Program Overview
The Medical Studies BS program at ASU prepares students for careers in health-related fields and for applying to medical and professional schools. It provides a strong foundation in both science and health systems knowledge, emphasizing communication, ethics, critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum, clinical experiences, and mentorship to help students succeed in their career aspirations. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in allied health, education, government, healthcare industries, and nonprofit organizations, as well as for pursuing advanced degrees in medicine and other health professions.
Program Outline
Medical Studies BS Program - ASU
Degree Overview:
The Medical Studies BS program at ASU prepares students for careers in health-related fields and for applying to medical and professional schools. It provides a strong foundation in both science and health systems knowledge, emphasizing communication, ethics, critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership - all crucial for success in healthcare.
Objectives:
- Provide the academic prerequisites for medical and professional schools.
- Prepare students for required postgraduate entrance exams, like the revised MCAT.
- Offer customization to meet the specific prerequisites of various health professions programs.
- Enable students to learn from experienced healthcare professionals.
- Facilitate the selection of clinically related internships and electives.
Outline:
The program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering various areas:
- Science: Biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
- Health Systems: Public health, healthcare delivery systems, healthcare policy, and healthcare ethics.
- Communication and Professional Development: Communication skills, critical thinking, teamwork, leadership, and ethics.
- Clinical Experience: Internships, shadowing, and volunteer opportunities in healthcare settings. The program's structure offers flexibility for students to tailor their learning paths based on their chosen health profession goals.
Assessment:
Assessment methods include:
- Exams: Traditional exams and standardized tests like the MCAT.
- Assignments: Written assignments, presentations, and case studies.
- Clinical Experiences: Evaluation of clinical skills and performance during internships and shadowing experiences. The program emphasizes continuous feedback and improvement throughout the learning process.
Teaching:
The program employs various teaching methods:
- Interactive lectures: Engaging lectures with opportunities for active student participation.
- Small group discussions: Encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving through collaborative learning.
- Laboratory exercises: Practical application of scientific knowledge and skills.
- Clinical experiences: Hands-on learning in real-world healthcare settings.
- Mentorship: Guidance and support from experienced faculty and healthcare professionals. The program boasts a dedicated faculty with expertise in various health-related fields, including medical doctors, nurses, and public health professionals.
Careers:
Graduates of the program are prepared for a wide range of careers in:
- Allied Health: Occupational therapist, physical therapist, respiratory therapist, and more.
- Education: Health educator, health science teacher, and others.
- Government: Public health official, healthcare policy analyst, and more.
- Healthcare Industries: Medical device sales, pharmaceutical marketing, and more.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Health program coordinator, community outreach specialist, and more. They are also well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and other health professions.
Other:
- The program offers study abroad opportunities to gain global health experience and cultural awareness.
- Graduates have a successful track record of admissions to medical and professional schools.
- The program provides resources and support to help students succeed in their career aspirations.
- The program is offered at ASU's Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, and West Valley campuses, as well as online.
- The program has moderate math intensity, requiring courses like MAT 170 - Precalculus.
- Students can pursue concurrent degrees with certain limitations due to curriculum overlap.
