Health Sciences Bachelor of Science

It’s no secret that the healthcare industry is growing by leaps and bounds and is forecasted to keep humming along at a healthy pace for the foreseeable future. So, earning your degree in health sciences today gives you the ability to hop on the healthcare bandwagon and start making a positive difference in people’s lives, including your own.

Related Programs

Getting Started: Fall 2019

June 4:   Financial Aid

Aug. 13:   Application

Aug. 20:   Classes Begin

Other Important Dates »

Why Seminole State?

  • Outstanding reputation: Seminole State has a proven track record of preparing healthcare graduates for success.
  • Unique program: Seminole State offers the only Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences in Central Florida
  • Industry involvement: The program was developed with direct input from more than 50 Central Florida healthcare partners.
  • Seamless transition: With your associate degree, you can easily transfer into the health sciences bachelor's degree.
  • Dedicated faculty: Faculty are "scholar-practitioners" with industry experience as well as academic credentials. 
  • Affordable tuition: Seminole State has significantly lower costs than Florida's universities.
  • Flexible schedule: Classes are offered in person and online for convenience. 

Additional Information

Health Sciences Bachelor of Science
Type: BS
Major Code : HS-BS
CIP: 1105100005
Educational Plan: HS-BS

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) is an interdisciplinary completion program focused on career and academic advancement for current practitioners as well as to deliver a well-rounded generalist curriculum by providing the skills, competencies, and values needed to advance and professionally contribute to the evolving health care industry. The BSHS program will include six specialty tracks: Respiratory Therapy and Clinical Leadership, Health Coaching and Human Performance, Healthcare Management and Professional Services, Simulation in Healthcare Education, Clinical Science and Community Paramedic.

The curriculum includes a central core of health science courses that will allow students from different health care disciplines the opportunity to work and collaborate as an interdisciplinary team. Specialty elective courses will focus on content designed to further expand the student's expertise in their chosen area of study.

Clinical Science Specialization: The Clinical Science Specialization is designed for pre-professionals who intend to pursue a career in the healthcare provider role. Students interested in earning credit at Palmer Chiropractic will need to consult with their advisor to ensure they are enrolled in the appropriate courses.

Respiratory Therapy and Clinical Leadership Specialization: The Respiratory Therapy and Clinical Leadership Specialization allows graduates of an accredited Associate Degree program, eligible for the National Board of Respiratory Therapy credential, to complete their bachelor's degree. This degree program is designed to provide respiratory therapists with a deeper understanding of healthcare operations, economics, leadership, health information management, ethics and research methods.

Community Paramedic Specialization: The Community Paramedic Specialization introduces exciting career options for future and current Emergency Medical Services professionals. Community paramedics are responsible for evaluating and assessing high-risk patients in their homes--those that are most likely to be frequent users of the emergency department--to help them manage their chronic disease, adhere to medication plans, enroll in insurance coverage or access social services. The goals of the community paramedic are to: improve individual and community health, reduce unnecessary hospitalizations and emergency department visits and reduce healthcare costs. This specialization offers Florida certified paramedics the opportunity to further expand their expertise in advanced paramedic practice and enhance employment opportunities.

Health Coaching and Human Performance Specialization: The Health Coaching and Human Performance Specialization has been developed in response to the emerging demand for wellness professionals. Companies are seeing wellness as an investment toward decreasing healthcare costs. Prevention-based health coaching models are being implemented to help patients manage chronic diseases and prevent disease occurrence. Additionally, community-based wellness programs are increasing. Labor market trends also indicate a strong and growing need for wellness professionals in healthcare settings, fitness organizations and corporate settings.

Health coaches promote wellness through the development and implementation of strategies to improve the health of individuals and communities. Health coaches work in hospitals, nonprofit organizations, government, physician's offices, private businesses and colleges.

Healthcare Management and Professional Services Specialization: The Healthcare Management and Professional Services Specialization is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide career advancement opportunities for current health profession practitioners as well as individuals seeking future careers in healthcare.

Medical and health services managers, also called healthcare executives or healthcare administrators, plan, direct and coordinate medical and health services. They may manage an entire facility or specialize in managing a specific clinical area or department. They may also manage a medical practice group of physicians. Most medical and health services managers work in offices in healthcare facilities including hospitals, nursing homes and group medical practices as well as with insurance providers in the area of health-related sales and services.

