Grand Valley State University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary bachelor’s degree combines foundational biomedical sciences, clinical assessment skills and profession-specific applied training. Core subjects include human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, microbiology, pharmacology basics, and medical terminology. Students study diagnostic methods and technologies, such as clinical laboratory principles, diagnostic imaging fundamentals, and physiological monitoring methods, together with therapeutic interventions including rehabilitation techniques, patient-centred care planning and therapeutic modalities.

Emphasis is placed on practical skills and professional behaviour: coursework typically covers clinical assessment, infection control, health informatics, documentation and quality improvement. Research methods and statistics are taught to enable evidence-based practice, and ethics, confidentiality and legal aspects of care are integrated throughout the programme.

The curriculum usually combines required core courses with elective or concentration options that let students tailor study toward areas such as rehabilitation support, diagnostic technologies, laboratory sciences, or health services delivery. Clinical education is an essential component: students complete supervised practicum placements and simulation lab experiences to develop hands-on competence and interprofessional teamwork.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised secondary school qualification with a competitive academic profile. Typical preparation includes college-preparatory science courses (biology and chemistry) and college-level mathematics or statistics. Admissions may consider cumulative GPA, personal statement, and relevant volunteer or healthcare experience.

Standard university admissions procedures apply; standardised tests may be optional depending on admission pathways. Transfer students are assessed on transferable college credits and coursework. Successful candidates should be able to meet health and safety requirements for clinical placements, which commonly include background checks, immunisations and basic life support certification before practicum periods.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of allied health roles or use the degree as a stepping-stone to postgraduate clinical training. Career destinations include roles such as clinical laboratory technician, diagnostic imaging assistant, respiratory care support, rehabilitation assistant, and other healthcare technical positions. Many graduates pursue further professional qualifications to become diagnostic medical sonographers, radiographers, physician assistants, physical or occupational therapists, or advanced laboratory scientists.

Other pathways include healthcare administration, clinical research coordination, medical sales and education. The degree is designed to develop transferable clinical, analytical and communication skills valued by hospitals, outpatient clinics, diagnostic centres, rehabilitation facilities and public health organisations.

Why study at Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley combines a liberal-education foundation with applied health training and a focus on experiential learning. Students benefit from small-class instruction, dedicated simulation and lab facilities, and structured practicum placements arranged through the university’s network of clinical partners across the region. The programme emphasises interprofessional learning so students gain experience collaborating with nursing, medicine and other allied health disciplines.

Academic advising and career services help students plan concentrations, certification pathways and postgraduate options. The university’s community connections and alumni network support internship opportunities and local employment transitions for graduates pursuing allied health careers.