If you’re considering majoring in health science, you’re in good company. A degree in health science offers a wide range of possibilities, from helping people directly to behind-the-scenes care. This field can give you a strong start in the healthcare industry and lead into something even greater.
In this article, we’ll walk you through what a health science degree is, explore a few major directions you can take, and help you understand how to pick a path that fits your interests.
What is a Health Science Degree?
A health science degree typically covers subjects like biology, anatomy, health systems, and social sciences like public health or psychology. Studying health science over any other pre-medical major gives you a well-rounded variety of prerequisite courses you need for medical or professional school.
Having a health science degree doesn’t mean you have to become a doctor or a nurse. You’ll be well prepared for further study in healthcare, or, if that’s not for you, you can find work right after your bachelor’s degree. Either way, a degree in health science can open several doors for you. Here are just a few:
Clinical Support and Laboratory Roles
One route you can take with a health science degree is working in clinics and laboratories, where you can help diagnose, treat, and support patents. Here are some roles you might explore:
- Clinical Laboratory Technician: Perform tests in the lab for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.
- Clinical Research Coordinator: Plan, direct, and coordinate research in the clinical laboratory.
- Dental Laboratory Technicians: Construct and repair dentures and other dental products for patients.
Administration, Management, and Systems Work
If you’re more into the administrative side of medicine, where you can work out strategy, improve operation, and make health care work better, then a health science degree can prepare you for that. Here are some roles that you can find:
- Health Services Manager: Plan and direct medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, and other medical organizations.
- Health Informatics Specialist: Work on computers and databases in the health care system to help nurses and doctors coordinate patient care.
- Medical Assistants: Perform administrative and clinical duties to help the attending physician in their work.
Public Health, Education, and Wellness
Another path you might pursue is working in the community to educate members about healthy living. This can be a rewarding field, where you help others and support a healthier community. With your health science degree, you can find jobs like:
- Health Educator: Manage health education programs that help individuals, families, and communities maintain healthy lifestyles.
- Community Health Workers: Assist individuals in the community adopt healthy behaviors and advocate for their health needs.
- Wellness Coordinator: Manage and coordinate wellness programs and services for individuals.
What’s Right for You?
Health services offer more than just medical and professional school. You can find work in a variety of roles, from the laboratory to out in your community. If you’re curious about healthcare but not sure which path to take, majoring in health services can keep your options open. You could advance into medicine, work in a lab, lead administrative efforts, or help your community.
The key is to explore early, gain experience in internships and volunteering, and think about what kind of work you like. Then you’ll be ready to pick a direction that fits you. Check out BYU-Idaho’s health science degree to see if it’s right for you!