Pathway to Health Professions: Health Sciences
Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Sciences: 180.0 quarter credits
About the Program
The Pathway to Health Professions curriculum is a four-year course of study with one co-op experience, leading to a BS degree in Health Sciences. Health sciences and clinical sciences courses are combined with mathematics, humanities, and social sciences electives into a fully-integrated curriculum that prepares students for the pursuit of careers in the health professions.
The College of Nursing and Health Professions’ Pathway to Health Professions program provides a four-year course of study, leading to the BS degree, for students who wish to study toward health professions careers. Health sciences and clinical sciences courses are combined with mathematics, humanities, and social sciences electives into a fully integrated curriculum that prepares students for the pursuit of health professions careers in the fields of nursing, physician assistant studies, exercise physiology, cardiac rehabilitation therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.
Courses in clinical research (protocol design, research methods, data management, and governmental and regulatory issues) are also included in the curriculum. These courses are designed to give students a strong foundation in clinical research and to prepare them for possible employment in clinical research settings. The clinical research content of the curriculum is also very appropriate for the preparation of students for post-baccalaureate and graduate studies in the health professions.
Co-Op Opportunities
Drexel University has long been known for its co-operative education programs, through which students mix periods of full-time, career related employment with their studies. Some co-op employers of previous Pathway to Health Professions students have included Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, McGee Rehabilitation Hospital, Bryn Mawr Rehabilitation Hospital, Hahnemann, Good Shepherd Penn Partners and NovaCare, as well as many other health care facilities in the region.
After Graduation
Some graduates of the Pathway to Health Professions program will choose to pursue employment opportunities in clinical research settings, and some will choose to continue their education by enrolling in post-baccalaureate and graduate programs leading to a variety of health professions careers.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Pathway to Health Professions program may choose to enter the workforce in the field of clinical research. Clinical research is a rapidly expanding enterprise. There is a great need for trained individuals to fill positions on clinical research teams that are performing the research necessary to obtain FDA approval of new drugs, new medical devices, and new medical procedures. Clinical research is performed in clinics, hospital wards, pharmaceutical companies, medical device firms, doctors’ offices, operating rooms, and other health care settings. In those settings, graduates of the program can fill positions in which they are responsible for interacting with physicians whose patients are participating in the research study, interviewing participants, taking medical histories, obtaining informed consent, collecting, entering and compiling data, and manipulating data for publication of research results. These activities require individuals with advanced training in the policies and procedures of clinical research. Graduates of the program will have that knowledge, and they will understand the procedures for designing and implementing clinical research protocols and the governmental regulations governing clinical research projects.
Post-Baccalaureate and Graduate Studies
The curriculum of the Pathway to Health Professions program is designed to provide a strong foundation for those students who will proceed after graduation to post-baccalaureate and graduate programs in the health professions.The curriculum enables students to fulfill all of the prerequisites for these post-baccalaureate and graduate programs. The co-op experiences that students of the program undertake will serve to fulfill the requirement of the post baccalaureate and graduate programs that their applicants have personal exposure to the profession before they apply.
The Pathway to Health Professions program serves as a feeder program for the Second Degree Fast-Track Nursing program, the Physician Assistant Studies program, and the Doctor of Physical Therapy program of the College of Nursing and Health Professions. Graduates of the Pathway to Health Professions program may also continue their education in the biomedical graduate programs of the Drexel University College of Medicine (such as the MS in Clinical Research Organization and Management and the MS in Pathologist’s Assistant programs).
For more information, visit the Pathway to Health Professions Program page at the College of Nursing and Health Professions web site.
