Career Opportunities for the Science/Math Major
Disclaimer
The information in this section has been culled from a variety of reliable sources and is intended to serve as an introduction and resource for students majoring in the sciences or mathematics. It is always the student's final responsibility to identify, research, and apply to the school(s), organization(s), or employer(s) of his or her choice.
There are no guarantees expressed or implied that by following all of the directions, suggestions, etc. herein that the student will be admitted to the school, program or job of choice. It is the student's responsibility to determine the specific requirements of the various schools, programs and employers. The Faculty Advisors will make students aware of the general prerequisites, general requirements, and provide advice and guidance, but the student must take personal responsibility for researching the specific option(s) of his or her choice. It is also the student's responsibility to read and follow all directions carefully, and to adhere to all deadlines.
Career ArchitectureSM at Stevenson University
Career ArchitectureSM is a unique program for personal and professional development that helps each student to realize her or his values, skills, interests, strengths and abilities. Student will be able to use this knowledge to help them select an appropriate area of study or career and in making personal decisions and choices. Students will leave Stevenson as competent, articulate individuals, who understand themsleves, and who have a competitive edge in the real work world. The program is customized for each area of study and outlines recommended steps in the exploration process. Students will go through "self-discovery," "career development foundations," "career exploration," and "career preparation" tools to help them define their career choice. (From SU website, Career HQ, 7/6/04)
Career Architecture in Science and Mathematics
Self-Discovery
Self-Discovery involves students gathering information about themselves to assist in making life decisions. Students (1) develop an understanding of self, including values, interests, skills, aptitude, abilities, personal traits, and desired lifestyle, and (2) become aware of the interrelationship between self and occupational choices.
Career Development Foundations
SU classes provide studnets with opportunities to build and collect evidence of skills. Examples of skills developed include: math, writing, reading, speaking, critical thinking, decision-making, problem solving, visualization, knowing how to learn, and deductive reasoning. In addition, personal qualities skills development includes responsibility, self-esteem, sociability, self-management, integrity, and honesty.
Career Exploration
Students evaluate occupational choices and gain practical experience through internships, co-ops, research, preceptorships, field experiences, practicums, service learning, study abroad, relevant summer employment, volunteer work, campus activities, etc.
Career Preparation
Steps, strategies, and tools used to help students prepare themselves for their career/job search and/or applying to graduate or professional schools.
Career Opportunities for the Science/Math Major
Many students who come to Stevenson University as freshmen express their intention to pursue one particular area of interest or career path. Time, experience and other factors often cause these same students to consider and pursue alternative options.
There are many more careers out there in the health fields than most people realize. Many people know only their doctor, dentist, or veterinarian through personal experience and so that's how they choose what they want to be. But don't forget about the optometrist who tests your vision and fits you for contact lenses. Or the pharmacist who fills your prescription for antibiotics. Or the physical therapist who helps you regain full use of your arm after you break it playing sports. Or the speech/language pathologist who helped you as a child which your articulation and auditory processing skills. Or the medical laboratory technologist who tested your blood for the virus responsible for mononucleosis. Or the nurse who provided hospice care for your grandmother.
Elaborated below you will find some of these "other" health-related options followed by a more complete (though less detailed) listing of the many opportunities available in allied health and rehabilitation services.
You will also find some entries for opportunities available to the science and/or math major in areas unrelated to health care. These opportunities include graduate study and career options. We are working to build and expand the number of entries in this area, so please consider this a work in process.
AmeriCorps
The text for this entry was taken from AmeriCorps' Who We Are webpage in 2003.
AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs that engage more than 50,000 Americans each year in intensive service to meet critical needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment. Members tutor and mentor youth, build affordable housing, teach computer skills, clean parks and streams, run after-school programs, and help communities respond to disasters.
Locally, AmeriCorps has been working with MEDBANK of Maryland, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide access to prescription medications for chronically ill, low-income, and underinsured/uninsured Maryland residents.
Audiology
The information for this section was taken from the AFA website listed below and from a 2003 AFA brochure.
Audiology is the health care profession dealing solely with hearing care and the treatment of individuals with impaired hearing and vestibular problems.
Audiologists pursue advanced education after completing a four-year college degree. At present, audiologists use many different degree designators including M.S., M.Aud., Ph.D., Sc.D., M.C.D., etc. hence the "alphabet soup" situation, which may lead to confusion. The Audiology Foundation of America has as their goal the transformation of audiology into a doctoral health profession with the Au.D. (Doctor of Audiology) as its distinctive degree designator.
According to a recent AFA brochure, a Doctor of Audiology specializes in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of hearing and balance disorders. Doctors of Audiology are independent practitioners who provide direct service to patients with hearing or balance disorders in a variety of settings including: private practice, medical clinics, schools, etc.
At present, there are 7 Au.D. programs in the United States for new students, one of which is at Towson University. For further information on Towson's program:
Towson, University, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders
College of Health Professions
Towson University
410-704-3099
For further information on audiology:
Biotechnology
The text below was contributed by Dr. Meredith Durmowicz, 2004.
Today some of the most exciting work in the natural sciences is happening in the biosciences industry, which continues to expand rapidly with new discoveries and often life-saving products at a breathtaking pace. This industry, which seeks to translate new discoveries made in the laboratory into applications that improve the human condition, is a merger of science and business.
The Baltimore-Washington area supports one of the largest concentrations of biotechnology companies in the nation. At present, there are over 300 companies located in the Baltimore-Washington corridor that are considered part of the biotechnology industry. These companies perform basic biological and chemical research, develop, test, manufacture and sell pharmaceuticals and diagnostic tools, manage clinical trials and analyze large data sets, consult with companies on development and manufacturing processes, and offer services such as raw material production to other companies.