Simulation in Healthcare Education Specialization: The Simulation in Healthcare Education Specialization prepares students for careers in the growing field of education simulation. Medical simulation is a vital component of educational services offered to healthcare students, residents, nursing staff, ancillary healthcare professionals and practicing physicians throughout the world. Simulation-based medical education offers a consistent clinical learning experience without risk to patients. It also offers a psychologically safe and supportive learning environment for the student/trainee. Creating such learning environments requires a specialized skill set. Therefore, the need for improved and expanded educator skills is required to improve simulation-based learning. This need creates the demand for specialized courses/programs in simulation-based education within the framework of health professions.

In Florida alone, there are approximately 47 simulation centers in colleges, universities and hospitals. Each of these facilities requires trained content and technology experts to develop, execute and evaluate comprehensive simulation education programs.

Common Prerequisites (identifies courses students must complete to be be admitted to an upper-division program):

  • Have a 2.0 or higher GPA in previous course work.
  • Complete an associate degree from any regionally accredited institution. Degree requirements for the specializations are:
    • B.S.H.S. Respiratory Therapy and Clinical Leadership requires an Associate in Science degree in the following areas from any regionally accredited institution:
      • A.S. Respiratory Care (CIP 1351090800)
      • A.S. Cardiovascular/Cardiopulmonary Technology (CIP 1351090100)
  • All other B.S.H.S. specialty tracks require an Associate in Science degree, or an Associate in Applied Science in a healthcare related area from a regionally accredited institution. Students with an awarded Associate in Arts degree from a regionally accredited institution may be required to complete 24 credits in lower division healthcare related coursework.

 Program Admission

Respiratory Therapy and Clinical Leadership Specialization:

  • Completion of an Associate degree from a regionally accredited institution.
  • A GPA of 2.0 or higher.
  • Completion of a CoARC accredited Respiratory Therapy program.
  • Eligibility for licensure from the National Board for Respiratory Care and/or
  • Licensed as a RRT from the National Board for Respiratory Care.

Community Paramedic Specialization:

  • Completion of an Associate degree from a regionally accredited institution.
  • A GPA of 2.0 or higher.
  • Completion of a Florida Department of EMS approved paramedic program or
  • Eligibility for certification as a Florida recognized paramedic or certified as a Florida recognized paramedic.

Healthcare Management and Professional Services, Health Coaching and Human Performance and Simulation in Healthcare Education Specializations:

  • Completion of an Associate in Arts (AA) or bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution OR
  • Completion of an Associate in Science (AS) or Associate in Applied Science (AAS) from a regionally accredited institution in a health-related field* OR
  • Completion of an Associate in Science (AS) or Associate in Applied Science (AAS) from a regionally accredited institution in a non-health-related field.
  • A GPA of 2.0 or higher.

*An Associate of Science (AS) or an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in a health-related field from a regionally accredited institution satisfies the Foundation requirements detailed in the Bachelor of Science (BS) Health Science degree program. Students with any other degree must complete the Foundation courses with a grade of "C" or higher. 

Associate in Arts degree:  Students entering with an AA degree from a regionally accredited institution will be required to complete the foundation courses listed for the degree. Some foundation courses may be waived if a student possesses a medical industry certificate. This certificate and official transcripts must be submitted to the Registrar's office and reviewed by the department for consideration to the program.

Associate in Science or Associate in Applied Science, Health-related area:  Students entering with an AS or AAS in a health-related area from a regionally accredited institution will be required to complete any additional general education courses to meet the 36 credit hour requirement within the different categories.

Associate in Science or Associate in Applied Science, Non-Health related area:  Students entering with an AS or AAS in a non-health related area from a regionally accredited institution will be required to complete any additional general education courses to meet the 36 credit hour requirement within the different categories. This student will also be required to complete the "Foundation" courses as listed in the program plan.

Please note: Students who are required to participate in clinical rotations (Community Paramedic) or internships may be required to pass a criminal background check and/or drug screen as per the organization's requirements.

 

Career Opportunities

For career information related to this program, please visit O*Net OnLine.

