Academic Feature: Health Sciences Program

February 11, 2019 Lucila Decia, Staff Writer

The Health Science program has been part of Hardin-Simmons for many years. Its faculty works hard to teach students the skills and education needed for their health-related careers using the best resources available. The program includes undergraduate departments in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and communication sciences and disorders, as well as a master’s program in physician assistant studies (M.P.A.S.) and a doctoral program in physical therapy (D.P.T.).

“Our alumni sometimes come and talk with current students, and they say that Hardin-Simmons gave them a good preparation for their graduate studies. In the end, I think that is the most important part,” says Jennifer Hennigan, assistant professor of biology.

The program has committed to bringing students academic excellence while giving an education enlightened by Christian values. To gain experience even before practicing the profession, students have the opportunity to participate in interactive courses and perfect their skills in an environment dedicated to bringing expertise and learning. Many professionals and alumni will come and offer a talk to students about their profession and helping them with school struggles.

Rylee Powell, a sophomore student of the health sciences program, shared her experience of being part of the program.

“Professors do a great job at giving students opportunities to get plugged-in into whatever field they want to get into. We have a pre-health club for everyone in pre-health, and in that way, we have meetings with professionals who come and tell us what they do,” she says.

The health sciences program also contains a summer program dedicated to boosting students’ confidence and expanding their knowledge in specific fields. The Health Sciences Summer Enrichment Program is a two-week summer camp devoted to those who would like to pursue a health-related career at HSU. Dates of the academic program for this year are June 16-28, 2019.

The program focuses on the different health fields and skills through a combination of lectures, labs, and interactive sessions with professionals and their workplaces. Biology, maths, and chemistry are the main subjects for HSSEP. After completion, students receive feedback on their strengths and weaknesses.

“The camp was a great way to have a taste of what it looks like to be in college. We got to stay in the dorms and did lectures in the morning and labs in the afternoon. Being part of the camp helped me to realize that I really wanted to study this,” says Powell, who was involved in the summer camp two summers ago.

To be eligible for the program, students must be enthusiastic in pursuing a health-related career, be considering HSU as a possible choice, have a 3.00 minimum GPA, and be an 11th grader, 12th grader or an incoming college freshman. The application deadline is Mar. 1, 2019. If interested in applying, click here.

Share:
Share: