Allied Health Professions College Major Guide 2024

What is an Allied Health Professions Major?

Choosing an Allied Health Professions major is a decisive step toward a career in the vast healthcare field, one that does not directly involve becoming a doctor or a nurse but is equally essential to patient care and the healthcare system. This major prepares you for a variety of roles that support, aid, and increase the efficiency of health care services, including diagnostic, technical, therapeutic, and direct patient care and support services.

When you dive into an Allied Health Professions major, you're setting yourself up for a career that's both impactful and in high demand. The healthcare industry continues to grow, and with that growth comes a need for skilled professionals who can handle the diverse challenges of the field. Whether you're drawn to laboratory work, physical therapy, radiology, or one of the many other careers under the allied health umbrella, this major offers the foundational knowledge and practical skills you need to succeed.

Top Courses Required for the Allied Health Professions Major

Embarking on your studies within the Allied Health Professions major, you'll encounter a range of courses designed to build your expertise in various critical areas. While specific course requirements can vary by program and institution, here are some of the top courses that are commonly required:

• Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body's structure and function is fundamental for almost all allied health careers. These courses often come with a lab component to provide hands-on experience.

• Medical Terminology: A specialized language used in the healthcare field. Learning medical terminology is crucial for effective communication within a healthcare setting and for understanding patient records and diagnoses.

• Healthcare Ethics and Law: These courses cover the moral principles and legal issues that impact healthcare delivery. Topics might include patient rights, confidentiality, and professional ethics.

• Pharmacology: Offers insights into how drugs interact with the human body. This knowledge is essential for careers that involve medication administration or advising patients on drug use.

• Public Health: Focuses on health promotion and disease prevention on a community or population level. This course is key for understanding how individual health intersects with public health policies and initiatives.

• Clinical Procedures: Provides practical skills for patient care, including how to take vital signs, administer injections, and perform basic diagnostic tests.

• Health Information Systems: With the increasing digitization of health records, understanding how to use and manage electronic health information systems is becoming increasingly important.

• Nutrition: Explores the role of nutrition in maintaining health and preventing disease. This course is especially relevant for careers focused on diet and wellness.

These courses are designed not only to give you a broad understanding of the healthcare field but also to equip you with specific skills and knowledge necessary for your chosen career path within the allied health professions. Whether your interest lies in direct patient care or behind-the-scenes roles, your coursework will prepare you to make a meaningful contribution to health and wellness in your community.

Allied Health Professions Major FAQs

What types of careers can I pursue with this major?

With a degree in Allied Health Professions, you're looking at a wide array of career paths. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Clinical Laboratory Technologist: Analyze bodily fluids and cells to diagnose diseases.
• Radiologic and MRI Technologist: Perform diagnostic imaging examinations.
• Physical Therapist Assistant: Help patients recover their mobility under the guidance of a physical therapist.
• Occupational Therapy Assistant: Assist patients in developing, recovering, and improving the skills needed for daily living and working.
• Respiratory Therapist: Provide care for patients who have trouble breathing.
• Dental Hygienist: Clean teeth, examine patients for oral diseases, and provide other preventive dental care.
• Speech-Language Pathology Assistant: Support speech-language pathologists in the assessment and treatment of speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders.

What skills will I develop in this major?

Throughout your studies in Allied Health Professions, you'll acquire a robust set of skills that are not only valuable in healthcare settings but are also transferable to various fields. These include:

• Technical Skills: Proficiency with medical equipment and understanding of medical terminology.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze diagnostic tests to help determine patient care plans.
• Interpersonal Skills: Communicating effectively with patients and healthcare team members.
• Detail Orientation: Paying close attention to details for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Assessing patient needs and finding the best way to meet those needs.

Are there any certifications or licensures I should consider?

Yes, many careers within the Allied Health field require specific certifications or licensures. These vary greatly depending on your chosen profession and state. Here are a few examples:

• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA): For those looking to become medical assistants.
• Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT): For careers in health information management.
• National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) for PTAs: For those aiming to become physical therapist assistants.
• Dental Hygiene National Board Examination (NBDHE): For aspiring dental hygienists.

It's crucial to research the specific requirements for your desired career path as early as possible.

How can I gain real-world experience while studying?

Gaining practical experience is key in the Allied Health Professions. Here are some ways to get hands-on learning:

• Internships: Many programs incorporate internships or clinical rotations as part of the curriculum, providing real-world experience under supervision.
• Part-time Jobs: Look for part-time positions or volunteer opportunities in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or dental offices.
• Professional Organizations: Joining professional organizations can offer networking opportunities and access to conferences and workshops.

What advanced degrees might complement this major?

If you're considering furthering your education beyond a bachelor's degree in Allied Health Professions, there are several paths you can take depending on your career goals:

• Master of Public Health (MPH): Ideal for those interested in public health policy or community health education.
• Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): For those looking to move into advanced nursing roles.
• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT): Necessary for those wanting to become licensed physical therapists.
• Master's or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy: For aspiring occupational therapists looking to advance their careers.

Each advanced degree opens up new opportunities for leadership roles and specialized fields within healthcare.

Allied Health Professions Major Resources

Professional Associations

Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your expertise, connecting with these professional associations can be a game-changer for your career:

• American Medical Technologists (AMT)
• American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT)
• National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC)
• American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
• American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)
• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

Industry Publications

Staying updated with the latest trends, research, and best practices is crucial. Here are some top publications that should be on your radar:

• Journal of Allied Health
• Radiologic Technology
• Respiratory Care
• OT Practice Magazine
• PT in Motion
• The ASHA Leader

Other Resources

For a comprehensive suite of tools, networking opportunities, and up-to-date information, these resources are invaluable:

• Career.Guide
  • Offering personalized advice, resume tips, and job search strategies tailored for allied health professionals.
• Indeed for Healthcare Professionals
  • A job search engine that aggregates listings relevant to the allied health field.
• LinkedIn Learning
  • Provides a variety of courses that can help you gain new skills or improve existing ones in the allied health professions.
• Health eCareers
  • Another specialized platform for finding jobs and staying informed about industry trends.

By leveraging these associations, publications, and resources, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the allied health professions and build a successful career.