Navigating Your Path to a Health Sciences Degree: A Comprehensive Guide

The field of health sciences is vast and ever-evolving, offering numerous opportunities for those passionate about human health and well-being. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the Health Sciences programs, particularly focusing on the Bachelor of Science degree, its tracks, and related information relevant to students planning their academic journey.

Introduction: Charting Your Course in Health Sciences

For students with a keen interest in human health and a desire to pursue health-focused careers, a degree in Health Sciences can be the ideal starting point. The Health Sciences program is designed to provide a solid educational foundation in basic and health-related sciences, opening doors to diverse career paths in medicine, research, public health, and more.

Degree Pathways and Transfer Options

Many students begin their higher education journey at institutions like Valencia College, aiming to transfer to a university such as the University of Central Florida (UCF) to complete their Bachelor's degree. Degree pathways are designed for students who plan to transfer to the University of Central Florida as a junior to complete a Bachelor’s degree after completing an Associate in Arts degree at Valencia. These pathways are structured to ensure a seamless transition, allowing students to build a strong foundation before moving on to more specialized studies.

Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree Requirements

Students are encouraged to develop an education plan that includes the courses required for their A.A. degree. To be eligible for financial aid, courses must count toward the Associate in Arts degree (36 credits of general education and 24 credits of electives).

Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences: An Overview

The Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences is designed for students with an interest in human health who plan to pursue health-focused careers. The Department of Health Sciences in the College of Health Professions and Sciences at the University of Central Florida offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences, a minor in Health Sciences, and a Master of Science degree in Health Promotion and Behavioral Science. The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences degree program provides students with a comprehensive educational background in health-related sciences including foundational courses required for admission to graduate and professional degree programs in the health professions.

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Program Tracks: Tailoring Your Education

The curriculum is divided into two career-focused tracks, Pre-Clinical and Health Promotion. These tracks provide students with the flexibility to prepare for multiple careers in the health sciences including medicine, dentistry, physician assistant, physical therapy, occupational therapy, pharmacy, public health, health education and wellness, and others.

Pre-Clinical Track

The Pre-Clinical track provides students with a solid educational background in basic and health-related sciences, while providing the foundation courses required for admission to graduate level clinical programs including but not limited to medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, optometry, physician assistant/associate, and other health-related professions. This track is a good option for pre-med students who are pursuing careers as a physician, physician assistant, dentist, pharmacist and other healthcare careers.

GPA Requirement: Students must have a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 for acceptance into the Pre-Clinical track. Students selecting the Pre-Clinical track are classified as "pending" until the program verifies that they meet the GPA requirements for this track. Students who meet the requirements are changed to the Pre-Clinical track.

Health Promotion Track

The Health Promotion track provides students with a solid educational background in basic and health-related sciences and is designed for students pursuing careers as a physical therapist, occupational therapist, clinical/behavioral health researcher, public health specialist and other health-related fields. Explore health promotion principles and concepts through courses such as preventative health care, epidemiology of chronic diseases and medical self assessment.

Core Curriculum and Course Requirements

The program’s core curriculum includes courses such as human disease and pathophysiology, nutrition, pharmacology, preventive health care, epidemiology, and research in the health sciences.

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General Education Program (GEP) and Common Program Prerequisites (CPP)

Courses listed below under the GEP and CPP categories usually are completed during the first 60 credit hours and may be taken at an institution within the Florida College System.

Minimum Grade Requirements

A minimum grade of "C" (2.0) in each program prerequisite course, in each core requirement course, and in each restricted elective is required. Students should note that graduate programs may require a higher level of performance for admission. No transfer course will be accepted with a grade lower than a "C" (2.0).

GPA Requirements for Graduation

Students must achieve a minimum 3.0 overall GPA for graduation.

GPA Between 2.5-2.99: Students who do not meet the minimum overall 3.0 GPA graduation requirement, and have an overall GPA between 2.5-2.99, will be automatically moved to the Health Sciences - Health Promotion track during their graduation term and will earn the Health Sciences - Health Promotion track B.S. if they have met all other program requirements.

GPA Less Than 2.5: Students with an overall GPA less than 2.5 will be automatically moved to the General Health Studies, B.S. degree during their graduation term if they have met all other program requirements.

