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Associate of Science in Healthcare Science

Healthcare sciences focus on the development of knowledge and programs that promote health and well-being. Alvernia University's Associate of Science in Healthcare Science degree teaches students how to advocate for individuals and communities that are underserved or under-informed on issues related to health and wellness, health-system policies and health management. Graduates will be prepared to enter a broad array of health-related fields.


The program is an excellent opportunity for students at all levels, including transfers with associate degrees as occupational therapy assistants, physical therapy assistants, medical imaging professionals, dental hygienists or respiratory therapists. You will not only benefit from experienced faculty members who have extensive experience in the business world, but you’ll also get the opportunity to participate in learning opportunities in real business and/or healthcare settings through internships and cooperative experiences.

Getting Started

Application Instructions
Financing Your Education

There are options to assist in financing your education and making the tuition affordable. Visit our Student Financial Services page for a detailed overview of the process, including a link to complete the FAFSA application, as well as more information about tuition, the tuition payment plan and the tuition deferment program we offer. Alvernia’s Title IV code for the FAFSA is 003233. The Office of Student Financial Services is available to help with any questions you may have. Call 610-796-8201 or email sfs@alvernia.edu.

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Why Choose Alvernia?
• A nationally ranked comprehensive regional university, Alvernia offers more than 50 majors and minors.
• An ever-expanding number of experiential learning opportunities includes internships, field experiences, co-ops, research projects, and study/service abroad programs.
• A rich campus life allows students to enjoy a full calendar of activities and events, more than 50 clubs, intramural sport and student leadership and governance opportunities.
• In growth mode, Alvernia continues to add value to its student experience: expanding academic programming in new facilities; adding student living space and updating residence halls; partnering with a community health provider; and adding amenities including a game room and new performance space.


Program Overview

Curriculum

YEAR ONE

Semester 1: Fall (16 credits)

  • BIO 107: Anatomy and Physiology I (3 credits)
  • BIO 117: Anatomy and Physiology I Lab (1 credit)
  • THE 105: Foundations of Theology (3 credits)
  • COM 101: Composition and Research or COM108 Composition and Research for Multilingual Writers (3 credits)
  • SRH 101: Search Seminar (3 credits)
  • HCS 310: Health and Wellness over the Lifespan (3 credits)
     

Semester 2: Spring (16 credits)

  • BIO 108: Anatomy and Physiology II (3 credits)
  • BIO 118: Anatomy and Physiology II lab (1 credit)
  • MAT 208: (3 credits)
  • PHI 105: Introduction to Philosophy (3 credits)
  • HCS 330: Healthcare Literacy and Advocacy (3 credits)
  • ART/MUS/THR elective (3 credits)
     

Summer Session

  • Certificate Nurse Aide RACC (optional/no credit)
     

YEAR TWO

Semester 3: Fall (16 credits)

  • CHE 106: Fundamental of Chemistry (3 credits)
  • CHE 109: Fundamentals Laboratory Techniques (1 credit)
  • Elective (3 credits)
  • BIO 216: Nutrition (3 credits)
  • HCS 305: Introduction to Healthcare Informatics (3 credits)
  • PSY 101: Introductory Psychology (3 credits)
     

Semester 4: Spring (18 credits)

  • PSY 208: Human Development Across the Life Span (3 credits)
  • HCS 320: Healthcare Science and Cultural Competency (3 credits)
  • THE 210: Medical Moral Theology (3 credits)
  • Elective (3 credits)
  • Elective (3 credits)
  • Elective (3 credits)
     

Electives include courses in Healthcare Science, Biology, or Psychology. 

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Through internships, students have opportunities to apply theories and knowledge learned in the classroom in a variety of professional settings. In addition to providing exposure to the activities and expectations of a real-world workplace, internship experiences help students develop their network of professional contacts.


You will not only benefit from experienced faculty members who have extensive experience in the business world, you’ll also get the opportunity to participate in learning opportunities in real business and/or healthcare settings through internships and cooperative experiences.


Some of the organizations with which Alvernia healthcare majors have had internships include:

  • Reading Health System
  • Reading Health Dispensary
  • Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
  • Lutheran Home of Topton
  • St. Joseph Medical Center
  • Chester County Hospital
Accreditation Statements
  • Alvernia is an accredited institution and a member of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. MSCHE is an institutional accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Career Outlook

After earning your Associates of Science in Healthcare Science, you can pursue a variety of careers, including:

  • Healthcare agencies
  • Medical care settings
  • Community health and advocacy
  • Health counseling or advocacy
  • Science and health writing
  • Policy analysis
  • Program development
  • Work in government agencies, consumer groups or healthcare agencies
     

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in medical and health services is projected to grow 28% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than average for all occupations.


Get to Know Your Faculty

For more information about Alvernia’s Heatlhcare Science program contact the Admissions Office at 610-796-8269 or admissions@alvernia.edu. Or reach out directly to Healthcare Science Program Director Thomas Porazzo at 610-796-8311 or tom.porrazzo@alvernia.edu.