
Beginning Fall 2018, Georgia State University undergraduate students have a new health major to select – a bachelor’s of interdisciplinary studies in health sciences. The degree will have three focus tracks, preparing students for a range of future health careers.
The interprofessional rehabilitation science track offers a curriculum geared towards masters, doctorate programs in rehab fields such as occupational, and physical therapy. Entry level in these fields requires an advanced degree, and this B.I.S. track ensures that students are taking the correct prerequisites.
The second track in health and wellness sciences capitalizes on the growing need for health and life coaches who play a part in keeping members of society healthy and helping them tailor eating and exercise to their individual lives. Many health coaches work in corporate settings.
The third track in health enterprise sciences, geared toward business-minded students, will be offered in conjunction with the Robinson College of Business. This track provides students with courses and practical experience to fit the growing and changing entrepreneurial health and wellness market. This final track will phase in during Academic Year 2019-2020.
This new degree program tailors coursework to the students’ needs. For example, a pre-physical therapy student can take the exact science sequence needed to apply to physical therapy programs and not waste time and money at the undergraduate level with unneeded classes. Students will also have tailored global or city experiences, which are either hands-on study abroad or local clinical experiences designed for their track. A health and wellness track student might intern at an organic farm, for example.
Unlike the lab science-based, chemistry-heavy bachelors in nutrition science degree program, the B.I.S. in health sciences does not require a second application process. Also, the flexibility of the degree allows students to enroll full or part-time to get an education to meet the needs of health careers that may not yet exist.