Degree Requirements
| General Requirements | ||
| UNIV NH101 | The Drexel Experience | 2.0 |
| English Sequence | ||
| ENGL 101 | Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Composition and Rhetoric II: The Craft of Persuasion | 3.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Composition and Rhetoric III: Thematic Analysis Across Genres | 3.0 |
| Biology Sequence | ||
| BIO 122 | Cells and Genetics | 4.5 |
| BIO 124 | Evolution & Organismal Diversity | 4.5 |
| BIO 126 | Physiology and Ecology | 4.5 |
| BIO 226 | Microbiology for Health Professionals | 5.0 |
| Chemistry Sequence | ||
| CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I | 3.5 |
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 4.5 |
| CHEM 103 | General Chemistry III | 5.0 |
| Mathematics Sequence | ||
| MATH 101 | Introduction to Analysis I | 4.0 |
| MATH 102 | Introduction to Analysis II | 4.0 |
| Computer Science Course | ||
| CS 161 | Introduction to Computing | 3.0 |
| Other Humanities and Social Sciences Courses | ||
| COM 310 [WI] | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 320 [WI] | Science Writing | 3.0 |
| ECON 240 | Economics of Health Care Systems | 4.0 |
| HSAD 210 | Health-Care Ethics I | 3.0 |
| HSAD 309 | Advanced Health-Care Ethics | 3.0 |
| PSY 101 | General Psychology I | 3.0 |
| PSY 120 | Developmental Psychology | 3.0 |
| PSY 240 [WI] | Abnormal Psychology | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| SOC 120 | Sociology of the Family | 3.0 |
| SOC 125 | Sociology of Aging | 3.0 |
| Three Humanities and Social Sciences electives | 9.0 | |
| Pathway to Health Professions Courses | ||
| Anatomy & Physiology Courses | ||
| ANAT 101 | Anatomy & Physiology I | 5.0 |
| ANAT 102 | Anatomy & Physiology II | 5.0 |
| ANAT 103 | Anatomy & Physiology III | 5.0 |
| Clinical Research Courses | ||
| HSCI 310 | Introduction to Clinical Research | 3.0 |
| HSCI 313 | Clinical Trials Protocols | 4.0 |
| HSCI 315 | Current Issues in Clinical Research | 3.0 |
| Other Health Sciences Courses | ||
| HSCI 201 | Health Assessment through the Lifespan | 4.0 |
| HSCI 301 | Pharmacology I | 3.0 |
| HSCI 302 | Pharmacology II | 3.0 |
| HSCI 337 | Genetics and Health | 3.0 |
| STS 345 | Statistics for the Health Sciences | 4.0 |
| STS 350 | Advanced Statistics for Clinical Science | 4.0 |
| Six Health Science electives * | 22.0 | |
| Free Electives | 16.5 | |
| Total Credits | 181.0 | |
| * | Health Science electives include Advanced Anatomy I & II; Developmental Anatomy (WI); Physiology; Pathophysiology (WI); Exercise Physiology; Applied Anatomy & Kinesiology; and Sectional Anatomy or NEUR 410 Neurosciences. Certain Health Services Administration courses may also be taken as Health Science electives. |
Writing-Intensive Course Requirements
In order to graduate, all students must pass three writing-intensive courses after their freshman year. Two writing-intensive courses must be in a student's major. The third can be in any discipline. Students are advised to take one writing-intensive class each year, beginning with the sophomore year, and to avoid “clustering” these courses near the end of their matriculation. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.
A "WI" next to a course in this catalog may indicate that this course can fulfill a writing-intensive requirement. For the most up-to-date list of writing-intensive courses being offered, students should check the Writing Intensive Course List at the University Writing Center. Students scheduling their courses can also conduct a search for courses with the attribute "WI" to bring up a list of all writing-intensive courses available that term. Transfer students need to meet with an academic advisor to review the number of writing-intensive courses required to graduate.
Sample Plan of Study
For accelerated sample plans, students should visit the Pathway to Health Professions Program page.
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| BIO 122 | Cells and Genetics | 4.5 |
| CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I | 3.5 |
| CS 161 | Introduction to Computing | 3.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research | 3.0 |
| UNIV NH101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Winter | ||
| BIO 124 | Evolution & Organismal Diversity | 4.5 |
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 4.5 |
| ENGL 102 | Composition and Rhetoric II: The Craft of Persuasion | 3.0 |
| MATH 101 | Introduction to Analysis I | 4.0 |
| UNIV NH101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Term Credits | 17.0 | |
| Spring | ||
| BIO 126 | Physiology and Ecology | 4.5 |
| CHEM 103 | General Chemistry III | 5.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Composition and Rhetoric III: Thematic Analysis Across Genres | 3.0 |
| MATH 102 | Introduction to Analysis II | 4.0 |
| Term Credits | 16.5 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| ANAT 101 | Anatomy & Physiology I | 5.0 |
| BIO 226 | Microbiology for Health Professionals | 5.0 |
| COM 310 [WI] | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| STS 345 | Statistics for the Health Sciences | 4.0 |
| Term Credits | 17.0 | |
| Winter | ||
| ANAT 102 | Anatomy & Physiology II | 5.0 |
| COM 320 [WI] | Science Writing | 3.0 |
| HSAD 210 | Health-Care Ethics I | 3.0 |
| STS 350 | Advanced Statistics for Clinical Science | 4.0 |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Spring | ||
| ANAT 103 | Anatomy & Physiology III | 5.0 |
| COM 320 [WI] | Science Writing | 3.0 |
| HSAD 210 | Health-Care Ethics I | 3.0 |
| HSCI 313 | Clinical Trials Protocols | 4.0 |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| HSCI 201 | Health Assessment through the Lifespan | 4.0 |
| HSCI 301 | Pharmacology I | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| Free elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 13.0 | |
| Winter | ||
| HSAD 309 | Advanced Health-Care Ethics | 3.0 |
| HSCI 315 | Current Issues in Clinical Research | 3.0 |
| HSCI 337 | Genetics and Health | 3.0 |
| Health Science elective* | 3.0 | |
| Free elective | 2.0 | |
| Term Credits | 14.0 | |
| Spring | ||
| HSCI 302 | Pharmacology II | 3.0 |
| Free elective | 4.0 | |
| PSY 120 | Developmental Psychology | 3.0 |
| SOC 120 | Sociology of the Family | 3.0 |
| Free elective | 2.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| ECON 240 | Economics of Health Care Systems | 4.0 |
| Health Science electives* | 8.0 | |
| Free elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Winter | ||
| SOC 125 | Sociology of Aging | 3.0 |
| Health Science elective* | 3.0 | |
| Humanities/Social Science electives | 6.0 | |
| Free elective | 2.5 | |
| Term Credits | 14.5 | |
| Spring | ||
| PSY 240 [WI] | Abnormal Psychology | 3.0 |
| Humanities/Social Science elective | 3.0 | |
| Health Science electives * | 8.0 | |
| Term Credits | 14.0 | |
| Total Credit: 181.0 | ||
| * | See degree requirements. |
For accelerated sample plans, students should visit the Pathway to Health Professions Program page.
