Ferris State University

What you'll study

This programme combines core health science knowledge with applied clinical coursework and supervised practicum. You will study human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pathophysiology, and clinical assessment techniques before moving into diagnostic and intervention-focused modules. Typical topics include:

• Anatomy & Physiology: integrated systems-based study with laboratory dissection and imaging correlation.
• Medical Terminology & Clinical Communication: professional documentation, interprofessional communication and patient education.
• Diagnostic Technologies: fundamentals of diagnostic imaging modalities, laboratory diagnostics, and point-of-care testing principles.
• Intervention & Treatment Modalities: evidence-based therapy principles across respiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and wound-care domains depending on elective focus.
• Patient Assessment & Clinical Decision Making: differential diagnosis, functional assessment, and care planning.
• Healthcare Systems, Ethics & Law: healthcare delivery models, ethical practice, patient rights and confidentiality.
• Research Methods & Evidence-Based Practice: statistics, critical appraisal of clinical research, and quality improvement.
• Clinical Practicum & Capstone Project: supervised placements in clinical settings and a culminating project or portfolio that integrates theory and practice.

Students can often choose electives to emphasise diagnostic fields (for example imaging and laboratory methods) or intervention fields (for example rehabilitation supports and care coordination), and coursework balances classroom instruction with simulation and on-site clinical hours.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school completion credential or equivalent. Competitive preparation includes courses in biology and chemistry, mathematics (algebra or statistics), and strong written communication skills. Typical admissions expectations include:

• Secondary school diploma or recognised equivalent.
• Prior study in biology and chemistry; anatomy and physiology is advantageous.
• A minimum cumulative academic profile demonstrating readiness for university-level science coursework (specific GPA or grade thresholds are set by the university and should be checked on the programme page).
• Submission of official transcripts and any required application materials.
• Successful completion of health-related prerequisites may be required for placement into clinical coursework; students must also meet professional screening requirements such as background checks, immunisation records and basic life support certification before clinical placements.

Ferris State also accepts transfer students from community colleges; transfer applicants should provide course descriptions to determine credit equivalencies.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of entry-level and mid-level positions within allied health services, and the degree also provides a pathway to further professional training. Typical career directions include:

• Diagnostic technician roles in imaging, sonography or laboratory settings (additional credentialing or specialised training may be required).
• Clinical intervention support positions such as rehabilitation aide, respiratory therapy assistant, or care coordination roles in outpatient and inpatient settings.
• Health services coordinator, case manager or patient navigation roles that combine clinical knowledge with administrative skills.
• Positions in community health, long-term care, home health services and rehabilitation centres.
• Preparation for graduate or professional programmes (for example physician assistant, occupational therapy, physical therapy, radiography or advanced diagnostic training) when entrance prerequisites are satisfied.

Graduates typically work in hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centres, rehabilitation facilities, public health organisations and private practice settings. Employment outcomes often depend on any additional certification or state licensure required for specialised roles.

Why study at Ferris State University

Ferris State emphasises applied, career-focused education with strong ties to regional healthcare providers. The university offers hands-on learning through dedicated simulation labs and clinical partnerships across Michigan that support practicum placements. Faculty are practitioners and instructors with experience in allied health disciplines, which helps bridge classroom learning to workplace expectations.

Students benefit from small-group instruction in lab and clinical skills courses, access to career services that help with placement and licensure guidance, and opportunities for collaborative projects across health programmes. The programme’s structure supports both students seeking immediate career entry and those planning to continue into specialised professional training.