Beyond the Classroom: Experiential Learning

As a health sciences student, you will have opportunities outside of the classroom that will expand your knowledge and skills and help you achieve your career goal. Experiences like engaging with faculty in research, internships, community service projects, study abroad and professional development, allow you to explore a wide range of career opportunities and build your professional resume in preparation for applying to professional/graduate schools or entry-level employment.

Faculty and Program Reputation

Our expert faculty are invested in your success and provide you with the foundation of knowledge, skills and experiences you need to advance your studies and provide a foundation for your next steps in pursuing a health or medically-related career. College Choice ranked UCF’s program No. 17 of the 35 best Bachelor’s in Health Sciences degrees.

Career Prospects in Health Sciences

Occupations in health sciences are projected to grow roughly 15% through 2029. Build a professional portfolio full of extracurricular experiences to aid in applying to graduate programs or seeking employment.

Master of Science in Health Promotion and Behavioral Science (HPBS)

The Master of Science in Health Promotion and Behavioral Science includes thesis and non-thesis options. The HPBS program trains students to conduct systematic reviews, translate scientific research into evidence-based practice, and design and implement innovative health promotion, education, and advocacy programs and campaigns aimed at preventing and reducing the risk of chronic disease and its associated impacts. Students also gain skills in behavior modification, health coaching, and health communications. The curriculum includes coursework required to achieve competencies needed for specialty certification eligibility as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and a Certified Health and Wellness Coach.

Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities

Are you looking for a way to afford more classes this semester? View ScholarshipInformationTo see if you qualify for the Bachelor's Degree scholarship and view application instructions, visit the Scholarship Information webpage.

Admission Deadlines

Getting StartedFall 2025July 14: Priority Application DeadlineAug. 18: General Application DeadlineSpring 2026Dec. 1: Priority Application DeadlineJan. 5: General Application DeadlineOther Important Dates »Your complete application, including the online form and official transcripts showing your posted degree and applicable prerequisite coursework, must be received by the College by the application deadline. Submitting by the priority application deadline ensures your admission is processed for your preferred semester. Applications received after the general deadline will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For more information on program requirements, please refer to the Admissions Requirements for Baccalaureate Students.

Seminole State College's Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences

Seminole State College also offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS), which is an interdisciplinary completion program focused on career and academic advancement for current practitioners as well as to deliver a well-rounded generalist curriculum by providing the skills, competencies, and values needed to advance and professionally contribute to the evolving health care industry.

Why Seminole State?

Outstanding reputation: Seminole State has a proven track record of preparing healthcare graduates for success.Industry involvement: The program was developed with direct input from more than 50 Central Florida healthcare partners.Seamless transition: With your associate degree, you can easily transfer into the health sciences bachelor's degree.Dedicated faculty: Faculty are "scholar-practitioners" with industry experience as well as academic credentials. Affordable tuition: Seminole State has significantly lower costs than Florida's universities.Flexible schedule: Classes are offered online for convenience.

Program Details

Health SciencesType: Bachelor of ScienceMajor Code: HS-BSCIP: 1105100005Program DescriptionThe Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) is an interdisciplinary completion program focused on career and academic advancement for current practitioners as well as to deliver a well-rounded generalist curriculum by providing the skills, competencies, and values needed to advance and professionally contribute to the evolving health care industry.

Specialization Tracks at Seminole State College

The BSHS program will include four specialty tracks: Respiratory Therapy and Clinical Leadership, Health Coaching and Human Performance, Healthcare Management and Professional Services, and Clinical Science.

Clinical Science Specialization

The Clinical Science Specialization is designed for pre-professionals who intend to pursue a career in the healthcare provider role. Students interested in earning credit at Palmer Chiropractic will need to consult with their advisor to ensure they are enrolled in the appropriate courses.

Respiratory Therapy and Clinical Leadership Specialization

The Respiratory Therapy and Clinical Leadership Specialization allows graduates of an accredited Associate Degree program, eligible for the National Board of Respiratory Therapy credential, to complete their bachelor's degree. This degree program is designed to provide respiratory therapists with a deeper understanding of healthcare operations, economics, leadership, health information management, ethics and research methods.

