The Indiana University Northwest College of Health and Human Services has launched a new online Bachelor of Science degree in applied health science, beginning in the fall 2017 semester. Approved by the Indiana Commission of Higher Education in October, this flexible, online option prepares students for a lifetime of success in the burgeoning health care field.
Designed for working professionals with prior college credit or an associate degree, and an interest in pursuing entry- to mid-level positions in health-related organizations, the program covers basic, technical and applied aspects of health science. Two tracks are offered: community health education, which prepares students to take the Certified Health Education Specialist Examination (CHES), and health administration, which provides instruction in health care organization, planning, budgeting, and finance.
According to Linda Delunas, associate dean, College of Health and Human Services, the new online degree in applied health science helps meet a need for professionals with administrative and/or community health promotion and education skills. She notes that administrative and managerial positions are among the top 10 fastest-growing, high-wage jobs on the Department of Workforce Development's Hoosier Hot 50 Jobs list.
“As the health care industry grows, so too, does the number of exciting career opportunities to help health-related organizations run more efficiently, expand products and services and improve levels of care,” she said.
Preparation for whatever comes next
Coursework includes classes in health care delivery and leadership, health communication, policy, and ethics. Students also learn about population health, and community health assessment, education, and promotion, allowing them to apply their skills and expertise to their current positions and a variety of future career opportunities.
The innovative program is jointly offered by IU Northwest and four regional IU campuses: IU East, IU Kokomo, IU South Bend, and IU Southeast. Following IU Online's innovative approach, applied health science degree students will be admitted to one IU campus but learn from faculty and network with students throughout the IU system. Campuses collaborate on coursework to increase student flexibility and convenience, as well as degree completion.
For more information, visit online.iu.edu/programs/appliedhealthscience.
