Health Professions Advisory Committee (HPAC)
The Health Professions Advisory Committee (HPAC) oversees the application process of cadets into military health career fields.
We can send graduates directly into professional schools for medical, dental, nursing, physician assistance, physical therapy, social work, and clinical psychology training. We also can send graduates directly into the bioenvironmental engineering, public health, and hospital administration career fields.
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I see the minimum GPA requirement. Is that number sufficient?
For many of the careers, the minimum GPA requirement is NOT sufficient. Many of the careers have a much higher realistic GPA target to make you a competitive candidate. Shoot high!
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What should I focus on as I start the hunt for a health profession slot?
First and foremost, focus on maintaining good grades, especially in your science classes. Volunteer to help others in ways that you are passionate about. Be a leader within the squadron and score well on the standardized test. Come talk to the HPAC advisors and participate in the events. Also, find a mentor and shadow health professionals in a hospital or clinic.
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Are there required classes?
YES! And they vary greatly between the programs. Talk to an HPAC advisor and read the career specific FAQ for the career you are interested in.
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Any other requirements?
Yes. All cadets must be in good standing and not on any type of probation. In addition, the needs of the Air Force always take precedence and in no way is the Academy or the Air Force obligated to allow you apply. These guidelines, requirements, and allowances may change (and have changed in the past!).
Some career fields have other requirements, such as volunteering/shadowing hours. See career specific FAQs.
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I heard something about “flex” slots?
We can send up to 6 additional cadets into any career field, with permission of that career field. So if we have a few extra cadets than number of slots, we may be able to allow them to apply.
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What are the “hoops”?
You will first need to gain the Superintendent’s approval before you are officially a candidate because you must be given permission to be released from the Line of the Air Force.
Briefly, here is how the selection process works. In the spring of your 2° year, the HPAC will interview you and look at your GPA, MPA, and extra-curricular activities. Based on that information they’ll recommend “yea or nay” to the Superintendent. If approved, you may then start the process of applying to the professional school or the career field.
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This opportunity sounds like a great deal, how do I get started?
Contact HPAC at DFBI.HPAC@afacademy.af.edu. Be sure to check out http://www.airforce.com/healthcare.