The program runs for six weeks between June and July, with a commitment of approximately 30 hours per week. In total, participants will complete 180 hours of structured programming.

The HCOP Academy is open to students from high school through graduate school who come from economically and/or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds. Eligibility varies by program level, so we encourage you to review the specific requirements listed on the program’s website to see if you qualify.

No—except for Level 4 (Doctoral Ambassadors)

• For Levels 1–3 (High School, Pre‑Matriculation, and Post‑Baccalaureate Ambassadors): You do not need to be a current UNT student to participate. You just need to meet eligibility criteria.

• 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.

• Program Level Specific:
  • High School Ambassador (Level 1):
    • Must be a rising high school junior (11th grade) or senior (12th grade).
    • Must have a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.5
  • Pre-Matriculation Ambassador (Level 2):
    • Must be a current high school senior on track to graduate.
    • Must have an unweighted GPA of 3.5
  • Post-Baccalaureate Ambassador (Level 3):
    • Must be a recent undergraduate graduate or an incoming first-year graduate student.
  • Doctoral Ambassador (Level 4):
    • Must be currently enrolled in the first or second year of a graduate program at UNT.

We still encourage you to apply! While meeting the listed requirements strengthens your application, we consider each applicant holistically. If you're passionate about pursuing a career in behavioral health and believe this program aligns with your goals, we want to hear from you.

Yes, you may reapply to the UNT HCOP program if you were not accepted during a previous cycle. However, it’s important to consider where you are in your academic journey—each program level (e.g., High School, Pre-Matriculation, Post-Baccalaureate, Doctoral) has different eligibility criteria.

• Comprehensive Academic Support: Access to tutoring, mentorship, and academic advising to help you succeed in your studies.
• Clinical Experience in Underserved Communities: Opportunities to gain hands-on experience in providing mental health services to those who need it most.
• Financial Assistance: Receive a stipend to help alleviate the financial burden.
• Career Development: Guidance on “soft skills” and networking to prepare you for a successful career.

The HCOP program and application is offered at no cost. Instead, accepted ambassadors will receive a stipend at the conclusion of the program, which can be used at their discretion.

You are permitted to miss an unlimited number of programming days; however, it is not advised to miss any. Please note that any hours missed on campus will result in a deduction from your stipend.

No. The HCOP program does not provide any housing during the program. Accepted ambassadors are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the University of North Texas campus for all program activities.

No. The HCOP program does not offer college credit for participation. However, it provides valuable experience, mentorship, and professional development that can enhance your academic and career journey.

No. The HCOP Program will not have formal grading and there will be no homework required.

No. All programing will happen during the week Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm. 

For detailed information about parking locations and permits, please visit the UNT Transportation Services website.

No. All activities and events are in person to provide hands-on, immersive experiences. Virtual participation is not available.