Augustana University

What you'll study

The programme develops core knowledge and applied skills across diagnostic assessment, evidence-based intervention, and rehabilitation planning for a range of allied health settings. Study blends taught modules, practical laboratory work and supervised clinical experiences to build competence in assessment tools, clinical decision-making and outcome measurement.

• Foundations of Allied Health Practice – professional roles, ethics, health systems and interprofessional collaboration.
• Advanced Anatomy and Physiology – region-specific structure and function with clinical correlation.
• Diagnostic Assessment and Clinical Reasoning – standardised assessment instruments, differential diagnosis and interpretation of findings.
• Therapeutic Intervention Modalities – exercise prescription, manual techniques, assistive technologies and evidence-based rehabilitation approaches.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research Methods – critical appraisal, quantitative and qualitative methods, and applying research to clinical care.
• Health Promotion and Disease Prevention – population-level strategies, behaviour change and chronic disease management.
• Clinical Practicum / Field Education – supervised placements in hospital, community or outpatient settings to integrate learning with patient care.
• Capstone Project or Thesis – applied research, service development or quality improvement project addressing a practical allied health question.

Programme structure

The programme typically combines core taught modules with elective options to allow specialisation. Assessment methods include written assignments, practical exams, placement assessments and a final capstone or thesis. Clinical practicum hours are built into the programme to ensure competence in real-world settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an accredited undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (for example, exercise science, kinesiology, nursing, health sciences, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, radiography or a related field). Typical entry requirements include:

• Academic qualifications: a recognised bachelor's degree with a satisfactory academic record; specific grade expectations are provided by the admissions office.
• Prerequisite knowledge: prior coursework in anatomy and physiology, and basic statistics or research methods, or completion of bridging modules where gaps exist.
• Professional experience: demonstrated clinical exposure or relevant work/volunteer experience in health care is highly recommended.
• Supporting materials: personal statement outlining motivations and career goals, CV, and at least two academic or professional references.
• English language proficiency: for applicants whose first language is not English, evidence of proficiency through an approved test or qualification is required.

Some applicants may be invited to an interview or a practical assessment as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of allied health roles across clinical, community and administrative settings. Typical career paths include:

• Clinical practitioner roles in diagnostic and rehabilitation services (e.g. clinical exercise physiologist, rehabilitation clinician, diagnostic practitioner within allied health teams).
• Work in multidisciplinary teams across hospitals, outpatient clinics, community health services and private practice.
• Specialist roles supporting older adults, musculoskeletal care, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, neurological rehabilitation and chronic disease management.
• Positions in healthcare management, service development, patient pathway design and quality improvement.
• Further study and research, including doctoral programmes or professional clinical specialisation and advanced practice pathways.

Why study at Augustana University

Augustana offers a learning environment that emphasises small-group teaching, close faculty mentorship and hands-on clinical experience. The programme is designed to be interdisciplinary and practice-focused, integrating contemporary research with direct patient care opportunities.

• Applied learning: laboratory facilities and structured clinical practicum give students frequent, supervised patient contact to translate theory into practice.
• Faculty expertise: teaching staff have clinical backgrounds and research interests across allied health disciplines, supporting professional development and applied research projects.
• Community links: students benefit from clinical placement options with regional healthcare providers and community health organisations, preparing them for work in diverse healthcare settings.
• Supportive environment: institutional support for career development, licensure preparation and postgraduate research pathways helps graduates move into clinical and leadership roles.