Science for Health Professions, Associate in Science (HSCI)
Program Overview
The Science for Health Professions program provides a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and laboratory sciences for students aspiring to transfer to allied health or pre-medical programs. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and hands-on experiences, students develop a comprehensive understanding of scientific principles and concepts, preparing them for careers in healthcare-related fields. The program's experienced faculty and experiential learning opportunities ensure that graduates are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen professions.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Science for Health Professions Program is an Associate in Science degree program tailored for individuals aspiring to transfer and continue their education in allied health or pre-medical fields at other institutions. The program provides the essential foundation in basic sciences and mathematics required for various healthcare-related programs, including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Baccalaureate Nursing, Physician Assistant, Pharmacy, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, Optometry, and Podiatry.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this program, students should be able to:
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of biological and chemical principles and concepts relevant to the health sciences.
- Perform selected laboratory tasks effectively in the biological and chemical sciences.
- Utilize the scientific method to gather, analyze, and interpret data, and draw sound conclusions.
- Demonstrate proficiency in mathematical principles and concepts.
Outline:
Program Structure:
The Science for Health Professions program is structured to provide a solid foundation in the essential scientific principles and mathematical concepts required for allied health and pre-medical professions. The program comprises a total of 61-70 credit hours, including coursework in biology, chemistry, mathematics, laboratory sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
Course Schedule:
The program is designed to be completed over four semesters, with students taking a combination of required and elective courses each semester. The course schedule is as follows:
First Semester:
- ENG 100: English Composition I (3 credits)
- BIO 110: General Biology I or BIO 150: Human Anatomy and Physiology I (4 credits)
- CHE 101: Introduction to General Chemistry or CHE 110: General Chemistry I (4 credits)
- Mathematics Elective (3-4 credits)
Second Semester:
- ENG 112: English Composition II: Writing About Literature (3 credits)
- COMM 100: Interpersonal Communication or COMM 111: Public Speaking (3 credits)
- Mathematics Required Elective (3-4 credits)
- Laboratory Science Required Electives (4 credits)
- Diversity and Social Justice and Global Understanding designated Social Science or Humanities course (3 credits)
Third Semester:
- CS 100: Introduction to Information Technology or CS 101: Introduction to Computer Science (3 credits)
- Mathematics/Science Required Elective (3-5 credits)
- Laboratory Science Required Elective (4-5 credits)
- Social Science Elective (3 credits)
- Humanities Elective (3 credits)
Fourth Semester:
- Mathematics/Science Required Elective (3-5 credits)
- Mathematics/Science Required Elective (3-5 credits)
- Social Science Elective (3 credits)
- Open Elective (3 credits)
- Open Elective (3 credits)
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
Students in the Science for Health Professions program are assessed through various methods to evaluate their understanding and proficiency in the subject matter. These assessment methods may include:
- Exams and quizzes
- Laboratory reports and assignments
- Research papers and presentations
- Class participation
- Homework assignments
Assessment Criteria:
The assessment criteria used in the program are designed to measure students' achievement of the program's learning objectives. These criteria may include:
- Accuracy and completeness of knowledge
- Critical thinking skills
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving abilities
- Laboratory skills
- Professionalism
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The Science for Health Professions program employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and enhance student engagement. These methods may include:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Laboratory experiments
- Problem-solving exercises
- Case studies
- Group projects
Faculty:
The program's faculty consists of experienced and knowledgeable professors with expertise in their respective fields. They are committed to providing students with a supportive and challenging learning environment.
Unique Approaches:
The program incorporates experiential learning opportunities through laboratory experiments and assignments, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
The Science for Health Professions program prepares graduates for various career paths in the healthcare field. Graduates can pursue careers as:
- Allied health professionals (e.g., medical assistants, physical therapy aides, occupational therapy aides)
- Pre-medical professionals (e.g., medical students, dental students, veterinary students)
- Research assistants
- Laboratory technicians
- Science educators
- Science writers
Job Market:
The healthcare industry is experiencing a growing demand for qualified professionals, and graduates of the Science for Health Professions program are well-positioned to take advantage of this demand.
Income Potential:
The income potential for careers in the healthcare field varies depending on factors such as experience, education, and location. However, graduates of the Science for Health Professions program can expect to earn competitive salaries in their chosen fields.
