The Health Sciences Department offers a variety of opportunities for hands-on experience through internships in physical therapy, occupational therapy,nursing, medicine, physician assistant, and others. Many students also do independent research in the field, often working closely with faculty.
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The Health Sciences Department offers both regular internships (typically completed in the summer after the first year or sophomore year) and capstone internships (typically completed in the summer after junior year).
Information on thousands of internship sites located in both the United States and abroad is located in the Center for Career Engagement. The staff also will assist students in looking for an internship site close to a student’s home.
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Health Sciences majors have the opportunity to participate in hands-on research in collaboration with a faculty mentor. Possible topics include neuromuscular physiology, fluid and electrolyte balance, the aging process, diabetes mellitus, nutritional supplements, healthcare disparities, and a wide range of other topics.
Students who want to do research work closely with a faculty member to develop a research project. Research may be conducted during the academic year or in the summer, either at Gettysburg or at some other location. Research projects typically culminate in a campus presentation. Some students also present research at regional or national meetings, and become co-authors on research publications.
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Generally, studying abroad is a junior year experience. However, for certain Health Science students, the fall of the senior year may be preferable. Health Science students may take up to two 300 level HS electives abroad. Advisors can help students plan their schedules and determine if courses taken abroad can count for 300 level HS electives. Interested students are urged to contact the Center for Global Education for more information about study abroad opportunities.
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Health Sciences majors have the opportunity to earn special honors and awards from the Department. These include:
- Departmental Honors in Health Sciences
Seniors who have excelled academically and who have demonstrated exceptional interest and dedication to their studies will receive Departmental Honors. - Grace C. Kenney Award
Created to honor Grace C. Kenney, an educator for 39 years at Gettysburg College, to be given to a junior or senior. First preference is given to a student who has participated in health sciences studies, intramural and athletic programs, and has demonstrated the highest academic accomplishments and leadership skills. - C. E. and Mary G. Bilheimer Award
Given to the senior major in health sciences with the highest academic average.
- Departmental Honors in Health Sciences
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The Pre-Health Professions Club is open to anyone considering a career in a health profession.
The Pre-Health Professions Club seeks to provide a regular forum for students interested in learning more about a health professions career through regular club meetings, guest speakers, field trips, volunteer work, conferences, and more.