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Professional Health Sciences Advising Guide

Department of Emergency Medical Services

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What is Professional Health Sciences?

Professional Health Sciences (PHS) at the University of South Alabama focuses on the administrative and operational aspects of healthcare, providing students with a comprehensive foundation in health-related disciplines. This interdisciplinary program is designed to prepare students for administrative roles within the healthcare industry. The PHS degree is also an excellent option for pre-health students pursuing graduate clinical degrees such as Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant Studies, or Occupational Therapy. Additionally, those interested in healthcare administration may use this degree as a stepping stone to advanced programs, including the Master of Public Administration (MPA) or the Master of Business Administration (MBA), opening doors to leadership positions in healthcare management and administration.

 

Career Opportunities in Professional Health Sciences

A Bachelor of Science in Professional Health Sciences (PHS) prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities across the healthcare industry. Graduates may pursue roles in hospitals, clinics, dental practices, nursing homes, schools, government agencies, public and private health organizations, and non-profit sectors. Career paths vary based on education, experience, and expertise, with opportunities ranging from healthcare
administration to roles in policy, advocacy, and operational management.

 

Salary Trends in Professional Health Sciences

Salary for Professional Health Sciences graduates will vary from individual to individual depending upon their desired profession and specialty. Advanced degrees, certifications, and training will yield higher median salary ranges. Please refer to the Occupational Outlook Handbook through the Bureau for Labor Statistics for salary trends in specific areas of interest.

 

High School Preparation

High school interested in pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Professional Health Sciences (PHS) can prepare by
actively seeking opportunities to shadow and observe professionals across various healthcare fields. Gaining firsthand exposure to healthcare environments provides valuable insight into the industry and potential career paths. Students are encouraged to maintain a detailed log of their experiences, including the names of professionals they shadow, dates and times of observations, and key takeaways from each experience. Engaging in shadowing and observation not only enhances a student’s understanding of healthcare but can also lead to valuable networking connections and future internship opportunities.

 

Helpful Organizations

Those students who are interested in healthcare administration would benefit from joining the Society of Healthcare Management Students Club here on campus (SHMSClub@southalabama.edu, Instagram: usa_shms, Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/southalabamaSHMS, and/or the Healthcare Leaders Associations of Alabama, HLAAL
(https://www.hlaalabama.com/).

  

Academic Plan

Following an academic plan will help you stay on track to graduate in four years. 

To see the Professional Health Sciences Degree Requirements and Graduation Plan, please click here. Graduation plans provide only a suggested schedule; make sure to meet with your academic advisor to find the actual schedule that is right for you.

For additional degree information, visit the undergraduate bulletin.

 

For More Information

For more information on majoring in Professional Health Sciences, feel free to make an appointment with the Academic Advising and Transfer Services office (students with less than 30 credit hours). Students with 30 credit hours or more should contact the Advising Office at the College of Allied Health Professions (Health Sciences Building).

You can find us on campus at:

Department of Emergency Medical Services
EOB Suite 400
600 Clinic Drive
Mobile, AL 36688-0002
Phone: (251) 461-1832
Fax: (251) 461-1823

Website: https://southalabama.edu/colleges/alliedhealth/ems/bachelorphs.html

*The information on this page should be considered general information only. For more specific information on this and other majors, please refer to the USA bulletin or contact the department/College directly.