Health Science

Courses in the Program

Health science degree courses focus on core disciplines that help students understand, maintain, and improve human health. Here’s a snapshot of some of the courses you’ll take:

• BIO 211 – Human Anatomy: Provide an in-depth study of human body structure and its relationship to function, with clinical examples and weekly lab sessions covering all major body systems.
• BIO 311 – Pathophysiology: Examine the biological basis of human disease, including causes, effects, and treatment approaches for disorders across major organ systems.
• HHP 250 – Nutrition: Learn the essential nutrients, their biological functions, and how nutrition applies to health, performance, and disease prevention.
• PSY 430 – Health Psychology: Explore how psychological factors influence physical health and illness, with topics such as stress, coping, and behavioral health interventions.

The health science program provides a strong interdisciplinary foundation for promoting physical and mental well-being in clinical, athletic, or community settings.

Clubs and Organizations

Get involved in student organizations that can enrich your academic and professional journey. These clubs foster leadership, service, and networking opportunities in health-related fields:

Phi Epsilon Kappa

Recognizes students in the areas of physical education, health, recreation, dance, human performance, exercise science, sports medicine and sports management.

Alpha Pi Upsilon

The honor society for pre-medical, pre-dental, pre-veterinary and other professional health-related majors.

The University of Olivet Veterans’ Advocates

Established in 2012, The University of Olivet Veterans’ Advocates promotes and supports the concerns and issues of military and veteran members of The University of Olivet student body. We provide a voice for military and veteran students in student councils and government, as well as The University of Olivet administration.

Why Choose The University of Olivet for Your Health Science Degree?

Choosing the right college in Michigan for a health science degree means finding a place that balances academic rigor with personalized support. At The University of Olivet, you’ll join a community that’s committed to helping you grow as a student, a future healthcare professional, and a leader in the field.

A Personalized, In-Person Education

At The University of Olivet, your education is hands-on and faculty-driven. Small class sizes and close mentorship mean your professors know your goals and help guide your path, whether that’s applying to grad school, getting lab experience, or exploring multiple areas of healthcare.

Built for Health-Focused Students

The health science program at The University of Olivet is structured to meet the needs of today’s evolving healthcare industry. You’ll take coursework in biology, chemistry, and behavioral science, preparing for both clinical and research-based careers. And as the University expands its nursing and health offerings, you’ll benefit from a growing network of faculty expertise and student support.

Students planning to pursue the Bachelor of Science in Nursing should connect with the Director of the RN-BSN Program for guidance and advising.

Michigan-Based, Career-Connected

Our location in the heart of Michigan gives you access to nearby healthcare providers, public health organizations, and graduate institutions. You’ll study in a focused, supportive campus environment that encourages both personal and professional development.

Career Outlook for Those With Health Science Degrees

A bachelor’s degree in health science from The University of Olivet opens doors to a wide range of rewarding and high-growth careers in the healthcare sector. Whether your focus is patient care, diagnostics, or public health, the demand for educated health professionals continues to rise across Michigan and the country.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports:

• Medical and clinical laboratory technologists earn a median salary of $57,380 per year, with solid growth projected.
• Health educators and community health workers earn a median of $59,990 per year, with increasing demand in public health outreach.
• Occupational health and safety specialists earn a median salary of $79,370, supporting worker safety across industries.
• Healthcare administrators earn a median of $104,830 per year, leading healthcare systems and facilities.

These roles highlight the importance of today’s healthcare systems. Professionals are needed not only at a patient’s bedside, but also in labs, offices, and public health offices. With the proper preparation, a health science degree can lead to a stable career and the chance to make a meaningful impact across many different settings.

Jobs for Health Science Graduates

At The University of Olivet, our health science degree provides a strong foundation for many career paths that blend scientific knowledge with real-world application. With a background in health science, you’ll be prepared for entry-level roles or further graduate study in areas such as:

• Clinical Lab Technician: Perform diagnostic tests and analyze samples to support physicians in detecting and treating diseases.
• Health Educator: Teaches individuals and communities how to improve health outcomes through behavior change and education.
• Research Assistant: Supports scientific studies by collecting data, conducting experiments, and analyzing results in clinical or academic settings.
• Occupational Therapy Assistant: Helps patients regain skills needed for daily living and works under the supervision of an occupational therapist.
• Public Health Analyst: Collects and interprets health data to improve programs, policies, and population health outcomes.
• Pharmaceutical or Medical Sales Representative: Educates healthcare providers about new products and devices while managing accounts and sales territories.
• Patient Care Coordinator: Serves as a liaison between patients and providers, helping manage treatment plans, appointments, and insurance details.
• Healthcare Administrator: Oversees operations, budgeting, and staff management in hospitals, clinics, or health systems.
• Graduate Student in Medicine, Public Health, or Allied Health Programs: Prepares for advanced clinical or research careers in healthcare through focused graduate-level training.

No matter which career path you take, your health science education at The University of Olivet will prepare you with strong analytical skills, a solid ethical foundation, and broad interdisciplinary training that employers and graduate schools value.