University of North Dakota

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational biomedical science with applied clinical skills and professional preparation for allied health careers. Core topics typically include human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pathophysiology, clinical assessment techniques, healthcare ethics and law, and evidence-based practice. Students also study diagnostic concepts (such as basic imaging and laboratory test interpretation), intervention and rehabilitation principles, patient communication, and interprofessional teamwork.

Programme structure commonly mixes campus-based lectures and laboratories with supervised clinical practicum or field placements, giving hands-on experience in hospitals, outpatient clinics, community health centres and rehabilitation settings. Typical modules and coursework may include:

• Foundations of Allied Health and Healthcare Systems
• Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II
• Medical Terminology and Clinical Documentation
• Pathophysiology and Pharmacology for Allied Health
• Clinical Assessment and Diagnostic Skills
• Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Interventions
• Healthcare Ethics, Law and Professionalism
• Research Methods and Evidence-Based Practice
• Clinical Practicum / Field Experience

Elective options and special topics may allow students to explore areas such as cardiopulmonary care, geriatrics, paediatrics, behavioural health support, health informatics or community health promotion. Students are typically expected to complete a capstone project, practicum portfolio or senior seminar to demonstrate clinical competence and professional readiness.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a high school diploma or equivalent with a solid background in science. Typical prerequisites include previous study in biology and chemistry, and competence in English and mathematics. Admission is competitive and may be contingent on meeting a minimum GPA threshold at the high-school level or in transfer coursework.

Additional common requirements for entry or progression into clinical placements include up-to-date immunisations, background checks, drug screening and basic life-support (CPR) certification. Some applicants may be invited to attend an interview or submit a personal statement outlining their interest in allied health and relevant volunteer or work experience. Transfer students should provide official transcripts and course descriptions for transfer-credit evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a wide range of roles that support diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation across healthcare settings. Career paths include positions such as allied health assistants, rehabilitation aides, diagnostic support staff, clinical trial coordinators, patient care coordinators and community health workers. Many graduates also use the degree as preparation for further professional education — for example in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, nursing, medical laboratory science or graduate programmes in public health and health administration.

Employment settings commonly include hospitals, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centres, diagnostic imaging or laboratory departments, long-term care facilities and community health organisations. The programme emphasises transferable clinical and professional skills — communication, clinical reasoning, documentation and teamwork — that are valued across the health sector.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers hands-on learning opportunities and established partnerships with regional healthcare providers, which support meaningful clinical placements and real-world experience. UND’s allied health teaching combines small-group instruction, laboratory practice and supervised fieldwork, allowing students to develop practical competencies alongside academic knowledge.

Students benefit from access to university resources including simulation labs, faculty with clinical backgrounds, academic advising for allied health career pathways and support for applications to graduate and professional programmes. The programme’s location and community links also provide diverse clinical environments — from rural clinics to larger regional hospitals — helping students prepare for a range of practice settings.

Overall, UND’s programme is well suited to students who want a broad allied health education with applied clinical experience and clear pathways to professional development or further study in health disciplines.