Dominican University of California

What you'll study

This master's brings together core biomedical science with applied clinical practice and professional skills. You will study modules that build a foundation in human anatomy and physiology, pathophysiology, and clinical assessment before progressing to diagnostic techniques, therapeutic intervention strategies and rehabilitation principles. Coursework emphasises evidence-based practice, outcome measurement, health promotion and culturally responsive care.

• Core biomedical and clinical modules — anatomy & physiology, pathophysiology, clinical pharmacology relevant to allied health roles.
• Diagnostic and assessment methods — history taking, physical examination, use and interpretation of common diagnostic tests, clinical reasoning.
• Intervention and treatment approaches — therapeutic modalities, rehabilitation planning, behavioural interventions and functional restoration.
• Interprofessional practice and systems — teamwork, care coordination, ethics, legal issues, and health systems in community and acute care settings.
• Evidence-based practice and research methods — critical appraisal, applied research methods, quality improvement and service evaluation.
• Clinical practicum / supervised fieldwork — structured placements in clinical settings to apply skills under supervision, culminating in a capstone or practicum project that integrates academic learning with clinical practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree, preferably in a health, allied health or related science discipline. Admissions favour candidates with prior clinical experience or exposure to patient care; however, applicants with strong academic backgrounds and demonstrable commitment to allied health practice are also considered.

• Academic qualifications — a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Specific prerequisite coursework (for example anatomy, physiology or statistics) may be required depending on prior study.
• Supporting documents — academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining career goals and fit with the programme, and at least two professional or academic references.
• Professional background — relevant work, volunteer or clinical experience is highly valued; some applicants may be invited to interview.
• Compliance checks — successful applicants must satisfy health and safety requirements for clinical placements, which commonly include immunisations, background checks and any required certifications.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a variety of roles across healthcare settings. The programme develops skills suited to diagnostic and therapeutic positions within hospitals, outpatient clinics, community health services, rehabilitation centres and private practice. Graduates often pursue roles such as allied health clinician, diagnostic practitioner, rehabilitation specialist, clinical coordinator, case manager or programme manager.

Beyond immediate clinical roles, the degree supports progression into supervisory and leadership positions, allied-health education, health services research and quality improvement roles. It can also provide a foundation for further postgraduate study or professional certification in specialised allied-health disciplines.

Why study at Dominican University of California

Dominican offers a small-cohort, student-centred environment with close faculty mentorship and an emphasis on ethical, service-oriented practice. The university’s location in the San Francisco Bay Area provides access to diverse clinical placement opportunities across community clinics, hospitals and specialised care providers.

• Personalised learning — small classes encourage close interaction with faculty and practical skills development.
• Clinical partnerships — structured practicum links to local healthcare providers help students gain hands-on experience.
• Values-led education — the university’s mission emphasises social responsibility, cultural humility and patient-centred care.
• Career support — services to help with placement, professional development and transition into allied-health careers.