Health Studies
Our Health Studies major provides students with a core science curriculum that will prepare them to obtain more advanced training in health-related fields that focus on the social, psychological, and public health perspectives. A concentration is also offered in Pre-occupational Therapy for students who intend to pursue a Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree.
Why Choose Health Studies?
Careers in the medical fields require different curriculums to prepare students for their chosen path. Not all of these professions require science-heavy courses, and instead focus on the practical side of health careers. The Health Studies major at Western New England University complements a wide variety of careers such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, and public health. It also offers most of the prerequisites for a doctorate in physical therapy and accelerated nursing programs.
What Will You Learn
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, Anatomy and Physiology, Psychology, Mathematical Analysis, and Statistics, 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 Nutrition and Microbiology. 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 Studies majors may pursue graduate degrees and careers in medical fields such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, health education, patient advocacy, and public and community health, as well as qualify for an accelerated bachelor of science degree in nursing programs.
Clubs and Organizations
Health Studies students may have interests in: Alpha Lambda Delta (First-year honor society), Biology Club, Chemistry Club, and Pre-med Club. Many of our students also participate in varsity and intramural sports, special interest groups, and student government.
Faculty
In this dynamic cross-disciplinary program, you will be mentored by outstanding faculty in the Department of Physical and Biological Sciences who has 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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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