View program admission, career opportunities and more.......
Available Courses
Required Courses
21
HSA
3191
Health Information Systems
3
Credits
This course provides an overview of technology and information systems employed in the healthcare industry today. Topics include the Internet and health, growing use of information technology in health, electronic medical records, protecting privacy, technical considerations, health applications of the Internet and telemedicine, public policy issues, organizational issues and technical issues and challenges.
HSC
3661
Communications for Healthcare Professionals
2
Credits
This course is designed to enhance student understanding of the specific health benefits that come from positive communication between medical professionals and patients, clients, staff or other lay audiences. Students will be exposed to a variety of communication strategies relevant to the health professions. Topics will include written and oral communication techniques for health and business-related situations.
LIS
2004
Research Strategies for College Students
1
Credits
Gain the knowledge, skills and abilities to succeed in college-level research by identifying, evaluating and using diverse information sources from the internet and library databases. This course follows the research process that includes developing topics and thesis statements, creating search strategies and critically evaluating and ethically citing sources. These research and critical thinking skills are crucial for success not only in college but also in the workplace.

Choose ECP 4530 or ECP 4530H:

ECP
4530
Health Care Economics
3
Credits
This course will examine the economic perspectives of health care. At the micro level, the course will examine the production, marketing, distribution, pricing and relative measures of quality of health care as it is delivered by health care agencies and programs (Medicare, Medicaid, HMOs, PPOs, etc.). Topics such as the principle-agent problem, moral hazard and information problems on the demand size will also be examined. On the supply side, managed care organizations, third-party payer systems, medical schooling and malpractice insurance will be addressed. At the macro level, topics will examine the impact of health care practices on inflation, productivity and the implications of an aging population on the national economy.
ECP
4530H
Honors Health Care Economics
3
Credits
This course examines economic perspectives of health care. At the micro level, the course examines production, marketing, distribution, pricing and measures of healthcare quality delivered by healthcare agencies and programs (e.g. Medicare, Medicaid, HMOs and PPOs). Topics such as the principle-agent problem, moral hazard and information problems on demand size are examined. On the supply side, managed care organizations, third-party payer systems, medical schooling and malpractice insurance are addressed. At the macro level, topics include the impact of healthcare practices on inflation, productivity and implications of an aging population on the national economy. Students must be accepted into the Honors Program.

Choose HSA 4553 or HSA 4553H:

HSA
4553
Legal and Ethical Aspects in Healthcare
3
Credits
This course provides an overview of the legal and ethical aspects faced by healthcare consumers, practitioners, administrators and healthcare facilities. Students will be introduced to the structure of the American legal system and the principles of health law. Ethical theories and philosophies and their application to various components of the healthcare delivery system will be introduced. Medical professional ethics, HIPAA privacy and security issues will be reinforced.
HSA
4553H
Honors Legal and Ethical Issues in Healthcare
3
Credits
This course provides an overview of the legal and ethical aspects faced by healthcare consumers, practitioners, administrators and healthcare facilities. Students will be introduced to the structure of the American legal system and the principles of health law. Ethical theories and philosophies and their application to various components of the healthcare delivery system will be introduced. Medical professional ethics, HIPAA privacy and security issues will be reinforced. Student must be accepted into the Honors Program.

Choose HSC 4730 or HSC 4730H:

HSC
4730
Health Sciences Research
3
Credits
This course incorporates basic research methods, processes and models in analyzing research studies and incorporating current quality standards and evidence-based protocols into healthcare. Students are introduced to the formal study of research methods, including literature search, hypothesis generation and testing, sampling theory, research design, data analysis and report-writing. Application of these methods will be utilized to research health-related and health administration-related topics.
HSC
4730H
Honors Health Sciences Research
3
Credits
This course incorporates basic research methods, processes and models in analyzing research studies and incorporating current quality standards and evidence-based protocols into healthcare. Students are introduced to the formal study of research methods, including literature search, hypothesis generation and testing, sampling theory, research design, data analysis and report-writing. Application of these methods will be utilized to research health-related and health administration-related topics. Student must be accepted into the Honors Program.

Choose HSC 4922 or HSC 4922H:

HSC
4922
Capstone Project in Health Sciences
3
Credits
This course is a culminating experience for Health Science majors involving a substantive project that demonstrates a synthesis of learning accumulated in the major, including broadly comprehensive knowledge of the discipline and its methodologies. With faculty approval, students will complete a capstone project that aligns with their career goals. Examples include, but are not limited to, a business plan development, clinical research proposal or creating an educational module/presentation. The course objectives reflect the student learning outcomes for this degree.
HSC
4922H
Honors Capstone Project in Health Sciences
3
Credits
This course is a culminating experience for Health Sciences majors involving a substantive project that demonstrates a synthesis of learning accumulated in the major, including broadly comprehensive knowledge of the discipline and its methodologies. With faculty approval, students will complete a capstone project that aligns with their career goals. Examples include, but are not limited to, a business plan, clinical research proposal or an educational module/presentation. The course objectives reflect the student learning outcomes for this degree. Student must be accepted into the Honors Program.