At Stevenson University, a Bachelor's Degree in Biotechnology is offered through the Department of Biological Sciences. However, because the industry is so varied, there are job opportunities for every major in the Science and Mathematics Division. Regardless of your major, research experience is a definite advantage for finding a job in the biotechnology industry. Doing research exposes the student to varied laboratory techniques and helps build skills in experimental design, data analysis, critical thinking and teamwork, all of which are essential in the biotechnology field. As a required part of the Bachelor's in Biotechnology degree, students complete an internship at a local biotechnology company during the senior year. Research experience can also be gained through several research courses in the math, chemistry and biology programs, including the Senior Research options, or through many programs at other universities and national laboratories.
In addition to skills learned in laboratories and research experiences, some exposure to the business aspects of the biotechnology field is beneficial. Courses in laboratory management and quality assurance are offered by the biology department. Another excellent way to gain exposure to the business aspects of the biotechnology industry is to work at a company during your undergraduate career.
There are many graduate programs in biotechnology in the Baltimore-Washington area as well as across the nation. These programs offer everything from certificate programs for working professionals to specialized biotechnology tracks within science or business master's and doctoral degree programs to master's degree programs specifically in biotechnology. Graduate programs in biotechnology can be an excellent way to expand skill sets and gain advanced knowledge about the business of biotechnology. Companies will also often pay for or reimburse the cost of these programs for their employees. General information about admissions requirements for master's and doctoral programs can be found in the Graduate School section of this information booklet. Admissions requirements for certificate programs and biotechnology master's programs vary, but they typically require a bachelor's degree in a natural science or engineering at a minimum. Some programs also have specific course requirements. Information on specific programs can be found on the World Wide Web.
Additional Information:
Chiropractic
The information for this section was taken from the websites listed below and updated at the NAAHP meeting in June 2004.
Chiropractors are also known as doctors of chiropractic or chiropractic physicians. They diagnose and treat patients whose health problems involve the body's muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems, especially the spine. The chiropractic approach to healthcare is holistic and emphasizes the patient's overall health and wellness. Many chiropractors use water, light, massage, ultrasound, electric, and heat therapy, as well as supports such as straps, tapes, and braces. In 1997, the median annual income of chiropractors was approximately $86,500.
The U.S. Department of Labor projected in 2000-2001 that the chiropractic profession would grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2008 as consumer demand for alternative or non-traditional health care continues to grow. (Palmer College of Chiropractic admissions brochure, 2004)
Admission to a chiropractic college requires a minimum of 2 years of undergraduate study, with most colleges requiring a 4-year bachelor's degree. The Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree and state licensure require completion of a 4-year chiropractic college course at an accredited school and passing the exams administered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.
Minimum pre-requisite courses include:
Please note that the student must earn a 2.50 GPA or better in these prerequisite courses and that admissions requirements at individual chiropractic programs may exceed these minimums.
The first two years of the chiropractic program involve classroom and laboratory work in the basic sciences (e.g. anatomy, physiology, public health, microbiology, pathology, and biochemistry). The last two years stress courses in manipulation and spinal adjustments, and provide varied clinical experiences (e.g. physical diagnosis, neurology, orthopedics, nutrition, etc.).
The Association of Chiropractic Colleges represents 17 institutions throughout North America. Their website links to all of these member schools.
Additional Information:
Forensic Science
The text for this section was taken from the website for the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in 2003.
Forensic science is science used in public, in a court or in the justice system. Any science, used for the purposes of the law, is a forensic science.
A forensic scientist is a scientist who applies his or her scientific knowledge to assist juries, attorneys, and judges in understanding science. Forensic scientists are thinkers, good with details, adept at putting pieces of a puzzle together, and curious. Some scientists work in laboratories, some go to crime scenes, and some teach in colleges and universities.
There are a number of different disciplines within the field of forensic science:
For more detailed information, visit the website of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences.
Graduate School in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Related Disciplines
The text below was contributed by Dr. Hildy Sanders, 2004.
After earning a Bachelor's Degree, you may want to continue your formal education in the same discipline or in one related to it. Graduate schools offer programs which vary from institution to institution and department to department and which lead to Master's and/or Doctorate degrees. A Master's Degree will prepare you for positions requiring more responsibilities or greater specialization than those requiring a Bachelor's Degree. Depending on the institution and the department, the Master's program may require coursework and a research project or may only require coursework. A Master of Arts in Teaching prepares the student with a Bachelor's Degree in a specific discipline to study aspects of pedagogy in preparation for certification to teach in primary and secondary schools. Many Master's programs can be completed on a part-time basis.
Several types of doctoral programs are available. The Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) degree, usually required for a career in full-time college teaching or independent research, requires the student to take course work across a wide variety of areas within the department. Often, laboratory rotations in the various laboratories are required. Finally, the doctoral candidate joins a specific laboratory and participates in original research leading to a dissertation. In the laboratory sciences, the Ph.D. program usually requires the student's full-time participation. For the person interested in teaching pre-college students or at a two-year college, the Doctor of Education degree may be appropriate.
If you are considering furthering your education, begin to explore options early in your junior year of college. You can start by visiting the web sites of universities to locate the ones offering the programs in which you are interested and to understand their admissions requirements. You should also arrange meetings with Stevenson faculty as well as acquaintances and other contacts having specialization in your areas of interest. Stevenson's Career HQ can also provide you with information and offer practice interview sessions.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is usually an essential part of the application to a graduate school. You will take a general test and also, if required by the institutions to which you are applying, specific subject examinations.
