Health Sciences
Our rigorous and engaging Health Sciences curriculum at Western New England University focuses on connecting theoretical principles to laboratory practice. After studying a combination of introductory and advanced courses in biology, chemistry, and physics, together with specialized topics in health science, you will be well-prepared to further your education in doctorate or master’s degree programs in the medical and other health-related fields or enter the scientific workforce.
Why Choose Health Sciences?
We live in an age that has been called the Biology Century, a time when science is having a dramatic impact on human health and our understanding of disease and genetics. Improving health and the prevention of disease and disability impacts not only individuals, but also our global economy and society at large. The study of Health Sciences puts you at the forefront of understanding these critical connections, while positioning you to play a role in this exciting time for humanity.
What Will You Study?
You will be immersed in the study of biology to understand the basic structure and functioning of cells and organisms. You will take courses in General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Calculus, Statistics, and Physics, as well as courses in the general liberal arts curriculum. You will be able to explore advanced topics in our health science elective courses on topics such as Epidemiology, Nutrition, Regeneration, Microbiology, Environmental Influences on Human Health, and the Effects of Protein Misfolding on Human Disease. With a strong emphasis on lab work, you will have access to the modern labs and equipment of the Center for the Sciences and Pharmacy
Career Opportunities
There is a growing demand for medical professionals in hospitals, private practices and businesses, nursing homes, and a variety of other healthcare settings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, health and medical sciences majors have the most promising career prospects. Health Sciences majors may pursue graduate degrees in medical fields such as medicine, pharmacy, or Physician Assistant studies, and professional programs in other health-related fields, such as nursing, physical therapy, and medical assisting. Our recent graduates are pursuing a PharmD at the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences at Western New England University, a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree at Western New England University, a Master in Physician Assistant Studies at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, a Master of Science in Nursing at Columbia University, and a Master of Arts in Community Psychology at the Central Connecticut State University.
Faculty
In this dynamic cross-disciplinary program, you will be mentored by outstanding faculty in the Department of Physical and Biological Sciences who have studied at institutions such as University of Massachusetts, Amherst and UMass Medical School; Dartmouth; Kent State; Brown; University, Columbia; Yale; University of Oregon; and the University of Texas at Austin. Our distinguished science faculty conducts fascinating research, yet outstanding classroom teaching is always each professor's top priority.
Unique Learning Opportunities
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Internships and Field Work
Depending on their areas of study, students in the Health Sciences major have a wide variety of internship opportunities through which to field-test their career interests. Recent internship sites include Active Chiropractic, Apple Rehab, Baystate Health, Baystate Medical Center, International Service Learning, Lens Crafters, The New England Center for Children, and many others.
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Study Abroad: Become a Global Citizen
Today’s workforce needs professionals who see the big picture. The College of Arts and Sciences will help you to become a student of world cultures and histories as they relate to your studies while making valuable contributions in your explorations. Whether you participate in a faculty-led summer seminar course or spend a semester at an international university, the experience will broaden your horizons and help you compete in the global landscape.
Study Abroad
