Health care is one of the largest sectors of the U.S. and global economies with job growth expanding at rates much faster than other industries. TCU’s Harris College of Nursing & Health Sciences is continuing to meet the critical need for health care professionals through its newest undergraduate major, the Bachelor of Science in allied health sciences.
This program provides a multidisciplinary approach to the study of health sciences and prepares students for two career pathways: (1) non-clinical careers in the health care industry and (2) preparation for post-graduate training in clinical health professions programs such as physician assistant, occupational therapy and physical therapy, among others.
Allied health science is the study of human health and the application of that knowledge toward improving the health of individuals, communities, and society. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects health care occupations will grow 18% overall by 2026, which translates into 2.4 million new jobs.
“By creating a flexible degree pathway that leads to varied career opportunities and preparation for professional clinical degrees, we are meeting the needs of both student demand for greater opportunities in health care education and our society’s need for more health care practitioners,” relates Christopher R. Watts, Ph.D., the Marilyn & Morgan Davies Dean of Harris College.
“This major combines the study of health care with a strong foundation of scientific principles and the ability to customize a degree plan based on the student’s interests.”
The allied health sciences major consists of required core courses that cover topics such as global health care systems, allied health professions, epidemiology, biostatistics, and health care teams. Electives tied to the major allow students to customize their degree plan, including options to choose an emphasis area in kinesiology, social work or speech-language pathology.
Students can also study abroad in the summer through courses offered by Harris College in locations such as Madrid, Spain; London, England; and Dublin, Ireland. Future opportunities for students include internships in health care facilities and with health care professionals which match the student’s future career interests.
The unique structure of the degree plan leads to varied career and graduate opportunities which has attracted great interest from students, with over 100 enrolled majors in the first two years that the degree has been offered.