The major was first offered this past fall at the Vermillion campus and has already proven to be popular with undergraduates. “This is a natural progression for this degree program,” said June Larson, associate dean of the School of Health Sciences. “We are excited to be able to offer this opportunity to students who might not otherwise be able to complete this major.”

The University of South Dakota is the only state institution to offer this major, which built upon The U's already recognized leadership in health-related education. Students majoring in health sciences will be able to complete courses and electives designed to meet the professional degree programs in all health care fields, including those available in the School of Health Sciences.

The new health sciences major was developed at USD with input from the health care industry. Admissions representatives have stated that a health major at the undergraduate level is one of the most requested, so it comes as no surprise that with the three sections of the very first class being offered in the program this fall filled quickly.

Currently, USD's School of Health Sciences offers degrees in eight academic programs, including bachelor’s degrees in alcohol and drug studies, clinical laboratory science, dental hygiene, and social work; associate’s degrees in nursing; master’s degrees in occupational therapy and physician assistant studies; and a physical therapy clinical doctorate.

For additional information about the health sciences major, including academic tracks and a complete listing of academic programs offered by the School of Health Sciences, please visit www.usd.edu/health-sciences/health-sciences-major/index.cfm or call (605) 677-6572.

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