Welcome to the School of Health Professions at Assumption University. The School consists of the undergraduate majors in Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies (HSRS) and Health Sciences.
Led by a distinguished and experienced faculty, many of whom also practice in their respective disciplines, the undergraduate majors are designed to prepare learners for a career in one of many health professions. Building on the robust liberal arts curriculum based on Catholic principles, the courses within the two majors will help students develop knowledge that prepares them for career of service to others within the health care field. Students will gain an awareness of real world factors that are determinants of health for their future patients and clients. Learners will discover factors related to access to care and how illnesses affect the lives of patients and their families. Moreover, our students will further appreciate the importance of empathy and compassion in relating to those they serve.
The majors help prepare students for medical school, dental school, and graduate programs in physician assistant studies, counseling psychology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, rehabilitation counseling, school counseling, school psychology, child life, special education, social work and speech-language pathology. There are multiple concentrations available including occupational therapy, physical therapy, communication sciences and disorders, and working with children and adolescents in community settings. Students who pursue these majors and concentrations may also be interested in working in health care administration or health care policy positions. The Health Sciences and HSRS majors will prepare graduates in those fields as well.
Included in both majors are internships in health care settings. These internships are designed to provide experience in an atmosphere consistent with the student’s interests and will provide networking opportunities moving forward.
Katherine Golden
Health Sciences 2020
Ongoing Social Work Intern, Worcester Department of Children and Families; Pursuing Dual Master's Degree in Social Work and Public Health at Boston University
“Assumption can open so many doors for you - trust it and let it change your life! I was prepared for my internship because I went in with knowledge and experience in the field due to my work in the classroom. I learned many professional skills, while at the same time learning about myself and the community I live in.”
Kelly O'Laughlin
Human Services 2020
Intern, Flagg Street Elementary School
“Assumption provided me with an education and the skills needed to be prepared for my internship. The skills I learned in the classroom helped me navigate challenges and triumphs during my internship. Professors are influential and supportive and are also excellent sources for advice about post-graduation plans. ”
Emily Singer
Health Sciences 2020
Student Intern, Thom Child & Family Services
“Assumption was incredible in facilitating my internship experience. A faculty member recommended an internship for me based on my interests and then reached out to the agency. The agency then contacted me to set up an interview. In addition, it was Assumption faculty who helped me realize that I want to be an occupational therapist. ”
Olivia Thompson
Human Services 2020
Clinic Intern, Barrett Family Wellness Center; Pursuing Master of Science in Speech and Language Pathology at MGH Institute of Health Professions
“Assumption was the best decision I’ve made and couldn’t imagine choosing anywhere else. The HSRS department was very helpful in securing my internship by conducting meetings about how to start the interview process and then facilitating the internship course. The sense of support from all members of the community made Assumption feel like home for four years.”
An Ideal Place to Learn
Cinzia Pica, Ed.D.
Professor of Human Services; Chair, Department of Health and Human Services; Director, Women’s Studies Program