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School of Health & Human Sciences

Undergraduate Programs

Department of Health Sciences

Department of Health Sciences undergraduate programs

Major

Health Sciences (B.S.H.S.)

The health sciences major is an interdisciplinary degree program designed to meet the educational needs of three groups of students. The first group includes those who wish to prepare for entry and mid-level positions in for-profit and nonprofit health care organizations such as ambulatory care facilities, assisted living centers, retirement centers, rehabilitation facilities and agencies, and wellness centers.

The second targeted group of students includes those who are seeking admission into graduate health professions programs to include but not limited to dentistry, medicine, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physician assistant, physical therapy, public health, social work, and rehabilitation counseling. The program will also meet the educational needs of students who wish to pursue an accelerated second-degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The interdisciplinary curriculum, which combines basic and health sciences, will allow students to study health sciences and develop an understanding of the complexities of the health care delivery system while simultaneously completing prerequisites for their chosen profession.

The third group consists of licensed health professionals who have already earned an associate degree in an allied health field (i.e., dental hygiene, emergency medical services, occupational therapist assistant, physical therapist assistant, radiation therapy, respiratory care, medical technology, and others), and are interested in upgrading their knowledge and abilities by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in the health sciences.  The program builds on the expertise of licensed health professionals and provides them the opportunity to enhance their formal training and learning.

The B.S.H.S. can be completed 80-99 percent online and is also approved as an IU online program.

View the health sciences major curriculum.

Certificates

Gerontology Studies

As the population ages, the demand for a workforce better able to understand the changes impacting this generation increases. With this certificate program, students gain the skills to work with families and individuals going through this process and are prepared to help them navigate these complicated life challenges. The Gerontology certificate can be completed 100% online and is an IU Online approved program.

View the gerontology certificate curriculum.

Global Health and Rehabilitation

Explore global health systems, roles in health care across countries, and issues in international nutrition and aging populations. Engage virtually with professionals worldwide, fostering cross-cultural connections. Conclude your certificate with a choice between a virtual exchange or study abroad experience, enhancing your cultural competence. Prepare for a dynamic career with knowledge that expands your view of health-care in general. 

Learn more about the global health and rehabilitation certificate

Rehabilitation and Disability Studies

This certificate helps students recognize and address issues that face people with disabilities. Graduates receive entry-level skills and competencies preparing them for professional work in a variety of programs that serve individuals. The Rehabilitation and Disability Studies certificate can be completed 100 percent online and is an IU Online approved program.

View the rehabilitation and disability studies certificate curriculum.

Minor

Serious Illness and Supportive Care

While pursuing a minor in serious illness and supportive care, you'll hone your clinical skills and expand your expertise in working with individuals facing critical health challenges. Designed to furnish you with a robust foundation in the medical, psychological, and ethical dimensions of caring for individuals confronting life-threatening conditions, this minor will elevate your grasp of health care, patient outcomes, and the world of patient-centered care.

Topics range from the origins of serious illness to pain management, palliative care, medical decision-making, and the intricate psychological and social dimensions of patient support. Upon completion of your minor, you'll be equipped with knowledge and skills necessary to provide compassionate, holistic care during individuals' most vulnerable moments.
Learn more about the serious illness and supportive care minor