Health Science (General), B.S.

From rigorous coursework to valuable internships, a degree in Health Science prepares students for success in elite graduate schools, and a competitive job market

Our interdisciplinary health science program ensures graduates gain the skills necessary to enter a variety of allied health fields upon graduation or apply to master’s and doctoral degree programs.

The Health Science major offers students the option to study the science of health from an interdisciplinary perspective that prepares them for non-clinical entry-level positions in various aspects of health care and the insurance industry.

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Please use this academic map as a reference guide. Academic advisors are always available to discuss the required courses depending on each student’s needs.

Special Programs:

  • Direct entry from Health Science B.S. to University of New Haven M.S. in Speech and Language Pathology 
  • Direct entry from Health Science B.S. to University of Hartford Doctorate in Physical Therapy  
  • Direct entry from Health Science B.S. to University of Hartford M.S. in  
    Occupational Therapy 

Why Pursue a B.S. in Health Science?

A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Science is the right program for you if you’re seeking a science-focused major that allows you to explore your curiosity in multiple fields of study. Those with a passion for human health and well-being will find room to grow and explore as a health sciences major. Our program develops a strong foundational knowledge of the core concepts required in most medical-related jobs, and students finish the program fully prepared for fulfilling careers in health care or further graduate study. Research opportunities and internship experiences are built into the undergraduate curriculum.

Health Science at USJ: Focus on Holistic Health

  • Coursework and experiential learning emphasize disease prevention, management, and treatment
  • Students have opportunities to expand their health sciences focus to public health, nutrition, exercise science, health communications, health coaching and more through minors, certificates and concentrations.
  • Core curriculum is rooted in University of Saint Joseph’s values, focusing on the growth and development of the whole person

The Health Science Major provides you with the opportunity to develop a strong science foundation required to excel in a career in healthcare as well as build skills in research, communication, and leadership both in the classroom and in the community.

Laura Christoph, Program Director

Learning Outcomes for Health Science Undergraduate Students

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

  1. Identify health determinants in order to improve equity and access across all populations
  2. Analyze the impact that genetics, epidemiology, and nutrition have on individuals across the life span
  3. Integrate the scientific foundations of disease and disability with clinical reasoning skills in order to enter a health related career
  4. Demonstrate the ability to communicate and collaborate with interdisciplinary professionals
  5. Apply knowledge from the natural, behavioral, social, and health sciences to be able to form preventative and wellness initiatives
  6. Develop an understanding of professional ethics that can be applied in all healthcare professions

I had an open mind when I came to USJ. When I heard there were research opportunities, I immediately jumped and after freshman year got a summer research fellowship at Jackson Laboratories. The opportunity for research with faculty at USJ has been informative and enriching and I’ve grown in both technique and skill. My interests now include understanding human physiology in the disease state.

Syed Ali, Health Science BS`24

HEALTH SCIENCE

Internships and Career Opportunities

Undergraduate research and internship opportunities: Hartford Hospital, Saint Francis Hospital, United Healthcare, Travelers, The Hartford, and more. Graduates of USJ’s Health Science program have the knowledge necessary to serve in numerous facets of the health care field, including health care education, health care coordination, health care communication, marketing assistant in insurance companies, non-profit organizations, and hospitals.

Advantages

USJ’s innovative Health Science program offers several tracks for students pursuing a career in the health care field: General, Direct-Entry Physician Assistant (PA), and Direct-Entry Pharmacy (Pharm.D). The 3+3 graduate PA and Pharm. D programs prepare students for success while those interested in non-clinical, health-related professions select the general track to gain the background they need to thrive in their field.

Clubs and Organizations

Pre-Health Professions Club | Pre-Pharmacy Club | Public Health Society

Join a club

The University’s Core Values, including Catholic Identity, Development of the Whole Person, Compassionate Service, Academic Excellence, Respect/Integrity, Hospitality, and Multiculturalism/Diversity, are embedded throughout the curriculum: You are encouraged to review these values and see them as the solid foundation from which your professors will guide you to build the skills needed to succeed in the healthcare field.

Laura Christoph, Program Director

Questions?

Contact:
Laura Christoph, Ph.D., NBC-HWC
Program Director and Associate Professor of Health Sciences
Phone: 860.231.5277
Email: [email protected]

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Fill out our inquiry form to learn more about USJ and your program of interest, and discover firsthand what makes our University so unique!

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