Honors Sciences and the Humanities, B.S.: Medicine, Global Health, and the Humanities Concentration

Program Overview

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The Honors Sciences and the Humanities program with a concentration in Medicine, Global Health, and the Humanities combines rigorous science coursework with in-depth humanities exploration, preparing students for careers in medicine, research, public health, and more. The program emphasizes critical thinking, communication skills, and a global perspective, equipping graduates to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and humanistic understanding.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

The Bachelor of Science degree (B.S.) in Honors Sciences and the Humanities (HSH) with a concentration in Medicine, Global Health, and the Humanities is designed for capable, curious students interested in a broad and challenging course of study preparing them for various careers and a lifetime of active citizenship.

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Objectives:

• Encourage pre-med students to broaden their educational experiences for improved medical school applications and professional employability.
• Allow relevance for other pre-health pursuits (nursing, physician assistant studies, healthcare administration).
• Enhance communication of scientific thinking through the lens of the humanities.
• Equip students with portable skills (critical thinking, writing, problem solving) for career flexibility.

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Program Description:

This interdisciplinary program combines rigorous science coursework with in-depth humanities exploration, fostering well-rounded individuals who can bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and humanistic understanding. This program is particularly beneficial for pre-med students seeking to stand out in their applications and future careers.

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Outline:

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Course Schedule:

The program's structure is divided into four years of study, each year focusing on specific subject areas while fulfilling broader university core curriculum requirements. The schedule incorporates science courses, humanities courses, and other general education requirements.

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Individual Modules:

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First Year:

• Fall: Principles of Chemistry I & II; Statistical Methods; English (introductory or Honors); American Government; Oral Communication; Honors Learning Community Group.
• Spring: Biomedical Ethics; Biology II; Organic Chemistry II & Lab; Foreign Language II.

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Third Year:

• Fall: Molecular Biochemistry; Physics (General or Principles); Foreign Language III; Individual Honors Research (Honors course with credit for research); Upper-Level Biology course.
• Spring: General Psychology OR Introduction to Sociology OR Intersectionalities: Race, Class, and Gender in a Global World OR approved alternate course; Physics (General or Principles); Foreign Language IV; Honors Seminar in Sciences; Upper-Level Biology course.

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Fourth Year:

• Fall: Individual Honors Research; Approved Upper-Level Concentration Course in the Humanities; Creative Arts; History of the United States to 1877; Principles of Economics I OR II OR combined course.
• Spring: Individual Honors Research (Honors thesis course); Multicultural Requirement; History of the United States since 1877; Honors College Summit Experience Course; Submit Honors Thesis.

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Module Descriptions:

Each module within the program focuses on a specific area of study:

• Sciences: Rigorous coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics forms the scientific foundation of the program.
• Humanities: Courses in philosophy, literature, history, and art provide a deep understanding of human values, ethics, and cultural contexts.
• Global Health: This concentration specifically explores the health challenges faced by various populations worldwide and emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to addressing these issues.
• Other coursework: Additional general education requirements in areas like communication, social sciences, and creative arts contribute to well-rounded development.

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Assessment:

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Assessment methods:

• Coursework: Regular assignments, quizzes, and exams assess student understanding of individual course material.
• Honors Research: The Individual Honors Research modules involve in-depth research projects with faculty supervision, culminating in a written thesis and oral defense.
• Honors Seminar: The Honors Seminar in Sciences provides a platform for students to present their research findings and engage in critical discussion.
• Standardized Tests: Pre-med students may take standardized tests (MCAT) to demonstrate their readiness for medical school.

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Assessment criteria:

• Depth of knowledge: Demonstrating comprehension and critical analysis within each subject area.
• Research skills: Effectively conducting and presenting original research in the Honors thesis.
• Communication skills: Clearly and persuasively communicating scientific and humanistic concepts through written and oral presentations.
• Critical thinking: Applying analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex issues in healthcare and the humanities.
• Global perspective: Demonstrating awareness and understanding of global health challenges and intercultural perspectives.

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Teaching:

• Teaching methods:
• Interactive lectures:
Engaging students through discussion and active participation.
• Small group seminars: Encouraging in-depth analysis and peer-to-peer learning.
• Laboratory experiments: Providing hands-on experience in scientific research techniques.
• Independent research: Offering opportunities for students to pursue their own research interests.
• Faculty: Experienced and dedicated faculty with expertise in their respective fields, committed to supporting students' academic and professional development.
• Unique approaches:
• Honors Learning Community:
First-year students participate in a cohort-based learning experience, fostering community and academic support.
• Interdisciplinary curriculum: Blending science and humanities perspectives provides a holistic educational experience.
• Individualized research opportunities: Students engage in original research projects under the guidance of faculty mentors.

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Careers:

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Career paths:

• Medicine: The program provides a strong foundation for medical school and subsequent careers as physicians, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals.
• Research: Graduates can pursue research careers in various fields, including biomedical sciences, public health, and global health.
• Public health: With its emphasis on global health challenges, the program prepares students for careers in public health organizations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
• Policy and advocacy: Graduates can leverage their understanding of science and humanities to influence policy and advocate for health equity and social justice.
• Education: Students can pursue careers in teaching, science communication, and health education.

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Opportunities:

• Strong preparation for medical school and other graduate programs.

• Development of transferable skills highly valued in various professions.

• Opportunities for research, internships, and networking with professionals.

• Potential for global health careers addressing health disparities worldwide.

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Outcomes:

• Graduates have been admitted to top medical schools and other graduate programs.

• Alumni have secured successful careers in diverse fields related to health, science, and the humanities.

• The program prepares students to become well-rounded individuals who can make a positive impact on society.
• Study Abroad: Students have the opportunity to participate in study abroad programs to gain global perspectives on healthcare and cultural diversity.
• Student Organizations: The program offers opportunities to engage with like-minded students through organizations such as the Pre-Med Society and the Global Health Initiative.