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Assistant Professors: Holcomb

The Bachelor of Science in Health Studies degree (BSHS) serves a three-fold purpose for students: 1) planning to seek employment in a health or health related area upon graduation; 2) desiring a bachelor’s degree following an associate’s degree in health disciplines and 3) planning a health career that requires a post-baccalaureate plan of study.

This degree does not lead to a professional credential or state licensure. It does prepare students for roles in community health, support services, health care navigation, claims services, medical sales and patient services. Online certification is available in some areas such as compliance officer, health advocate and coding specialist.

The value of this degree is that it provides a baseline of skills and education in areas that are of tremendous importance to the health of Arkansans. Students will study chronic illness, prevention, wellness, healthcare advocacy, patient safety, health information technology, health systems, interdisciplinary practice, aging, mental health and cultural competence. A basic foundation of knowledge will allow the graduate to bridge from health to health care which will be important in a diverse array of health settings.

The passage of the Affordable Care Act has “redesigned” workforce roles and created new employment opportunities in the process. The American Hospital Association, in its “Workforce Roles in a Redesigned Primary Care Model”, discusses the emergence of new team members that connect patients with providers and community resources. These members might be called health coaches, health care navigators, population assistants or community health aides.

Program Prerequisites

Two separate degree tracks are available for the BSHS: The Professional Track and Non-Professional Track. The Professional Track requires students to have an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in an allied health related field (e.g., Physical Therapist Assistant, Clinical Laboratory, Nursing, Radiologic Technology). The Non-Professional Track does not require students to hold an AAS degree.

Probation, Retention and Readmission

Students wishing to pursue the BS in Health Studies (BSHS) must apply to Arkansas State University and meet all admission requirements established by the university. A 2.5 cumulative GPA is required for admission. Students must declare the BSHS major and schedule a meeting with a BSHS advisor. All general education and major requirements must be completed with a grade of “C” or better.

Programs

• Health Studies, (Non-Professional Track), BS
• Health Studies, (Professional Track), BS

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