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Applied Health Science

A career in the health science field is within reach through the Department of Health Science at Minnesota State, Mankato. From undergraduate degrees in alcohol and drug studies to public health or public health education, school health education, pre-occupational therapy, pre-athletic training, or pre-health administration, you'll graduate prepared to make an immediate impact in the health science field through one of these rewarding careers.

Careers in Applied Health Science

  • Health Educator
  • Athletic Trainer
  • Behavioral Health Advocate
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Health Coach
  • Healthcare Administrator

Potential Salary

Median Salary $80,820

The median annual wage for Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Applied Health Science Degrees at MSU

Applied Health Science, Bachelor of Science - Public Health

The Applied Health Science major at Minnesota State University is the only program of its kind in the Minnesota State University system. It offers specialized tracks in public health, health education & promotion, pre-athletic training, pre-occupational therapy, and pre-healthcare administration. Students are trained as health education specialists, gaining hands-on experience and evidence-based knowledge, and are ready to work in diverse public health careers and settings or pursue further professional training in health-related fields. 

 

Applied Health Science, Bachelor of Science - Pre-Healthcare Administration

The Applied Health Science major at Minnesota State University is the only program of its kind in the Minnesota State University system. It offers specialized tracks in public health, health education & promotion, pre-athletic training, pre-occupational therapy, and pre-healthcare administration. Students are trained as health education specialists, gaining hands-on experience and evidence-based knowledge, and are ready to work in diverse public health careers and settings or pursue further professional training in health-related fields. 

 

Applied Health Science, Bachelor of Science - Pre-Occupational Therapy

The Applied Health Science major at Minnesota State University is the only program of its kind in the Minnesota State University system. It offers specialized tracks in public health, health education & promotion, pre-athletic training, pre-occupational therapy, and pre-healthcare administration. Students are trained as health education specialists, gaining hands-on experience and evidence-based knowledge, and are ready to work in diverse public health careers and settings or pursue further professional training in health-related fields. 

 

 

Applied Health Science, Bachelor of Science - Health Education and Promotion

The Applied Health Science major at Minnesota State University is the only program of its kind in the Minnesota State University system. It offers specialized tracks in public health, health education & promotion, pre-athletic training, pre-occupational therapy, and pre-healthcare administration. Students are trained as health education specialists, gaining hands-on experience and evidence-based knowledge, and are ready to work in diverse public health careers and settings or pursue further professional training in health-related fields. 

Applied Health Science, Bachelor of Science - Pre-Athletic Training

The Applied Health Science major at Minnesota State University is the only program of its kind in the Minnesota State University system. It offers specialized tracks in public health, health education & promotion, pre-athletic training, pre-occupational therapy, and pre-healthcare administration. Students are trained as health education specialists, gaining hands-on experience and evidence-based knowledge, and are ready to work in diverse public health careers and settings or pursue further professional training in health-related fields. 

Applied Health Science, Minor

Applied Health Science is for students interested in the field of health and seeking to support their current major. By choosing from courses encompassing a wide variety of health topics, students can focus on specific areas of interest and tailor their selections to meet professional goals.

Community Health Worker, Certificate

Our certificate program prepares you to connect people with vital health and social services, promote wellness, and advocate for community needs. Gain hands-on experience in outreach, education, and support while working with local organizations, clinics, and health departments. Completion of this program can lead to a certificate for employment as a Community Health Worker. Start your journey today!

Applied Health Science, Master of Science

Students in the online Applied Health Science, MS program are prepared for evolving and challenging professional positions in a variety of settings.

Public Health: Health Behavior and Health Promotion, Master of Public Health

Make a lasting impact on community health with our Public Health: Health Behavior and Health Promotion, MPH program. You'll learn how to drive positive change through prevention strategies, behavior change techniques, and community-based health initiatives. Gain real-world experience through a field-based applied practice tailored to your professional goals.

Public Health: Nutrition, Master of Public Health (MPH)

Advance your career as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with our Public Health: Nutrition, MPH program. You'll gain real-world experience and learn how to improve health outcomes through preventive strategies, behavior change, and community-based nutrition initiatives. Collaborate with professionals across disciplines while completing a hands-on, field-based practice experience tailored to your career goals.

Public Health: Dietetics, Master of Public Health (MPH)

Take your dietetics education to the next level with our Public Health: Dietetics, MPH program. Designed for students in the Professional Program in Dietetics, this program blends public health strategies with hands-on, supervised experiential learning to prepare you to improve health outcomes at both individual and community levels. You’ll collaborate with experts and complete field-based experiences that align with your career goals.

 

Eta Sigma Gamma working a garden

Eta Sigma Gamma

As a local chapter of the national health education honorary, the purpose of Eta Sigma Gamma (ESG), Beta Kappa Chapter at MSU is to elevate teaching, research and service in the health education profession. Eta Sigma Gamma promotes healthy living through service projects in the MSU community. As a health education honor society, we recognize academic achievement, uphold professional standards, and offer networking opportunities with peers and professionals. ESG helps students connect, build their careers, and earn honor cords at graduation.

Learn More

Get Involved!

Getting involved is a great way to build your resume, gain real-world experience, and stand out from other applicants. Learn more about campus, local, and national opportunities to help you get started.

Internships

Upon successful completion of the Applied Health Science core coursework, all students have the opportunity to enroll in an internship from (1-9 credits, 50 hours per credit hour). Students in the Health Education and Promotion track are required to complete a 9-credit internship (total of 450 hours).

Further Education

After completing an undergraduate degree, students may enter the workforce or pursue further education. Graduates of the Applied Health Science major are qualified to apply to graduate programs, particularly in health education, health promotion, and public health. Eligibility depends on the chosen track and specific program requirements, with options for certifications, master's, or doctoral degrees.

Pre-Professional Programs

Our pre-professional tracks in occupational therapy, athletic training, and healthcare administration are specifically designed to give you a competitive edge for graduate school applications or entry-level positions for those aspiring to leadership roles or advanced studies in health-related fields.

Related Programs

Upset women talking to counselor.

Alcohol and Drug Studies

The Alcohol and Drug Studies major provides students with the academic coursework necessary to launch their professional careers and make an immediate impact in the lives of those affected by addiction. The undergraduate program in alcohol and drug studies prepares students to enter the addiction field or further their knowledge through advanced degrees.

Athletic trainer talking to athlete on floor of gym.

Athletic Training

The master's degree in athletic training prepares professionals to treat physically active patients as an integral part of an integrated health care team. As one of the oldest and most respected athletic training programs in the nation, students will graduate prepared to launch their career in this diverse field.

Women gym teacher in gym.

Health and Physical Education

The Health and Physical Education major at Minnesota State Mankato is dedicated to preparing future teachers to educate young learners on the critical importance of physical activity. Through classroom learning and real-world teaching experiences, students gain the expertise to design and execute comprehensive physical education programs that encourage students to commit to health and fitness.

Nursing helping elderly person.

Nursing

With state-of-the-art facilities, world-class educators, and a range of undergraduate, graduate, online, and degree-completion options, we have a variety of flexible and traditional nursing programs that meet what today's health care employers are looking for. Experience the power of collaborative learning in our state-of-the-art simulation center.

Department of Health Science

College of

Allied Health and Nursing

The College of Allied Health and Nursing is a thriving community dedicated to preparing future leaders in nursing, communication sciences, and health-related fields. With state-of-the-art learning centers, real-world experiences clinical practicums and fieldwork, and strong community connections, students gain the hands-on training needed for success. Committed to equity and inclusion, we create an environment where all learners can excel and make a meaningful impact in health and wellness.

Learn More About the College of Allied Health and Nursing