Health Science, BS
Jumpstart a career in helping people thrive.
This major will provide you with a unique interdisciplinary perspective on human health. Guided by our esteemed faculty, you’ll explore the structure and function of whole organisms (microbe, plants, animals) and the fundamentals of health—biological, chemical, physical, and psychological. You’ll hone your ability to reason through unfamiliar problems, the tools to investigate topics in-depth, and the communication skills needed to share information with others.
With our small class sizes and numerous opportunities for clinical experience or hands-on research, you can make lasting connections in our tight-knit community of difference-makers.
Learn More About Our Health Science Program
Get to know our well-respected faculty and their specialties. Or explore scholarship opportunities and an array of research possibilities.
What can you do with a degree in Health Science?
A degree in Health Science provides students with interdisciplinary preparation in biology, chemistry, psychology, and communication for roles across healthcare, public health, and research
(*Some careers may require additional certification or graduate study)
Clinical Research Coordinator
Oversee IRB compliance, recruit participants, schedule visits, collect data, and maintain protocol quality for clinical or translational studies
Health Data / Biostatistics Analyst
Use statistical methods to clean, analyze, and visualize health datasets to inform program design, quality improvement, and policy decisions
Community Health Specialist
Plan and deliver outreach, screenings, referrals, and navigation services while evaluating outcomes for diverse populations
Environmental Health Specialist (prep)
Investigate environmental exposures, conduct inspections, and support compliance reporting—often requiring state or REHS certification
Health Communication Specialist
Translate scientific findings into clear patient education, digital campaigns, and provider communications that drive behavior change
Healthcare Operations / Administration Associate
Support scheduling, revenue cycle, accreditation, and quality initiatives to improve patient flow and clinic efficiency
Patient Care Technician / Medical Assistant (prep)
Take vitals, document in EHRs, and coordinate patient flow in ambulatory settings, typically with an added short-term certification
Rehabilitation / Exercise Specialist (prep)
Administer fitness assessments and implement exercise prescriptions under supervision, building toward PT/OT or exercise physiology graduate study
Pre-Professional Pathways (medicine, PA, PT, OT, nursing)
Complete prerequisites, gain clinical hours, and prepare for licensure-track graduate programs and professional schools
Saint Mary's Testimonials
“My experience as a health science major has opened my eyes to the wide range of career opportunities in the health field. Most importantly, the courses were beneficial for my future goals because they provided me with the knowledge and inspiration to help others be the best and healthiest version of themselves.”
Alyssa Vessel, '22
