Bachelor of Science in Health Studies online

This course is designed for adult students interested in developing better skills for managing their health. The course will examine various components of health as they apply to adults, ages 30 and older. Topics include mental health and stress management, caring for the health of parents and children, challenges to diet and exercise, sexuality and relationships, management of chronic diseases, managing personal health costs, and examination of issues related to death and dying.

This is a course in biological science and research methodology from the perspective of the human body and its systems. The course lays the foundation of knowledge of biology: the chemistry of living organisms, the cell tissues, organs, organ systems and the organism; homeostasis as it applies to human survival; evolutionary processes; genetic, reproductive and other areas of biotechnology; and the human body systems and how they function and malfunction. Biomedical research, the use of humans as research subjects, and other bioethics issues will be addressed. Research methodology will include the use of scientific method in laboratory exercises, and critical analysis of research studies. Laboratories will include varied exercises in anatomy, physiology, genetics, evolution and an opportunity for students to design their own experiments. Not open to biology majors, biotechnology majors, or students who have taken an Anatomy and Physiology course.

This course studies the development of statistical concepts with applications to various disciplines. Topics include descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. The latter are explained in terms of concepts from probability theory such as normal distribution, t-distribution, sampling theory, estimation, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, t-test, Chi square test, analysis of variance and regression and correlation. The software package SPSS is used to perform statistical analysis. Emphasis is on understanding the concepts and problem-solving using modern technology.

This course presents an overview of the field of substance abuse and addiction from a bio-psychosocial perspective. Students examine the dynamics of dependency, co-dependency, pharmacology, intervention and treatment modalities, prevention strategies, and community services.

A foundation study of human nutrition emphasizing its relationship to optimum physical and emotional health. Includes basic of sound nutrition, requirements of various food elements, diet planning, diet patterns for specific age groups, nutritional fads, and weight control.

This course is an overview of aging as a biological, psychological, and social process. Behavioral, cultural, and social factors that promote physical and mental well-being in older adults are examined. Topics include ageism, normal physiological changes in mid life and older adults, dementia, substance abuse, residential and environmental needs, family caregivers, retirement, poverty, and public policy in contemporary society.

This course examines the biological, sociological, psychological and educational aspects of human sexuality. Students explore personal values, identities and decisions toward the development of a healthy sexual self. Topics include reproductive anatomy and physiology, body image, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, dating and relationships, communication, reproductive health, contraceptives and pregnancy options, spectrum of sexual expressions and behaviors, and sexual violence/power.

This course provides an overview of the many facets of health care delivery in the U.S. Beginning with an examination of the determinants of health and health disparities, the history, characteristics, personnel, services, costs and future of health care in the U.S are examined.

This technology intensive course will serve as an introduction to the study of disability from a public health perspective. Students will explore how different forms of disability (developmental and acquired) are shaped by and interact with health fields such as maternal and child health, health promotion and communication, health policy and management, environmental health, community health, and epidemiology. Emphasis will be placed on the role assistive technologies play in health promotion for disabled populations.

This course examines basic human disease concepts and explores these concepts through a biomedical public health perspective.   Main topics of study include the causes of human disease, modes of disease transmission, and major diseases that currently contribute to the global burden of disease.  Contemporary public health issues in the study of human disease, including chronic disease, vaccination, antibiotic resistance, and the threat of global pandemics are explored.

This course offers an overview of the field of health informatics by providing students with the fundamental knowledge of the concepts of health information technology for healthcare delivery, education and research. Students will learn the application of informatics skills and knowledge to health-related problems. Considerable attention is given to the process of scientific writing. This course is a UCC Writing Intensive course, and a UCC Technology Intensive course.

This course is designed to provide students with the information and skills necessary to conduct one-on-one health education interventions in a variety of settings. Students are introduced to basic information regarding the interrelationship between health problems and the social, psychological, and environmental influences that impact them. Implications for human behavior are examined; counseling skills and procedures are presented with emphasis placed on the skills of listening, observation, and collecting/using health information. Understanding emotional communication and its effect and subsequent intervention strategies are explored.

This course explores the relationship between culture and health behavior as a means of increasing cultural sensitivity and competence. The impact of cultural and religious beliefs and corresponding health practices on health promotion and disease prevention will be the focus.

This course will explore the health disparities that exist among and between groups of people based on the categories of race, ethnicity, gender and class. Situated within the historical record of public health in the United States, this course will review the social, political, cultural, legal and ethical factors that influence health disparities. Significant attention will be given to the idea that health and access to health care is a basic human right in a just society.

This course presents an overview of global health issues through examination of major determinants of health and key areas of disease burden. Students will be introduced to the complex tapestry of social, economic, political and environmental factors that affect the health of populations globally. Students will examine global health interventions to understand features of successful programs.