Boise State University

What you'll study

This master’s programme focuses on applied diagnostic and intervention skills, evidence-based practice, leadership in allied health, and applied research methods. Core topics typically include advanced human anatomy and physiology, clinical assessment and diagnostic reasoning, intervention planning across the lifespan, health informatics and documentation, epidemiology and population health, and health policy and systems. Students also study research methods and statistics oriented to clinical practice, ethics and professionalism, and strategies for patient-centred care and rehabilitation.

• Core modules: Advanced Anatomy & Physiology; Clinical Assessment & Diagnostic Reasoning; Intervention Strategies & Treatment Planning; Evidence-Based Practice and Research Methods; Health Policy and Systems.
• Applied modules: Rehabilitation Techniques; Assistive Technology and Adaptive Equipment; Health Informatics and Outcome Measurement; Interprofessional Practice and Team Leadership.
• Practical components: Supervised clinical practicum(s) in healthcare settings, simulation lab sessions, and an applied capstone project or thesis that integrates clinical practice with research or quality improvement.

The programme is typically delivered through a mix of classroom instruction, small-group practice, simulation-based training and placements with regional hospitals, clinics and community agencies. Students learn to apply diagnostic tools, design intervention plans, perform outcome measurement, and lead quality improvement initiatives. Elective options often allow specialisation in areas such as paediatrics, geriatrics, neurorehabilitation, or diagnostic imaging pathways depending on faculty and clinical partner availability.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in allied health, nursing, biomedical science, kinesiology, or a related discipline from an accredited institution. Typical academic expectations include a competitive undergraduate GPA and evidence of relevant academic preparation such as anatomy and physiology or clinical coursework.

• Official transcripts demonstrating an appropriate undergraduate degree.
• A current résumé or CV outlining professional and clinical experience.
• A personal statement describing professional goals, clinical experience and reasons for pursuing the programme.
• Letters of recommendation (commonly two) from academic or professional referees who can speak to clinical potential and academic suitability.
• Some applicants may be required to provide evidence of prerequisite coursework or to complete bridging modules if their undergraduate preparation is not closely related.
• Successful completion of background checks, immunisation records, and any health clearances required by clinical placement partners.

Standardised tests such as the GRE are not always required but may be considered in some cases; international applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or prior study in English.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of clinical and leadership roles across healthcare systems. Typical career pathways include senior allied health clinician roles, rehabilitation specialist, diagnostic services coordinator, clinical educator, case manager, care programme manager, and quality improvement or clinical operations roles. The degree also supports transitions into allied health research, health services administration, or doctoral study.

• Clinical practice in hospitals, outpatient clinics, community health centres and rehabilitation facilities.
• Allied health leadership, service development and management roles within health systems.
• Clinical educator or training coordinator positions in academic or clinical settings.
• Roles in outcome measurement, health informatics and applied research supporting evidence-based service delivery.
• Preparation for professional certification pathways or further postgraduate study where applicable to specific allied health professions.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State’s programme emphasises hands-on, practice-led learning and regional clinical partnerships, giving students access to supervised placements in a range of settings across Idaho and the Intermountain West. The university’s College of Health Sciences brings together interdisciplinary faculty with clinical backgrounds in allied health, rehabilitation and public health, enabling collaborative learning across professions.

Students benefit from modern simulation labs, community-engaged research opportunities, and connections with regional hospitals and clinics that support applied practicum placements. Boise State’s location offers opportunities to work with diverse patient populations and healthcare systems, while small cohort sizes encourage close mentorship, personalised supervision during clinical placements, and strong professional networking within the region.

Overall, the programme is designed to prepare practising clinicians for advanced diagnostic and intervention roles, leadership within allied health services, and ongoing professional development in a changing healthcare environment.