A health science degree is an academic degree that encompasses a wide range of studies. It allows students to enter a non-clinical career in the health care industry. For those who are interested in the health or medical fields – or the management of health care services or organizations – this degree is useful for career changes or advancement.
Students can find health science programs on traditional college campuses and online degree programs. A health science degree is often a necessary prerequisite for careers in medical case management, medical or pharmaceutical sales, public health services, corporate wellness and more. It may also qualify students to enter graduate school or certain professional programs such as physical therapy or public health.
Health Science Degree Programs
While some colleges offer associate degrees in health science, they usually serve as a foundation for advanced degree studies. The Bachelor of Health Science (BHS) and the Master of Health Science (MHS) are the most common health science degrees. The less-common Doctor of Health Science (D.H.Sc.) degree prepares scholarly professionals in the field.
On most college campuses or online degree programs, the Bachelor of Health Science degree combines coursework in health and wellness, health policy and health program development. Through coursework, volunteerism and internships, students apply theoretical concepts in various community settings. Graduates of bachelor’s degree programs often pursue post-graduate education before or while they pursue a career.
The Master of Health Science degree is a specialized degree at the graduate level. It provides opportunities for further studies and research on various topics related to health and medicine. It also prepares health care professionals for careers in public health. It is a flexible alternative to the Master of Public Health (MPH) degree.
Professional Health Care Programs
Many health science students choose to enter a professional program after earning their bachelor’s degree. The BHS is a good stepping-stone for students who are interested in anesthesiology, audiology, chiropractic, diagnostic testing, environmental health, medical illustration, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physical therapy, public health, speech-language pathology and other health careers. It is also useful for those who wish to pursue a career in health administration, health education or health informatics.
Non-Clinical Health Care Occupations
Graduates of health science programs are most likely to enter non-clinical careers in the health care sector. Child care management, patient advocacy, community relations, family services counseling, health benefits management, health care advocacy, insurance sales, medical equipment marketing, pharmaceutical sales, social services and substance abuse counseling are just a few examples.
Job Outlook and Closing Thoughts
The job outlook for professionals with a health science degree is promising. Health careers are expected to grow faster than other occupations in the coming decades. This is due to a variety of factors, from an aging baby boomer population to a growing demand for better health services.
Salaries vary greatly for health science professionals, depending on the work involved. However, a health science degree is one of the most versatile degrees around. It can open doors to unlimited opportunities in the health care industry. For those who want to impact the future of health care, a health science degree is the way to go.
