A career in health care begins with a strong foundation in science, hands-on learning experiences, and mentorship from expert faculty. At Gettysburg College, our Health Sciences program is designed to prepare students for success in competitive graduate programs and a wide range of health professions. With small class sizes, individualized advising, and a curriculum that integrates human anatomy, physiology, public health, and more, Gettysburg provides an ideal setting to launch a career in medicine, physical therapy, public health, and beyond. Our program emphasizes inquiry-based learning and real-world application, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to address today’s most pressing health challenges.
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Why Study Health Sciences at Gettysburg?
Unlike many small colleges, Gettysburg offers a program fully dedicated to the study of human health. This means students receive personalized attention, specialized advising, and access to a breadth of courses typically found at larger institutions. Whether your goal is medical school, physical therapy, or a career in public health, our faculty work closely with you to tailor your coursework to your aspirations. Our liberal arts approach enhances your ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of health care. Graduates leave Gettysburg prepared not just to enter their chosen professions but to become leaders and innovators in their fields.
Health Sciences majors at Gettysburg work with faculty to design a major that aligns with their career goals. Students gain a firm foundation in clinical health care professions and community health, preparing them for careers in medicine, nursing, public health, occupational therapy, and more.
Curriculum
The Health Sciences major at Gettysburg College provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to build a strong foundation in both the natural and social sciences. Students explore essential subjects such as human anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and epidemiology while also engaging in hands-on learning experiences. Our program’s interdisciplinary nature ensures that students develop a well-rounded perspective, preparing them for the dynamic challenges of modern health care.
Through a combination of classroom learning, laboratory experiences, internships, and faculty-led research, students gain the practical skills necessary for careers in medicine, physical therapy, public health, nursing, and beyond. Additionally, our new Public Health Policy major provides an opportunity for students to integrate health sciences with policy studies, further broadening their career prospects.
Why Study Health Sciences?
Careers in health are fast-growing and impactful, with opportunities spanning clinical practice, research, public health, and health policy. A degree in Health Sciences opens the door to a variety of professional paths, including:
- Medicine: Students interested in medical school complete prerequisites across multiple departments, including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and English. Health Sciences majors have the opportunity to take advanced coursework in cardiorespiratory physiology and pathophysiology of chronic disease. Through hands-on laboratory experiences, research opportunities, and internships, students develop the critical thinking and scientific expertise needed for medical school and careers in fields such as primary care, surgery, medical research, and public health.
- Physician Assistant Programs: Students complete courses in human anatomy and physiology, along with advanced courses such as cardiorespiratory physiology and pathophysiology while fulfilling additional requirements across multiple disciplines. Students often choose to gain clinical experience through a capstone internship, where they apply their knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. Students pursue careers in primary care, emergency medicine, surgery, and specialty practice areas such as orthopedics and cardiology.
- Physical Therapy: Students build a strong foundation in anatomy and physiology while exploring advanced coursework in functional anatomy, biomechanics, and neuromuscular physiology. Through hands-on learning, we prepare students for graduate education in physical therapy for students interested in careers in patient care, sports medicine, and other health professions.
- Public Health: Students interested in public health can pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Health Sciences or opt for the Public Health Policy major, which combines health sciences with public policy coursework and internship experiences. Students develop the skills needed to address health disparities, shape public health policy, and promote health equity. Graduates are prepared for careers in epidemiology, health advocacy, global health, environmental health, and public health administration, as well as for graduate programs in public health and related fields.
- Nursing: Gettysburg College provides rigorous academic preparation for nursing careers, including priority consideration for a Master of Science in Nursing at Johns Hopkins University. Students complete foundational coursework in biology, chemistry, and health sciences abd are well-prepared for careers in a variety of nursing fields, including acute care, pediatrics, geriatrics, and public health nursing. After Gettysburg, students can pursue accelerated nursing programs or direct-entry master's programs.
- Occupational Therapy: We offer courses in human anatomy and physiology with labs, medical terminology, and functional anatomy and biomechanics. Gettysburg College provides OT prerequisite courses across multiple natural and social sciences departments. Students develop the knowledge and skills needed for graduate studies in occupational therapy and careers in diverse settings such as rehabilitation centers, schools, mental health facilities, and community-based wellness programs.
- Athletic Training: Foundational coursework in anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics prepares students for graduate programs and careers in athletic training, rehabilitation and sports medicine.
At Gettysburg, students don’t just learn science—they apply it. Our program fosters problem-solving skills, ethical decision-making, and an understanding of health care’s broader social implications. By studying Health Sciences, you will be equipped to make meaningful contributions to patient care, medical research, and public health initiatives, ensuring a career that is both fulfilling and essential to society.
Take the Next Step
Your journey to a rewarding career in health begins at Gettysburg College. Apply today or request more information to learn how our Health Sciences program can help you achieve your goals. Whether you’re aspiring to become a doctor, therapist, public health advocate, or researcher, Gettysburg will provide the education, mentorship, and experience needed to succeed. Explore our program and discover how you can make a lasting impact in the world of health care.