University of Chicago

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational coursework in biological and social sciences with specialised study of health systems, policy and research methods. Students take a sequence of core classes in human physiology, introductory epidemiology, and biostatistics, together with modules that examine health-care organisation, health economics and health informatics. The curriculum emphasises quantitative skills, critical analysis and communication, and includes training in research design, ethics in health care and programme evaluation.

• Core topics: human anatomy and physiology, epidemiology, biostatistics, health-policy principles, health economics, and health-care management.
• Methods and skills: research methods for clinical and population health, data analysis and visualisation, qualitative methods, and ethical frameworks for health-care decision-making.
• Applied learning: practicum or internship placements with hospitals, public-health departments or community organisations, and a senior capstone project or honours thesis that integrates fieldwork or original research.
• Electives and breadth: opportunities to take electives in related areas such as genetics, health informatics, social determinants of health, global health, sociology of medicine, and computational approaches to health data.
• Structure: taught within the University of Chicago’s liberal-arts framework, the programme is delivered on the University’s academic calendar and encourages interdisciplinary study across departments and professional schools.

Entry requirements

Admission is through the University of Chicago undergraduate process and is competitive. Successful applicants typically present a strong academic record in secondary school with emphasis on maths and sciences (biology and chemistry are helpful) and evidence of quantitative reasoning.

• Academic preparation: high-school diploma or equivalent with coursework in mathematics and science; advanced-level or university-preparatory subjects strengthen an application.
• Supporting materials: personal essay(s) that convey intellectual curiosity and interest in health services, letters of recommendation, and a résumé or list of relevant extracurriculars such as research, volunteering in health settings, or community service.
• International applicants: required to demonstrate equivalent academic qualifications and English language proficiency where applicable.
• Additional considerations: prior experience in health-related settings, research projects, or policy work can enhance an application; the university takes a holistic approach to admissions.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Health Services bachelor’s programme are prepared for a range of pathways in health-care delivery, policy, research and management. The combination of analytical training and practical experience equips alumni to enter the workforce, pursue professional training, or continue to graduate study.

• Health services administration and hospital operations
• Public health roles in local or national health departments and NGOs
• Health-policy analysis and advisory positions in government or think tanks
• Health-data analyst or clinical research coordinator roles in academic medical centres and industry
• Consultancy in health-care strategy and process improvement
• Further study and professional degrees, including MPH, MHA, MPP, MD or graduate research degrees in health-related fields

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago offers a rigorous intellectual environment and an interdisciplinary approach that is well suited to the complex problems of health-care systems. Students benefit from close interaction with faculty active in public-health research, health policy and clinical science, and from access to practical opportunities through partnerships with the University of Chicago Medicine and local health organisations.

• Research and clinical links: proximity to major research centres and an academic medical centre provides chances for undergraduate research, internships and clinical observation.
• Interdisciplinary options: easy cross-registration with neighbouring departments and professional schools (for example public policy, economics, social sciences and computer science) supports customised study pathways.
• Skills-focused training: emphasis on quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and writing prepares students for analytical roles and postgraduate study.
• Career support: career services and alumni networks in Chicago’s large health-care and policy ecosystem help students secure internships and early-career roles.