Saint Michael's College

What you'll study

The Health Services (Health Sciences) degree combines coursework in the natural sciences, social sciences and health practice to build a broad foundation in human biology, health systems and community health. Core topics typically include human anatomy and physiology, epidemiology, public health principles, health promotion and disease prevention, medical ethics, health policy and health care delivery systems.

Students also study research methods and statistics for health, behavioural sciences (such as psychology and sociology of health), and courses that address health disparities and cultural competence. The curriculum usually includes a mix of lectures, laboratory work, case studies and team-based projects.

Typical modules and learning experiences you can expect:

• Foundations of Biology and Physiology – cellular biology, organ systems and physiological processes relevant to health.
• Medical Terminology and Clinical Concepts – introduction to language and concepts used in health care settings.
• Epidemiology & Biostatistics – principles of disease distribution, study design and data interpretation.
• Health Systems & Policy – structure of health care delivery, financing and policy issues.
• Community & Public Health – health promotion, prevention strategies and community assessment.
• Research Methods – qualitative and quantitative approaches to health research, program evaluation.
• Ethics, Law & Professional Issues – confidentiality, consent, and ethical decision-making in health care.
• Practicum / Internship – supervised placements with clinical, public health or community organisations to apply classroom learning in real-world settings.

Students frequently tailor the programme with electives such as global health, gerontology, nutrition, mental health or leadership in health services. Capstone projects, service-learning placements and collaborative research with faculty are common culminating experiences.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education with a recognised diploma or certificate. Admissions typically consider academic performance across a range of subjects with particular attention to science or mathematics coursework. Recommended preparation includes one year each of biology and chemistry and a year of mathematics; courses in social sciences and English are advantageous.

Saint Michael's College evaluates applications holistically. Typical application materials include transcripts, a personal statement, and academic references. Standardised tests may be optional; consult the college admissions guidance for current testing policies. Mature students and those with relevant work or volunteer experience in health care are welcome to apply and may be considered on an individual basis.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Health Services programme pursue a wide range of career paths in both clinical and non-clinical roles. Common destinations include:

• Entry-level roles in hospitals and clinics such as health unit coordinators, patient services coordinators or community health workers.
• Careers in public health and community organisations as health educators, outreach coordinators or programme assistants.
• Administrative and management positions in health services, including practice administration and care coordination.
• Progression to professional programmes such as nursing, physician assistant studies, occupational therapy, physical therapy, public health (MPH) or medical school, with appropriate prerequisite completion.
• Opportunities in health research, policy analysis, health informatics and health insurance sectors.

The programme’s practicum and internship components help build practical experience and employer contacts; alumni also leverage the college’s pre-health advising when applying for graduate and professional programmes.

Why study at Saint Michael's College

Saint Michael's College offers a liberal arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which supports personalised advising and strong academic support for pre-health pathways. The college emphasises experiential learning—students regularly engage in internships, community service and practicum placements with healthcare providers and local public health organisations.

Students benefit from accessible faculty who are active in teaching and mentorship, a collaborative campus community, and resources for career development and pre-health advising to plan graduate or professional study. The college’s location provides opportunities for partnerships with regional hospitals, clinics and public health agencies, enabling students to gain hands-on experience while completing their degree.