Assumption University recognizes the importance of preparing students academically, personally and ethically for meaningful careers in health sciences. Assumption’s outstanding science programs and strong liberal arts curriculum prepare you for the rigors of graduate school. You also will develop the observation, analysis, and communication skills, and personal moral compass you’ll need for professional success.
Our highly credentialed professors work closely with you to plan your course of study. The array of science classes and laboratory credits available in our state-of-the-art Testa Science Center can fulfill the requirements for admission to the medical or professional school of your choice.
Assumption also has established numerous agreements with a variety of health sciences graduate programs to provide a smooth transition from your undergraduate degree to entering the graduate school of your choice.
In addition, we offer you many valuable opportunities to obtain hands-on experience in the life sciences industry of Worcester, Massachusetts. There also are faculty-student research opportunities right on campus. Academic rigor and practical experience provide Assumption students with noteworthy achievements for their graduate school applications.
Assumption’s Health Sciences Program prepares students for a broad range of career opportunities in the growing field of health care, with applications to clinical practice, administration, policy development, and research. Assumption’s health sciences major is an interdisciplinary program with coursework in the department of physical and biological sciences, disease, and disability, and health care delivery and care models, as well as the economics, ethics and policies that drive global health care systems.
Experiential Learning
Assumption’s health sciences curriculum includes a semester-long internship in the healthcare field that enables students to develop and refine the knowledge and skills they’ll need to effectively contribute as a health care professional. This internship experience also helps students with career development and discernment, often leading to employment opportunities after graduation.
Major
Health sciences majors complete 14 courses within the major. Three of those courses overlap with the core curriculum, providing students with a strong liberal arts foundation. Additionally, some courses within the health sciences major will likely overlap with the program’s specialized concentrations, enabling students to not only efficiently complete their degree requirements but also to customize their education toward their career interests as well.
Specialized Concentrations
Assumption’s health sciences program offers students from all majors an opportunity to concentrate in specialty areas that will help them pursue the graduate programs and careers of their choice.
Communication Sciences and Disorders
Prepare to work as a Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) aide or to pursue a graduate degree in the fields of Speech-Language Pathology or Audiology.
Patient Advocacy
Advance your knowledge and understanding of health and human services, health psychology, health care management, and sociology, in the context of the health care environment working with, and for, patients.
Pre-Occupational Therapy
Prepare for graduate study in occupational therapy. Students are encouraged to major in health sciences, human services and rehabilitation studies, biology or psychology.
Pre-Physical Therapy
Prepare for graduate study in either occupational therapy or physical therapy. Students are encouraged to major in health sciences, human services and rehabilitation studies, biology or psychology.
Cinzia Pica, Ed.D.
Faculty
Experiential Learning
Assumption's Rome Campus
At Assumption's campus in Rome, Italy, the city and the country become your classroom through daily and weekend-long excursions throughout "the eternal city" and the Italian countryside. This unique study abroad experience will enrich your academic and cultural pursuits as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators then enjoy delectable Italian cuisine or perhaps a cappuccino after class in a local cafe. (Did you know that your financial aid follows you to Rome?)
Explore the Rome CampusLearn the Skills Employers Seek
Faculty/Student Research
The Assumption curriculum encourages scholarly and real-world experience. With hands-on research conducted alongside faculty mentors, students gain a depth of knowledge and skills that lead to professional success and personal fulfillment.Study Abroad
At Assumption University, the world is your classroom. Students can study and explore abroad in over 50 places from Vienna to England, South Africa, and even our own campus in historic, yet modern, Rome, Italy. Assumption’s study abroad program offers culture, history, and a living classroom for all.Internships
Assumption starts planning for your future the day you arrive on campus. Our Career Development and Internship Center helps students secure exciting and fulfilling internships where you’ll apply knowledge obtained in the classroom in a professional setting, preparing for a future career or additional study. Assumption connects students to internship opportunities in corporations, government agencies, research hospitals, non-profit organizations, and more.Pathways to Success
Recent internship sites related to health sciences and our concentrations:
Assumption University Athletic Training
Central Mass Physical Therapy
Greendale Physical Therapy
THOM Early Intervention Services
UMASS Medical Emergency Mental Health
Wachusett Early Childhood Center
Worcester Polytechnic Institute Athletic Training
Worcester Physical Therapy
UMASS Medical Emergency Mental Health
Alicia Burrows
Health Sciences 2020
Pediatric and Newborn Medicine Research Intern, Brigham and Women's Hospital
“I feel very supported by the faculty and staff at Assumption. They are always willing to give advice, help during office hours, and encourage students to set higher goals and achieve more as we prepare for our future careers.”
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. ”
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.”
First-rate Academics in a Catholic University Setting
Assumption University awakens in students a sense of wonder, discovery, and purpose, forming graduates known for their intellectual seriousness, thoughtful citizenship, and devotion to the common good. Students are provided an education that shapes their souls, forms them intellectually, and prepares them for meaningful careers. Enlivened by the harmony of faith and reason, here, students’ minds and hearts are transformed.