Health Sciences stands as a dynamic and ever-evolving field, playing a pivotal role in healthcare and public health. At Los Angeles Pacific University (LAPU), our Health Sciences degree programs equip students with professional knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in a variety of impactful careers. In this blog, we’ll further explore what doors a Health Sciences degree can open, offer clinical and non-clinical career options and provide an overview of the skills and qualifications needed to thrive in this field. Whether you are a potential student or current student, there is bound to be a few helpful tawaways from this blog.

Health Sciences Field Background

So, what exactly is health sciences? It’s like the superhero of well-being, tackling everything from our personal health challenges to the big picture of community welfare. Within the health sciences field, professionals explore the connections between biological, social, and environmental factors influencing health. The significance of health sciences in healthcare and public health lies in its ability to blend scientific knowledge with practical applications, creating a comprehensive approach to address health challenges.

Working in the health sciences field requires a mix of education, skills, and personal attributes but the foundational qualification is a degree in Health Sciences. The level of education can vary, and in some cases, advanced degrees for specialized roles may be needed. LAPU offers programs in health sciences at both the associate and bachelor’s degree levels.

• Associate of Science in Health Sciences: This degree is the perfect stepping-stone into the field. It is typically a two-year program.
• Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences: This degree is a four-year undergraduate program. It builds on the foundational concepts covered in an A.S. program and provides a more comprehensive and in-depth education.

Clinical Careers Background

For those drawn to hands-on patient care, clinical careers offer a rewarding path.

Career Opportunities:

• Dietitian: Dietitians specialize in nutrition and dietary management. They plan nutritional programs for individuals and communities, promoting health and preventing diseases through good nutrition
• Physician: Physicians diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries.
• Registered Nurse (RN): RNs provide patient care, administer medications, and coordinate healthcare plans.
• Physical Therapist: Physical therapists help individuals regain mobility and manage pain through specialized exercises and treatments.
• Radiation Therapist: Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer.
• Paramedic: Paramedics provide emergency medical care in pre-hospital settings.
• Dental Hygienist: Dental hygienists focus on oral health, providing preventive dental care services such as teeth cleaning, examining patients for oral diseases, and educating them on proper dental hygiene practices.

Non-Clinical Careers Background

Individuals in non-clinical roles will generally contribute to the management, administration, planning, and support services that are essential for the effective operation of healthcare organizations.

Career Opportunities

• Health Educator: Health educators implement health education programs and aim to inform communities about healthy practices, disease prevention, and overall wellness.
• Epidemiologist: Investigating patterns and causes of diseases within populations, epidemiologists analyze data and contribute to public health initiatives, helping to identify and control the spread of diseases.
• Biomedical Equipment Technician: Maintain and repair medical equipment used in healthcare settings. Biomedical technicians ensure that devices such as imaging machines and patient monitors are functioning correctly to support patient care.
• Healthcare Consultant: Provide expertise and advice to healthcare organizations. They help improve efficiency, implement strategic initiatives, and address challenges.
• Health Care Facility Coordinator: Manage the day-to-day operations of healthcare facilities, handle scheduling, coordinate services, and ensure that the facility meets regulatory and quality standards.

Skills and Qualifications

Clinical and non-clinical careers demand distinctive skill sets and qualifications, each contributing uniquely to the multifaceted landscape of the industry.

Clinical
Clinical careers require hands-on expertise and direct patient interaction. Professionals in roles such as registered nurse or physical therapist must possess skills like critical thinking, empathy, and effective communication. A B.S. in Health Sciences can lay the groundwork for a career in healthcare, but depending on the role, additional specialized education and licensure requirements may also need to be met.

Non-Clinical

Non-clinical careers focus on supporting healthcare systems and community well-being. Health services administrators or healthcare consultants, for example, require skills in management, analytics, and strategic thinking. Qualifications typically involve degrees in fields like Health Sciences and Public Health, often at the bachelor’s or master’s level.

What Should I Know

A Health Sciences degree requires thoughtful consideration of various decision-making factors. Prospective students should reflect on their passion for healthcare, acknowledging the commitment to hands-on patient care or non-clinical roles. Consideration of personal strengths, such as empathy and communication skills, is pivotal in aligning with the demands of the field. Additionally, students should explore the diverse specializations within health sciences to align their interests with potential career paths. Understanding the challenges inherent in the healthcare industry, such as long hours, emotional intensity, and continuous learning, is crucial. Aspiring professionals should be prepared to navigate these challenges with resilience and a commitment to ongoing education.

Whether you are drawn to direct patient care or supporting healthcare systems, LAPU’s Health Sciences program provides a solid foundation. Connect with an LAPU enrollment counselor today to learn more about our programs and embark on a fulfilling journey in the world of Health Sciences.

Check out the below:

https://www.lapu.edu/program/health-sciences-b-s/

https://www.lapu.edu/program/health-sciences-a-s/