Health Studies, A.S.
Overview
“Promoting healthy lifestyles”
The Health Studies degree program begins the professional preparation of health educators working in communities, schools, and work sites. Students who are best equipped for the future job market are the ones who have the flexibility to adapt to various career opportunities.
How a Health Studies Degree Can Help Your Future
Millions of people are employed in the healthcare sector and there is no end in sight as demand for new talent continues. The Health Studies program at SUNY Niagara has been designed to give you a background and understanding of the latest health trends in America that are shaping the future and driving the national discussion.
Every business, government and social policy involves the topic of health and safety. That’s why having an understanding what is happening in the health world increases your “value” in the job market.
Remember, most people working in the healthcare sector are not doctors or nurses. In Western New York, tens of thousands of people are employed in administrative, support and staff positions in hospitals, medical centers, nursing homes, health insurance companies and public health agencies — great opportunities for people who have an educational background in health issues and trends.
Interested in becoming a teacher? Thousands more are employed in public and private schools in Western New York at all grade levels from pre-K to college. Teachers who understand the value of prevention education and promoting healthy lifestyle choices are keys to student health and success.
The job outlook is strong. Overall employment of health educators and community health workers is projected to grow 16 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. Growth will be driven by efforts to improve health outcomes and to reduce healthcare costs by teaching people healthy behaviors and explaining how to use available healthcare services.
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/health-educators.htm
An Associate in Science degree in Health Studies can open the door to a bachelor’s degree in other more specific health and business fields that will be in high demand. Most Health Studies graduates go on to pursue more specialized degrees to find their ideal career path, such as health care administration, physical therapy, dietetics, education, athletic training, and dozens of other health-related fields.
https://web.uri.edu/health-studies/careers/ https://withmydegree.org/can-health-studies-degree/
Program Goals and Objectives
- Academic Advisement targeted on developing educational and career goals that will facilitate appropriate certifications in the field and transfer to a Bachelor’s degree program.
- Comprehend the contribution of multiple fields of knowledge such as, sociology, psychology, math and biology to the development of the field of health education.
- Develop a professional electronic portfolio displaying a personal philosophy, a command of health literacy and the Health Educators Code of Ethics.
Virtual Information Sessions
Join us for one of our Virtual Sessions and learn more about the Health Studies, AS program. Session Dates: May 16, 2022 at 2:00 pmStudent Spotlight
Piper Vanhoff – Class of Spring 2024
“When I decided to join the SUNY Niagara Health Studies Program I expected to grow not only as a student but also as an individual. With my time in the program, I found myself enriched with courses that help me achieve the future I aspire to have. Not only will these endeavors enhance my own health, but they will also grant me a bachelor’s degree as well. Transferring to UB in the Fall of 2024 shall lead me into the dermatology field where I look forward to helping enhance people’s well-being. The Health Studies program has given me a multitude of opportunities and I am so glad I made the choice of joining this community.”
