University of Missouri

What you'll study

The programme provides an interdisciplinary curriculum that balances foundational biomedical science with health systems, policy and applied practice. Early coursework typically covers human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, introductory public health, and fundamentals of health behaviour. Core modules then explore health care delivery and organisation, epidemiology, health promotion and disease prevention, health informatics and data literacy, research methods and biostatistics, and ethics and legal issues in health care.

Practical and professional development is emphasised through classes in communication and cultural competence, leadership and management in health settings, quality improvement, and project planning. Many students complete a practicum or internship in a health-care or community setting and undertake a capstone project or research assignment that demonstrates applied knowledge and workplace-ready skills.

Typical topics and module examples:

• Human Anatomy & Physiology
• Introduction to Public Health
• Health Care Systems and Policy
• Epidemiology and Biostatistics
• Health Informatics and Data Management
• Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• Research Methods for Health Sciences
• Ethics, Law and Professional Practice
• Practicum / Field Experience and Capstone Project

Structure

The degree combines general education requirements with major-specific coursework and experiential placements. Students usually progress from foundational science and introductory health modules to more specialised and applied topics in later years. The practicum component places students in hospitals, clinics, public health departments or community organisations to gain hands-on experience and professional contacts.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed a recognised secondary-school qualification. Typical admissible preparation includes successful completion of high-school coursework with strong performance in biology and mathematics; chemistry is also recommended. For international applicants, an equivalent secondary credential and proof of English language proficiency are required.

Selection considers academic achievement alongside relevant experience and motivation for a career in health services. Transfer applicants from community colleges with completed health- or science-related credits are often considered; prerequisites such as anatomy, physiology or introductory biology may be required for entry to upper-level courses. Applicants with work or volunteer experience in health or social services will find their applications strengthened.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Health Services bachelor’s commonly move into roles across health-care organisations, community agencies and public health settings. Typical career paths include:

• Health services administration and operations support
• Health promotion and community health worker roles
• Patient navigation and case management
• Clinical support and allied health technician roles (depending on additional certification)
• Health data and informatics support positions

Many graduates also progress to postgraduate study—such as public health (MPH), health administration (MHA) or clinical professional programmes—or obtain certifications to qualify for specialised allied health careers. The degree is designed to provide transferable skills in communication, data literacy and systems thinking valued across the health sector.

Why study at University of Missouri

The University of Missouri (Mizzou) offers a comprehensive campus environment with established links to regional health providers and the MU Health Care system, giving students access to clinical and community placement opportunities. The university emphasises experiential learning, with practicum placements, simulation experiences and applied research projects integrated into the curriculum.

Students benefit from multidisciplinary teaching by faculty with clinical and public health experience, access to research centres and laboratories, and career services that support internships and employer connections across Missouri and beyond. The programme’s combination of scientific foundations, applied practice and professional development prepares graduates to enter the health workforce or continue to graduate-level study.