Health Science Education (HSE)

The comprehensive Health Science Education program seeks to meet present and predicted needs for health care workers within a health care delivery system that is characterized by diversity and changing technologies. It is a program that recruits qualified and motivated students and prepares them for pursuit of appropriate health careers.

Based on natural and social sciences, the humanities, and a researched body of knowledge, the curriculum is designed to offer a foundation of knowledge and skills necessary to health career preparation. Curriculum concepts incorporate technological advances related to the health care delivery system, including ethics, professionalism, prevention (wellness), diagnostics, therapeutics, and rehabilitation as a result of disease/disorders. Teaching/learning strategies integrate appropriate workplace basic skills that assist students to use resources and technologies, function as effective members within a complex system, and to access and use appropriate information/data.

A relevant connection between abstract theories and concrete applications is emphasized throughout the curriculum. This is practiced through team teaching with health professionals and on-site practicums (mentorships/internships).

The Health Science Education curriculum is designed to enable students to:

• Select health career majors suited to their individual needs, aptitudes, abilities, and career development plan.
• Develop sound fundamentals based on National Health Care Skill Standards.
• Successfully pursue advanced education and/or entry-level employment in a health career cluster.
• Develop basic workplace skills and function as ethical and moral health team members.
• Acquire and use information relevant to remaining technologically abreast of their chosen health career majors.
• Develop a professional philosophy as evidenced in personal qualities and practices that improve the delivery of quality health care and health maintenance to consumers.
• Become knowledgeable consumers of healthcare in a consistently changing technological environment.

Opportunities for expanded leadership, management, technical, and citizenship development are available through membership in a co-curricular student organization, Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA). The organization includes local, regional, state, and national levels. Activities integrate curriculum competencies and objectives. Healthy competition through organized and judged skill events assist in strengthening those skills that make students more marketable as potential health care workers. HOSA seeks to instill an attitude of pride, commitment, and professionalism in its members, and strives to build self-esteem and confidence.

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