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Prepare for a career in good health

Healthcare sciences focus on the development of knowledge and programs that promote health and well-being. Alvernia University's Bachelor 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 or new applicants with associate degrees as occupational therapy assistants, physical therapy assistants, medical imaging professionals, dental hygienists or respiratory therapists.

Getting Started

Where You Can Get A Degree

The Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Science program is available at the following Alvernia University campuses:

Application Instructions

Through a rolling admission process, prospective students may apply to Alvernia at any time. Multiple start dates throughout the year allow accepted students to begin a program of study at an accommodating time. We continually review applications and accept students for each of the six term starts (August, October, February, March, May, and July).


Keeping on track is important throughout the process. We encourage you to work with an admission team member to submit all materials and meet all deadlines. Our dedicated team will work directly with you to identify the best options that work for you and your unique situation.


Once your application is complete, you will not have to wait long for a decision. We continually review applications and notify students as soon as a decision has been made.


To get started, visit our Adult Education Application page for a list of instructions and documents needed.

Financing Your Education

There are options to assist in financing your education and making the tuition affordable. Visit our financial aid page for a detailed overview of the process, including a link to complete the FAFSA application, as well as more information about 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.

Adult learner
Why Alvernia?
• Alvernia University is a nationally ranked comprehensive regional university that has been a leader in adult education for over 35 years.
• Flexible scheduling with evening classes and in-person, hybrid and online formats meets the needs of the busy adult learner.
• Programs are offered at a growing number of convenient locations in Reading, Pottsville, and Philadelphia.
• With world-class facilities and resources and a dedicated advisor team to help you balance your studies, family, financial and work demands, Alvernia is the ideal choice for your personal and educational comeback.


Program Overview

Curriculum

Liberal Arts Core (31/55 credits)*
General Elective Requirements (as needed)**

Healthcare Science Major Requirements (30 Credits):

  • HCS 200 Foundations of Healthcare Science
  • HCS 300 Writing for Healthcare Science
  • HCS 310 Health & Wellness Over the Lifespan
  • HCS 320 Healthcare Science & Cultural Competence
  • HCS 330 Healthcare Literacy & Advocacy
  • HCS 340 Healthcare Science Management
  • HCS 400 Healthcare System Policy
  • HCS 410 Community Health Org & Admin
  • HCS 420 Current Issues in Healthcare
  • HCS 430 Healthcare Science Capstone
     

*All Alvernia University students are required to complete between 31-55 credits toward the Liberal Arts core. Transfer work may be applicable for this area. As part of the application process, students receive specific information regarding remaining credits.

**A total of 123 credits including 3 credits in a human diversity course are required to complete a Bachelor’s degree. To adhere to Franciscan Values, community service hours are also required. In addition, at least 30 credits at the 300/400 level must be taken at Alvernia University. Recommended core 100 level science with lab: BIO 102, BIO 107/117, BIO 109 or BIO 115/116.

Related Requirements:

BIO 100 level with lab PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology (Social Science Core applicable) BIO 216 Nutrition PSY 208 Human Development Across Lifespan SOC 111 Intro to Sociology
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
Accreditation Statement
Career Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in medical and health services managers is projected to grow 28 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than average for all occupations. The median annual wage in 2021 was $101,000.

  • 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
Schuylkill Healthcare Science graduate Rebecca McCormick
Graduate persists during health crisis
Becky McCormick graduated in 2018 with a B.S. in Healthcare Science, a remarkable achievement after suffering a brain aneurism in her junior year.
Read Becky's Story