Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Health Sciences
Majors Overview August 24, 2014Receive information about a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree program in Health Sciences and its education requirements, coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Health Sciences
Students enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in health sciences are imparted a broad knowledge about the health field through coursework that includes humanities, professional development, mathematics, and natural and social sciences.
Numerous issues within the healthcare field, including medical ethics, healthcare operations and policy, are also covered. Occupations in specific health-related industries or a variety of health related jobs are available to those who complete a bachelor’s degree program. Many universities and colleges offer BS degrees in health sciences.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma. Prospective students seeking admission to some programs may have to earn a relevant certificate, diploma, or associate’s degree.
Coursework
Given the vast field of health sciences, students seeking admission to some BS in Health Sciences programs are allowed to choose from concentrations, such as environmental health or pre-physical therapy, among others. Students can also tailor their coursework in accordance with their career objectives by earning a certificate in a health specialty.
Schools often offer internship opportunities whereby students can gain professional experience. Core coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Organizational management
•Healthcare policy
•Biology
•Medical terminology
•Healthcare ethics
•Physics
•Chemistry
•Environmental health
•Patient care
•Community health
Career Choices
Those who complete a bachelor’s degree program may seek entry-level careers including leadership and management positions. They can choose from popular career options such as:
•Community health educator
•Sonographer
•Pharmaceutical sales rep
•Health services managers
•Health system analyst
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, job growth rates of 23% have been predicted for medical and health service managers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In May 2012, these professionals brought home an average annual wage of $88,580 (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Graduates from the bachelor’s degree program can seek continued education by earning a Master of Health Sciences (M.H.S.) or doctoral degree. A master’s degree program typically includes a health specialty, wherein the students can conduct research after completing advanced coursework. The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Science and Doctor of Health Science (D.H.Sc.) are some doctoral degrees available. Students successfully completing a doctoral degree program can work as postsecondary teachers or clinical researchers, or pursue advanced clinical positions.