Health and Medicine Majors and Degrees
Health and Medicine majors center on the study and application of ideas related to health and well-being. Programs in this area include math and science courses and focus on research and knowledge-gathering, and the goal is to prepare students to care for living creatures (either human or animal). This field is career oriented. Dental Hygiene majors usually go on to become dentists, and Pre-Medicine majors usually plan to be doctors. These programs require both technical knowledge and a passion for caring for others.
Who might enjoy a Health and Medicine program?
A Health and Medicine program might be the right choice for you if you’re technically oriented and meticulous and you want to help people or animals. If your favorite high school classes are math, health, or science (especially biology), if you’re good with your hands (e.g., knitting, LEGO, video games), if you enjoy extracurriculars like Science Olympiad or Key Club, or if you like volunteering at an animal shelter or healthcare facility, this program might be for you.
What kinds of classes do Health and Medicine majors take?
Health and Medicine−related classes are focused on the care and keeping of living things. You’d take classes in pathology (the study of the causes of diseases and injuries), physiology (the study functions and mechanisms that make up a living thing), and anatomy (the study of the structure of the body). You may also have classes on public health risks, health education, music therapy, and the science of pharmaceuticals. You’ll also be expected to attend technical labs and simulations to practice hands-on skills associated with your chosen major.
What jobs can a Health and Medicine prepare you for?
Unlike some other areas (like Arts and Humanities), Health and Medicine degrees are usually specialized. If you choose to major in Nursing, you’ll be qualified to be a nurse upon the conclusion of your program. People graduating with Health and Medicine degrees go on to become dentists, veterinarians, nurses, nutritionists, therapists, and doctors (though some paths might require additional years of school).
How long does it take people who major in Health and Medicine to graduate from college?
The answer depends on your internships, schedule, and AP credits, but a Health and Medicine bachelor’s degree should take the full four years. If you choose to double major or switch into the subject area after sophomore year of college, you may need an extra semester beyond the four years to earn specialized credits.
Are additional degrees needed for related jobs?
In many cases, yes. It depends on your career path. If you wish to become a surgeon, dentist, pharmacist, or psychologist, you’ll need to complete more schooling after you finish your bachelor’s degree. Other jobs in this field may require you to complete an internship or other qualification or take a test prior to certification.