Valparaiso University

What you'll study

The Health Services programme blends core coursework in anatomy, physiology and population health with classes that explore health systems, policy and management. Typical modules include Human Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, Introduction to Public Health, Epidemiology, Health Care Ethics, Health Care Systems and Policy, Health Informatics, Research Methods and Biostatistics. Students also take liberal arts general education courses that develop communication, critical thinking and quantitative skills.

The curriculum emphasises applied learning: students complete case studies, team projects and a practicum or internship in a healthcare setting. Many programmes include a senior capstone or applied research project that integrates clinical knowledge with organisational and policy perspectives. Elective options often let students focus on areas such as community health, health education, healthcare administration, or health data analytics.

Entry requirements

Entry is at undergraduate level and requires a high school diploma or recognised equivalent. Typical admissions criteria include a competitive secondary-school GPA and completion of college-preparatory coursework, particularly in biology and mathematics. Admissions may consider standardised test scores where applicable, but Valparaiso also evaluates applicants holistically using academic records, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement that outlines interest in health fields.

Applicants with prior college credit, relevant volunteer experience in healthcare, or completion of introductory health-related courses strengthen their application. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent credentials. For transfer applicants, official transcripts and a review of prior coursework determine placement and transfer credit.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Health Services programme pursue roles across healthcare organisations, public health agencies and community settings. Common entry-level positions include health services coordinator, patient care coordinator, case manager assistant, health educator, community health worker and administrative roles in clinics or hospitals. The degree also provides grounding for roles in health data support and care coordination.

The programme is a common preparatory pathway for graduate or professional training—graduates frequently continue to study for degrees such as a Master of Public Health (MPH), Master of Health Administration (MHA), nursing, physician assistant programmes or clinical graduate degrees. Certification pathways and on-the-job training further extend career options in specialised areas like quality improvement, health information management and population health management.

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University offers a small-campus environment with personalised attention and strong connections to regional healthcare providers. The university combines a liberal arts foundation with professional preparation, so students gain both broad transferable skills and sector-specific competencies. Faculty frequently emphasise ethical practice, community service and interprofessional collaboration—reflecting the institution’s focus on values-driven education.

Students benefit from hands-on learning through internships, practicum placements and opportunities for undergraduate research. Academic advising and pre-health support help plan career pathways and graduate-school preparation. The university’s partnerships with local hospitals, clinics and public health organisations provide practical placement options and networking opportunities for students entering the healthcare workforce.