Saginaw Valley State University

What you'll study

This multidisciplinary undergraduate programme combines core biomedical science with profession-specific skills and clinical practice. You will study human anatomy and physiology, pathology, medical terminology and pharmacology to build a strong scientific foundation. The curriculum then moves into applied areas such as clinical assessment, diagnostic methods, therapeutic interventions, rehabilitation principles, patient safety and infection control.

• Core science and foundation modules: Human Anatomy & Physiology, Clinical Pathophysiology, Medical Terminology, Introduction to Public Health.
• Diagnostic and intervention modules: Clinical Assessment Techniques, Principles of Diagnostic Imaging (overview), Laboratory and Point-of-Care Diagnostics, Respiratory and Cardiorespiratory Care principles, Mobility and Rehabilitation Strategies.
• Professional practice and skills: Patient Communication and Interprofessional Collaboration, Ethics and Health Law, Health Informatics and Documentation, Cultural Competence in Healthcare.
• Research and evidence-based practice: Statistics for Health Professionals, Research Methods, Critical Appraisal of Clinical Evidence.
• Clinical experience and capstone: Supervised clinical practicum(s) in partner hospitals and clinics, practicum seminars and a capstone project that integrates clinical learning with service improvement or applied research.

Courses emphasise hands-on laboratory work, simulated clinical scenarios and community-based placements. Students may have opportunities to tailor elective choices toward diagnostics, rehabilitation, or health intervention pathways.

Entry requirements

Entry typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent with evidence of academic preparation in science and mathematics. Recommended secondary subjects include biology, chemistry and algebra or statistics. Admissions consider the overall academic record and preparation for university-level study.

• Academic preparation: Completion of secondary-level science and maths recommended; college transfer applicants should provide transcripts of relevant coursework.
• Minimum standards: Applicants must meet Saginaw Valley State University’s undergraduate admission criteria; competitive allied health programmes may have additional screening.
• Health and safety requirements: Accepted students are usually required to complete health screenings, up-to-date immunisations, background checks and basic life support (CPR) certification prior to clinical placements.
• Other requirements: Some specialisations or clinical placements may require proof of physical ability to perform clinical tasks and professional conduct standards.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of allied health roles or use the degree as a stepping-stone to professional programmes. Typical career paths include technician and therapist support roles, diagnostic services, clinical coordination and health education.

• Diagnostic roles such as clinical laboratory assistant, imaging support technician or point-of-care testing specialist.
• Rehabilitation support positions including physical therapy assistant or occupational therapy aide, and roles supporting respiratory or cardiac care teams.
• Intervention and treatment support such as behavioural health technician, community health worker or rehabilitation services coordinator.
• Administrative and coordination roles in clinics and hospitals, healthcare quality improvement and patient navigation.
• Progression to graduate or professional programmes in fields like physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, diagnostic imaging or advanced laboratory sciences.

Career outcomes depend on chosen electives, clinical experience, and licensing or certification where applicable; many graduates combine workplace experience with additional credentialing to advance in specialised roles.

Why study at Saginaw Valley State University

Saginaw Valley State University offers a community-focused campus with small class sizes and direct access to regional healthcare partners across the Great Lakes Bay area. The university emphasises applied learning through laboratory instruction, simulation and supervised clinical placements arranged with local hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation centres.

• Practical facilities: Hands-on lab spaces and simulation resources designed for allied health training.
• Regional partnerships: Established clinical links with area hospitals and outpatient services that support practicum placements and employer networking.
• Faculty expertise: Instructors with clinical backgrounds who integrate current practice and professional expectations into coursework.
• Student support: Academic advising, career services and placement assistance to help transition into employment or further study.

The programme is well suited to students who want an applied, workforce-oriented education with clear pathways into allied health roles or further professional qualifications.