Applied Health Science

Bachelor of Science in Applied
Health Science
College of Health and Human Services

The applied health science degree program is designed to tailor a liberal arts degree to the health care field. While there are six specializations in the applied health science degree, the allied health specialization can be completed in its entirety at BGSU Firelands and is intended to provide the problem solving and critical thinking skills needed for upward mobility in the allied health professions. The program prepares students for graduate school in many allied health and related disciplines. The program is ideal for students who hold an associate degree in a health-related field and wish to pursue a bachelor's degree because up to 40 semester hours of the professional training courses and clinical hours can be counted toward completion of the degree.
For information about the other three specializations, health care administration, applied microbiology or health science, see the main campus curriculum guide for applied health science.

Allied Health

The allied health specialization is designed for students who have already completed technical training in a field such as respiratory care, optometry, dental hygiene, medical laboratory technician, radiology, physical therapy, health information, perfusion technology or surgical and medical assisting. Subject to college approval, students holding an associate degree in a health-related field may transfer up to 40 semester hours of professional studies courses toward the degree. This specialization offers baccalaureate courses needed for advancement in the health care field.

Curriculum

The curriculum provides students with an appropriate academic foundation while preparing them for the dynamic changes and issues that are shaping the health care field. This includes courses in human development, computer science, statistics, technical writing and medical ethics.
For the allied health specialization, some courses are taken during the completion of an associate degree in a health-related field. This includes general education and basic science and mathematics courses along with the discipline-specific technical hours that are part of the student's associate degree in a health related field. The remaining courses usually require two years or less to complete. The University requires a minimum of 40 semester hours at the 300-course level or higher for the baccalaureate degree. Students who are beginning the associate degree and looking ahead to the AHS degree should select such courses whenever possible.

Preparation for College

In addition to obtaining a strong background in the basic sciences, students entering health care fields must have a sense of responsibility and strong communication skills.