Implementing Holistic Admissions for Health Science Education Programs at a Community College

Abstract: Holistic admissions were conceived for equitable access to competitive health science education (HSE) programs. We evaluated holistic admissions to HSE programs at a community college. Applicants to radiological technology (Rad Tech) (n = 59) and dental hygiene (DH) programs (n = 40) underwent five-item standardized video interviews (SVI) and 30-item multiple mini-interviews (MMI). Holistic admissions did not alter race (Mann Whitney U = .71, p = .48). Moderate reliability (Cronbach's α) was observed for the SVI for Rad Tech (α = .72, CI = .60–.84) and DH (α = .67, CI = .55–.78). High values were observed for the MMI for Rad Tech (α = .87, CI = .83–.91) and DH (α = .90, CI = .86–.94). Large effect sizes ( d >1.3) separated admitted vs. non-admitted groups. Our results indicate holistic admissions are objective and enhance equitable access to competitive HSE programs.