Health Coaching and Human Performance Specialization

The Health Coaching and Human Performance Specialization has been developed in response to the emerging demand for wellness professionals. Companies are seeing wellness as an investment toward decreasing healthcare costs. Prevention-based health coaching models are being implemented to help patients manage chronic diseases and prevent disease occurrence. Additionally, community-based wellness programs are increasing. Labor market trends also indicate a strong and growing need for wellness professionals in healthcare settings, fitness organizations and corporate settings.Health coaches promote wellness through the development and implementation of strategies to improve the health of individuals and communities. Health coaches work in hospitals, nonprofit organizations, government, physician's offices, private businesses and colleges.

Healthcare Management and Professional Services Specialization

The Healthcare Management and Professional Services Specialization is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide career advancement opportunities for current health profession practitioners as well as individuals seeking future careers in healthcare.Medical and health services managers, also called healthcare executives or healthcare administrators, plan, direct and coordinate medical and health services. They may manage an entire facility or specialize in managing a specific clinical area or department. They may also manage a medical practice group of physicians. Most medical and health services managers work in offices in healthcare facilities including hospitals, nursing homes and group medical practices as well as with insurance providers in the area of health-related sales and services.

Program Admission Requirements at Seminole State College

Applicants seeking admission to Seminole State College's bachelor's degree programs must comply with the College's General Admissions procedures. In addition, students must meet the following program-specific requirements listed below prior to being accepted into upper-division coursework:• Have a 2.0 or higher GPA in previous course work.• Completion of an Associate degree from a regionally accredited institution.• Students who have earned a minimum of 60 college credit hours from any regionally accredited institution may request to have their admission reviewed and determined by the faculty committee.* An Associate of Science (AS) or an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in a health-related field from a regionally accredited institution satisfies the Foundation requirements detailed in the Bachelor of Science (BS) Health Science degree program. Students with any other degree must complete the Foundation courses with a grade of "C" or higher.

Degree-Specific Requirements

Associate in Arts degree: Students entering with an AA degree from a regionally accredited institution will be required to complete the foundation courses listed for the degree. Some foundation courses may be waived if a student possesses a medical industry certificate. This certificate and official transcripts must be submitted to the Registrar's office and reviewed by the department for consideration to the program.Associate in Science or Associate in Applied Science, Health-related area: Students entering with an AS or AAS in a health-related area from a regionally accredited institution will be required to complete any additional general education courses to meet the 36 credit hour requirement within the different categories.Associate in Science or Associate in Applied Science, Non-Health related area: Students entering with an AS or AAS in a non-health related area from a regionally accredited institution will be required to complete any additional general education courses to meet the 36 credit hour requirement within the different categories. This student will also be required to complete the "Foundation" courses as listed in the program plan.Please note: Students who are required to participate in clinical rotations (Community Paramedic) or internships may be required to pass a criminal background check and/or drug screen as per the organization's requirements.

Course Descriptions

HSC 3041: Information Literacy and Research Methods for Health Sciences

This course provides an overview of technology and information systems employed in the healthcare industry today. Students will acquire the knowledge, skills and abilities to succeed in college-level research by identifying, evaluating and using diverse information sources from the internet and library databases. This course follows the research process with a health science focus that includes developing topics and thesis statements, creating search strategies and critically evaluating and ethically citing sources. These research and critical thinking skills are crucial for success, not only in college, but also in the health science workplace. This six-module online course teaches students how to apply information literacy competencies to the research process. Each module addresses one of the six Frames identified by the Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education (ACRL, 2015) which employs the concepts of meta-literacy, metacognition and threshold concepts.

HSC 4450: Health Communication

This course is designed to enhance student understanding of the specific health benefits that come from positive communication between medical professionals and patients, clients, staff or other lay audiences. Students will be exposed to a variety of communication strategies relevant to the health professions.

HSC 4921: Pre-Capstone

This course is designed to prepare students to take HSC 4922 Capstone Project in Health Sciences or HSC 4922H Honors Capstone Project in Health Sciences. Students will identify their project topic, select group members, complete a team charter and hold their first learning team meeting. Internship students will develop and submit a proposal for their selected internship. Students must register for this course the semester before they plan to take the capstone course.

