Associate of Science in Pre-Health Professions

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The Associate of Science in Pre-Health Professions program provides students with the foundational knowledge and experience relevant to healthcare careers.

Graduates of the program are prepared for entry-level jobs within the healthcare field depending on the type of certificate or academic program they choose to complete.

Students who complete the program can get jobs such as medical assistant, pharmacy technician, medical laboratory technician, patient care technician and healthcare administrative assistant.

This degree program serves as a fundamental stepping stone for students who intend to pursue further education in healthcare-related fields like nursing, imaging sciences, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy and other pre-health or medical health professions.

Program Perks

Students can bring in up to 30 transferable credits.
The curriculum integrates natural and applied science knowledge and an understanding of human health to prepare students for entry-level healthcare roles and/or a bachelor’s level education.
After the first two semesters of required foundation coursework, students can choose elective foundation courses that aid in the pursuit of a future academic healthcare program or career interest pathway.
Courses explore how recent developments and research in health studies shape contemporary healthcare.
Students use critical thinking and holism skills to assess healthcare issues.
Creates an understanding of intercultural responsiveness and action in one’s role as a change agent.

Accreditation & Licensure

Nebraska Methodist College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Admissions Information

Criteria

In order to be eligible for admission into our Associate of Science in Pre-Health Professions program, you must meet all of the following criteria.

A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.2 on a 4.0 scale.
High school and/or college transcripts.
Up to 30 transferable college credits.

Requirements

To apply, the following items must be submitted to the Admissions Office:

NMC undergraduate application.
Written statement.
Program/career awareness questionnaire.
Official high school transcript.
Official GED test scores, if applicable.
Official transcripts from all colleges attended.

Deadlines

Prospective students may apply anytime and are accepted from deadlines throughout the year. Applications will be reviewed upon receipt, and students will be notified of their acceptance by postal mail, email or phone.

Costs & Financial Aid

NMC is committed to helping you find every avenue to finance your education. View the Tuition by Program & Degree page for a comprehensive list of all fees.

Cost Per Credit Hour

$623

Cost of Attendance

NMC Scholarships

NMC Scholarships consist of funds generously provided by the Methodist Hospital Foundation to assist our students.

Student Grants or Loans

Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more about what's available and how to apply.

Employee Education Benefits

Employees of Methodist Health System can find details on the MHS Intranet.

External Scholarships

Visit our Scholarships page to learn more.

Calculate Your Net Price

Nebraska Methodist College Net Price Calculator.

Curriculum

To receive an associate degree in pre-health professions, students must earn a minimum of 60 total credit hours. All students are required to complete specific coursework. This list is a curriculum guide only. Course listings and required curriculum are subject to change.

Included within this list is the Educated Citizen Core Curriculum. All students seeking to complete an undergraduate degree at Nebraska Methodist College must complete this set of Arts & Sciences requirements. As an educated citizen, NMC graduates are competent practitioners and respond productively to the complex dynamics of the world, utilizing a diversity of disciplines and perspectives.

A minimum of one clinical certificate experience is required.

Math Competency

Following acceptance to the College, all Associate of Science in Pre-Health Professions students’ math competency will be assessed via an exam.

If you do not achieve the designated competency score in any area of the exam, you will need to take a module in that topic area in the Mathematical Concepts course.

First year - First Semester

BIO 225

HUMAN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY I

DETAILS

This course will provide foundational concepts for further study and understanding of the human body as it relates to healthcare related disciplines. Terminology that is specific to the medical field is introduced. Basic principles of chemistry, physics, embryology, developmental biology, and histology are reviewed/introduced. Students are introduced to the eleven body systems. This course focuses on articulations and the integumentary, nervous, skeletal, and muscular systems. Laboratory experience will include a multi-modal approach and will include cadaveric study.

CHE 101

INTRODUCTION TO CHEMISTRY

DETAILS

This course is an overview of general, organic and biological chemistry with an emphasis on applications to health sciences. This course will introduce students to the basic knowledge of the properties of the matter, its reactions, and classifications. The course will discuss the main organic compounds and their properties as well as include some basic biochemistry principles. The course is accompanied by laboratory exercises which follows the material discussed.

