Augustana University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational life sciences and liberal‑arts coursework with applied allied‑health training and supervised clinical experiences. Core study areas typically include human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, medical terminology, clinical assessment and patient communication, plus coursework in ethics and public health.

Typical modules and learning experiences

• Foundations of Biology and Chemistry – cell biology, basic chemistry for health sciences and laboratory methods.
• Anatomy & Physiology – multi‑term sequence covering body systems and integration relevant to diagnosis and intervention.
• Clinical Assessment and Diagnostic Techniques – patient history, physical examination fundamentals, laboratory diagnostics and an introduction to medical imaging concepts.
• Therapeutic and Intervention Principles – principles of rehabilitation, therapeutic modalities, assistive technology and care planning.
• Health Systems, Ethics and Law – organisation of healthcare delivery, patient rights, professional ethics and regulatory considerations.
• Research Methods and Evidence‑Based Practice – critical appraisal of literature, study design and basic statistics for clinical decision‑making.
• Interprofessional Education – collaborative practice skills working with nursing, medicine, social work and other allied professions.
• Capstone and Clinical Practicum – supervised placements in clinical or community settings, reflective capstone project integrating coursework and practice.

Students also select elective modules or concentrations that align with career goals—for example, diagnostic imaging foundations, clinical laboratory techniques, rehabilitation sciences or health informatics. The programme emphasises hands‑on learning through labs, simulation and community partnerships with regional healthcare providers.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions are based on a combination of academic preparation, relevant coursework and demonstrated interest in health care.

• Recommended academic background: secondary coursework in biology and chemistry, and strong reading and quantitative skills. Mathematics and physics are advantageous for certain technical tracks.
• Application materials: official transcripts, a personal statement explaining interest in allied health, and one or more references. Some applicants may be invited to interview or provide evidence of volunteer/paid experience in a care setting.
• Transfer students: transfer credit from community colleges or other institutions is considered; applicants should submit course descriptions to support evaluation.

Because many career paths in allied health require subsequent certification or licensure, students are encouraged to consult programme advisors early to plan any required prerequisite sequences for professional credentialing.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of entry‑level roles in healthcare, and for further certification or professional training. Common immediate career destinations include support and technical positions within hospitals, diagnostic centres and community health organisations.

• Diagnostic and technical roles such as clinical laboratory assistant, imaging support staff or sonography trainee (with further accredited training as required).
• Therapeutic and rehabilitation support roles including rehabilitation aide, occupational therapy or physical therapy assistant pathways (often requiring additional certification).
• Roles in patient coordination, case management support, health education and community health programmes.
• Careers in healthcare administration or health information services, particularly when combined with electives in informatics or management.
• Pathways to graduate and professional programmes—graduates frequently progress to accredited training for professions such as physician assistant, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or to graduate study in public health or clinical research.

Employers value the programme’s combination of scientific knowledge, clinical experience and communication skills. Many students also pursue certification exams or additional technical programmes after graduation to qualify for specific regulated roles.

Why study at Augustana University

Augustana combines a liberal‑arts approach with focused professional preparation, offering small class sizes and close faculty mentoring that support personalised academic and career planning. The university maintains partnerships with regional hospitals, clinics and community organisations that provide practicum placements and internship opportunities.

• Hands‑on learning: laboratory courses, simulation experiences and supervised clinical placements give practical skills employers seek.
• Interprofessional focus: coursework and team‑based activities prepare students to collaborate effectively across healthcare disciplines.
• Dedicated advising: pre‑professional and career advisers help map routes to certification, licensure and graduate programmes.
• Liberal‑arts foundation: transferable skills in critical thinking, communication and ethics that support long‑term career adaptability.

Together, these features make the programme a strong fit for students who want a broad, application‑focused undergraduate education that positions them for immediate employment in allied health roles or further professional training.