HSA 4111: Healthcare Economics

This course examines the principles of economics as it relates to health systems and applies this information to current healthcare issues. Topics include healthcare markets, supply, demand and evaluation of the healthcare system. The role of government entities and health disparities will be explored. This course examines the principles of economics as it relates to health systems and applies this information to current healthcare issues. Topics include healthcare markets, supply, demand and evaluation of the healthcare system. The role of government entities and health disparities will be explored.

HSA 4180: Legal and Ethical Issues in Healthcare

This course provides an overview of the legal and ethical aspects faced by healthcare consumers, practitioners, administrators and healthcare facilities. Students will be introduced to the structure of the American legal system and the principles of health law. Ethical theories and philosophies and their application to various components of the healthcare delivery system will be introduced. This course provides an overview of the legal and ethical aspects faced by healthcare consumers, practitioners, administrators and healthcare facilities. Students will be introduced to the structure of the American legal system and the principles of health law. Ethical theories and philosophies and their application to various components of the healthcare delivery system will be introduced. Medical professional ethics, HIPAA privacy and security issues will be reinforced.

HSA 4303: Research Methods for Health Professionals

This course incorporates basic research methods, processes and models in analyzing research studies and incorporating current quality standards and evidence-based protocols into healthcare. Students are introduced to the formal study of research methods, including literature search, hypothesis generation and testing, sampling theory, research design, data analysis and report-writing. This course incorporates basic research methods, processes and models in analyzing research studies and incorporating current quality standards and evidence-based protocols into healthcare. Students are introduced to the formal study of research methods, including literature search, hypothesis generation and testing, sampling theory, research design, data analysis and report-writing. Application of these methods will be utilized to research health-related and health administration-related topics.

HSC 4922: Capstone Project in Health Sciences

This course is a culminating experience for Health Science majors involving a substantive project that demonstrates a synthesis of learning accumulated in the major, including broadly comprehensive knowledge of the discipline and its methodologies. With faculty approval, students will complete a capstone project that aligns with their career goals in the form of a team project or internship. This course is a culminating experience for Health Science majors involving a substantive project that demonstrates a synthesis of learning accumulated in the major, including broadly comprehensive knowledge of the discipline and its methodologies. With faculty approval, students will complete a capstone project that aligns with their career goals in the form of a team project or internship.

HSC 4652: Leadership and Management in Healthcare

This course introduces students to an overview of the basics of leadership and management with an emphasis on the roles, functions and skills necessary in the changing healthcare environment. Organizational patterns of various types of healthcare institutions, such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient services and community agencies are analyzed.

HSC 4588: Health Education Methods

This course focuses on the delivery of client-specific health education. An emphasis will be placed on assessing and delivering educational programs that include health, wellness, disease, disease prevention and quality of life. healthcare system.

HSA 4191: Healthcare Policy and Ethics

This course promotes the analysis of key healthcare issues with an emphasis on healthcare policies and initiatives that shape healthcare delivery. An analysis of the current structure of profit versus non-profit healthcare organizations, financing healthcare and the impact of financial stakeholders will be emphasized. Ethical issues that develop when government, the private sector and consumers vie to influence healthcare are presented as a component of evidence-based policy revisions.

ZOO 4747C

ZOO 4747C is for Palmer Chiropractic students only.

Technical Elective Courses

Complete 15 credits.

BSC 2010C: General Biology I

In this course students will apply the scientific method to critically examine and explain the natural world. This course will cover molecular biology, cellular biology, genetics, metabolism, and replication. This course is primarily for science majors or students with a strong biology background. It is a study of the molecular and cellular composition and function of living organisms. Emphasis will be given to structure, chemical metabolism, and genetic mechanisms. Laboratory illustrates basic biological principles. Lab fee required.

BSC 2011C: General Biology II

A continuation of General Biology I, this course is designed for science majors or students requiring a full year of biology. Emphasis will be given to evolutionary relationships of living organisms. Structure, form and function of both plants and animals will be studied and ecological principles summarized. Required laboratory will correlate with lecture topics.

BSC 2085C: Human Anatomy and Physiology I

This is the first part of a two-semester course that investigates in detail the structure and function of humans. The course is primarily designed for students of healthcare professions, biology or physical education. We will utilize a "system" approach, examining each organ system at the cellular, tissue, organ and system levels and discuss interactions with other systems. Emphasis will be placed on the homeo…

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