Health Science, Epidemiology Concentration, B.S.

The bachelor’s degree in Health Science is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide career advancement opportunities for entry-level health profession practitioners as well as individuals who wish to begin their careers in healthcare. This program encourages students with different backgrounds and interests; the program helps students achieve their educational goal through two different concentrations: Healthcare Administration or Epidemiology. Students are advised throughout the program to determine their professional goals and to develop and follow a plan of study to meet those goals. Graduates of associate degree or certificate programs, such as Medical Assisting, Medical Billing and Coding, Occupational Therapy Assistant, and Respiratory Care can enroll in this program as a step toward career advancement and apply previous credits earned toward a baccalaureate degree.

Two available concentrations:

1. Healthcare Administration You will acquire knowledge of the business challenges specific to the healthcare delivery system, and you will gain an appreciation of the manager’s role within a healthcare and public health environment. 
2. Epidemiology Concentration You will acquire knowledge of the role epidemiology has in a healthcare and public health setting. You will gain a strong understanding of statistical concepts involved in biological processes and apply these concepts towards improving the health of diverse populations.
   
   All students going on an internship must successfully pass a background check and drug test before an internship will be approved. Forms are provided by program personnel.

Program Outcomes

The Health Science Program prepares all students to be able to:

1. Demonstrate a strong foundation in basic behavioral, natural, social and health sciences appropriate to entry-level positions in healthcare.
2. Communicate and present verbal, visual and written ideas, and information clearly and accurately in a way that represents competence and professionalism in the healthcare field.
3. Interpret and explain policy within the ethical, legal, and regulatory framework of the healthcare industry.
4. Identify and describe the different roles of healthcare professionals and develop skills to become an effective team member.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of critical thinking skills used in healthcare.
6. Appreciate diversity, differing belief and value systems, as well as appreciate individual opinions within the healthcare environment.
7. Develop self-directed and engaged learning skills needed for independent and lifelong learning.
8. Identify health determinants to improve health equity across all populations.
9. Be an educator and an advocate for a healthy lifestyle.

Graduation Requirements

Students must complete all the general Bachelor’s graduation requirements as stated in the catalog. In addition, students must complete all Health Science major core requirements with a minimum cumulative grade point average (C.G.P.A.) of 2.0.