University of Rochester

What you'll study

This programme combines core health sciences with coursework in health systems, policy, quantitative methods and hands-on practice. Study typically covers human anatomy and physiology, basic clinical sciences, epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy and ethics, health services administration, and research methods.

• Core biomedical and public health courses — foundational subjects such as anatomy & physiology, microbiology, pathophysiology and introductory public health concepts.
• Quantitative and research training — epidemiology, biostatistics, study design and data analysis to prepare students for evidence-based practice and research roles.
• Health systems and policy — organisation of health services, healthcare finance, health policy, quality improvement and patient safety.
• Ethics and communication — medical ethics, health disparities, health communication and cultural competence in care delivery.
• Practicum, internships and capstone — supervised placements in hospitals, community health organisations or administrative settings, plus a senior project or capstone that applies learning to a real-world problem.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options — opportunities to take electives in management, psychology, social work, data science or the biomedical sciences to tailor the degree to specific interests.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification with strong performance in scientific and quantitative subjects. Typical preparation includes biology, chemistry and mathematics; coursework in social sciences or statistics is advantageous.

• Academic record — successful applicants usually present high overall marks from a rigorous curriculum. The university operates a holistic admissions process that considers course difficulty alongside grades.
• Standardised tests and English language — standardised test submission policies can vary; international applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements through an approved test or equivalent qualifications.
• Supporting materials — personal statement, academic references and any relevant extracurricular or work experience in healthcare or community service strengthen an application.
• Transfer applicants — students transferring from other tertiary institutions should provide college transcripts and demonstrate readiness for upper-level coursework; prior coursework in science and statistics is beneficial.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across healthcare delivery, administration, research and policy. The degree prepares students for both entry-level professional positions and further study.

• Healthcare administration and operations (hospital coordinator, practice manager, clinic administrator)
• Clinical research support (clinical research coordinator, trial management assistant)
• Public health and community organisations (health educator, programme analyst, policy associate)
• Health data and quality roles (data analyst, quality improvement specialist)
• Progression to graduate or professional programmes (Master of Public Health, health policy, nursing, physician assistant or medical school)

Why study at University of Rochester

The University of Rochester offers an environment that emphasises undergraduate research, interdisciplinary learning and close links to clinical practice. Students benefit from proximity to the university's medical centre, which provides opportunities for placements, shadowing and collaborative projects.

• Research and clinical connections — access to research labs and clinical settings at the university medical centre supports practical learning and faculty-mentored projects.
• Interdisciplinary curriculum — programmes encourage combining health services study with management, data science, social sciences or biomedical research to broaden career options.
• Experiential learning — internships, community partnerships and capstone projects give direct experience in healthcare environments.
• Support services — dedicated academic advising, career services and pre-health advising help students map pathways to employment or advanced study.