Try to visit to the campus and the department of any school to which you plan to apply. While there, talk to the graduate students as well as the faculty to learn about the general atmosphere for students, the amount of attention faculty give to their graduate students, the options for working with the faculty in your area of interest, and also the general environment and amenities of the community.
Prepare your applications and obtain letters of recommendation according to the guidelines of the Stevenson University Division of Science and Mathematics.
Resources for investigating graduate school:
Health Education
The information for this section was taken from the materials distributed at the NAAHP meeting in June 2004, and also available from the website of the Coalition of National Health Education Organizations.)
Health education is a social science that draws from the biological, environmental, psychological, physical and medical sciences to promote health and prevent disease, disability and premature death through education-driven voluntary behavior change activities. Health education is the development of individual, group, institutional, community and systemic strategies to improve health knowledge, attitudes, skills and behavior. The purpose of health education is to positively influence the health behavior of individuals and communities as well as the living and working conditions that influence their health.
A health educator can expect to do all or some of the following:
They perform their work in settings such as:
Health education requires specialized study, which is available at the undergraduate and graduate level. The American Associate for Health Education (AAHE) maintains a directory of institutions offering degree programs in health education. There are 5 institutions in Maryland which offer such programs, 2 of which are accredited:
Johns Hopkins University by the Council on Education for Public Health - Degrees offered: MHS, PhD, ScM: Community Health
Towson University by AAHE & the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education - Degrees offered: BS, MS: School Health, Community Health Education
To learn more about health education, visit one of the websites noted above, or try:
Mathematics
There are a wide variety of career and employment opportunities for mathematicians. This section is relatively new and should be further developed by the math department, but for now - some ideas:
Mathematical Statistician (U.S. Census Bureau)* - This career involves the application of mathematical statistical theory, techniques and methods to projects; analyzing and evaluating the accuracy and validity of data; developing and applying measure/models to solve problems, and much more. Applicant must have a degree that includes 24 credits in mathematics and statistics (at least 15 credits in advanced mathematics and 6 credits in statistics with a calculus prerequisite). The 15 credits in math must include:
Note: Co-Ops are available for sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a minimum 2.5 GPA. See the director for cooperative education in Career HQ for more information.
Statistician (U.S. Census Bureau)* - This career involves developing official statistics, analyzing and evaluating data, developing survey questionnaires, participation in the conduction of major surveys, and much more. Applicant must have a degree that includes 15 credits in mathematics and statistics (at least 6 credits in statistics), and 9 credits in the social sciences, physical sciences, or biological sciences.
Note: Co-Ops are available for sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a minimum 2.5 GPA. See the director for cooperative education in Career HQ for more information.
* Information was taken from "Inside the Numbers," a U.S. Census Bureaus Cooperative Education Opportunities brochure (issued October 2002).
Medical Technology
The text below was contributed by Ms. Vivi-Anne Griffey.
The practice of modern medicine would be impossible without the tests performed in the clinical laboratory. There are two levels of practice in the profession: the medical laboratory technician (MLT) who has an associate's degree, and the medical technologist (MT) who has completed a bachelor's degree. MTs and MLTs are, in a sense, the "detectives" searching for clues to determine the presence or absence of disease and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. They perform tests to analyze blood and other body specimens using sophisticated instruments along with their specialized knowledge and techniques. They must be accurate, reliable problem-solvers, and like challenge and responsibility. They find great satisfaction in their work, knowing that they are helping others and saving lives.
Laboratory data is crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of disease, and maintaining health. Through student laboratories and clinical internships at local hospitals and medical centers, students learn to perform tests in the major areas of the laboratory: clinical chemistry, microbiology, hematology, immunology and blood banking.
Stevenson University offers a "3+1" baccalaureate program in medical technology consisting of two years of prerequisite courses in the basic sciences and liberal arts, a third year of liberal arts and introductory courses in laboratory medicine, and a fourth year which integrates professional and clinical practicum courses at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore. The clinical practicum provides a bridge between academics and application, allowing students a smooth transition to the workforce as clinical laboratory professionals.
The program includes specialized technical training in test performance, education and practice in problem-solving in the clinical laboratory, and correlation of laboratory data and disease management. In addition, the curriculum includes managerial preparation for its medical technology students.
Medical laboratory professionals have unlimited practice settings - hospitals, private clinical laboratories, biomedical research and forensic laboratories, fertility centers, physicians' office laboratories, veterinary laboratories, and pharmaceutical companies. In addition to laboratory positions, there are opportunities in marketing and sales of laboratory equipment and products as well as research and development of new technology.
For further information, please contact Ms. Vivi-Anne Griffey, M.S., MT(ASCP), MT Program Coordinator by telephone at 410-601-1113 or by email at vgriffey@lifebridgehealth.org.
Medical Health Professionals
Definitions were provided by Mary Ann Niclas, Clinical Social Worker, during a classroom presentation, October 2001.
Psychiatrist: A person who has received a medical degree (M.D.) and has undergone further training that deals with prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental and emotional disorders. The psychiatrist can prescribe medication to help an individual better cope with these disorders.
Psychologist: A person who deals with the mind and mental processes such as consciousness, sensation, ideation, and memory. Many do IQ and "projective" testing.
Social Worker: A person who works with children and adults, families, couples, individuals, and groups, in a way that the health of human relationships (to self or others) is maintained or improved. The casework associated with each client will reflect this goal of health.
Dance Therapist: A person who is trained both in human development and in dance, and uses dance as the medium to help someone express his or her inner conflicts.
