Worldwide the health industry is experiencing a period of rapid change. There is an increasing demand for skilled graduates who can manage government and private agencies and programs in the context of changing public expectations, an ageing population and a global trend towards a more integrated and multidisciplinary approach to health care. The Bachelor of Health Sciences Program offers a broad education in areas relevant to the health care industry that reflects changing industry and government requirements and public expectations.
All Health Sciences students undertake core courses in Human Biology, Public Health and Biology of Disease during first and second year, and elective courses that fit with individual interests and career aspirations can be chosen from a variety of other areas. Depending on the choice of stream within the program, graduates will have the capacity to work in a variety of health settings including government, academia, industry, business and the community, in a range of areas such as laboratory or community-based research, provision of health services, surveillance and education, health promotion and policy.
While not designed to provide a specific vocational qualification, the Bachelor of Health Sciences program does provide a firm foundation for entry-level employment in a range of positions in the health care industry, for further study, and equips graduates with skills appropriate for lifelong learning.
You must not have completed more than 2 years full time equivalent university study (48 units). You must have gained a 'Recorded Achievement' in four SACE Stage 2 HESS (Higher Education Selection Subjects) General subjects (or interstate/International Baccalaureate equivalents). For a full list of SACE subjects and their HESS status please refer to the SATAC Tertiary Entrance Booklet. You compete for a place with your Tertiary Entrance Rank (TER).
You must have completed at least half a year full time equivalent university study. A Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated for each separate program you have undertaken (apart from some double degree programs where the GPA is combined). You compete on the basis of your best GPA.
You must meet the following criteria: you must be 21 years or over on January 1st of the year that you will be studying*, you must not hold a completed higher education level award, and if you have been enrolled in a course leading to a higher education level award in the last 3 years, you must not have completed more than 2 years full time equivalent university study. If you meet this criteria, you will be ranked according to your result in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT). Your STAT result is not weighted between verbal and quantitative components. Personal Competencies (PC) and Employment Experience (EE) statements are not considered. *The age restriction is 19 years or over if you have completed either the Flinders Foundation course or the UniSA Foundation Studies program or the UniSA Program for Adult Learners. Indigenous applicants may be eligible for entry through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Access Scheme. See Wilto Yerlo for further information.
Laboratory Manager,
Occupational Health and Safety Officer,
Health Administrator, Hospital Worker,
Health Educator,
Health Officer
Graduate Attributes
The aim of this program is to produce competent graduates who have acquired up-to-date skills and knowledge to improve health in society generally. Depending on the choice of stream within the program, graduates will have the capacity to work in a variety of health settings, including government, research, industry, business, community and academia. Graduates will possess a firm foundation for further study and be equipped for a lifetime of learning. Specific attributes will depend on the choice of courses undertaken, but every graduate will:
Knowledge
Have a comprehensive knowledge and competency in investigative techniques relating to one or more disciplines in health sciences.
Understand the biology of the human species and the structure and function of the body.
Understand the biological basis of disease at the cellular, tissue, organ and system levels and have a basic understanding of how abnormal processes influence investigation, management, and prevention of disease.
Have developed a population as well as an individual view of health and an understanding of the relationship of the environment and culture to health, the leading causes of morbidity and mortality, and the potential for disease prevention.
Be aware of contemporary issues in health, including the prevention and management of health problems.
Intellectual and Social Capabilities
Have developed an ability to acquire data and other information on health issues, including historical and comparative aspects, from a wide variety of sources.
Have developed an ability to read, interpret and critically appraise information and use it to synthesise a body of work in a timely manner.
Have developed an ability to communicate acquired information in writing and orally to a range of audiences.
Have developed an ability to acknowledge and reference sources of information appropriately.
Have developed an ability to work both independently and as an effective team member.
Understand how advancing knowledge in the core disciplines within health sciences can be used in a tangible sense to benefit health in society.
Attitudes and Values
Have developed an appreciation of the value of an inquiring and questioning mind in health sciences.
Have developed a sensitivity to social, cultural, ethical, political and economic issues that may impact on the way that knowledge is acquired, interpreted and used within health settings.
Have a respect for people whatever their age, gender, abilities, social circumstances or cultural background.
The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.
Last updated:
Monday, 22 Dec 2008
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The three-year Bachelor of Health Sciences degree offers you the health industry world on a platter. Learn about this popular degree for health industry specialists. Considering applying for a professional health degree?
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