What is Health Science?
The Health Science major at Mizzou is a one-stop shop for students interested in continuing on to careers such as health administration, medicine, optometry, dentistry, physical therapy, occupational therapy and more!
What classes will I take?
BHS in Health Science students complete a core set of health science courses that lead to a broad understanding of healthcare and healthcare systems. This includes classes such as:
- Introduction to Health Professions
- Healthcare in the U.S.
- Contemporary Health Issues
Outside of these core courses, students have the option to choose an emphasis area to take courses in. These emphasis areas connect to your future career!
Explore more information and a complete list of classes for each emphasis below.
For students interested in applying for graduate and professional programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physician assistant studies, optometry, dermatology and other programs.
For students interested in pursuing physical therapy, chiropractic, athletic training, orthotics/prosthetics and similar graduate degrees.
View required courses for the rehabilitation sciences emphasis.
For students interested in occupational therapy, certified health education specialist certification, health promotion, wellness programming, nonprofit work, applied behavior analysis, or accelerated nursing.
View required courses for the health and wellness services emphasis.
For students interested in law, health informatics, sales, program coordination and support areas in health care. Students are also eligible to apply to our accelerated master’s degree in health administration.
View required courses for the leadership and policy emphasis.
Are there experiential learning opportunities?
Yes! The University of Missouri believes in learning by doing. As a Health Science major, you will be required to complete an internship. We’ll support you every step of the way as you reach out to potential placement locations, submit applications and complete your internship.
Become a health science major
You can declare Health Science as your major at any point during your career at MU without a separate application.
- Current students: Declare or change your major.
- New students: Apply to MU and choose Health Science as your major.
Frequently asked questions
If you like science classes but also want to learn about the health care system, this degree could be a great fit for you! Health Science is an excellent major for students who are passionate about the health care field, want to explore broader health issues and are looking to make a difference. This degree is for students who are looking to continue their education and go into programs such as medicine, physician assistant studies, dentistry, physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, health administration and more. See our emphasis areas above for more information about where this degree can lead you.
There are opportunities to get entry-level jobs in the health care field; however, most of our students are looking into continuing education programs.
Students looking to continue their education could use this degree to go into medicine, dentistry, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, athletic training, occupational therapy, health administration, law and more. See our emphasis areas above for more information about where this degree can lead you.
Mizzou health science students graduate with a comprehensive education that equips them for success in a variety of health care fields. In addition to completing the essential science courses needed for advanced education, they gain valuable knowledge about the health care system. Coursework in health policy, clinical ethics, leadership, health systems and research prepare students with the critical thinking and expertise required for their future careers.
Students also benefit from hands-on learning through personalized internships that align with their career aspirations, providing practical experience and a strong foundation for professional growth.
At Mizzou, students can pursue any major while preparing for medical school. The health science degree is an excellent choice for those seeking to gain a deeper understanding of the health care system while completing all the science prerequisites needed for medical school.
This degree is direct admit. If you are admitted to the University of Missouri, you will be admitted to the health science degree program.
Yes! The Health Science degree can be completed online. Students who complete the degree 100% online do not choose an emphasis area. Learn more about the online BHS in Health Science.