Choose 3 credits: MAN 3025, MAN 3320* or HSA 4184 

 

3
MAN
3025
Management of Organizations
3
Credits
This course covers the introduction to the theory and practice of managing formal organizations, including planning, organization theory, human behavior and control.
MAN
3320
Management of Strategic Human Resources
3
Credits
This course covers a complete and comprehensive review of human resource management concepts.
HSA
4184
Leadership in Healthcare Organizations
3
Credits
This course introduces students to an overview of the basics of leadership and management with an emphasis on the roles, functions and skills necessary in the changing healthcare environment. Organizational patterns of various types of healthcare institutions, such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient services and community agencies are analyzed. Introduction to various administrative functions, including departmental functions, policy information, internal control systems, planning procedures, fiscal and personnel management, public relations and various information needs of administration will also be covered.

*Note:  Students in the Healthcare Management and Professional Services Specialization should take either MAN 3025 or HSA 4184 as part of the core.

Technical Specialization Tracks

Choose 1 of the following specializations:

  • Clinical Science Specialization
  • Community Paramedic Specialization
  • Health Coaching and Human Performance Specialization
  • Healthcare Management and Professional Services Specialization
  • Respiratory Therapy and Clinical Leadership Specialization
  • Simulation in Healthcare Education Specialization

Clinical Science Specialization

HSC
4231
Client Education in Healthcare
3
Credits
This course focuses on the delivery of client-specific health education. An emphasis will be placed on assessing and delivering educational programs that include health, wellness, disease, disease prevention and quality of life. Students will learn to evaluate training methods, curriculum, objectives and educational experiences that will best serve diverse patient populations.
HSA
3113
Healthcare Trends and Issues
3
Credits
This course provides the student with the knowledge of key issues and trends of the U.S. healthcare system. This course promotes the analysis of key healthcare issues with an emphasis on healthcare policies and initiatives that shape healthcare delivery. An analysis of the current structure of profit versus non-profit healthcare organizations, financing healthcare and the impact of financial stakeholders will be emphasized. Ethical issues that develop when government, the private sector and consumers vie to influence healthcare are presented as a component of evidence-based policy revisions. Students are introduced to the different types of research, its focus, methods and the nature of their subsequent findings.

or

ZOO
4747C
Clinical Neuroanatomy and Neuroscience
4
Credits
Basic and applied neurosciences with attention to normal function and pathologic states of the nervous system relevant to practical of general medicine and/or neuroscience.

Note:  ZOO 4747C is for Palmer Chiropractic students only.

Technical Elective Courses: Complete 15 credits. 2000 level or higher: BSC, CHM, MCB, PHY, 1000 level or higher MAC, PHY 1053C, PHY 1054C (BSC 1010 also accepted).

15
Credits

Upper or Lower Division Electives: Complete 24 credits of upper/lower division elective courses.

24
Credits

Foundation courses for the Clinical Science, Health Coaching and Human Performance, Healthcare Management and Professional Services, and Simulation in Healthcare Education Specializations:  18♦ or 0♦♦ credits

♦ The following foundation courses are required for students who transfer into this baccalaureate program with an AA degree or an AS degree in a non-health related area: HSC 1000, HSC 1531, HSC 2400 (or any HSC, HSA, HIM, HUN, OST or GEB course), HUN 1201 or higher level HUN course, HIM 1442, HIM 1453 or BSC 1020 or EMS 2010.

♦♦ Students transferring into this baccalaureate program with a health-related AS degree will be considered to have met this foundation requirement.