| First Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| BIO 122 | Cells and Genetics | 4.5 |
| CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I | 3.5 |
| CS 161 | Introduction to Computing | 3.0 |
| ENGL 101 | Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research | 3.0 |
| UNIV NH101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Winter | ||
| BIO 124 | Evolution & Organismal Diversity | 4.5 |
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 4.5 |
| ENGL 102 | Composition and Rhetoric II: The Craft of Persuasion | 3.0 |
| MATH 101 | Introduction to Analysis I | 4.0 |
| UNIV NH101 | The Drexel Experience | 1.0 |
| Term Credits | 17.0 | |
| Spring | ||
| BIO 126 | Physiology and Ecology | 4.5 |
| CHEM 103 | General Chemistry III | 5.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Composition and Rhetoric III: Thematic Analysis Across Genres | 3.0 |
| MATH 102 | Introduction to Analysis II | 4.0 |
| Term Credits | 16.5 | |
| Second Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| ANAT 101 | Anatomy & Physiology I | 5.0 |
| BIO 226 | Microbiology for Health Professionals | 5.0 |
| COM 310 [WI] | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| STS 345 | Statistics for the Health Sciences | 4.0 |
| Term Credits | 17.0 | |
| Winter | ||
| ANAT 102 | Anatomy & Physiology II | 5.0 |
| COM 320 [WI] | Science Writing | 3.0 |
| HSAD 210 | Health-Care Ethics I | 3.0 |
| STS 350 | Advanced Statistics for Clinical Science | 4.0 |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Spring | ||
| ANAT 103 | Anatomy & Physiology III | 5.0 |
| COM 320 [WI] | Science Writing | 3.0 |
| HSAD 210 | Health-Care Ethics I | 3.0 |
| HSCI 313 | Clinical Trials Protocols | 4.0 |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Third Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| HSCI 201 | Health Assessment through the Lifespan | 4.0 |
| HSCI 301 | Pharmacology I | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| Free elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 13.0 | |
| Winter | ||
| HSAD 309 | Advanced Health-Care Ethics | 3.0 |
| HSCI 315 | Current Issues in Clinical Research | 3.0 |
| HSCI 337 | Genetics and Health | 3.0 |
| Health Science elective* | 3.0 | |
| Free elective | 2.0 | |
| Term Credits | 14.0 | |
| Spring | ||
| HSCI 302 | Pharmacology II | 3.0 |
| Free elective | 4.0 | |
| PSY 120 | Developmental Psychology | 3.0 |
| SOC 120 | Sociology of the Family | 3.0 |
| Free elective | 2.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| Fall | ||
| ECON 240 | Economics of Health Care Systems | 4.0 |
| Health Science electives* | 8.0 | |
| Free elective | 3.0 | |
| Term Credits | 15.0 | |
| Winter | ||
| SOC 125 | Sociology of Aging | 3.0 |
| Health Science elective* | 3.0 | |
| Humanities/Social Science electives | 6.0 | |
| Free elective | 2.5 | |
| Term Credits | 14.5 | |
| Spring | ||
| PSY 240 [WI] | Abnormal Psychology | 3.0 |
| Humanities/Social Science elective | 3.0 | |
| Health Science electives * | 8.0 | |
| Term Credits | 14.0 | |
| Total Credit: 181.0 | ||
| * | See degree requirements. |
Accelerated Career Entry 3+1 BSN option
Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree 219.5 quarter credits
Note: Effective Fall 2014, students are no longer being accepted into this program.
About the Program
The Pathway to Health Professions and the Accelerated Career Entry (ACE) to Nursing program have created a new undergraduate program, entitled "Health Sciences - ACE 3+1 BSN ” for the College of Nursing and Health Professions of Drexel University.
The program is based on the 4-year, one co-op curricular model. The program combines the first three years of the Pathway to Health Professions program (Health Sciences major) with the one-year Accelerated Career Entry (ACE) to Nursing program. Students can only enter this accelerated program as freshmen. The accelerated HSCI-ACE program is not available to transfer students.
