Do you have a passion for working with people in the healthcare environment but are not quite sure what career path to follow? This applied science program includes the study of human health and the application of that knowledge to improve and treat diseases and conditions. It combines traditional science courses with specialized courses in multi-cultural healthcare, special populations and complementary medicine.
You’ll learning small classes where you’ll receive personalized attention from dedicated faculty with a wealth of clinical experience. They are experts in fields such as athletic training, gerontology, physical therapy, emergency medical services, kinesiology and exercise physiology.
They will help you build confidence and knowledge as you explore topics such as medical terminology and its uses, common diseases and health disparities and required licensing laws for various professions.
You may opt for the robust Health Sciences concentration or follow a more specific path with PennWest’s Pre-Athletic Training concentration. In either case, you will gain hands-on experience in the Applied Health Science Lab where you will build career-focused skills and learn how to conduct biomechanical evaluations, health and fitness tests, conduct experiments or tackle special projects. You'll also have the opportunity to complete a senior capstone course focused on your particular interests and career plans.
Upon graduation, you will be well qualified to advance your education in graduate studies or to work as a health coach, healthcare administrator or other allied healthcare professional.
Credits: 120
Contact:
Justin Barroner
barroner@pennwest.edu
724-938-6032
Add a minor in Health Sciences to any related course of study.
Growth of employment opportunities in healthcare occupations from now until 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Number of new jobs in the field of healthcare over the next decade.
The field of athletic training is growing much faster than the average for alloccupations. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,employment of athletic trainers is expected to grow 17% between now and 2031,with about 2,500 new job openings every year for the next decade.
Asa student in PennWest’s Pre-Athletic Training concentration, you’ll delve into courses such as functional kinesiology, sports medicine and evidence-based practice and research. You’ll learn more about biomedical ethics and community health before completing your capstone project that relates to your field.
This four-year degree readies you for the master’s level program required for licensure and work as a certified athletic trainer, specializing in preventing, diagnosing and treating muscle and bone injuries and illness in settings such as colleges, universities, elementary and secondary schools, or in hospitals, fitness centers or for professional and semi-professional sports teams.
What can you do with a Health Sciences degree?
PennWest’s bachelors in Health Science is a versatile degree—one that gives you a competitive advantage for graduate school or employment. It prepares you for the future you envision. Think of this degree as the first step to a career as an athletic trainer, physical or occupational therapist, physician assistant or other professional career that requires graduate training and state licensure. It can also lead to employment in non-clinical positions such as healthcare administrator, pharmaceutical sales representative or community health educators.
PennWest’s three campuses, California, Clarion and Edinboro universities, have been delivering award-winning online programs for more than 20 years. You’ll graduate with a degree from Pennsylvania Western University, completely supported by the expertise and community of learners on our brick-and-mortar campuses.