HSCI • Health Sciences
HSCI 100 · Introduction to Health and Disease 3 Credits
Introductory examination of the causes and consequences of disease and the promotion of individual, family, and community health. The course covers public health, social science, and behavioral science findings. Examples of topics covered include major chronic and infectious diseases, mental health, reproductive health, and drug and alcohol use and misuse. Coursework emphasizes Identification of healthy personal behaviors that promote wellness and minimize unhealthy lifestyle.
HSCI 105 · Nutrition and Wellness 3 Credits
Nutrition and its specific impact on wellness and health risks. The topics explored are dietary-related disease (e.g., coronary heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, gluten allergies), obesity in the U.S., malnutrition among the youth and the elderly, nutrition-based interventions, and others.
HSCI 110 · U.S. Healthcare Systems 3 Credits
Broad overview of the healthcare system in the United States. Topics include a historic examination of the healthcare system in America; universal, primary, private, and managed care; advances in medical technology; best practices for healthcare providers; informatics; gerontology and long-term care; and healthcare reform and policy.
HSCI 300 · Bioethics 3 Credits
Focus on human choices and actions that typically occur in medical practice. The course begins with a brief overview of ethics, and then moves to develop and consider the moral values and principles relevant to medical practice and bioethics.
HSCI 320 · Medical Sociology 3 Credits
Examination of the social, cultural, economic, and environmental factors that influence health, illness, and healthcare experiences. Students explore the social determinants of health, health disparities, patient-provider relationships, healthcare systems, and the influence of culture, religion, and public policy on individual and community health. Emphasis is placed on applying sociological perspectives to promote culturally responsive, equitable, and patient-centered healthcare.
HSCI 400 · Health Education Programming 3 Credits
Exploration of health sciences career pathways. The course prepares the student with career readiness skills related to increasing awareness of occupational opportunities within the health sciences industry, career development, and career decision making process.
HSCI 491 · Senior Seminar: Health Sciences Capstone 3 Credits
Culminating capstone experience in the BSHS program integrating health sciences core and concentration learning. Students develop a comprehensive ePortfolio that demonstrates knowledge, applied skills, and professional competencies gained throughout the program. The course emphasizes synthesis of disciplinary learning, reflective analysis of growth, and articulation of readiness for professional practice or advanced study.
Prerequisites: PSYC 300, HSCI 300, HSCI 400, and senior standing.
HSCI 497 · Undergraduate Health Science Culminating Experience 3 Credits
The culminating experience course for the BSHS program. Students complete an applied pathway experience focused on professional engagement, community impact, or wellness intervention. Through experiential learning, documentation, reflection, and professional communication, students synthesize BSHS learning within real-world health science contexts while evaluating professional practices, ethical considerations, and future career goals.
Prerequisites: HSCI 491, and senior standing; or assistant dean permission.