For additional information, including a sample plan of study, visit the College's Accelerated Career Entry to Nursing web page.
| Degree Requirements | ||
| General Requirements | ||
| UNIV NH101 | The Drexel Experience | 2.0 |
| English Sequence | ||
| ENGL 101 | Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Composition and Rhetoric II: The Craft of Persuasion | 3.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Composition and Rhetoric III: Thematic Analysis Across Genres | 3.0 |
| Biology Sequence | ||
| BIO 122 | Cells and Genetics | 4.5 |
| BIO 124 | Evolution & Organismal Diversity | 4.5 |
| BIO 126 | Physiology and Ecology | 4.5 |
| BIO 226 | Microbiology for Health Professionals | 5.0 |
| Chemistry Sequence | ||
| CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I | 3.5 |
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 4.5 |
| CHEM 103 | General Chemistry III | 5.0 |
| Mathematics Sequence | ||
| MATH 101 | Introduction to Analysis I | 4.0 |
| MATH 102 | Introduction to Analysis II | 4.0 |
| Computer Science Course | ||
| CS 161 | Introduction to Computing | 3.0 |
| Economics Course | ||
| ECON 240 | Economics of Health Care Systems | 4.0 |
| Other Humanities and Social Science Courses | ||
| COM 310 [WI] | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 320 [WI] | Science Writing | 3.0 |
| PSY 101 | General Psychology I | 3.0 |
| PSY 120 | Developmental Psychology | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| SOC 120 | Sociology of the Family | 3.0 |
| Pathway to Health Professions Courses | ||
| ANAT 101 | Anatomy & Physiology I | 5.0 |
| ANAT 102 | Anatomy & Physiology II | 5.0 |
| ANAT 103 | Anatomy & Physiology III | 5.0 |
| Clinical Research Courses | ||
| HSCI 310 | Introduction to Clinical Research | 3.0 |
| HSCI 313 | Clinical Trials Protocols | 4.0 |
| HSCI 315 | Current Issues in Clinical Research | 3.0 |
| Other Health Courses | ||
| HSAD 210 | Health-Care Ethics I | 3.0 |
| HSAD 309 | Advanced Health-Care Ethics | 3.0 |
| HSCI 301 | Pharmacology I | 3.0 |
| HSCI 302 | Pharmacology II | 3.0 |
| HSCI 337 | Genetics and Health | 3.0 |
| NFS 200 | Nutrition I: Principles of Nutrition | 4.0 |
| NFS 203 | Nutrition II: Nutrition in the Lifecycle | 4.0 |
| NURS 339 | Pathophysiology | 3.0 |
| STS 345 | Statistics for the Health Sciences | 4.0 |
| STS 350 | Advanced Statistics for Clinical Science | 4.0 |
| ACE BSN Courses | ||
| NURS 110 | Essentials of Relationship-Based Professional Nursing Practice | 4.0 |
| NURS 112 | Relationship-Based Health Assessment & Promotion | 5.0 |
| NURS 200 | Principles of Nursing Practice | 6.0 |
| NURS 204 | Nursing Informatics | 3.0 |
| NURS 300 | Comprehensive Adult Nursing I | 6.0 |
| NURS 301 | Pharmacology for Nursing I | 3.0 |
| NURS 303 | Women's Health Nursing | 6.0 |
| NURS 304 | Nursing of Children | 6.0 |
| NURS 305 | Comprehensive Adult Nursing II | 6.0 |
| NURS 306 | Pharmacology for Nursing II | 3.0 |
| NURS 308 | Mental Health Nursing | 6.0 |
| NURS 330 [WI] | Research Basis of Nursing | 4.0 |
| NURS 337 [WI] | Genetics in Nursing and Health | 3.0 |
| NURS 400 [WI] | Leadership, Management, and Entrepreneurship in Nursing | 3.0 |
| NURS 401 | Comprehensive Adult Nursing III | 6.0 |
| NURS 403 | Community Public Health Nursing | 6.0 |
| NURS 450 | Contemporary Gerontological Nursing | 6.0 |
| NURS 492 | Senior Seminar in Nursing | 3.0 |
| Total Credits | 219.5 | |
Accelerated 3+3 BS /DPT: Physical Therapy Option
Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Sciences: 185.0 quarter credits
About the Program
The Pathway to Health Professions (Health Sciences) Program and the Programs in Rehabilitation Sciences of the College of Nursing and Health Professions offer an accelerated dual degree program. Participants can earn both a BS degree in Health Sciences and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree in only six years after graduation from high school. Graduates of this innovative program are able to function in a variety of health care settings and are well-prepared to seek licensure by state board examination. Drexel’s DPT program – the new standard in physical therapy education – is the successor to the former MCP Hahnemann University’s Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) Program, which was accredited by the American Physical Therapy Association’s Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) beginning in 1981. The current DPT program is fully accredited by CAPTE.
This is a six-year program in which students earn both a BS with a major in Health Sciences (HSCI) and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). The program is available to Health Science majors (HSCI, 4-year, one co-op program) only. Transfer students are not eligible for this program.
