Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

What you'll study

This programme blends foundational biomedical science with applied allied health disciplines and professional skills. You will study human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pathophysiology, and principles of pharmacology alongside courses in clinical assessment, diagnostic methods, intervention strategies and patient care across the lifespan.

• Core sciences: anatomy & physiology, microbiology, and introductory chemistry
• Clinical skills: health assessment, clinical documentation, diagnostic testing fundamentals
• Intervention and treatment concepts: rehabilitation principles, therapeutic modalities and case management
• Professional practice: ethics, interprofessional teamwork, healthcare systems and patient communication
• Research and evidence-based practice: statistics, research methods and application of evidence to clinical decisions
• Experiential learning: supervised clinical practicum, internships or community placements and a capstone project

The degree is delivered within a liberal arts framework, so you will also complete general education requirements that develop communication, critical thinking and quantitative skills. Course sequencing supports progression from foundational knowledge to applied clinical reasoning and practicum experiences.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a secondary school diploma or equivalent with evidence of academic preparation in science and mathematics. Recommended preparatory subjects include biology and chemistry. Admissions decisions consider overall academic record, personal statement and any relevant healthcare experience.

• Successful completion of secondary education or recognised equivalent
• Recommended prior study: biology and chemistry; coursework in mathematics helpful
• Personal statement describing interest in allied health and relevant experience
• Some placements require background checks, drug screening and up-to-date immunisations before clinical work
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements

Specific minimum GPA thresholds, documentation and any additional requirements are published by the university and should be confirmed with admissions staff.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a variety of allied health roles or continue into professional postgraduate programmes. The degree is designed to provide both direct employment options and a foundation for further clinical training.

• Clinical and support roles in hospitals, clinics and community health settings (e.g. rehabilitation technician, diagnostic services assistant, patient care coordinator)
• Preparation for graduate-level training in fields such as physician assistant studies, occupational therapy, physical therapy, diagnostic imaging or clinical laboratory science
• Roles in health administration, case management, health education and patient advocacy
• Opportunities in health research, quality improvement and public health practice with additional study or experience

Many graduates combine on-the-job experience with continuing education and certification to advance into specialised clinical or supervisory positions.

Why study at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Saint Mary’s offers a small-campus, student-centred environment with a liberal arts foundation and an emphasis on service and ethical practice. The university maintains regional clinical partnerships that provide placement opportunities and hands-on experience within hospitals and community healthcare facilities.

• Faculty with clinical backgrounds who teach applied skills and mentor practicum placements
• Interprofessional learning opportunities and community-engaged experiences that reflect real-world healthcare teams
• Support services for academic advising, career planning and placement coordination to help transition into employment or postgraduate study
• Flexible programming options and pathways that can accommodate transfers and students aiming for specific clinical professions

Prospective students should contact Saint Mary’s admissions and the allied health programme office for detailed information about curriculum pathways, clinical placement arrangements and entry guidance.