INTEGRATED HEALTH SCIENCES
About the program
The Integrated Health Sciences curriculum equips students with essential knowledge and skills in biological, behavioral, and nutritional sciences to promote healthy lifestyles and well-being. It prepares students for careers and post-baccalaureate graduate programs in health sciences.
For students interested in an Occupational Therapy career, this major also offers students the opportunity to pursue a 3+3 program resulting in a BS in Integrated Health Sciences (Pre-Occupational Therapy concentration) and a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD) from Thomas Jefferson University (TJU) in one seamless program. Students apply to the OTD program at JU after the completion of their 3rd semester of the BS in Integrated Health Sciences at UD.
Upon completion of the BS in Integrated Health Sciences, students will be able to:
- Identify the biologic and physiologic functions of the body as a foundation to understand human health.
- Apply diet and nutrition concepts to promote health.
- Demonstrate knowledge of cultural and environmental factors that support health behaviors and health across diverse communities.
- Apply appropriate evidence-based theories and models to change health behaviors.
- Critically interpret and appraise scientific literature to support evidence-based health recommendations.
Opportunities for Integrative Health Sciences Graduates
Integrated Health Sciences graduates are prepared to work in a variety of settings including (but not limited to) healthcare facilities, community or public health, health and wellness industries, medical sales, health education, and research. Integrated Health Sciences majors may also pursue graduate education in the health sciences including programs in Occupational Therapy, Public Health, accelerated Nursing, Social Work, and more.
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032. About 1.8 million openings are projected each year, on average, in these occupations due to employment growth and the need to replace workers who retire or leave the occupation.
What is Unique About This Program?
Through research, our faculty discover and disseminate new knowledge on a wide range of issues related to health and wellness promotion, health education, nutrition, physical activity, and other health behaviors, for individuals who are healthy and for those with chronic medical conditions.The Integrated Health Sciences major provides students with numerous opportunities to gain research, healthcare, or clinically-related experiential learning and volunteer opportunities in a variety of settings.
The curriculum includes a generous number of elective courses (nine in total), allowing students to pursue a minor and/or customize their coursework to align with their career ambitions or further educational objectives
ADDITIONAL LINKS
Connect
Tower at STAR: 100 Discovery Blvd, Newark, DE 19713<br> Health Sciences Complex: 540 S. College Ave, Newark, DE 19713 chs-info@udel.edu Phone: 302-831-1060