Art Therapist: A person who is trained in art therapy and human development, and uses art as the medium to help someone express his or her inner conflicts.
National Health Service Corps
The information for this section was taken from the NHSC "Students" publication, distributed at the NAAHP meeting in June 2004.
The National Health Service Corps (NHSC) comprises students, clinicians, and communities dedicated to making access to quality health care a reality for every person in America - regardless of his or her ability to pay. It is a Federal program offered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, Bureau of Health Professions.
The NHSC recruits health care professionals to serve in communities where the needs are the greatest, e.g. rural areas and inner city neighborhoods. They are looking for health care professionals who are both clinically skilled and community minded. Students entering a health care career through the NHSC Scholarship Program will be enabled, as practicing clinicians, to serve the underserved and to make a lasting contribution to the well-being of needy individuals.
The NHSC Scholarship Program covers the cost of tuition and educational expenses, along with a monthly stipend, for students studying to be health care professionals who are committed to a career providing primary care to underserved communities. The NHSC recruits U.S. citizens who are enrolled or accepted for enrollment in one of the following fully accredited U.S. health professions programs:
The commitment to serve is a serious contract, which requires full-time clinical primary health care practice in an underserved community. The length of your commitment will equal the number of years during which you received scholarship support from the NHSC (2 year minimum). The degree of personal satisfaction experienced by these practitioners is reportedly quite high, and the NHSC indicates that more than 50% of them continue their commitment to underserved communities beyond the period of their contractual obligation.
For further details on this program and to request an application for the NHSC Scholarship Program, please visit the website.
Naturopathic Medicine
The text for this section was taken from the website for the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians and updated with information presented at the NAAHP conference in June 2004.
Naturopathic medicine concentrates on whole-patient wellness, blending centuries-old natural, non-toxic therapies with current advances in the study of health and human systems. Naturopathic physicians are unique in providing diagnosis and treatment that bridges both conventional and natural medicine perspectives; they integrate scientific research with the healing powers of nature.
Naturopathic physicians are primary care and specialty doctors who address the underlying cause of disease through effective, individualized natural therapies that integrate the healing powers of body, mind, and spirit. Practice opportunities include private practice, hospitals, community wellness centers, and integrative medical centers. A 2003 alumni survey reports that the average full-time income for a naturopathic physician in practice for 3+ years is $85,000.
Candidates for Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (N.D.) programs are:
The 2003 N.D. candidate average profile:
In general, the standard undergraduate pre-medical curriculum will meet the N.D. programs' prerequisites. To date, the MCAT has not been required for admission. Please visit the website below for more information and for links to the individual naturopathic medical schools. You will need to visit each school's site to be certain of their admission requirements.
Naturopathic medical school graduates must take and pass the comprehensive naturopathic physicians licensing examination (NPLEX) in order to be licensed as primary care physicians. There may be state-specific licensure requirements as well.
For further details and links to related sites:
Nursing
The information for this section was taken from the Nursing Division website on 07/07/04.
The Stevenson University/Union Memorial Hospital Nursing Program is a Baccalaureate program that offers nursing in all four years, and is designed to prepare nurses to meet the challenges of nursing and health care in the 21st century. Stevenson University has long enjoyed a superior reputation in the community for a quality education program and highly competent graduates.
The curriculum is designed to prepare nurse generalists with the knowledge, motivation and skills necessary to meet the challenges of nursing in the 21st century. The B.S. in Nursing may be obtained through a variety of options, including day, accelerated evening/weekend for second bachelor's and adult learners, and accelerated RN to BS give this program the flexibility to meet the needs of today's students. Classroom teaching and clinical experiences are selected to facilitate acquisition of the skills necessary to practice professional nursing at this time: caring; critical thinking; clinical competence; creativity and collaborative problem solving.
Please contact the admissions coordinator for the Stevenson University Nursing Division at 410-486-7000 or visit the Nursing portion of our website for further information.
For more general information on the nursing profession, please visit the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.
Occupational Therapy
The information for this section was taken from "Exciting Opportunities in Occupational Therapy!" Dr. Rosalie Miller, NAAHP, June 2000, and updated with information presented at the NAAHP conference in June 2004.
Occupational therapy is a field where trained professionals assist individuals, families, agencies, and companies in overcoming obstacles to the "job" of living life. The profession has grown into one devoted to improving the "occupations" of life, which include learning, growing, working, playing, managing our homes, caring for our families, and caring for ourselves. Occupational therapy is dedicated to making it possible for people to regain independence and to enjoy a high quality of life.
OTs have traditionally worked in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, home health agencies, school systems, mental health centers, and psychiatric hospitals. The field has expanded and OTs today also work with social programs, with companies regarding proper ergonomics on the job, with others to make buildings and homes more accessible, and with caregivers for the elderly, to name a few.
The person who enjoys being an OT is one who enjoys people, has the desire to facilitate growth and empowerment in others, and loves to learn new things. The successful OT is also able to be assertive and self-directed, and has a knack for problem-solving. Creativity, energy, interest in science and the arts, skillful communication, and high academic achievement are other hallmark characteristics of the successful occupational therapist.
It is projected that there will continue to be a good job market for OTs into the near future as the demand exceeds the supply. The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of OTs will increase 21-35% between 2000 and 2010, and their data for 2002 shows a median annual income of $51,990 for occupational therapists. An AOTA survey in June 2003 reports that 95% of OT program graduates were able to secure jobs within 6-8 weeks of graduation.
