The Indiana Commission for Higher Education (ICHE) has granted approval to Purdue University North Central to offer a Bachelor's degree in Health Studies. Students will have the opportunity to enroll in the Health Studies program this fall semester. Fall semester classes begin Aug. 26.
Purdue North Central now offers its students 24 baccalaureate programs.
"The new Bachelor's degree in Health Studies presents a tremendous career option to students who wish to pursue careers in the health care industry," said PNC Chancellor Dr. James B. Dworkin. "There are many professional opportunities available in health care, with many more to come. Students earning a Bachelor's degree in Health Studies will be well positioned to pursue relevant, stable, fulfilling careers."
The Health Studies degree is appropriate for those students who wish to work in a health-related career, but do not want to pursue Nursing. The types of jobs available include care coordinator and medical and health services manager, Graduates will be well prepared to pursue master's degrees in health and human services programs. There is a two-year degree completion track for those with an associate degree in Nursing or allied health who wish to move into management positions.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in health services to increase 25 percent through 2018, adding about 2.8 million new jobs. In Indiana, there is a 28.7 percent projected growth rate.
Health care is the fastest growing industry in Northwest Indiana, states an Inside Indiana Business report. Of the five largest industries in this region, two are in health: ambulatory health care services and hospitals.
Locally, the Indiana Workforce Development Agency projects the health care profession growth rates to range from 10.8 to 28.9 percent.
Further information about the Health Studies degree and becoming at student at PNC may be obtained by contacting Enrollment Services at 785-5200, ext. 5505 or by visiting the PNC website, www.pnc.edu.