Students who major in health science combine a broad science literacy including emphasis on biology and chemistry, with knowledge of particular threats to human health from environmental, occupational, and life-style factors. This preparation builds understanding of the role in human health of communicable diseases, conditions of deprivation or excess, technological hazards, and societal stressors. The advanced student integrates this preparation with a study of individual and community strategies for protecting and enhancing human health.

In addition to College academic requirements, the health science major must complete 8 required Division IV courses and 4 upper level (i.e., 300-400 level) electives. In addition, 4 electives are required from specific disciplines, namely human development, statistics, psychology and sociology.

BIO 112/113 Human Anatomy and Physiology I/II
CHM 110/111 Environmental Chemistry I/II
BIO 332 Microbiology
BIO 402 Genetics
BIO 406 Epidemiology
BIO 408 Toxicology

4 upper level electives from Division IV
1 elective in Human Development
1 elective in Statistics
1 elective in Psychology
1 elective in Sociology

Electives from other Divisions or from offerings within the Colleges of Worcester Consortium are acceptable with permission of the Division IV chair. Appropriate electives deal with topics such as human development, health and development in a social context, or particular problem areas in health such as drugs, sexuality, violence, or nutrition. Students may also take the Emergency Medical Technician course.

Students who anticipate graduate study in the health field are encouraged to add Calculus (1 or 2 courses) and Physics with laboratory (1 or 2 courses). Some particular graduate programs have other requirements and students should choose electives to meet those standards.

For more information, please contact:
Susan Swedis, Ph.D.
Chair, Division of Environmental, Natural, and Technological Sciences
(508) 849-3442
sswedis@annamaria.edu