Biology-Health Sciences Major

Kinesiology, Science and Mathematics Division

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Degree:

Bachelor of Science

Description:

The biology major – health sciences emphasis provides the fundamental knowledge, experience and analytical ability to enable students to successfully pursue further education toward a profession in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, or related fields.  Since entry into these career fields is very selective and the graduate education very challenging emphasis is placed on preparing the student for those rigors through a challenging academic program that is balanced within the traditional liberal arts degree.

What types of students succeed in this program?

Students that are well above average academically and who have a sincere desire to use their God-given talents to relieve the suffering of others could use this major to prepare them for entry into medical school, dental school, veterinary school, or similar graduate programs.  To be successful the student must be quite intelligent, have well-developed study skills, and sincerely feel that God is calling them to serve Him in the health professions.

What can I do with this major or minor?

Most who complete this major will pursue graduate education in one of the medical professions.  In addition, some pursue degrees in nursing, pharmacy, podiatry, optometry, or other health care professions.  Because of the rigor of the academic program students are also well prepared for work in research or industrial laboratory settings as laboratory technicians or researchers.

What are some of internships or partnerships with this program?

Internships may be in a variety of settings including medical facilities overseas or in other parts of the country, such as Mayo Clinic.  Local hospitals, clinics, and health care facilities as well as research institutes such as the Van Andel Research Institute provide additional resources for experiential education.

What is the future outlook with a degree in this area?

The need for trained health care workers is significant and expected to grow dramatically as the baby boomer generation grows older.  In addition, numerous opportunities exist overseas or in underserved areas of the U.S. for a Christian to minister through health care.

See admissions (prospective students) or career services (current students) for more information