Simmons University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary bachelor’s programme combines life sciences, clinical assessment, therapeutic intervention and health systems coursework to prepare students for careers and further training in allied health fields. Core study areas typically include anatomy and physiology, human biology, pathophysiology, clinical assessment and diagnostic reasoning, therapeutic modalities and rehabilitation techniques, medical imaging fundamentals, pharmacology for allied health, and healthcare ethics and law.

Students also take courses in research methods, statistics for health professionals, patient communication and interprofessional practice. The curriculum emphasises applied learning: simulation laboratory sessions, skills workshops, and supervised clinical practica or internships at hospitals, outpatient clinics and community health organisations in the Boston area. Electives allow specialisation in topics such as geriatric care, paediatric rehabilitation, assistive technology, health promotion and chronic disease management.

• Foundational sciences: Human anatomy & physiology, microbiology, biochemistry basics
• Clinical practice: Clinical assessment, diagnostic reasoning, therapeutic interventions, patient safety
• Professional knowledge: Healthcare systems, ethics, interprofessional practice
• Research & data: Health research methods, statistics, evidence‑based practice
• Experiential learning: Simulation labs, supervised practicum, community placements

Programme structure

The degree follows a liberal arts framework combined with major requirements. Students typically complete general education requirements, major core courses, a sequence of clinical skills and practicum experiences, and elective credits. Many students undertake capstone projects or research practica that integrate clinical assessment and intervention with a community or clinical partner.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and evaluated holistically. Typical requirements include a completed secondary school diploma (or equivalent), transcripts demonstrating strong preparation in science and mathematics, and a personal statement describing interest and relevant experience in health care. Typical recommended secondary subjects are biology, chemistry and mathematics. Schools may also request one or more academic references.

Simmons considers standardised tests on a flexible basis; applicants should check current university guidance about SAT/ACT policies. International applicants must provide evidence of equivalent academic qualifications and proof of English language proficiency (for example TOEFL or IELTS) if English is not the language of prior instruction. Some programmes or practicum placements may require updated immunisations, background checks and health clearances prior to clinical rotations.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of allied health roles, continue to professional graduate programmes, or work in healthcare support, administration and community health. Common career pathways include:

• Diagnostic and technical roles: medical imaging assistant, sonography trainee (with further certification), clinical laboratory assistant
• Rehabilitation and intervention roles: physical therapist assistant, occupational therapy assistant, rehabilitation aide
• Respiratory and acute care support roles in hospitals and clinics
• Health promotion and community health worker roles in non‑profits, public health agencies or school systems
• Progression to graduate professional programmes such as physician assistant, occupational therapy, physical therapy (MS/DPT) or advanced clinical specialties—many alumni use the bachelor’s as preparation for these postgraduate routes
• Careers in research support, clinical coordination, patient education and healthcare administration

The programme’s practicum and Boston clinical partnerships help students build professional networks and practial experience valued by employers and graduate programmes.

Why study at Simmons University

Simmons offers a student‑centred liberal arts education with a strong professional focus in health sciences. Class sizes are relatively small, enabling close faculty mentoring, personalised academic advising and faculty‑supervised research or capstone work. The university maintains simulation labs and skills centres that model clinical environments and prepare students for real‑world patient care.

Located in the Boston metropolitan area, Simmons has access to a dense network of hospitals, clinics and community health organisations that support practicum placements and internships. Career services, alumni mentoring and on‑campus health partnerships help students transition to employment or graduate study. The programme emphasises interprofessional education—students learn to collaborate with peers in nursing, social work and other health disciplines—reflecting how allied health professionals work in contemporary healthcare teams.

Simmons also highlights commitment to equity, community engagement and experiential learning, making the programme appropriate for students who want clinically relevant training grounded in liberal arts values and civic responsibility.