Prerequisites: MAT 110

COR 101

EDUCATED CITIZEN 101

DETAILS

HPS 100 or SCI 198

Healthcare Fundamentals I or Directed Study

DETAILS

HPS 100

This course serves as an overview for all members of the health care delivery team. The focus is placed on the basic skills needed to perform quality patient care, relationships with other health care team members, patient safety and scope of practice for each profession, vital signs, HIPAA, infection control, invasive procedures and self-care.

SCI 198

Directed study credit can be earned for arts and sciences coursework. Directed study allows students the opportunity to complete a course of study when there is a deficiency in course requirements. Arts and sciences course work is determined by the faculty responsible for each course and approved by the Dean of the Division of Arts and Sciences

MAT 110 or 120

Intermediate Algebra or College Algebra (by placement)

DETAILS

MAT 110 This survey level course is designed to build basic algebra skills. It covers topics including positive and negative real numbers, solving linear equations and their applications, integer exponents, operations with polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, logarithms, graphing and equations of lines.

MAT 120 This course provides an advanced study of algebraic methods and prepares students for further studies in mathematics and physics. Content of the course starts with a review of basic concepts of algebra, and then it intensifies the study of the following topics: equations, inequalities, polynomials, exponents, logarithms, and the concept of functions and their graphs.

SCI 116

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY

DETAILS

This course will introduce students to terminology used in the healthcare professions. The origins of medical terms will be studied with an emphasis placed on understanding the suffixes, prefixes, combining forms, and root words used in healthcare terminology to be able to properly communicate issues related to their profession using appropriate terminology.

First year - Second Semester

BIO 226

HUMAN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY II

DETAILS

This course will continue to apply foundational concepts of the human body as they relate to healthcare related disciplines. The structure and function of the special senses, along with the endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems are explored in this course. Laboratory experience will include a multi-modal approach and will include cadaveric study.

Prerequisite: BIO 225
Prerequisite or Corequisite: CHE 101

BIO 281

MICROBIOLOGY

DETAILS

This course is designed to study the microbiology principles with a human perspective. The course will provide a basic understanding of microbial structure, function and their role in infectious diseases. There will also be an emphasis on the application of microorganisms and their relationship to various disease processes. Upon completion of the course, the students will be able to demonstrate the working knowledge of the microorganisms and their impact on infectious diseases.

Prerequisites: CHE 101, BIO 225 or SCI 200 or college level introductory biology course
Pre or Co-requisites: MA 110
Co-requisites: BIO 226

COM 101

ENGLISH COMPOSITION

DETAILS

This course provides instruction and practice in writing, with emphasis on the recursive processes of generating, drafting, revising and editing. Students develop skills in producing and evaluating written communications in private and public contexts.

HPS 110/HPS 111

Healthcare Clinical Experience

DETAILS

In this course students enroll and complete all component skills required in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program to earn their certification. Students reflect on that experience as a healthcare professional and Educated Citizen.

In this course students enroll and complete all component skills required in the Certified Medication Aide training program to earn their certification. Students reflect on that experience as a healthcare professional and Educated Citizen.

PSY 101

INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY

DETAILS

This course offers students an engaging introduction to the essential topics in the field of psychology. Throughout this scientific study of human behavior and the mind, students will survey and gain insight into the history of the field of psychology, as well as explore current theories and issues in areas such as wellness, emotion, cognition, motivation, perception, consciousness, social and personality, and memory.

Educated Citizen

COM 255 or 262

Beginning Healthcare Spanish or American Sign Language Basic Skills

DETAILS

Beginning Healthcare Spanish

This course will provide basic knowledge of the Spanish language and Latino culture, and emphasize the importance of this knowledge as it relates to healthcare in the United States. The student will demonstrate an ability to express ideas and thoughts in Spanish using both verbal and nonverbal communication skills in a culturally competent manner. In addition, the student will develop strategies to continue acquiring proficiency with the Spanish language beyond this course.

