B.S. in Health Sciences

This undergraduate program, grounded in the Liberal Arts Core of the university, provides students resources for developing professional skills in exercise testing, physical activity leadership, health and fitness assessment, exercise programming, wellness coaching and health promotion. Graduates are prepared for beginning administrative, supervisory, and leadership positions in commercial and community health and athletic clubs, in corporate fitness and wellness programs, and for graduate study in health education, exercise science, occupational therapy, athletic training, chiropractic medicine, physical therapy and public health. In addition, qualified students may apply for an accelerated B.S. to M.S. program in health education and promotion. Students will choose from three emphasis areas: health promotion, pre-physical therapy, or pre-professional. Students completing the baccalaureate degree in Marymount?s health sciences programs are prepared to apply for Exercise Physiologist or Personal Trainer certifications by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). Upon successful completion of the health sciences program, students will be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to function as competent entry-level professionals in the health/fitness industry as determined by the ACSM or to attend graduate school (physical therapy, occupational therapy, chiropractic) if they desire; acquire and demonstrate competence in using technology-based and non-technology-based equipment, industry tools/inventories, and/or other practical "hands-on" applications pertaining to health both in the classroom and at off-campus settings as determined by the ACSM; demonstrate the ability to effectively educate and/or counsel individuals regarding lifestyle modification; successfully respond in a rational, sensitive, and critical thinking manner about values and ethics in the health and wellness field; demonstrate an ability to use technology in the classroom, in designing and evaluating health promotion programs, and/or in the clinical setting; and gather, evaluate, and utilize appropriate information to address the health needs/concerns of individuals or groups. Health Promotion Emphasis: This emphasis is based upon recommendations of the ACSM. Students taking this emphasis are strongly encouraged to pursue an interdisciplinary minor in public health and should consult an advisor for more information. Pre-Physical Therapy Emphasis: This emphasis is intended for those interested in pursuing a doctoral degree in physical therapy and includes coursework in biology and the physical sciences. Pre-Professional Emphasis: This emphasis is intended for those interested in pursuing advanced study in a health sciences related professional field such as the master's degree in occupational therapy (OT) or athletic training (AT), or the Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine (DCM). While undertaking the HS promotion emphasis, students additionally work with an advisor in the Department of Health and Human Performance to satisfy the necessary college/university prerequisite coursework needed to apply for advanced academic preparation in OT, AT, and DCM.