Completion of the program enhances professionals’ competencies in technology education, enabling them to reform and strengthen educational curricula with a focus on 21st-century skills.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 8 (24 credits)
Completion Time: 1 years
Development of skills as an operations manager in the manufacturing and services sector, process control, handling and implementation of quality control systems, among other tasks.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 8 (12-21 credits)
Completion Time: 1 years
The Renal Patient Care Certification is an advanced program for nurses specializing in renal disease care. It offers a comprehensive focus on renal anatomy, physiology, and pathologies, alongside specific nursing interventions for acute and chronic kidney disease. Topics include renal function assessment, dialysis management, pharmacological therapy, and complications management. Practical experiences in specialized clinical settings enhance nurses’ skills in real-life care management. Graduates are adept at providing high-quality, patient-centered care for individuals with kidney disease.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 7 (16 credits)
Completion Time: 1 years
The Mental Health and Psychiatry Certification is designed for registered nurses aiming to enhance their mental health care skills. Covering topics such as mental disorder understanding, treatment options, crisis intervention, and psychotropic pharmacology, the program emphasizes empathy, communication, and teamwork. Combining theoretical learning with supervised practical experiences, nurses develop skills in risk assessment, crisis management, and mental health promotion across various settings.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 9 (18-21 credits)
Completion Time: 1 years
The Applied Behavior Analysis in Teaching Certification is designed for educators supporting students with autism spectrum and developmental disorders. It offers rigorous academic training in evidence-based practices, emphasizing deep understanding and practical application of behavior analysis concepts in educational settings.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 8 (24 credits)
Completion Time: 1 years
Develop the necessary competencies to manage, handle, and lead human resources processes. Design strategies and policies aligned with the needs and requirements of the institution according to economic, social, cultural, and political trends.
Cost: $225/credit hour
No. Courses : 8 (15-18 credits)
Completion Time: 1 years
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