For additional information visit the Pathway to Health Professions Program: Accelerated Dual Degree Programs page.
| General Requirements | ||
| UNIV NH101 | The Drexel Experience | 2.0 |
| English Sequence | ||
| ENGL 101 | Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Composition and Rhetoric II: The Craft of Persuasion | 3.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Composition and Rhetoric III: Thematic Analysis Across Genres | 3.0 |
| Biology Sequence | ||
| BIO 122 | Cells and Genetics | 4.5 |
| BIO 124 | Evolution & Organismal Diversity | 4.5 |
| BIO 126 | Physiology and Ecology | 4.5 |
| BIO 226 | Microbiology for Health Professionals | 5.0 |
| Chemistry Sequence | ||
| CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I | 3.5 |
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 4.5 |
| CHEM 103 | General Chemistry III | 5.0 |
| Mathematics Sequence | ||
| MATH 101 | Introduction to Analysis I | 4.0 |
| MATH 102 | Introduction to Analysis II | 4.0 |
| Physics for Life Sciences | ||
| PHYS 152 | Introductory Physics I | 4.0 |
| PHYS 153 | Introductory Physics II | 4.0 |
| Computer Science Course | ||
| CS 161 | Introduction to Computing | 3.0 |
| Other Humanities and Social Sciences Courses | ||
| COM 310 [WI] | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 320 [WI] | Science Writing | 3.0 |
| HSAD 210 | Health-Care Ethics I | 3.0 |
| HSAD 309 | Advanced Health-Care Ethics | 3.0 |
| PSY 101 | General Psychology I | 3.0 |
| PSY 120 | Developmental Psychology | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| SOC 120 | Sociology of the Family | 3.0 |
| Free Electives | 4.5 | |
| Pathway to Health Professions Courses | ||
| Anatomy & Physiology Courses | ||
| ANAT 101 | Anatomy & Physiology I | 5.0 |
| ANAT 102 | Anatomy & Physiology II | 5.0 |
| ANAT 103 | Anatomy & Physiology III | 5.0 |
| Clinical Research Courses | ||
| HSCI 310 | Introduction to Clinical Research | 3.0 |
| HSCI 313 | Clinical Trials Protocols | 4.0 |
| HSCI 315 | Current Issues in Clinical Research | 3.0 |
| Other Health Sciences Courses | ||
| HSCI 201 | Health Assessment through the Lifespan | 4.0 |
| HSCI 301 | Pharmacology I | 3.0 |
| HSCI 302 | Pharmacology II | 3.0 |
| HSCI 337 | Genetics and Health | 3.0 |
| HSCI 204 | Clinical Health Informatics | 3.0 |
| STS 345 | Statistics for the Health Sciences | 4.0 |
| STS 350 | Advanced Statistics for Clinical Science | 4.0 |
| Two Health Sciences electives * | 7.0 | |
| 1st Year DPT Courses | ||
| NEUR 507 | Neuroscience I | 3.0 |
| PTRS 530 | Kinesiology I | 4.0 |
| PTRS 531 | Kinesiology II | 3.0 |
| PTRS 532 | Human Gross Anatomy I | 4.0 |
| PTRS 533 | Human Gross Anatomy II | 3.5 |
| PTRS 534 | Physical Therapy Exam & Intervention I | 3.0 |
| PTRS 537 | Clinical Correlations I | 3.0 |
| PTRS 539 | Topics in Pathophysiology I | 3.5 |
| PTRS 540 | Topics in Pathophysiology II | 2.0 |
| PTRS 620 | Orthopedic Physical Therapy: Upper Extremity | 4.0 |
| PTRS 623 | Physical Agents | 4.0 |
| PTRS 656 | Motor Control and Rehabilitation | 2.0 |
| Total Credits | 185.0 | |
| * | Health Science electives include: Advanced Anatomy I & II; Developmental Anatomy (WI); Physiology; Pathophysiology (WI); Exercise Physiology; Applied Anatomy & Kinesiology; and Sectional Anatomy or NEUR 410 Neurosciences. Certain Health Services Administration courses may also be taken as Health Science electives. |
Accelerated 4+1 BS/MHS: Physician Assistant Studies Option
Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Sciences: 185.5 quarter credits
About the Program
The Pathway to Health Professions (Health Sciences) program and the Hahnemann Physician Assistant (PA) program of the College of Nursing and Health Professions have created an accelerated dual degree option which offers its students valuable early advising and mentoring from PA faculty to help them plan their studies and meet their goals while they are still undergraduate students. Drexel’s highly regarded Hahnemann Physician Assistant program, which was founded at the former Hahnemann Medical College and Hospital, is the oldest physician assistant program in Pennsylvania and one of the largest PA programs in the country. The Hahnemann PA program is known for attracting a diverse student body, with more than a quarter of the trainees coming from minority backgrounds and from the medically-underserved areas in which PAs are critically important.
This program allows students to enter the master's-level Physician Assistant program as undergraduates after completing a predetermined number of undergraduate credits. The program is only available to students enrolled in the Pathway to Health Professions major.