Community Paramedic Specialization

12
EMS
4112
Introduction to Community Paramedic
3
Credits
This course provides the history and theoretical foundations of community paramedicine in North America. This course will examine the U.S. Healthcare system, communications, legal and ethical responsibilities.
EMS
4111
Advanced Practiced Paramedicine
3
Credits
This course provides the Community Paramedic with the opportunity to demonstrate cognitive, psychomotor and affective skills in a variety of clinical environments.
EMS
4113
Mobile Integrated Health Care
6
Credits
This course develops cognitive and affective skills and knowledge of the community paramedic. Topics include community assessment, wellness and prevention, including outreach and community resources. Patient assessment, primary care of chronic disease as well as mental health assessments will be examined.

Community Paramedic Foundation Courses: Any EMS, BSC, HSA, HSC, RET courses

51
Credits

Note: Students transferring in whose EMS-AS coursework does not equal 51 credits may complete the remaining required credits with courses in the following disciplines: EMS, BSC, HSA, HSC, RET.

Health Coaching and Human Performance Specialization

HSC
4694
Individual, Group and Worksite Health Promotion Programs
3
Credits
This course is designed for healthcare, public health and wellness professionals who desire to educate and support clients to achieve positive health goals through lifestyle changes and behavior modification. Topics will include the promotion of healthy lifestyle choices in nutrition, mindfulness and physical health. Coaching skills with a focus on the practical application of brief intervention and motivational interviewing skills is emphasized. Students will gain the knowledge and skills to develop, manage and sustain health and wellness programs while maintaining a supportive environment for behavior change.
HSC
3502
Major Diseases in the U.S. Population
3
Credits
This course provides an overview of medical and psychosocial aspects of chronic diseases, including issues of disability management.
PET
3551
Introduction to Exercise Science and Personal Training
3
Credits
This course focuses on the issues in exercise and fitness that each major age group encounters in society today. Students learn the unique challenges that senior adults, middle-aged and younger adults and children and adolescents are confronted with, as well as the sociological, psychological and economic factors that can impact favorable outcomes. Motivational strategies, techniques and plans for designing age-appropriate exercise and fitness programs will be discussed and practiced and current research in models of exercise and fitness programs in community and corporate-based settings will be studied and evaluated for effectiveness. This course will provide an anatomical foundation for the understanding and analysis of human movement.
PET
4093
Advanced Personal Training
3
Credits
This course will develop advanced strategies for independent fitness goals designed for lifetime health. Topics will include athletic performance development through a combination of skill, strength and balance training and understanding strategies for analyzing and improving athletic performance. This course will have an emphasis on sport-specific conditioning.
HUN
4296
Nutrition for Health and Weight Management
3
Credits
This course explores current dietary trends and examines the role geopolitical and economic forces have on our day-to-day food choices. The spectrum of popular diets and their advocates and critics will be discussed along with the current scientific research available for each. Students will reflect on the diversity of food choices, prohibitions and taboos that exist within our multicultural and multiethnic communities, with an eye toward increasing awareness and sensitivity. An emphasis will be placed on the health promotion theory and guidelines to optimize nutrition-related behaviors.
HUN
3931
Special Topics in Health Coaching
3
Credits
This unique elective course provides students an opportunity to study a specific area of nutrition that is not available in the current curriculum. Students will review the current literature and research in nutrition related to the selected topic. Topics may include a certain area of human nutrition that is not currently offered in the curriculum or emerging nutrition issues that affect the local community.

Choose 3 credits HSC 4231 or HSC 4720

3
HSC
4231
Client Education in Healthcare
3
Credits
This course focuses on the delivery of client-specific health education. An emphasis will be placed on assessing and delivering educational programs that include health, wellness, disease, disease prevention and quality of life. Students will learn to evaluate training methods, curriculum, objectives and educational experiences that will best serve diverse patient populations.
HSC
4720
Behavior Modification in Health Coaching
3
Credits
This course is designed for students who desire to become health coaches. Health coaches help individuals adopt achievable strategies that lead to behavior change, lifelong healthy eating and improved exercise habits. Topics include coaching for smoking cessation, stress management, weight loss and preventative care practices.

Upper or Lower Division Electives: Complete 24 credits of upper/lower division elective courses.

24
Credits

Foundation courses for the Clinical Science, Health Coaching and Human Performance, Healthcare Management and Professional Services, and Simulation in Healthcare Education Specializations:  18♦ or 0♦♦ credits

♦ The following foundation courses are required for students who transfer into this baccalaureate program with an AA degree or an AS degree in a non-health related area: HSC 1000, HSC 1531, HSC 2400 (or any HSC, HSA, HIM, HUN, OST or GEB course), HUN 1201 or higher level HUN course, HIM 1442, HIM 1453 or BSC 1020 or EMS 2010.

