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Program at a Glance

Program
Bachelor
College(s)
College of Health Professions and Sciences
Department(s)
Health Sciences
4
Years
U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges - Most Innovative 2024

Prepare for a Career That Incorporates Biological and Behavioral Sciences

As the second largest major at UCF, many students start their path to a health career by majoring in Health Sciences. Often referred to as “pre-med,” our science-based, application-oriented curriculum is designed for students with an interest in human health who plan to pursue careers in medicine, other health professions, clinical/behavioral health research, health promotion and public health. With two distinct tracks, you can fine tune your selection of courses to meet your goals.

Pre-clinical Track
This track is a good option for pre-med students who are pursuing careers as a physician, physician assistant, dentist, pharmacist and other healthcare careers. You’ll gain a solid understanding about treating and managing diseases through coursework including pathophysiology I & II, introduction to pharmacology, and clinical nutrition.

Health Promotion Track
Designed for students pursuing careers as a physical therapist, occupational therapist, clinical/behavioral health researcher, public health specialist and other health-related fields. Explore health promotion principles and concepts through courses such as preventative health care, epidemiology of chronic diseases and medical self assessment.

As a health sciences student, you will have opportunities outside of the classroom that will expand your knowledge and skills and help you achieve your career goal. Experiences like engaging with faculty in research, internships, community service projects, study abroad and professional development, allow you to explore a wide range of career opportunities and build your professional resume in preparation for applying to professional/graduate schools or entry-level employment.

Our expert faculty are invested in your success and provide you with the foundation of knowledge, skills and experiences you need to advance your studies and provide a foundation for your next steps in pursuing a health or medically-related career.

Related Programs:

medical professionals smiling at the camera

Highlights

Ranked 9th among the 35 Best Bachelor’s Degrees in Health Sciences 2020 by Best College Reviews.
College Choice ranked UCF’s program No. 17 of the 35 best Bachelor’s in Health Sciences degrees.
Occupations in health sciences are projected to grow roughly 15% through 2029.
The median earnings for entry-level employment for health sciences graduates is $43,000.

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

Fall
May 1
Spring
November 1
Summer
March 1
Fall
July 1
Spring
November 1
Summer
March 1
Fall
March 1
Spring
September 1
Summer
January 1

Ready to get started?

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1

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2

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Course Overview

Pathophysiology I & Pathophysiology II

Get a solid understanding of the etiology, pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of diseases.

Learn the methods of administration, mechanisms of action, dosage calculations, safety issues and therapeutic actions of medications in the treatment of human disease.

Explore medical nutrition therapy principles and applications used to treat and manage chronic diseases and conditions.

Examine current guidelines and recommendations to prevent disease and reduce chronic disease risk.

Apply epidemiological principles and concepts related to the distribution, determinants and control of chronic diseases.

Develop skills to understand one’s health and encourage active participation of individuals in their own healthcare.

The Health Sciences program at UCF has contributed tremendously to my development by allowing me to explore my interests, providing opportunities and engaging me in learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom that best supported me on my path to becoming a healthcare professional.”

— Breon Clark ’20, Health Sciences alumni and Order or Pegasus recipient

Health Sciences Skills You’ll Learn

  • Learn about the underlying causes, treatments and prevention of disease.
  • Develop skills to help you investigate disease transmission.
  • Gain experience in developing research questions and interpreting research to build knowledge and to foster critical thinking skills.
  • Build a professional portfolio full of extracurricular experiences to aid in applying to graduate programs or seeking employment.

Career Opportunities

  • Physician
  • Physician Assistant
  • Physical Therapist/Occupational Therapist
  • Dentist
  • Pharmacist
  • Optometrist
  • Clinical or Behavioral Health Researcher
  • Public Health Specialist

College of Health Professions and Sciences News

Health & Medicine
The Sweet Sound of Progress
A research team led by Shaheen Awan and bolstered with a $3.12 million dollar grant is on the verge of filling a long-existing void in…
Health & Medicine
Students Learn Team-based NICU Care Through Hands on Simulation
The simulation provides critical training that is harder to access after the pandemic due to concerns related to infectious diseases.
Colleges & Campus
UCF Ranks in Top 15 in Nation for Best Public Universities, Social Mobility by Washington Monthly
The rankings highlight the university’s efforts in supporting student success, advancing research and upholding a commitment to service.
Health & Medicine
UCF Program Helps Kids with Hearing Challenges Become Better Readers
An experienced audiologist, a specially trained speech language pathologist and a team of student clinicians are working to prevent kids who are deaf and hard…

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