For additional information and a sample curriculum, visit the College's Pathway to Health Professions BS/MHS page.
| Degree Requirements | ||
| General Requirements | ||
| UNIV NH101 | The Drexel Experience | 2.0 |
| English Sequence | ||
| ENGL 101 | Composition and Rhetoric I: Inquiry and Exploratory Research | 3.0 |
| ENGL 102 | Composition and Rhetoric II: The Craft of Persuasion | 3.0 |
| ENGL 103 | Composition and Rhetoric III: Thematic Analysis Across Genres | 3.0 |
| Biology Sequence | ||
| BIO 122 | Cells and Genetics | 4.5 |
| BIO 124 | Evolution & Organismal Diversity | 4.5 |
| BIO 126 | Physiology and Ecology | 4.5 |
| BIO 226 | Microbiology for Health Professionals | 5.0 |
| Chemistry Sequence | ||
| CHEM 101 | General Chemistry I | 3.5 |
| CHEM 102 | General Chemistry II | 4.5 |
| CHEM 103 | General Chemistry III | 5.0 |
| Mathematics Sequence | ||
| MATH 101 | Introduction to Analysis I | 4.0 |
| MATH 102 | Introduction to Analysis II | 4.0 |
| Computing Course | ||
| CS 161 | Introduction to Computing | 3.0 |
| Humanities and Social Science Courses | ||
| COM 310 [WI] | Technical Communication | 3.0 |
| COM 320 [WI] | Science Writing | 3.0 |
| HSAD 125 | Medical Terminology | 3.0 |
| HSAD 210 | Health-Care Ethics I | 3.0 |
| HSAD 309 | Advanced Health-Care Ethics | 3.0 |
| PSY 101 | General Psychology I | 3.0 |
| PSY 120 | Developmental Psychology | 3.0 |
| PSY 240 [WI] | Abnormal Psychology | 3.0 |
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | 3.0 |
| SOC 120 | Sociology of the Family | 3.0 |
| Pathway to Health Professions Courses | ||
| Anatomy & Physiology Courses | ||
| ANAT 101 | Anatomy & Physiology I | 5.0 |
| ANAT 102 | Anatomy & Physiology II | 5.0 |
| ANAT 103 | Anatomy & Physiology III | 5.0 |
| Clinical Research Courses | ||
| HSCI 310 | Introduction to Clinical Research | 4.0 |
| HSCI 313 | Clinical Trials Protocols | 4.0 |
| HSCI 315 | Current Issues in Clinical Research | 3.0 |
| Other Health Sciences Courses | ||
| HSCI 201 | Health Assessment through the Lifespan | 4.0 |
| HSCI 301 | Pharmacology I | 3.0 |
| HSCI 302 | Pharmacology II | 3.0 |
| HSCI 337 | Genetics and Health | 3.0 |
| HSCI 204 | Clinical Health Informatics | 3.0 |
| STS 345 | Statistics for the Health Sciences | 4.0 |
| STS 350 | Advanced Statistics for Clinical Science | 4.0 |
| Three Health Sciences electives * | 11.0 | |
| 1st Year PA Courses | ||
| PA 540 | Clinical Anatomy | 5.0 |
| PA 542 | Patient Communication | 2.0 |
| PA 543 | Ethical Issues in Physician Assistant Practice | 2.0 |
| PA 544 | Clinical Assessment | 5.0 |
| PA 547 | Evidence Based Medicine for Physician Assistants | 3.0 |
| PA 548 | Principles of Medical Science I | 2.0 |
| PA 549 | Principles of Medical Science II | 2.0 |
| PA 551 | Pharmacology and Therapeutics I | 3.0 |
| PA 552 | Pharmacology and Therapeutics II | 2.0 |
| PA 554 | Biopsychosocial Issues in Patient Care | 5.0 |
| PA 556 | Clinical Medicine I | 5.0 |
| PA 557 | Clinical Medicine II | 5.0 |
| Total Credits | 185.5 | |
| * | Health Science electives include: Advanced Anatomy I & II; Developmental Anatomy (WI); Physiology; Pathophysiology (WI); Exercise Physiology; Applied Anatomy & Kinesiology; and Sectional Anatomy or NEUR 410 Neurosciences. Certain Health Services Administration courses may also be taken as Health Science electives. |
Facilities
The College of Nursing and Health Professions is located at Drexel University’s Center City Hahnemann Campus, adjacent to Tenet Healthcare’s Hahnemann University Hospital.
The proximity of this major medical center provides a rich environment for students to study toward health professions careers.The Clinical Learning Resource Center provides students with state-of the-art educational resources (including the Sim-Man Simulated Patient System) to enable them to develop the skills that are needed in their chosen health professions careers. Through the Eleventh Street Corridor Partnership for Community Based Care, the College of Nursing and Health Professions maintains a comprehensive, community-based health center, Eleventh Street Family Health Services Center of Drexel University, where students have unique opportunities to observe health care delivery.
