Health Science, B.S.

麻豆原创's health science department offers interdisciplinary programs related to health and well-being. Each of our four majors (health science, B.S.; exercise science, B.S.; rehabilitation science, B.S.; and health & well-being, B.A.) begin with the same core courses that introduce you to principles of health and healthcare careers as well as a foundation in human anatomy and physiology. From there, you can choose from an extensive list of courses that support your vocational goals. Our minors also offer clear pathways to students pursuing a variety of allied health professions.

Why major in health science at 麻豆原创?

Gain valuable hands-on experience in our human performance lab and in our anatomy and physiology lab, which provides learning opportunities with human cadavers. Students who continue to graduate school often report that their 麻豆原创 lab experiences put them ahead of peers.
Build strong relationships with professors. Health science faculty members are dedicated to their students and will challenge you to grow both academically and personally.
Connect your faith or worldview to your studies and career goals. You will learn to identify your strengths and discover how you can use them to serve humanity. You will also be encouraged to develop professional ethics that integrate cultural competence and personal values.
Draw inspiration from the state-of-the-art Robinson Science Hall, which houses the health sciences, chemistry, and biology departments, and the new Dornsife Health Sciences Building that houses the human performance lab.
Conduct original research and present your findings at academic conferences.
Apply your learning to your personal health through courses such as Exercise Physiology and Nutrition.
Network with alumni and regional health providers to develop mentorship relationships to help you discern your vocational calling and connect you with hands-on experience.
Develop a holistic understanding of health. You will learn to recognize the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, social and spiritual health.
Discover what interests you. Internships and electives allow you to explore areas of personal interest in science and human behavior.
Health science is a diverse field and needs leaders from a variety of backgrounds. No matter where you come from, you have something to contribute.
Become who you're meant to be.

One of the most compelling reasons to pursue a degree in health science is its incredible versatility. Each student is able to tailor their experience and education to their specific career goals, all while benefiting from a broad, interdisciplinary understanding of health and human performance. The flexibility of health science opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities, making it an ideal choice for those passionate about making a difference in healthcare.

Sydney McLean '26
What it's Like

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A row of trees stands at the end of a field covered in multi-colored autumn leaves.

Ask our faculty

Have questions? Our faculty are here to share their expertise and help you learn more about this program.

Ask Elizabeth

eabbey@whitworth.edu

Professor Elizabeth Abbey's areas of expertise include sports nutrition; exercise and personal health; food security and food systems.

Ask Matt

msilvers@whitworth.edu

Professor Matt Silvers' area of expertise is exercise physiology.

Ask Cynthia

cwright@whitworth.edu

Professor Cynthia Wright鈥檚 areas of expertise are orthopedic injury assessment and treatment, athletic training and clinical research.

Ask Justin

julbright@whitworth.edu

Instructor Justin Ulbright鈥檚 areas of expertise are human anatomy and physiology and fitness. He oversees the undergraduate cadaver lab.

Our health science grads make a difference (and get jobs)

Health science majors are prepared for professional schools, graduate programs, and careers in the health and wellness field. Our graduates have an excellent acceptance rate for graduate programs in medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, chiropractic medicine, public health, health care administration, nutrition, clinical exercise physiology, strength and conditioning, and personal training, among other areas.

Recent job placements include:

Capt. Jacob Kriegbaum, physical therapist, United States Air Force, Las Vegas
J. Keith Parker, dermatologist, Advanced Dermatology and Skin Surgery, Spokane
Faith Lopez-Flores, internal medicine PA-C, Mountain Park Health Center, Phoenix, Ariz.
Gretchen Peterson, epidemiologist, Pima County Health Department, Tucson, Ariz.
Emily (Travis) Shull, clinical research coordinator, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Greenville, S.C.

Our recent health science grads are accepted into 麻豆原创 University's professional programs, as well as graduate programs at institutions including:

University of Washington School of Medicine
Washington State University Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine
University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing
Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University
University of Southern California
Mayo School of Health Sciences
University of Colorado
Oregon State University
Emory University
Washington University (St. Louis)
Yale University
University of Florida

Opportunities outside the classroom

We encourage students to work or volunteer in the community alongside professors. Opportunities are available at many organizations, including ParaSport Spokane, Habitat for Humanity, Growing Neighbors and Second Harvest Food Bank.

Pack your bags!

A number of 麻豆原创 study abroad programs are great fits for health science students. Learn how community and strong social bonds impact all aspects of health in Greece. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture while you study Eastern medicine in Japan. Participate in a healthcare internship as part of 麻豆原创鈥檚 semester-long Central America Study & Service Program (CASP). Or study for a semester abroad through ISEP.

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