Health Science Program Details
The Health Science curriculum emphasizes foundational coursework in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and the social sciences, coursework in the applied health sciences, and course content that introduces students to specialty topics such as health care ethics, politics, and management.
It is designed to be interdisciplinary, with coursework coming from areas outside the natural sciences, such as psychology and sociology. There is opportunity to tailor the program using the approved list of electives to achieve the desired post-bachelor's goal that could include graduate school in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, nursing, optometry, and pharmacy, among other areas. It also prepares students for entry-level career opportunities in a variety of health and medical settings including hospitals, community agencies, social services, and the medical insurance industry.
In keeping with the social justice mission of the University, course content related to ethics, global health care, and health care access will also be included throughout the curriculum.
The program promotes a career development model and provides for high impact experiential learning through mandatory internships.
Health Science is distinct from other majors in the biology and chemistry programs in that it focuses intentionally on shadowing health professionals and clinical experiences as its capstone project.
Employment Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment in health-care occupations will grow 19 percent over the next 10 years,* much faster than average for all occupations, adding about 2.3 million new jobs.
Program Highlights
- Focuses on shadowing health professionals and clinical experiences
- Provides necessary pre-requisites for graduate-level clinical professional programs
- Allows for some customization of course selection based on students’ professional aspirations.
- Coursework in Health Care Communication, Medical Terminology, Health Systems Organizations, and Pathophysiology and Treatment of Disease
*Employment projections taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Notes the projected percent change in employment from 2021 to 2031. (Percentage range based on occupation.)