5 Ways a Degree in Community Health Can Help You Get into Medical and Other Professional Schools

A degree in Community Health offers more than just an interdisciplinary education that prepares you for roles in clinics, nonprofits, social services, and government agencies. It gives you an edge when applying to the medical, dental, physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant and pharmacy school of your choice.

The Bachelor of Science in Community Health, Pre-Health Professional degree at Clarkson College offers a specialized curriculum that is tailored to your goals. Here are some of the ways it can help you achieve them.

  1. It sets you apart from other applicants.

More and more, professional schools are looking for students who can bring different perspectives to their programs. Unlike traditional pre-med or science-based bachelor’s degrees, the Community Health option uses an interdisciplinary curriculum. Students take courses in natural sciences, health literacy, patient advocacy, legal and ethical implications, and trauma informed care. This allows you to stand out from other applicants whose education focuses solely on the sciences

  1. It provides you with crucial interpersonal and people skills.

A degree in Community Health prepares you to serve diverse populations and understand ways to help individuals of different background access the care they need. This focus instills interpersonal skills that are directly applicable as a provider, whether you choose to become a doctor, physical therapist, pharmacist, or other health care professional.

  1. It gives you real-world experience in the field.

As you complete your Community Health degree, you will complete a 90-hour fieldwork requirement during which time you will integrate classroom material with hands-on experience at an organization of your choice. Professional schools are eager to accept students who demonstrate experience in the field and with individuals whom they may one day serve as providers.

  1. It provides you with one-on-one mentorship.

Every student enrolled in the Pre-Health Professional option is automatically enrolled in the Clarkson College Advantage program. It is set up to allow you to meet one-on-one with a mentor who will help you determine your career goals and assist you with the process of applying to a professional school. You’ll also have access to job shadow opportunities, guest lecturers and seminars to prepare you for your career.

  1. It makes you immediately employable.

Students who complete the Bachelor of Science in Community Health are able to start working in a related field upon graduation, or in many cases, while still going to school if that’s what they desire. Many times, medical schools and other health professions programs have wait lists, and a Community Health degree allows you to gain meaningful, relevant employment while waiting to start your program. This degree is more versatile than a traditional science degree, as it opens many doors for your career, both now and in the future.

Explore the Bachelor’s degree in Community Health, Pre-Health Professional option and learn how it can work for you.