What is it?
The North Texas Health Careers Opportunity Program (HCOP) Doctoral Ambassadors is a summer enrichment program for doctoral students enrolled at the University of North Texas who are pursuing a graduate degree in behavioral health. Designed to support students from economically or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds, the program provides a paid, six-week immersive experience focused on professional development, near-peer mentorship, and leadership training.
Who is Eligible?
- Be a current UNT 1st or 2nd year graduate student pursuing a graduate degree in behavioral health.
- A US citizen and/or an individual lawfully admitted for permanent residence to the US, or any other “qualified alien” under section 431(b) of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, Pub. L. 104-193 (individuals on temporary or student visas are NOT eligible).
- From an “economically or educationally disadvantaged” background as defined by the HRSA for those who meet two or more of the following criteria:
- Were or currently are homeless, as defined by the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.
- Were or currently are in the foster care system, as defined by the Administration for Children and Families.
- Were eligible for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program for two or more years.
- Family of origin received public assistance (e.g., food stamps, housing assistance, heating assistance, etc.)
- Have/had no parents or legal guardians who completed a bachelor’s degree.
- Family of origin was/is a low-income family/household (i.e., income no more than 200% of poverty level as defined by the Federal register:
| Persons in family/household | Income Level |
|---|---|
| 1 | $31,300 |
| 2 | $42,300 |
| 3 | $53,300 |
| 4 | $64,300 |
| 5 | $75,300 |
| 6 | $86,300 |
| 7 | $97,300 |
| 8 | $108,300 |
For families with more than 8 persons, add $11,000 for each additional person.
Curriculum Topics
The UNT HCOP Doctoral Ambassadors curriculum provides specialized training for doctoral students in behavioral health, focusing on both foundational knowledge and professional exam preparation. The program covers key topics including:
- Social Determinants of Health (SDoH): Understanding how social, economic, and environmental factors affect health outcomes.
- Health Equity: Addressing systemic disparities and promoting fairness in behavioral health care.
- EPPP Qualifying and Licensure Exam Preparation: Tailored instruction and resources to support success on doctoral qualifying exams and the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP).
- Mental Health First Aid: Training to identify and respond to mental health crises effectively.
- Research Mentorship: Guiding and supporting junior HCOP participants through research projects, fostering scholarly skills, and promoting collaborative learning.
Program Benefits
- Academic and Career Advising: Personalized support for advanced course planning, doctoral program milestones, and career pathway development.
- Professional Near-Peer Mentorship: Serve as mentors while also connecting with experienced faculty and professionals for guidance and career advice.
- Leadership and Mentorship Experience: Develop leadership skills through mentoring junior ambassadors and leading program initiatives.
- Research Collaboration: Engage in research team meetings and collaborative projects that contribute to your academic and professional growth.
- Access to EPPP Preparation Materials: Receive resources and study materials to support preparation for the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology.
- Mental Health First Aid Certification: Gain certification in Mental Health First Aid to enhance your skills in identifying and responding to mental health challenges.
- Flexible, Self-Paced Learning: Complete training and professional development activities on a schedule that fits your doctoral studies and commitments.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, faculty, and healthcare professionals to build your professional network and explore behavioral health career opportunities
- Conference, Training, and Research Funds: Receive funding to support conference attendance, specialized training, or research activities at your discretion.
- Financial Support: Participants receive a stipend to offset the cost of living.
Program Structure
Programming for the Doctoral Ambassadors is primarily self-paced, allowing participants to complete their training and professional development activities on a flexible schedule. While most of the work is completed independently, Doctoral Ambassadors are expected to attend certain in-person program events and scheduled research team meetings.
Have Questions?
Check out our FAQs and email us if you have additional questions at UNT-HCOP@unt.edu!