The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education determined that by 2007 all entry-level education in OT will be at the post-baccalaureate level. What this means is that the student interested in occupational therapy would be well-served to complete a bachelor's degree and apply to a Master's level (or doctoral level) OT program. The majority of students in OT have backgrounds in psychology, social sciences, biology, recreation, the arts, and related fields. Requirements for admission generally include at least a 3.0 GPA, letters of recommendation, and the prerequisite course work. These required courses vary from school to school but usually include: psychology, abnormal psychology, biology, human growth and development, social sciences, statistics, English, and humanities. Involvement in art and music, volunteer work, and leadership is also helpful. In addition to earning a degree, OTs must complete supervised fieldwork and pass a national certification exam. Depending on where the OT wishes to practice, it may also be necessary to pass a state licensing exam.
For more information:
American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
4720 Montgomery Lane
Bethesda, Maryland 20814-3425
301-652-2682
If you have specific questions about a career in occupational therapy, please email them to: educate@aota.org.
Optometry
The information for this section was obtained from the websites listed below and from Optometry: A Career Guide, revised in May 2002 by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry- ASCO.)
"Doctors of Optometry (O.D.) are independent primary care health providers who examine, diagnose, treat, and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye, and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions." (American Optometric Association, 1997)
ASCO reports that optometry is the 3rd largest independent health care profession in the U.S.A. All 50 states have passed legislation authorizing ODs to prescribe drugs to treat or manage diseases of the anterior eye. In 44 states, ODs can treat glaucoma. The mean net income for all ODs in 2001 was $138,846 (higher for private practice, lower for those employed by others).
There are 17 schools and colleges of optometry in the USA and Puerto Rico. For the 2001 entering class, 2339 applicants were vying for approximately 1400 seats. The average GPA for the 2001 entering class was 3.31 (range 2.10 - 4.0).
The Optometry Admission Test (OAT) is required for applicants seeking admission to schools and colleges of optometry. It is administered twice a year, usually in October and February. The testing program is designed to measure general academic ability and comprehension of scientific information. The student must complete college courses in biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics prior to taking the examination. It is recommended that applicants take the February OAT, one year prior to entering optometry school. For most students, this means taking the OAT in February of the Junior year. The only OAT test center in Maryland is at Morgan State University.
The OAT is a multiple-choice examination with four sections that takes just over one-half day for administration.
The overall GPA of students entering optometry programs is between 3.1 and 3.6, and the average total science OAT score between 319 and 353 (out of 400), depending upon the school or college to which they applied.
For further information:
Perfusion Technology
The text for the following entry was taken from the website of the American Society of Extra-Corporeal Technology in 2003.
A perfusionist is a skilled, allied health professional, trained and educated specifically as a member of an open-heart, surgical team responsible for the selection, setup, and operation of a mechanical device commonly referred to as the heart-lung machine. During open heart surgery, when the patient's heart is immobilized and cannot function in a normal fashion while the operation is being performed, the patient's blood is diverted and circulated outside the body through the heart-lung machine and returned again to the patient. In effect, the machine assumes the function of both the heart and lungs. The perfusionist is responsible for operating the machine during surgery, monitoring the altered circulatory process closely, taking appropriate corrective action when abnormal situations arise and keeping both the surgeon and anesthesiologist fully informed. In addition to the operation of the heart-lung machine during surgery, perfusionists often function in supportive roles for other medical specialties in operating mechanical devices to assist in the conservation of blood and blood products during surgery, and provide extended, long-term support of patients' circulation outside of the operating room environment.
The primary certification credential in perfusion is the Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP). The AmSECT reports that at least 70% of the practicing perfusionists are certified.
The certification examination is administered by:
American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP)
207 North 25th Avenue
Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Phone (601) 582-3309
For more detailed information and links to related sites:
Pharmacy
The text below was contributed by Dr. Ellen Roskes.
The practice of pharmacy is a vital part of a complete health care system. The primary goal of a pharmacist is to achieve positive health and quality of life outcomes from the use of medications. Pharmacists may work in a wide variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospital or nursing home pharmacies, managed care pharmacies, pharmaceutical industry, public health policy and academic setting. Pharmacists may be involved in direct patient care, research, drug development, drug marketing and sales, and teaching (The Role of the Pharmacist, AACP, May 2003).
At present, pharmacists are in increasingly high demand, and graduates often have multiple job offers upon graduation. Pharmacy schools are experiencing an unprecedented interest in pharmacy education and many report a 10:1 applicant to seat ratio. The average application to enrollment rate was almost 5:1 for admission in fall 2003. Data reported by AACP's Executive Vice President in June 2004 (NAAHP Conference) indicate that 65-70% of pharmacy students enrolled for fall 2003 are female. The American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy projects a shortfall of 157,000 pharmacists by 2020. Starting salaries for new graduates of pharmacy school range from $79,000-86,000, depending on the setting (Drug Topics, 2003).
Graduates of pharmacy school receive a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree. This degree requires 4 academic years (or, in some programs, 3 calendar years) of study in a variety of areas of basic and clinical sciences. Students may enter pharmacy programs upon completion of the college-level requirements. These requirements may be completed in as little as two years, though according to AACP, most students enter pharmacy school after three or four years of college study. Many schools are adding anatomy & physiology and biochemistry to their prerequisite courses. Please see the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy as well as the websites for the individual schools of pharmacy for more details.
SU-UMB Dual Degree Program
Stevenson University and the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy offer a dual-degree undergraduate-professional program of education leading to the Doctor of Pharmacy degree. The curriculum consists of successful completion of a minimum of 90 credits at Stevenson University and four years of pharmacy education at the University of Maryland Baltimore. The student who successfully completes this dual-degree program will earn a B.S. degree in chemistry from SU and a Pharm.D. degree from UMB. For more information, as well as for a list of required courses, see Dr. Roskes.
