Ohio University

What you'll study

This programme combines core health-sciences knowledge with applied coursework in health services delivery, policy and management. Typical modules and topics include:

• Foundations of Human Biology — anatomy, physiology and basic pathophysiology essential for understanding health conditions and care needs.
• Introduction to Public and Community Health — population health concepts, determinants of health and strategies for health promotion and disease prevention.
• Health Systems and Policy — organisation of US health care, financing, regulatory frameworks and comparative perspectives on health care delivery.
• Health Services Management — principles of management, leadership, operations and quality improvement in hospitals, clinics and community organisations.
• Health Informatics and Data Analysis — health information systems, basic statistics, research methods and use of data for decision-making and evaluation.
• Ethics, Law and Professional Issues — ethical decision-making, confidentiality, legal considerations and professional practice standards.
• Community Engagement and Health Promotion — designing, delivering and evaluating community health interventions and outreach programmes.
• Capstone or Practicum — an applied project or supervised placement with a clinical, public-health or administrative partner to integrate theory and practice.

Students also take general education modules in communication, social sciences and quantitative reasoning. The curriculum emphasises experiential learning: internships, community partnerships and applied projects are integral to developing workplace-ready skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary-school qualification. Typical academic preparation includes coursework in biology and mathematics or statistics. Admissions consider a combination of academic records, a personal statement outlining interest in health services, and letters of recommendation. Test scores (such as SAT or ACT) may be optional or considered where provided; applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or approved equivalents.

Transfer applicants from community colleges or other universities should present college transcripts and any relevant coursework or workplace experience in health or human services. Specific admission pathways and prerequisite expectations are detailed by the university's admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Health Services bachelor’s programme pursue a range of roles across health systems, community organisations and public-health settings. Common career paths include:

• Health services administration and operations in hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities.
• Health educator or community outreach coordinator developing and delivering prevention and wellness programmes.
• Case management and care coordination for patients with chronic conditions or complex care needs.
• Health information and data roles supporting quality improvement, compliance and reporting.
• Positions in health policy, healthcare consulting, non-profit management and public-sector health agencies.

Many graduates also use the degree as preparation for graduate study—such as a Master of Public Health (MPH), Master of Health Administration (MHA), or professional programmes like physician assistant, nursing or other health professions—wherein the undergraduate degree provides a strong foundation in health systems and research methods.

Why study at Ohio University

Ohio University offers this programme on its campus with emphasis on applied learning and community engagement. Students benefit from small-group teaching, access to laboratory and simulation facilities, and opportunities to complete internships and practicum placements with regional hospitals, public-health agencies and community providers. The university fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across allied health, public health and social-science departments, helping students build professional networks and hands-on experience.

Faculty include practitioners and researchers active in health services, giving students exposure to current practice, policy debates and applied research. Career services and employer links in the Athens region and beyond support job searches and graduate-school applications, making the programme a practical route into health-sector careers or further professional study.