Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP) stands as a beacon of advanced healthcare education, committed to shaping the next generation of health professionals. Founded in 1998 by visionaries Dr. Richard P. Nielsen and Dr. Michael Skurja Jr., RMUoHP originated from a dream to consolidate specialized curricula into robust degree programs. What began as Rocky Mountain University of Physical Therapy quickly evolved into a comprehensive graduate institution, making it a pivotal player in post-professional healthcare education.

From its foundational Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, RMUoHP swiftly expanded its academic footprint. A testament to its innovative spirit, the university introduced the nation's first post-professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program by 2003, setting a precedent for specialized, advanced practice. This early commitment to groundbreaking programs laid the groundwork for its subsequent growth and regional accreditation in 2010, marking it as the first proprietary graduate institution in the Northwest region to achieve this esteemed status.

RMUoHP's academic strengths are defined by its diverse and forward-thinking offerings. The university has continuously adapted to the evolving needs of healthcare, adding programs like the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), the first limited-residency Doctor of Clinical Science in Speech-Language Pathology, and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology with a unique medical emphasis, where it holds a pioneer distinction. Its commitment to expanding access to vital healthcare education culminated in the launch of the first College of Optometry in the Intermountain West in 2022, welcoming its inaugural cohort in 2023. With 1,684 students, RMUoHP now awards 22 master's and doctoral degrees and 24 certificates and fellowships, embodying a vibrant and specialized learning environment for those dedicated to advancing health professions.