Health Sciences Programs - Bachelor of Applied Science
The BAS degree with a concentration in Health Sciences is designed to provide the academic knowledge and skills to allow students with an AAS degree from a previously-approved (articulated) health related program to advance their employment opportunities within the health field and/or continue into selected graduate programs of study.
The requirements for the BAS in Health Sciences include both admission and completion requirements. All students will complete a specified complement of general studies courses that reflect the graduation requirements of Arizona State University. The BAS in Health Sciences will offer a core of related courses to broaden and strengthen the academic expertise of enrolled students. A minimum of 60 credits from Arizona State University is required to complete the BAS in Health Sciences.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the health sciences field represents the largest single industry in the U.S., accounting for over 14 million jobs. In addition, 7 of the 20 fastest growing occupations are health related, generating 3 million new wage and salary jobs between 2006 and 2016, more than any other industry. The need for health educators, for example, is estimated to grow by 20% or more over the next decade, requiring an additional 25,000 employees. While many health-related professions can be entered with a BS degree, a number of health professionals currently begin their career paths with an AAS degree in a specific technical area such as medical radiology, nuclear medicine technology, histology technology, etc. It is anticipated, however, that many allied health credentials will soon require a baccalaureate-level education as the minimum entry level preparation.
This program provides for further opportunities in both employment and post-baccalaureate educational options upon completion of the BAS in Health Sciences and will provide for those students needing a baccalaureate degree in order to enter the field as professional standards become more rigorous. In addition, the program is designed to provide cross-disciplinary training, an essential in the modern workforce. With the completion of the BAS degree, graduates will be able to return to their original area of expertise in allied health [e.g. radiology, nuclear imaging, etc] and potentially qualify for a managerial position, as an educator/instructor within their field of expertise, and/or a higher position grade within their current place of employment. Students who do not immediately enter or reenter the workforce will be qualified for entry into selected graduate programs depending upon their area of interest. Plan of Study (PDF)