♦♦ Students transferring into this baccalaureate program with a health-related AS degree will be considered to have met this foundation requirement.

Healthcare Management and Professional Services Specialization

MAN
3320
Management of Strategic Human Resources
3
Credits
This course covers a complete and comprehensive review of human resource management concepts.
HSA
4170
Healthcare Financial Management
3
Credits
This course is for non-financial managers who need basic knowledge of financial management and healthcare finance and also serves as an introductory course for those who will be more directly involved in the financial aspects of healthcare. The course includes an overall explanation of financial accounting terminology, how it works, review of financial reports and the managerial component that is necessary for everyday management in healthcare settings. The course uses actual examples from hospitals, long-term care facilities and home health agencies, as well as case studies to prepare students to read, analyze, understand and use financial statements and budgets.
HSA
3113
Healthcare Trends and Issues
3
Credits
This course provides the student with the knowledge of key issues and trends of the U.S. healthcare system. This course promotes the analysis of key healthcare issues with an emphasis on healthcare policies and initiatives that shape healthcare delivery. An analysis of the current structure of profit versus non-profit healthcare organizations, financing healthcare and the impact of financial stakeholders will be emphasized. Ethical issues that develop when government, the private sector and consumers vie to influence healthcare are presented as a component of evidence-based policy revisions. Students are introduced to the different types of research, its focus, methods and the nature of their subsequent findings.
HSA
3383
Continuous Quality Monitoring and Accreditation
3
Credits
This course provides a foundational exploration of the concepts of healthcare accreditation and continuous quality monitoring. The concept of quality assurance is explored from a perspective of selected accreditation, regulatory, licensing and certification programs. The interface of accreditation and reimbursement is explored. Health information systems are used in the analysis of health care accreditation, government mandates and regulatory activities as they impact consumer outcomes. Legal implications of quality monitoring are analyzed. Social, political, professional and organizational influences upon health services delivery are explored from a perspective of demand, special populations, financing and service delivery.
HSC
4231
Client Education in Healthcare
3
Credits
This course focuses on the delivery of client-specific health education. An emphasis will be placed on assessing and delivering educational programs that include health, wellness, disease, disease prevention and quality of life. Students will learn to evaluate training methods, curriculum, objectives and educational experiences that will best serve diverse patient populations.
HSC
4404
Medical Disaster Management
3
Credits
This course introduces students to various facets of natural and technological disasters while integrating public health research designs and practices. Discussions will utilize recent and historical case studies as a basis for developing the critical thinking and leadership skills needed by healthcare professionals in crisis situations. International, domestic and regional settings will be addressed as well as the social, economic and political aspects of disaster planning, preparedness and mitigation. Students also gain an understanding of basic public health concepts and methodologies.

Technical Elective Courses:  Complete 3 credits.  2000 level or higher courses. Choose from the following: ACG, BSC, CHM, CGS, CIS, CNT, COP, ECP, EMS, FIN, GEB, HSA, HSC, HIM, HUN, ISM, LDR, MAN, MAR, MCB, PET, PHY, RET.

3
Credits

Upper or Lower Division Electives: Complete 24 credits of upper/lower division elective courses.

24
Credits

Foundation courses for the Clinical Science, Health Coaching and Human Performance, Healthcare Management and Professional Services, and Simulation in Healthcare Education Specializations:  18♦ or 0♦♦ credits

♦ The following foundation courses are required for students who transfer into this baccalaureate program with an AA degree or an AS degree in a non-health related area: HSC 1000, HSC 1531, HSC 2400 (or any HSC, HSA, HIM, HUN, OST or GEB course), HUN 1201 or higher level HUN course, HIM 1442, HIM 1453 or BSC 1020 or EMS 2010.

♦♦ Students transferring into this baccalaureate program with a health-related AS degree will be considered to have met this foundation requirement.

Respiratory Therapy and Clinical Leadership Specialization

12
RET
3536
Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation
3
Credits
This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. Students will learn how to optimize the quality of life for chronically ill patients with cardiopulmonary disease through rehabilitation, education and outpatient management. Focus is on an interdisciplinary approach to pulmonary rehabilitation and home care of the adult cardiopulmonary patient.
HSC
4555
Pathophysiology
3
Credits
This course provides the student with an overview of the topic of pathophysiology for health-related degrees. Etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of the major human diseases are presented. Both infectious and non-infectious diseases of the human body system are included.