Anatomy Courses
ANAT 101 Anatomy & Physiology I 5.0 Credits
This course is a general study of the structures and physiology of the human body. Fundamental concepts of microscopic tissue structure, gross structures of organs and body system organization are taught. The course consists of both lecture and lab material. The lecture portion deals with the general principles. In the lab, the student participates with practical examination of microscopic sections, tissues and organs, and the anatomical layout of human cadavers. The cell, tissues and musculoskeletal system will be covered in this course, as well as muscle and nerve physiology.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
ANAT 102 Anatomy & Physiology II 5.0 Credits
This course is a continuation of ANAT 101. This course is a general study of the structures & physiology of the human body. Fundamental concepts of microscopic tissue structure, gross structures of organs and body system organization are taught. The course consists of both lab and lecture material. The lecture deals with the general principles. In the lab, the student participates with practical examination of microscopic sections, tissues and organs, and the anatomical layout of various animal cadavers. The nervous, endocrine and digestive system will be covered in this course.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 101 [Min Grade: C]
ANAT 103 Anatomy & Physiology III 5.0 Credits
This course is a continuation of ANAT 101 & 102. This course is a general study of the structures and physiology of the human body. Fundamental concepts of microscopic tissue structure, gross structures of organs and body system organization are taught. The course consists of both lab and lecture material. The lecture deals with the general principles. While in the lab, the student participates with practical examination of microscopic sections, tissues, organs and the anatomical layout of various animal cadavers. The cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, urinary and reproductive systems will be covered.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 102 [Min Grade: C]
ANAT 202 Sectional Anatomy 3.0 Credits
This course is designed to bridge the gap between Anatomy & Physiology and Advanced Anatomy. Anatomy of the head, neck, thorax, abdomen and pelvis is reviewed. Relationships of surface and internal structures from different bodily systems are emphasized. The analysis is supported by illustrations, CT scans, and MRI images.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 103 [Min Grade: C]
ANAT 420 Advanced Anatomy I 4.0 Credits
This course introduces the fundamentals of gross anatomy. Emphasis is placed on the regional study of the head, neck, back and upper extremity. Special attention is directed to study of the brain and spinal cord. Laboratory materials include human cadavers, models, radiographs, CT scans, MRI images and relevant web sites.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 103 [Min Grade: C]
ANAT 421 Advanced Anatomy II 4.0 Credits
This course is a continuation of ANAT 420. Emphasis is placed on the regional study of the thorax, abdomen, pelvis and lower extremity. Laboratory material include human cadavers, models, radiographs, CT scans, MRI images and relevant web sites.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 420 [Min Grade: C]
Health Sciences Courses
HSCI 201 Health Assessment through the Lifespan 4.0 Credits
Course focuses on health assessment across the lifespan. The focus is on the development of interviewing skills, assessment of health status, and physical examination skills for the beginning health professional student.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 103 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 204 Clinical Health Informatics 3.0 Credits
This course examines technology and the tools of the Internet, with a focus on the use of cyber-technology and select computer applications. The automation of data management through information systems, expert systems, and telecommunication, and the impact of technology on health care education and research are addressed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: CS 161 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 205 Strategies for Academic Success 1.0 Credit
This course helps students to explore the learning process, to gain essential skills needed to achieve academic success and to develop the ability to make effective use of university resources. Discussion, personal reflection, and relevant electronic resources are used to foster students’ development as self-directed learners. Specific attention will be given to the following topics: study skills, learning strategies, time management, academic planning, test-taking techniques, and goal-setting. The goal of this course is to help improve students’ efficacy in the areas of academic self-management, self-direction, and resource utilization.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
HSCI 301 Pharmacology I 3.0 Credits
This course introduces health professional students to the principles of pharmacology and drug therapies, pharmacologic-therapeutic classes of drugs and important drug information resources.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 101 [Min Grade: C] and ANAT 102 [Min Grade: C] and ANAT 103 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 302 Pharmacology II 3.0 Credits
This course focuses on common drugs used in the treatment of disorders of cardiovascular, renal, respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, anti-infective and anti-inflammatory agents, immune and biologic modifiers and chemotherapeutic agents, and miscellaneous hematologic, dermatologic, ophthalmic, ant otic agents.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: HSCI 301 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 310 Introduction to Clinical Research 4.0 Credits
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principals and practices underlying clinical research. Topics to be covered include: the protection of human subjects, scientific misconduct, asking clinical research questions, conducting literature searches, critical appraisal of the health literature, and evidence based practice.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
HSCI 313 Clinical Trials Protocols 4.0 Credits
Students learn to design and implement a clinical trial protocol. Topics include experimental design, research team member roles and management of clinical trials. Special research techniques for special populations are considered. Means of preventing scientific misconduct through proper monitoring are discussed.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: HSCI 310 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 315 Current Issues in Clinical Research 3.0 Credits