The Pharmacy School Admissions Requirements (PSAR) book is a reference guide consisting of descriptive narratives of US pharmacy school programs and facilities. It is designed to be used by students considering applying to pharmacy school and contains specific requirements for entry to all accredited pharmacy programs. The PSAR is updated regularly by AACP and may be downloaded from the AACP website. A hard copy can also be ordered at:
AACP Publications Department
1426 Prince Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
703-739-2330
Pharmacy College Admission Test
The Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) is required by approximately half of all pharmacy schools. It is designed to measure general academic ability and scientific knowledge necessary for the study of pharmacy. The PCAT consists of approximately 300 multiple-choice questions and it is administered over a 3-hour period. There are five content areas, including:
Pharmacy College Application Service (PharmCAS)
PharmCAS is a centralized application service that allows the student to prepare and submit only one application regardless of the number of pharmacy schools to which s/he will apply. PharmCAS processes the application and distributes it to the designated pharmacy schools. The cost depends on the number of schools to which the student applies. To learn more, visit the PharmCAS website.
For additional information, you are encouraged to visit the following websites:
Checklist for Application to Pharmacy School
The key to acceptance into pharmacy school is to apply as early as possible. Pharmacy schools generally use a "rolling admission" process, so a student's best chances of acceptance are early in the application cycle.
Obtain PCAT Candidate Information Booklet from the PCAT website (January, ~18 months before the student intends to begin Pharmacy School)
Apply for the March PCAT (Deadline in early February)
Apply via PharmCAS to the schools of the student's choice (August-September, ~12 months before the student intends to begin Pharmacy School)
If necessary (consult with your VJC advisor), retake the PCAT in October (Deadline in early September)
Interviews (October-November)
Receive acceptance (beginning in December)
Physical Therapy
The information for this section was taken from the websites listed below, as well as from presentations at the NAAHP Conferences in 2000 and 2004.
Physical Therapists (PTs) are health care professionals who evaluate and treat people with disease- or injury-related health problems. Among other things, PTs evaluate joint motion, muscle strength and endurance, heart and lung function, and ability to perform activities related to everyday living. Treatment modalities include therapeutic exercise, cardiovascular endurance training, and training in the activities of daily living.
Please note: the majority of colleges and universities that offer PT programs either have changed or are in the process of changing their programs from a bachelor's degree to a post-baccalaureate degree (Master's = MPT or Doctoral = DPT) in physical therapy. The bachelor's degree programs were to be completely phased out by January 2002. It is projected that by 2020, physical therapy will be provided only by doctors of physical therapy. The President of the Education Section of the American Physical Therapy Association reported in June 2000 that the most important consideration for students when choosing a school should be whether or not that school offers the doctoral degree.
There is no uniform set of prerequisites for all physical therapy programs. In order to prepare for a particular program, you will need first to decide where you think you'd like to apply, and second to learn what those schools' prerequisites are.
Some common hints for success include:
It is also worth your time to inquire about your eligibility to become an active student member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).
For more information regarding a career in physical therapy, contact:
APTA Public Relations
1111 North Fairfax Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-1488
703-706-3248
For more information regarding education programs, contact:
APTA Department of Physical Therapy Education
1111 North Fairfax Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-1488
703-706-3203
Physician Assistant
The information for this section was gathered at the 2000 and 2004 NAAHP meetings and from the websites noted below.
A Physician Assistant (P.A.) is trained to practice medicine under the supervision of a licensed physician. According to the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), PAs are trained and licensed to provide a broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic services (with physician supervision) in both primary care and specialty care practices. They can practice in both medical and surgical settings, in urban and rural areas. PAs are trained and licensed to do many things including perform physical exams, order and administer laboratory and other diagnostic tests, make diagnoses, assist in surgery, and treat illnesses. The scope of the PA's practice corresponds to the supervising physician's practice. Recent data shows that more than 50% of all PAs practice primary care medicine (i.e. family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, and OB/GYN), while 19% are in surgery or surgical subspecialties. In 46 states, PAs are allowed to write and sign prescriptions if the supervising physician delegates this authority to them.
There were approximately 38,000 PAs in clinical practice in the USA in 2001, and in 1999 just over 50% of all PAs were female. In 2003, 61,822 people were eligible to practice as PAs and for the first time ever, the number of new graduates with master's degrees was higher than the number with bachelor's degrees. The average salary for PAs has been steadily increasing over the last decade and in 2002 was $72,241 for all PAs and $63,168 for new graduates.
Physician Assistant (PA) programs across the country graduate approximately 2000 PAs each year and the average program length is 2 years. There are three different types of programs: certificate, bachelor's level, and master's level. In May 2000, the AAPA passed a resolution requiring that the Master's degree be the entry-level degree for the program. What this means is that the certificate programs are being phased-out and are not recommended for the student who will already have a bachelor's degree from Villa Julie. At present, it is possible for a student to go into a certificate, a second bachelor's degree, or a master's degree program after graduating from Stevenson University. Please be aware that the programs that are better suited to an SU graduate and which afford you more options and career opportunities, are those that offer the Master's degree. You can also expect that the passing of this resolution will cause the certificate and Bachelor's programs to begin seeking accreditation as Master's programs.
There are two PA programs very nearby: Anne Arundel Community College (certificate with a Master's option via on-line coursework at St. Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania) and CCBC Essex - Towson University (certificate plus Master of Science degree). There are other programs in D.C. and Philadelphia, as well as across the nation.
