Health Studies

program Type	School
Undergraduate Major, Undergraduate Minor	School of Science

In Siena’s Health Studies program, you'll gain the skills and experience to step confidently into healthcare roles that make a real difference. Whether you’re aiming to work directly with patients or manage healthcare services, this program gives you the knowledge and practical experience to reach your goals.

choose your path

You can choose from one of two tracks to match your career interests:

Health science track

If you want a career in health fields like physical therapy, nutrition, or as a physician assistant, this health science track prepares you with courses like microbiology and human anatomy. You’ll graduate ready for advanced degrees, with a strong foundation in the essential sciences that healthcare relies on.

Health administration track

Want to lead and manage in healthcare? This health administration track covers topics like project management and public policy, giving you the skills to take on roles in hospitals, clinics, wellness centers, or human resources. You’ll be ready to step into leadership roles right after graduation.

get real-world experience

At Siena, you won’t just sit in a classroom—you’ll dive into experiences that prepare you for what’s next:

• Research Projects: Work side-by-side with professors on real research. This hands-on experience helps you stand out when applying for jobs or graduate programs.
  "I love the many research opportunities for students that Siena offers. You get to work with professors on real experiments, build unique lab skills, and become part of the Siena community." – Vin Voss
• Siena’s IPCC Team: Siena’s Interprofessional Complex Care (IPCC) Team gives students the opportunity to work alongside nursing, social work, and health profession peers to support individuals facing complex healthcare challenges. With guidance from expert faculty, students spend 35-45 hours per semester partnering with local organizations to help people overcome barriers to managing their health. Along the way, they build essential skills in collaboration, communication, advocacy, and health literacy—all while gaining real-world experience.
  “As a Health Studies major we are constantly learning about disparities in healthcare and what needs to be addressed. We work on projects discussing ways to limit these disparities but it is rare that we get the opportunity to put our words into actions. IPCC provides a real opportunity to make a difference in the community and apply all the skills and knowledge I have learned in the classroom.” - Erin Dowling '25

• Global Health Course: See how healthcare works around the world. You’ll understand the challenges different countries face and how you can make a difference.
• Capstone Project: In your final year, you’ll complete a project that pulls everything together, giving you the chance to prove your skills and knowledge in a real-world setting.

what makes health studies at siena unique?

• Personalized Attention: At Siena, your professors know your name. You’ll get one-on-one guidance to help you reach your goals.

“The staff within the Health Studies major are wonderful. I have met some of my very favorite professors within this major. I feel set up for success as I continue my education." – Delaney Lafontaine

• A Network for Life: When you graduate, you join a community of Siena alumni who support each other. Whether you’re looking for career advice, a job opportunity, or just a friendly connection, you’ll find it here.
• Success Stories: Our graduates work in physical therapy, medicine, nursing, and more. They’re valued for their knowledge, dedication, and ability to understand people—not just science.

“I loved this program. Health Studies is unique because it combines so many critical skills needed for a career in healthcare. You get to learn the 'hard' sciences like biology, chemistry, and anatomy but paired with classes that teach you how to work with people." - Sophie Whiteman