Choose 3 credits:  HSC 4404 or HSA 3383

3
HSC
4404
Medical Disaster Management
3
Credits
This course introduces students to various facets of natural and technological disasters while integrating public health research designs and practices. Discussions will utilize recent and historical case studies as a basis for developing the critical thinking and leadership skills needed by healthcare professionals in crisis situations. International, domestic and regional settings will be addressed as well as the social, economic and political aspects of disaster planning, preparedness and mitigation. Students also gain an understanding of basic public health concepts and methodologies.
HSA
3383
Continuous Quality Monitoring and Accreditation
3
Credits
This course provides a foundational exploration of the concepts of healthcare accreditation and continuous quality monitoring. The concept of quality assurance is explored from a perspective of selected accreditation, regulatory, licensing and certification programs. The interface of accreditation and reimbursement is explored. Health information systems are used in the analysis of health care accreditation, government mandates and regulatory activities as they impact consumer outcomes. Legal implications of quality monitoring are analyzed. Social, political, professional and organizational influences upon health services delivery are explored from a perspective of demand, special populations, financing and service delivery.

Choose 3 credits:  RET 4277 or RET 4718 or RET 4285

3
RET
4277
Adult Critical Care
3
Credits
This course will examine the different specialty areas available in respiratory therapy as a working practitioner. Information on recent changes in technology and therapeutic modalities will be presented. The student will participate in activities to gain knowledge of ongoing changes in respiratory therapy.
RET
4285
Advanced Cardiopulmonary Medicine
3
Credits
This course focuses on the disease states treated medically in conjunction with one or more modalities of respiratory therapy. Topics include acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome, life threatening asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease, pleural effusion, pneumothorax, indications for ventilator support in adults, modes of invasive and non-invasive ventilator support and post-operative management of patients undergoing lung resection.
RET
4718
Neonatal Pediatric Critical Care
3
Credits
This comprehensive course focuses on advancing the knowledge of the respiratory therapy student from basic disease knowledge and treatment to innovative and novel modalities in the treatment of critically ill pediatric respiratory patients. This comprehensive course focuses evaluation and management of medical and surgical pediatric conditions requiring respiratory care. Emphasis will be on pediatric critical care, pathophysiology, treatment and prevention of respiratory conditions and mechanical ventilation.

Respiratory Foundation Courses: Any RET, BSC, EMS, HSA, HSC or HUN courses.

51
Credits

Note: Students transferring in whose RESPR-AS coursework does not equal 51 credits may complete the remaining required credits with courses in the following disciplines: RET, BSC, EMS, HSA, HSC or HUN.

Simulation in Healthcare Education Specialization

HSC
4240
Trends and Theoretical Foundations in Healthcare Simulation
3
Credits
This course will review the historical trends of healthcare simulation and focus on current trends and best practices. Classroom discussions will include the development of simulation education in healthcare. A focus will be on how simulation is used in a variety of settings and by different professions.
HSC
4032
Theory and Practice of Teaching Health Science
3
Credits
This is an introductory course for health educators that encompasses learning theories and instructional methods. Focus is placed on commonly used and innovative theories with emphasis on determining applicability to the simulation environment. The course will include basics of instructional development, curriculum design and principles of formative and summative evaluation. Teaching methods that promote learning and provide motivation for continued learning will be explored.
HSC
4245
Instructional Technologies in Healthcare Simulation
3
Credits
This is an overview course of the technology used to implement healthcare simulation education programs. Modalities include, but are not limited to, computer and web-based simulators, environmental fidelity, psychological fidelity, manikin-based simulators, virtual reality, virtual environments, standardized patients and haptic simulators. Discussion will focus on how technology is used to support the educational process.
HSC
4244
Managing a Simulation Program or Center
3
Credits
The purpose of this course is to provide the opportunity for students to gain knowledge and skill in planning, designing and maintaining a simulation center. Content will include organizing, set-up, maintenance, trouble-shooting, technology and personnel needs for a simulation program/center.
HSC
4246C
Simulation Operations
3
Credits
This course is designed to introduce the student to the operations that pertain to a simulation program or center. Students will be exposed to a variety to simulation modalities including, but not limited to, computer and web-based simulators, environmental fidelity, psychological fidelity, manikin-based simulators, virtual reality, virtual environments, standardized patients and haptic simulators.

