Seattle University

What you'll study

This programme provides a broad foundation in the biological and behavioural sciences, clinical skills and health systems knowledge that underpin allied health professions. Core topics typically include human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, medical terminology, clinical assessment and documentation, and health promotion.

Students also study subjects that prepare them for diagnostic and intervention roles, such as principles of diagnostic testing, therapeutic modalities, infection control, pharmacology basics and clinical decision-making. Coursework emphasises interprofessional practice, ethics, cultural competence and patient-centred care.

Programme structure commonly features a mix of classroom-based lectures, laboratory sessions and simulated clinical skills practice, together with supervised field or clinical placements. Many students complete a capstone project or practicum that integrates research methods, quality improvement or applied clinical skills.

• Foundational sciences: human anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology
• Clinical skills and assessment: patient interviewing, vital signs, documentation
• Diagnostic and therapeutic principles: imaging basics, diagnostic testing, therapeutic interventions
• Health systems and policy: healthcare delivery, ethics and professional standards
• Research and evidence-based practice: statistics, critical appraisal and capstone projects
• Experiential learning: simulation lab work and supervised clinical placements

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic requirements include demonstrated strength in science subjects such as biology and chemistry, and a competitive cumulative GPA. Specific prerequisites may include one year of biology and one year of chemistry or equivalent coursework.

Seattle University also expects candidates to meet general admission standards, which may include submission of transcripts, a personal statement, and references. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior study in English. Because allied health study involves clinical placements, successful applicants must be able to meet technical standards for safe patient care, and will typically need to complete background checks, immunisation requirements and basic life support (CPR) certification before placements.

Career prospects

Graduates of this degree pursue a range of career paths. Some move directly into allied health assistant roles in hospitals, outpatient clinics, community health settings and rehabilitation centres. Others use the programme as a preparatory pathway to professional and graduate training in areas such as physician assistant studies, physical therapy, occupational therapy, diagnostic medical sonography, respiratory therapy, audiology or radiologic technology—fields that typically require further, specialised certification or graduate education.

Additional career options include roles in clinical research coordination, patient education and health promotion, case management, medical sales and healthcare administration. Employers value graduates who bring clinical knowledge, interprofessional communication skills and hands-on practicum experience.

Why study at Seattle University

Seattle University offers this programme within a values-driven Jesuit educational environment that emphasises whole-person care, social justice and reflective practice. The university's location in a major Pacific Northwest health-care hub provides access to a wide network of teaching hospitals, community clinics and specialist centres for clinical placements and professional mentorship.

Students benefit from small class sizes, faculty with clinical experience, and on-campus resources such as simulation and skills laboratories that mirror real clinical settings. The curriculum emphasises experiential learning, interprofessional collaboration and preparation for licenced and allied health graduate programmes, making it well suited for students who intend to combine practical clinical training with pathways to advanced health careers.