Alfred State College

What you'll study

This Bachelor in Health Services combines foundational science with applied health management and community‑based practice. Core topics typically include human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, public health principles, epidemiology, health ethics and law, healthcare delivery systems, and health promotion.

• Foundational science: anatomy & physiology, microbiology for health professions, and introductory pharmacology.
• Health systems and management: healthcare administration, healthcare finance and reimbursement basics, quality improvement, and organisational behaviour.
• Population health: epidemiology, community and behavioural health, health disparities, and health promotion strategies.
• Data and informatics: introductory biostatistics, health informatics, and use of electronic health records.
• Professional practice: medical ethics, legal/ regulatory issues in healthcare, communication skills, and interprofessional teamwork.
• Experiential learning: supervised practicum or internship in a clinical or community setting and a senior capstone or applied research project.

The programme is structured to combine SUNY general education requirements with major coursework over multiple years, emphasising small‑group labs, applied assignments and workplace placements that link theory to practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Typical entry considerations include cumulative academic performance, strength of grades in science and mathematics subjects, and completion of secondary courses in biology and English. Mature applicants and those with relevant work or volunteer experience in healthcare are welcomed.

• Successful completion of secondary‑level biology and college‑prep mathematics is usually expected.
• Some programmes request a personal statement outlining interest in health services and any relevant experience.
• College may consider placement testing or interview for appropriate course placement.
• Transfer applicants with prior post‑secondary credit in science, health or business may receive advanced standing subject to transcript review.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in hospitals, community health organisations, long‑term care settings and administrative offices. Many take positions that support clinical teams or manage aspects of service delivery rather than provide independent clinical diagnoses.

• Health services coordinator or administrative assistant in hospitals and clinics
• Patient care coordinator, case manager or care navigator
• Community health worker or health educator in public health agencies and non‑profits
• Medical records, coding or health information technician roles
• Quality improvement support or operations roles in healthcare organisations

Graduates may also use this degree as a stepping stone to further professional programmes such as nursing, physician assistant studies, public health masters, or health administration programmes.

Why study at Alfred State College

Alfred State offers an applied, career‑oriented approach with relatively small class sizes and hands‑on lab and practicum components that connect students to regional healthcare providers. The college maintains relationships with local hospitals, clinics and public health agencies to support internships and job placement.

• Applied learning: emphasis on laboratory work, simulation and workplace placements to build practical skills.
• Supportive environment: faculty with industry experience, accessible academic advising and career services focused on employer connections.
• Transfer and progression: clear pathways for graduates who wish to progress to advanced clinical or graduate study.

Overall, the programme at Alfred State is designed for students who want a solid, practical preparation for immediate employment in health services or a foundation for further professional training.