California State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core health sciences knowledge with applied skills in health services delivery. Typical areas of study include human anatomy and physiology, introductory and advanced public health, epidemiology, health promotion and education, health policy and systems, healthcare management, health informatics and research methods. Practical coursework often covers patient communication, case management, cultural competence, ethics and legal issues in healthcare.

Students usually complete a mix of required core units, discipline-specific electives and general education units. Most programmes include a supervised practicum or internship in a clinical, community or administrative setting and a senior capstone project or integrative seminar that applies research and management skills to real-world problems.

• Core modules: anatomy & physiology, public health fundamentals, epidemiology, health systems & policy, research methods
• Applied modules: health promotion, case/care management, quality improvement, health informatics
• Professional skills: communication in healthcare, ethics & legal issues, cultural humility, data interpretation
• Experiential learning: practicum/internship, community placements, capstone project

Entry requirements

Entry is undergraduate level and typically requires a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Applicants should demonstrate competency in college-preparatory subjects, especially biology and English; some campuses or specialisations may recommend chemistry, mathematics or statistics. Admissions decisions are based on academic record, completing required high-school prerequisites and any campus-specific criteria.

Transfer students from community colleges are welcome and often admitted with articulated credit for completed general education and lower-division major courses; applicants are advised to follow CSU transfer pathways to ensure maximum credit. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements and provide equivalent secondary qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates of a Health Services/Health Sciences bachelor’s programme enter a range of roles across healthcare, social services and public health. Common entry-level positions include community health worker, health programme coordinator, care or case manager, patient services supervisor, health information technician and administrative roles in clinics or public agencies. With experience or additional certification, graduates progress to roles in healthcare management, quality improvement, health policy analysis and programme development.

The degree also provides a foundation for professional or graduate study, including public health (MPH), healthcare administration (MHA), nursing, physician assistant programmes or other allied health certifications, which expand clinical or leadership opportunities.

Why study at California State University

The California State University system emphasises accessible, career-focused education with strong links to local healthcare providers and public health organisations. Students benefit from applied learning opportunities, including practicum placements and community partnerships, and many campuses maintain close relationships with regional hospitals, clinics and health departments to support internships and employment.

CSU campuses typically offer supportive transfer pathways for community-college students, faculty with professional experience in health services, and programmes designed to serve diverse populations and workforce needs. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with hands-on experience to prepare graduates for immediate employment or further professional study.