FORT SMITH — Graduates from Arkansas Tech University in Russellville wanting to earn a medical degree will have a greater chance of being able to continue their studies in the River Valley.

Sam Strasner, director of university relations for ATU, wrote in a Nov. 21 news release the university and the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education in Fort Smith have signed an affiliation agreement.

The agreement formalized a pathway for ATU graduates, who meet grade point average and entrance examination minimums, to be granted an interview for the ACHE program of their choice, according to Strasner. It applies to ACHE’s degree programs in biomedicine, osteopathic medicine, physical therapy and occupational therapy.

John Jackson, dean of the ATU College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, said in the news release although the agreement won’t guarantee graduates will be admitted into ACHE, it will increase their likelihood of being accepted.

“The agreement will also provide greater cooperation between ATU and ACHE with campus visits and student networking opportunities,” Jackson said.

Jackson said Tuesday the agreement will begin in January. He said it provides a connection through which ATU students can interact with ACHE faculty to make sure the institution is where they