On Friday, Sept. 29, the Wayne State University Board of Governors’ Academic Affairs Committee unanimously approved a new undergraduate degree program within the Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

Beginning in fall 2024, students will have the option to enroll in the new bachelor of science in applied health sciences program.

“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.”

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 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 undergraduate pathways at WSU Applebaum include:

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

• Occupational Therapy
• Pathologists’ Assistant
• Pharmacy Practice
• Physical Therapy
• Physician Assistant Studies

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.”

For details about WSU Applebaum programs, visit applebaum.wayne.edu or write to cphsinfo@wayne.edu.

An anchor in urban health care

The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is built on more than 100 years of tradition and innovation in the heart of Detroit. We have grown deep roots in our city, harnessing its powerhouse hospital systems and community service organizations as vibrant, real-world training grounds for students, with an ongoing focus on social justice in health care. And our research at all levels — from undergraduates to veteran faculty members — translates into creative solutions for healthier communities.

Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 350 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 24,000 students.