Slippery Rock University

What you'll study

The Health Services degree provides an interdisciplinary curriculum that blends core health sciences with organisational and community health subjects. You will study human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, public health principles, health policy and systems, epidemiology, healthcare management and leadership, health informatics and statistics, research methods, healthcare law and ethics, and community health programming.

Programme structure typically includes classroom learning, laboratory sessions and supervised field experiences. Students complete applied courses such as healthcare quality and risk management, financial and human resources aspects of health services, case management, and programme planning and evaluation. A capstone practicum or internship provides real-world exposure in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, public health departments or community agencies, and many students undertake a culminating research or service project under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education with a broad academic background. Preparation in biology and mathematics is helpful, and coursework in chemistry, social sciences or health-related subjects is advantageous. Slippery Rock welcomes transfer students and mature applicants; transfer credit is assessed on an individual basis.

Admission into some clinical or practicum placements may require additional clearances such as background checks, immunisation records and CPR certification. Students without prior health-related experience will find introductory modules and campus support available to build required skills.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Health Services programme are prepared for a range of entry- and mid-level roles across healthcare settings. Common career paths include healthcare administrator or manager, practice manager, case manager, health educator, community health worker, patient services coordinator, quality improvement assistant, and roles in health insurance or utilisation review.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for further study in public health (MPH), health administration (MHA), allied health professions and nursing, or for specialised certifications in areas such as health information management or quality assurance. Practical experience and internships completed during the degree often lead directly to employment or to professional networking opportunities within regional healthcare providers.

Why study at Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University combines a student-centred campus environment with targeted resources for health professions. The College that houses health programmes offers experienced faculty with clinical and administrative backgrounds, small class sizes, and access to on-campus labs and simulation facilities that mirror real-world healthcare settings.

Students benefit from partnerships with regional hospitals, community agencies and public health departments for practicum placements and internships, plus active student organisations and career services that support resume development and employer connections. The programme emphasises applied learning and professional readiness, helping graduates move smoothly into the workforce or on to graduate study.