University of Kansas

What you'll study

The programme combines biological and social science foundations with applied courses in health services delivery, policy and management. Typical core topics include anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, epidemiology, public health principles, health care systems and policy, health ethics, and research methods and biostatistics.

• Core biomedical subjects: introductory anatomy & physiology, microbiology and pathophysiology to provide a clinical context for health services.
• Health systems and management: health care organisation, finance and administration, quality improvement and health informatics.
• Public and community health: epidemiology, health promotion, population health and social determinants of health.
• Research and analytics: statistics for health sciences, programme evaluation and applied research methods.
• Professional practice: ethics, communication, leadership, interprofessional education and a supervised practicum or internship in a clinical or community setting.
• Capstone and electives: a final-year capstone project or applied research paper and elective options that may include global health, occupational health, gerontology or health policy.

The degree is typically structured over four years with a mix of required core modules, electives and a substantial experiential component such as placements or internships. Students can often combine the major with minors in related areas such as business, psychology or public health to tailor their pathway.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet the University of Kansas undergraduate admission standards and demonstrate preparedness for study in the health sciences. Typical expectations include:

• A secondary school diploma or equivalent with a competitive academic record.
• Prerequisite study in science and mathematics is strongly recommended — for example, courses in biology, chemistry and algebra or statistics.
• A personal statement outlining interest in health services, and sometimes letters of recommendation or an interview for selection into the programme.
• Transfer applicants should present college transcripts showing completion of comparable general education and introductory science courses.
• International applicants must satisfy English language proficiency requirements and provide credential evaluations as required by the university.

Specific course prerequisites and minimum grades may vary; applicants should consult the University of Kansas admissions guidance and the programme adviser for the most current information.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across healthcare delivery, administration and public health. Common early-career positions include:

• Health services coordinator or administrator in hospitals, clinics and community health centres.
• Healthcare quality improvement or patient safety officer.
• Health educator, community outreach specialist or case manager.
• Data analyst for health systems, insurers or public health agencies.
• Roles in health policy, planning and non-profit health organisations.

Many students use the degree as a stepping stone to professional qualifications and postgraduate study, such as a Master of Public Health (MPH), Master of Health Administration (MHA), advanced clinical training (nursing, physician assistant programmes) or research degrees. Practical experience obtained through placements and internships often supports direct entry to employers or competitive graduate programmes.

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers interprofessional learning opportunities and connections with the KU Medical Center and regional health providers, providing access to clinical placements, simulation facilities and applied research projects. Students benefit from faculty with experience in clinical practice, health policy and community health research, and from on-campus resources including career services, student health organisations and mentorship programmes.

Located with strong regional healthcare networks, the programme emphasises experiential learning, community engagement and pathways to professional certification or postgraduate study, making it suitable for students seeking both practical skills and options for further specialisation in the health sector.