This course is designed to discuss current issues impacting clinical research practice. Topics include ethical issues, scientific issues and operational issues. There is also an opportunity to learn strategies for obtaining a position in clinical research and identify organizations that support clinical research practice.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: HSCI 313 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 325 Exercise Physiology 4.0 Credits
This course examines the acute and chronic effects of exercise on human physiology. Topical areas include neuromuscular physiology, cardiopulmonary, energy metabolism, nutrition, exercise evaluation, body composition, exercise prescription, and influence of environmental factors and clinical conditions on response to exercise.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 101 [Min Grade: C] and ANAT 102 [Min Grade: C] and ANAT 103 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 326 Applied Anatomy and Kinesiology 4.0 Credits
This course applies the foundations of anatomy and physiology to the study of human movement, with emphasis on normal motions of the musculoskeletal system. Topical areas include musculoskeletal anatomy, neuroanatomy, biomechanics, lever systems, and the influence of musculoskeletal disease and injury in normal movement.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 101 [Min Grade: C] and ANAT 102 [Min Grade: C] and ANAT 103 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 337 Genetics and Health 3.0 Credits
This course discusses the Human Genome Project and how to apply genetic knowledge to patient knowledge and patient care in the following ways: identifying the need for genetic testing, obtaining and recording information, and supporting choice by patients about genetic issues.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: BIO 122 [Min Grade: C] and BIO 124 [Min Grade: C] and BIO 126 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 415 Musculoskeletal Pathophysiology 4.0 Credits
Introduction to the study of diseases, disorders and injuries of the musculoskeletal system. The biomechanics of connective tissue and basic science of inflammation, repair, regeneration and fibrosis are discussed. Students learn the pathogenesis, pathophysiology and clinical presentation of selected musculoskeletal disorders. The concepts of epidemiology and risk factors are considered.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 101 [Min Grade: C] and ANAT 102 [Min Grade: C] and ANAT 103 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 430 Developmental Anatomy 4.0 Credits
This course expands upon the student's knowledge of anatomy by describing the events involved in the formation of organ systems in the developing human. The laboratory portion of the course examines congenital defects of the systems and discusses possible causes and treatments form a clinical perspective.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 101 [Min Grade: C] and ANAT 102 [Min Grade: C] and ANAT 103 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 440 Emerging Technologies in Healthcare 3.0 Credits
This course explores recent developments in the emerging fields of regenerative medicine, genomics and nanomedicine. Through lectures and assigned readings students will be introduced to fundamental concepts of stem cell biology, tissue engineering, genomic testing, and nanobiotechnology. Emphasis will be placed on clinical applications of these technologies, as well as their impact on the changing role of healthcare providers.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: HSCI 337 [Min Grade: C]
HSCI 470 Readings in Health Sciences 1.0-6.0 Credit
This course is designed to allow upper-class student to pursue specialized interests in specific topics in the health sciences. May be repeated twice for credit.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated 2 times for 12 credits
Restrictions: Can enroll if classification is Junior or Senior.
HSCI 480 Special Topics in Health Sciences 1.0-12.0 Credit
This course covers topics of a particular interest to students in health sciences. In different terms, a variety of topics are presented to the students.
Repeat Status: Can be repeated 4 times for 24 credits
HSCI 490 Senior Research Project 3.0 Credits
In this course, the student, with faculty supervision, selects a topic for a term project that integrates the academic and practical knowledge the student has acquired in his/her curriculum. The student develops objectives relevant to the project, critiques the literature, presents a plan for implementation, and completes the term project.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if classification is Senior.
Neuroscience Courses
NEUR 410 Neuroscience 4.0 Credits
This course is designed to provide the student with a strong foundation in the structure and function of the nervous system. Clinical correlations are provided throughout the course to underscore the necessity for understanding the material for effective clinical practice and to provide a neurophysiological basis for various pathological conditions commonly encountered in the practice.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 103 [Min Grade: D]
Physiology Courses
PHGY 325 Physiology 5.0 Credits
Presentation of organ function with emphasis on the integration of neural and humoral control mechanisms.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: ANAT 101 [Min Grade: D] and ANAT 102 [Min Grade: D] and ANAT 103 [Min Grade: D]
PHGY 382 Pathophysiology for Health Professions 5.0 Credits
Introduction to disturbances of normal function and basic mechanisms involved in diseases of major organ systems. Presentation of the general aspects of the common human pathophysiological conditions and syndromes.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Restrictions: Can enroll if major is NUOL.
Statistics Courses
STS 345 Statistics for the Health Sciences 4.0 Credits
This course is designed to provide students with a foundation of basic statistical knowledge to aid in reading and understanding research results in the health science literature. Topics will include: variable types, sampling, scales of measurement, reliability and validity of measurement, study designs, descriptive statistics, classical statistical inference, correlation, chi-square, parametric and nonparametric tests for group comparisons.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
STS 350 Advanced Statistics for Clinical Science 4.0 Credits
This course focuses on the statistical methods that are appropriate for clinical research. The subject of medical research and common clinical trials designed are introduced. The use of NCSS and SAS statistical software is initiated during a review of basic statistic methods. Advanced statistical methods used in clinical trials are also covered.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: STS 345 [Min Grade: C]
