Are you a future physician assistant or physical therapist from Alaska, Guam, or another eligible Western state or territory? If so, you could save up to $18,000-$22,000 per year on your graduate healthcare education at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) through a special program.
What is WICHE?
The Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) is a collaborative regional organization that works to improve access to higher education in the western United States. One of its key initiatives is the Professional Student Exchange Program (PSEP), which helps health profession students receive significant financial support to pursue healthcare degrees in fields that may not be available in their home state.
Simply put, PSEP offers financial assistance where specific state-funded programs don’t exist. Participating states and territories subsidize tuition costs for eligible students, making out-of-state professional programs like RMU more accessible and affordable.
Eligible RMU Programs
RMU is proud to be a participating institution in WICHE’s PSEP, and currently offers subsidized tuition for the following programs:
Physician Assistant Program
(Master of Medical Science)
Eligible states/territories:
- Alaska
- Northern Mariana Islands
- Guam
- North Dakota
- Wyoming
Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
Eligible states/territories:
- Alaska
- Northern Mariana Islands
- Guam
- Hawaii
- Nevada
- Wyoming
RMU intends to expand WICHE presence for the Doctor of Optometry and Doctor of Occupational Therapy soon.
How Much Can You Save?
Funding varies by field and state, but RMU students save an average of $18,000-$22,000 per year through this WICHE PSEP program. For the 2024-25 academic year, tuition support ranges from $9,125 to $35,700, depending on the degree and your home state.
This can make a significant difference when planning how to finance your graduate education.
How to Apply
- Check your eligibility: You must be a resident of a participating state or territory.
- Apply through your home state’s WICHE PSEP office: Each has its own deadlines and application process.
- Apply and get accepted to RMU: You must be admitted to one of RMU’s eligible programs to receive the subsidy.
- Receive funding: If selected, your home state or territory will pay a portion of your tuition directly to RMU.
Important: Application deadlines are often early — sometimes a full year before your program starts — so plan ahead!
Why Choose RMU?
With award-winning faculty, hybrid learning formats, and a student-first philosophy, RMU prepares you to become a skilled, compassionate healthcare provider — wherever you choose to practice.
Learn More
- Visit wiche.edu/psep to view details by state and program.
- Explore RMU’s Physician Assistant and Doctor of Physical Therapy programs.
- Questions? Contact RMU Admissions.