The requirements for PA programs vary, but most of them require a rather large number of hours (often thousands) of direct, hands-on, patient care experience. A representative of the APAP recommends that students acquire the EMT or Nursing Assistant certification and work in either of these capacities to gain experience. He also suggests "shadowing" a PA so that you have a real understanding for and appreciation of the profession before you apply. Please be aware that the APAP is studying the correlation between this required hands-on experience and success in PA school. Early results suggest that a large number of health care hours prior to matriculation is not a predictor of success in PA school. (NAAHP, 2004)
PA programs also have course requirements and prerequisites that are different from those required by medical schools. Please recognize that PA programs are in the habit of weeding out "wanna be doctors" and they try to make it tricky for the straight pre-med student to be able to apply to the PA programs. The admissions committees for PA programs are looking for students who understand what it means to be a Physician Assistant and who are going into it as their first choice. They are not, however, naive, and it is true that many applicants to PA programs had as their first choice medical school. Just be aware that the admissions criteria and prerequisites are different for PA programs and medical schools, and you will need to do careful course and experience planning if you want to be able to hedge your bets and apply to both PA and physician programs.
The typical PA program curriculum includes classroom instruction, laboratory sessions, and clinical rotations. The first year of study is centered on classroom and laboratory instruction in the basic medical sciences and other preclinical areas. The subject areas usually covered include anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, physical diagnosis, and behavioral sciences. The following year (or more) will include clinical clerkships and preceptorships in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and physician's offices.
In all states, PAs are required to pass a national certifying examination. Only graduates of accredited PA programs are eligible to sit for this exam. PAs are licensed by the state in which they practice. To maintain national certification, a PA must log 100 hours of continuing medical education (CME) every two years, and take a recertification exam every six years.
Centralized Application Service for Physician Assistants (CASPA)
The APAP has created a central application service for physician assistants (CASPA). The CASPA web page is accessible from APAP's home page. The site offers ongoing information about CASPA, including timelines, fee schedules, program participation forms, applications in PDF format, and other information pertinent to the implementation year. The site also features a profile of each participating program, a summary of each program's unique mission, and a link to each.
For the 2003 entering class, there were 5636 CASPA applicants for the 2636 seats in participating programs, which means that there were 2.04 applicants per available seat. In 2002, the average GPA for matriculants was 3.4 (cumulative) and approximately 70% were female.
Job Satisfaction
When asked in 2003, "Would you become a PA again if you had it to do all over?" approximately 89% of respondents with an opinion on the question indicated that they definitely (53%) or probably (36%) would do so. Related to this high job satisfaction among PAs are the following: they are able to work as clinicians, they are "making a difference" working with patients, they have a reasonable balance between work and family, there are minimal administrative responsibilities (compared to MDs), there is a low student debt burden given the length of PA education, and the single board exam does not limit their specialty or practice area.
For more information:
Physician Assistant Programs Directory
Association of Physician Assistant Programs (APAP)
950 North Washington Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314-1552
1-800-708-7581
American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA)
Information Center
950 North Washington Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-1552
703-836-2272
Podiatric Medicine
The information for this section was gathered at the NAAHP conference, June 2004, and the AACPM website.
"Podiatry is all about feet and ankles, the parts of the body that take a pounding every day. When a quarterback gets 'turf toe', he might see a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). When a child suffers from 'flat feet', he or she might see a DPM. When diabetics have poor circulation in their feet, they might see a DPM. Caring for a variety of people with a variety of foot- and ankle-related ailments is what Podiatric Medicine is all about. And helping you find the right podiatric school is what the American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine is all about."
The American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine (AACPM) represents 6 of the 7 U.S. colleges of podiatric medicine and administers the centralized application service (AACPMAS). The application service processes all applications submitted for admission to its 6 member colleges. The applicant is required to complete only one application, which AACPMAS then processes and forwards to the designated schools. (Visit the AACPM Application Service, e-AACPMAS website.)
The AACPM website provides much information and many helpful links. Visit their site for links to each college of podiatric medicine; AACPM's on-line web application and .pdf downloadable application; and request forms for an Informational brochure, a Podiatrist to contact you, DPM mentors network. Other features of the site: A student can contact a podiatrist on-line for information, discussion, and shadowing; an advisor can arrange for a presentation by a podiatrist on his/her college campus; and residency programs.
A bachelor's degree is strongly recommended for admission to a college of podiatric medicine, though a student may apply with only 90 credit hours.
The prerequisite courses include:
Applicants are required to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). Some colleges do accept the GRE or DAT scores in lieu of the MCAT.
Approximately 95% of applicants hold a bachelor's degree and in 2003 approximately 45% of matriculants were female. In 2003, the overall GPA of matriculants was 3.2 and the average science GPA was 3.0. The average MCAT scores in 2003 were as follows:
If you need more information, please contact the AACPM at 15850 Crabbs Branch Way, Suite 320, Rockville, MD 20855, 301-948-9760, FAX: 301-948-1928, or via www.aacpm.org.
Public Health
Much of the text for this section was taken from the Association of Schools of Public Health brochure distributed at the NAAHP annual meeting in Orlando, Florida in June 2000 and updated at the NAAHP meeting in June 2004.
What is public health?
The science and art of protecting and improving community health through health education, promotion, research, and disease prevention strategies.
Knowledge and application of multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary population-based methods of research, teaching, service and practice involving various academic disciplines (e.g. biology, sociology, mathematics, anthropology, statistics, public policy, medicine, education, ethnic studies, communication, chemistry, computer science, business, nursing, dentistry, law, engineering, liberal arts, etc.).
The focus of public health is on prevention of injury and disease in populations rather than centering on the diagnosis and treatment of a single individual.
