Southeastern Louisiana University

What you'll study

The programme provides a foundation in human biology and clinical practice, building interdisciplinary skills used across diagnostic, intervention and treatment professions. Coursework blends classroom instruction, laboratory practice and supervised clinical experiences to develop competence in patient assessment, diagnostic techniques, therapeutic approaches and health systems.

• Core sciences: anatomy and physiology, general and clinical pathology, medical microbiology and pharmacology to underpin clinical decision making.
• Clinical skills and diagnostics: patient assessment and monitoring, medical imaging fundamentals, clinical laboratory principles, basic electrocardiography and respiratory assessment techniques.
• Therapeutic interventions: basics of therapeutic modalities, rehabilitation concepts, wound care and infection control measures used in allied health practice.
• Professional and communication skills: medical terminology, ethics, interprofessional teamwork, cultural competence and patient-centred communication.
• Research and evidence-based practice: introductory research methods, statistics for health professionals and critical appraisal of clinical literature.
• Practicum and capstone: supervised clinical placements in healthcare settings and a culminating project or practicum demonstrating applied competence.

The curriculum typically includes general education requirements integrated with major coursework, progressive clinical experiences, and opportunities for elective focus areas that reflect local workforce needs.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent; transfer applicants with an accredited associate degree in a related field are also considered. Typical preparation includes coursework in biology and chemistry, and competence in college‑level mathematics. Admission is competitive and generally seeks academic performance equivalent to a solid B average. Applicants will need to provide official transcripts and may be asked for a personal statement or references demonstrating interest in allied health.

Because the programme includes clinical placements, admitted students must satisfy professional health and safety prerequisites prior to placement. These commonly include up‑to‑date immunisations, a current cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification, and successful completion of a criminal background check and drug screening where required by clinical partners. Additional programme‑specific requirements or prerequisite courses may apply depending on the chosen pathway.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a variety of entry‑level allied health roles and for further professional training. Many students move into technician and support positions in clinical settings, while others use the degree as a stepping stone to specialised certification or graduate programmes.

• Clinical technician roles in diagnostic imaging, clinical laboratory, or cardiopulmonary services (often requiring additional credentialing or certification).
• Rehabilitation support roles such as physical therapy assistant or rehabilitation aide (may require further certification or state licensure).
• Respiratory therapy, sonography, or other specialised allied health professions following completion of accredited post‑baccalaureate or graduate programmes and required licensure.
• Healthcare coordination, patient navigation, clinical administration or quality improvement roles within hospitals, clinics and community health organisations.
• Progression to graduate study in fields such as physician assistant, occupational therapy, physical therapy, public health or healthcare management.

Many career paths from this degree involve additional certification or licensure specific to the chosen profession; the programme is designed to provide the foundational knowledge and clinical experience that support those next steps.

Why study at Southeastern Louisiana University

Southeastern Louisiana University offers a supportive learning environment with small class sizes and faculty who bring clinical experience to the classroom. The university maintains partnerships with regional hospitals, clinics and allied health providers to secure practicum placements that expose students to real‑world clinical practice.

Hands‑on learning opportunities include well‑equipped laboratories and supervised clinical rotations that help students build practical skills. Academic advising, career services and faculty mentorship support students in planning certification pathways or graduate study. The campus location in the Hammond region gives access to a diverse healthcare community, which benefits students seeking varied clinical experiences and local employment connections.