The new bachelor of science in applied health sciences degree becomes WSU Applebaum’s only direct-admit program, meaning students can begin connecting with the college during their first year at Wayne State. Enrollees will emerge with strong foundations in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, communication within a health care setting, interdisciplinary patient care, critical thinking and writing, ethics, and diversity across the health science continuum. The curriculum consists of a variety of pathways to prepare students for application to a health science professional program or as a stand-alone degree to work in various health settings. 

“This interdisciplinary undergraduate degree program is intended for students who are interested in a health profession but aren’t certain about which career path to pursue,” said WSU Applebaum Associate Dean for Health Sciences Sara Maher. “Our new major gives students the opportunity to explore a variety of health professions while developing applicable skills and knowledge that will help them take that next step — ideally determining which field is right for them and applying to that specific program with key prerequisite credits under their belts.”

Program flyer (print only)

“This new degree is designed to support multiple populations,” said WSU Applebaum Assistant Dean of Student Affairs Paul Beasley. “Whether students are entering college for the first time or come to us as adult learners or transfer students, they will have academic advising support and assistance in developing a targeted degree pathway based on their long-term goals.”

The new degree’s WSU Applebaum concentrations include:

• Pre-Occupational Therapy
• Pre-Pathologists’ Assistant
• Pre-Pharmacy
• Pre-Physical Therapy
• Pre-Physician Assistant Studies
• General

Additional WSU Applebaum undergraduate programs:

• Medical Laboratory Science
• Mortuary Science
• Radiation Therapy Technology
• Radiologic Technology

These options encompass nearly all of WSU Applebaum's degree programs. Students will be required to complete a minor as part of the degree and can choose from more than 100 Wayne State University minor programs, such as health communication, health care ethics, law and social work, public health, and more.

“The support from our university and community partners reinforces the value of our new bachelor of science in applied health sciences degree,” said WSU Applebaum Academic Services Officer IV Moira Fracassa, who focused on helping to develop and champion the program during her WSU Academic Leadership Academy fellowship this past year.

“We are incredibly pleased to offer this innovative option to incoming students, and grateful to the Board of Governors for approving the degree program,” said WSU Applebaum Dean Brian Cummings. “Oftentimes, we meet with prospective students who feel drawn to a health care career but are unsure of a direction to follow because they haven’t had the opportunity to explore the possibilities. The bachelor of science in applied health sciences is a comprehensive way to make an informed choice while earning credits and gaining hands-on experience right here in the heart of Detroit.”