Iowa State launches new bachelor’s degree in integrated health sciences to address growing demand for health care professionals

An innovative new degree at Iowa State University will prepare students for health care professions through a unique blend of coursework. The Iowa Board of Regents approved the Iowa State undergraduate degree – Bachelor of Science in integrated health sciences – on Feb. 28.

The program is the first undergraduate degree in Iowa to offer a fully integrated, interdisciplinary approach to health sciences. Unlike traditional pre-health majors, the comprehensive program focuses on health and wellness from multiple angles, with classes in life sciences, behavior and social sciences, data sciences, and the humanities.

Graduates with the degree will be equipped for broad career opportunities, such as genetic or medical counselors, physician assistants, health care data analysts, medical doctors, insurance company specialists, public health officials, or health policymakers. By learning about the complex factors in health care, evidence-based solutions, and community service, they’ll also be prepared to address Iowa-specific challenges in rural health care and caring for an aging population.

Yanhai Yin, professor and chair of the Department of Genetics, Development, and Cell Biology; Karri Haen Whitmer, teaching professor of genetics, development, and cell biology; and Elizabeth McNeil, assistant professor of food science and human nutrition, teamed up to develop the degree with collaboration from 12 other Iowa State academic departments in three colleges.

Iowa State students leverage machine learning to train an EEG system, mapping brain signals to control bionic devices. This research, conducted in the ISU Bionics Laboratory, brings together disciplines from across campus to merge anatomy, physiology, design process, and entrepreneurship. Students collaborate to develop assistive technologies that enhance mobility and independence for individuals with disabilities. (Submitted photo)