Technical Elective Courses: Complete 6 credits. 2000 level or higher courses. Choose from the following: ACG, BSC, CGS, CHM, CIS, CNT, COP, ECP, EMS, FIN, GEB, HSA, HSC, HIM, HUN, ISM, LDR, MAN, MAR, MCB, PET, PHY, RET.

6
Credits

Upper or Lower Division Electives: Complete 24 credits of upper/lower division elective courses.

24
Credits

Foundation courses for the Clinical Science, Health Coaching and Human Performance, Healthcare Management and Professional Services, and Simulation in Healthcare Education Specializations:  18♦ or 0♦♦ credits

♦ The following foundation courses are required for students who transfer into this baccalaureate program with an AA degree or an AS degree in a non-health related area: HSC 1000, HSC 1531, HSC 2400 (or any HSC, HSA, HIM, HUN, OST or GEB course), HUN 1201 or higher level HUN course, HIM 1442, HIM 1453 or BSC 1020 or EMS 2010.

♦♦ Students transferring into this baccalaureate program with a health-related AS degree will be considered to have met this foundation requirement.

General Education Courses
36

Communications General Education courses

9
Credits

History General Education course

3
Credits
Humanities
6
Credits

Mathematics General Education courses

6
Credits

Social Science General Education courses

6
Credits
Science General Education courses
6
Credits
Total Credits:
120

Textbook information will be available online for each term's courses 45 days prior to the first day of classes for the term.

Each course offered by Seminole State is listed alphabetically and organized by the course prefix, catalog number and description. The courses in this catalog are identified by prefixes and numbers that were assigned by Florida's Statewide Course Numbering System, a system used by all public postsecondary institutions in Florida and 32 non-public institutions. Seminole State controls the description, credit and content of its own courses.

Your tuition shouldn’t go against your intuition.

Your pursuit of higher education is admirable. So why struggle with high tuition in the process? Here we make life’s next steps affordable. Whether you’re seeking a university transfer (A.A.) degree, a four-year bachelor’s, an Associate in Science degree or even earning a technical certificate, you’ll find reasonable tuition and payment plans that make sense. And to us, that’s scholarly.

In fact, a full-time college education at Seminole State is more than $10,000 less each year than most state universities. 

Go For Less.

Tuition and Fee Comparison*

 Seminole State UFFSUUCF
Tuition and Fees$3,597$6,380$6,480$6,379
Room and Board-0-$10,220$10,666$10,010
Books and Supplies$1,000$850$1,000$1,200
Total$4,597$17,450$18,146$17,589

For more information on Seminole State's tuition and fees, please see the 2019-20 fee schedule.

* Tuition costs are based on Fall 2019 and Spring 2020 terms, with 15 credit hours per term for in-state students. Dorm fees, meal plans and book expenses are estimates based on information provided on each university's website. Lab fees and other fees that may be assessed at the time of registration may be viewed in the College fee schedule. As Seminole State is a commuter college with no residence halls on its campuses, costs for room and board are not calculated.

The Profession

With the health profession growing in exciting directions each year, a bachelor's degree in health sciences opens the door to limitless career options and tracks. Health science professionals work in a variety of sites, including hospitals, clinics, medical offices and health-related businesses. They also work in education centers, pharmacies, sports arenas, wellness centers or in a patient’s home.

Career Opportunities

Driven by increased spending on healthcare services and legislative reforms, over the next decade, healthcare occupations are expected to add 2 million new jobs in the United States. This is the second-highest of any group.

A bachelor's degree in health sciences prepares you for careers such as:

  • Clinic Manager
  • Community Paramedic
  • Health Educator
  • Health Insurance Professional
  • Health and Wellness Coach
  • Hospital Manager
  • Medical and Health Services Manager
  • Medical Sales
  • Medical Simulation Specialist/Manager
  • Personal Trainer
  • Pharmaceutical Sales
  • Pharmacy Manager
  • Rehabilitation Clinic Manager
  • Respiratory Therapy Leader
  • Secondary and Postsecondary Health Educator

The degree also can prepare students for graduate study in numerous healthcare specialties that require a minimum of a master's or doctoral degree.

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