Indiana University of Pennsylvania

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary degree blends courses in human anatomy and physiology with studio art, digital media and information science. Early years build core skills in observational drawing, colour theory, digital imaging, and foundational biology. Later modules deepen anatomical and medical subject knowledge alongside technical training in 3D modelling, medical animation, medical photography, visualisation for electronic health records, data visualisation and user‑centred design.

• Foundational art and design: observational drawing, life drawing, composition, colour and visual communication.
• Biological sciences: human anatomy & physiology, histology, pathology and microbiology for visual interpretation.
• Digital techniques: raster and vector imaging, 3D modelling and rendering, medical animation and motion graphics.
• Informatics and data: introduction to health informatics, information architecture, data visualisation, databases and basic programming for data handling.
• Clinical visualisation and ethics: clinical observation methods, patient confidentiality, professional standards and ethical practice in medical communication.
• Capstone and professional practice: portfolio development, internship or practicum with healthcare or biomedical clients, and a final integrative project demonstrating scientific accuracy and design fluency.

Programme structure

The programme follows a four‑year undergraduate curriculum with a mix of lectures, studio labs, hands‑on workshops and supervised clinical observation. Students develop a professional portfolio throughout the degree and typically undertake a practicum or internship and a major capstone project in the final year.

Entry requirements

Admission is at bachelor level and typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent with a record of college‑preparatory study. Recommended preparation includes courses in biology and chemistry, mathematics, and studio art or digital media. Applicants are usually asked to submit a portfolio of observational and representational artwork demonstrating drawing skill, composition and an ability to depict anatomical form.

Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and a portfolio; mature applicants with relevant experience are considered. Specific course prerequisites, portfolio guidelines and any testing requirements are published by the university and should be checked before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require both scientific literacy and visual communication skills. Typical career paths include:

• Medical and biological illustrator for hospitals, medical schools, publishers and research organisations
• Medical animator and 3D visualisation specialist creating instructional media and surgical simulations
• Health informatics visualisation specialist or data visualisation designer focused on clinical dashboards and patient education tools
• Scientific photographer, technical illustrator or visual designer for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies
• Freelance medical illustrator, educational content developer, or museum/exhibit visualiser

Many graduates continue to professional certification or postgraduate study in medical illustration, biomedical visualization, health informatics or related areas, or secure internships that lead to roles in academic, clinical and commercial settings.

Why study at Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers an interdisciplinary learning environment where art and science faculties collaborate to deliver a curriculum tailored to medical visualisation and informatics. Students benefit from studio‑based teaching, access to digital labs and imaging equipment, and guided opportunities to work on real‑world projects that build professional portfolios.

The programme emphasises practical experience through supervised clinical observation, internships and a capstone project, helping graduates develop the technical competence, scientific accuracy and professional practices demanded by employers. Small class sizes and faculty with combined backgrounds in art, biomedical science and information technology support personalised mentoring and portfolio development for career entry or further study.