The 20th century's ten great public health achievements in the U.S.A. as derived from the CDCs MMWR web page and reported by the ASPH in their information brochure (NAAHP, 2004) are:
In the words of C. Everett Koop, "Health care is vital to all of us some of the time, but public health is vital to all of us all of the time." Public health issues face us every day in front-page newspaper headlines: SARS, West Nile virus, prescription drug benefits, HIV-AIDS, childhood obesity, teen pregnancy, and the impact of the growing elderly population on our healthcare system. (N.A. Persily, A Public Health Primer, The Advisor, June 2003).
The Association of Schools of Public Health (ASPH) represents the deans, faculty and students of the accredited schools of public health. Its mission is "Improving the Public's Health by Advancing Professional and Graduate Education, Research, and Service in Public Health."
There are many different possible areas of specialization available to the student who pursues further education at a school of public health. There is also a tremendous diversity in educational backgrounds of students who attend schools of public health. For these reasons, individual schools may have emphases or concentrations in some areas of specialization but not others. For this reason, the student interested in public health should research the various schools and see which ones suit the student's interests.
Some of the more common areas of specialization include: epidemiology, biostatistics, nutrition, environmental sciences, maternal and child health, health economics and finance, health services administration, public health policy, practice and program management, behavioral sciences and health, occupational safety and health, biomedical and laboratory sciences, and international public health. The job market is very good for public health professionals and the salary ranges from approximately $30,000 to $161,000 per year. At the lower end of the salary spectrum are those in international health; while at the upper end are those in health services administration.
Biostatistics is the development and application of statistical and mathematical methods to the design and analysis of public health problems, programs, and biomedical research. Biostatisticians do things like: analyze the effectiveness of new drugs, analyze risk factors, plan interventions, and explain biological phenomena.
Health Services Administration is a multidisciplinary field of inquiry, both basic and applied, that examines the use, costs, quality, accessibility, delivery, organization, financing, and outcomes of health care services. The results of this examination increase the knowledge and understanding of the structure, processes, and effects of health services for individuals and populations. In today's managed care environment, professionals trained in health services administration are in high demand.
Environmental Health is the largest component of the public health field. It comprises those aspects of human health that are determined by interactions with physical, chemical, biological, and social factors in the environment. It also refers to the theory and practice of assessing, correcting, controlling, and preventing those factors in the environment that may adversely affect the health of present and future generations. Environmental health is broad in scope and encompasses the areas of water and air quality, food safety, hazardous waste management, and radiation protection.
Epidemiology is the study of patterns of disease and injury in human populations and the application of this science is to control health problems. Studies focus on identifying the distribution, determinants, and frequency of disease within populations by using statistical analysis. The methodology is distinctive from but dependent on biostatistics. Epidemiologists develop and evaluate hypotheses about the effects on human health of heredity, behavioral, environmental, and health care factors, and develop the knowledge basis for disease prevention and control programs.
Occupational Safety and Health specialists are concerned with the identification of health and safety hazards related to work and work environment, as well as their prevention and control of these hazards.
Maternal and Child Health focuses on the complex public health problems affecting women, children, and their families, including discovering and testing solutions through applied research at the local, state, national, and international levels and participating in community activities to improve the health of women and children.
Public Health Practice and Program Management encompasses many identifiable public health programs and activities such as maternal and child health, gerontology, mental health, environmental health, and professional disciplines such as medicine, dentistry, nursing, social work, and other clinical sciences.
International Public Health focuses on health problems in developing countries. It is primarily concerned with infectious and tropical diseases such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, sexually transmitted diseases, and malaria, which continue to cause tremendous morbidity and mortality.
Nutrition specialists are concerned with the study of the interaction between nutrients, nutrition, and health and the application of sound nutritional principles to maintain good health.
Biomedical and Laboratory Practice encompasses a diverse array of specialists such as bacteriologists, microbiologists, and biochemists who use laboratory techniques for the diagnosis and treatment of disease and for the investigation of conditions which affect health status.
Schools of public health are primarily graduate institutions and offer a variety of degrees. Common degrees conferred include: Master of Public Health (MPH), Master of Science (MS), Doctor of Public Health (DrPH), Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), and Doctor of Sciences (ScD). In addition, many of the schools offer joint degree options in business, law, medicine, social work, nursing, engineering, and others. There are 29 schools of public health, which graduate approximately 5000 professionals each year. Locally, we have the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health.
For more information:
United States Public Health Service
The text for this section was taken from the USPHS website.
The U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps is part of the U.S. Surgeon General's healthcare team. The mission of the Public Health Service (PHS) Commissioned Corps is to provide highly-trained and mobile health professionals who carry out programs to promote the health of the Nation, understand and prevent disease and injury, assure safe and effective drugs and medical devices, deliver health services to Federal beneficiaries, and furnish health expertise in time of war or other national or international emergencies. As one of the seven Uniformed Services of the United States, the PHS Commissioned Corps is a specialized career system designed to attract, develop, and retain health professionals who may be assigned to Federal, State or local agencies or international organizations to accomplish its mission.
To accomplish this mission, the agencies/programs are designed to:
For further details, visit the website of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
Allied Health and Rehabilitation Professions
Below you will find a listing of the wide variety of careers available in the allied health and rehabilitation professions. This list is taken from the Allied Health and Rehabilitation Professions Education Directory published by the American Medical Association. The directory is available on reserve in the Stevenson University library and it provides descriptions of these professions as well as the associated educational programs. You are encouraged to read through this directory and learn all that you can about these very rewarding health care professions. You can also visit the AMA's website for Careers in Allied Health.