American Sign Language Basic Skills

This course presents practical communication skills needed for health professionals working with deaf clients. Everyday communication is the centerpiece of every lesson. Topics revolve around sharing information which is vital in the healthcare industry. Grammar is introduced in context, with an emphasis on developing question and answering skills that would occur between healthcare professional and patient. Students will learn conversational strategies to help maintain a conversation with deaf patients. Students will appreciate the diversity of deaf people and their culture. Interaction activities will allow students to rehearse what they’ve learned.

COR 201

EDUCATED CITIZEN 201

DETAILS

HUM 220-279

HUMANITIES ELECTIVE

DETAILS

Elective

ACC 220

PRINCIPLES OF FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING

DETAILS

Financial accounting examines accounting concepts, the accounting model, measurement processes, financial statements, financial analysis, the accounting cycle, monetary and fixed assets, inventory, current and long-term liabilities and equity structures of partnerships, proprietorships and corporations.

ACC 225

PRINCIPLES OF MANAGERIAL ACCOUNTING

DETAILS

Course presents accounting information used for internal business management. Focus is on planning, controlling and evaluating company performance. Content includes budgeting, job costing, product pricing, breakeven analysis, standard costing, and decision models.

BIO 240

PRINCIPLES OF NUTRITION

DETAILS

This course in nutrition is designed for students to gain knowledge of the basic elements of nutrition, the nutrient needs in all age groups, and client teaching. Consideration of the cultural and psychological influences of nutrition emphasizes the psychosocial components of humans and adequate nutrition maintenance for health. Students will have the opportunity to learn the role of good nutrition and how it applies to self, family, client, and the community. It provides students with basic knowledge enabling them to gain an understanding of the integral role that nutrition plays in the health and well-being of others.

Prerequisites: CHE 100

BIO 250

INTRODUCTION TO KINESIOLOGY AND BIOMECHANICS

DETAILS

This course will introduce students to the basics of kinesiology concepts as a foundation to explore biomechanics. Students will explore aspects of human body movement and principles, theories, and applications of biomechanics. This introductory course will include an evidence-based approach to the science of kinesiology and biomechanics to prepare students with principles of joint and muscle movement, strength, and force as they relate to functional and dysfunctional movement patterns. The course will facilitate students in applying these principles professionally.

Prerequisite: BIO 225, BIO 226

BIO 315

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

DETAILS

The course begins with a major focus on cellular functions and pathology, including inflammation, infection, immune response, metabolism, and fluid disequilibrium. These concepts serve as the foundation for the course as alterations in various bodily functions are examined. Alterations in body fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, fluid acid-base balance, gastrointestinal, urinary, respiratory, cardiac, endocrine, neurological, mobility and sensory-perceptual functions are emphasized by using a holistic perspective.

Prerequisites: BIO 226, BIO 281, CHE 101

BSH 200

SURVEY OF U.S. HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS

DETAILS

This course will explore the basic foundation in which healthcare is delivered in the U.S. Topics include the delivery, financing, and regulation within healthcare systems. Healthcare professionals need to have an understanding of the interaction of U.S. healthcare policies and public health science to be able to act as change agents in their professions.

BSH 280

BUSINESS LAW

DETAILS

This course will introduce students to laws and ethical standards that leaders must abide by in the course of conducting business. Business law includes state and federal laws, as well as administrative regulations. Laws and ethics contribute to shaping an organization's decision-making process. Upon the completion of the course, students will have a better understanding of the legal and ethical environment in which businesses operate.

ECO 210

HEALTHCARE ECONOMICS

DETAILS

This course will provide an introduction to basic economic concepts important for the study of healthcare economics. Topics covered in this course include: How healthcare differs from other goods and services, historical trends in healthcare expenditures, economic analysis of the Affordable Care Act, determinants of supply and demand for healthcare, health insurance and health insurance markets, basic economic evaluation methods. Alternative healthcare systems and reforms are also explored.

HPS 112

Healthcare Clinical Experience

DETAILS

In this course students enroll and complete all component skills required in the Pharmacy Technician training program to earn their certification. Students reflect on that experience as a healthcare professional and Educated Citizen.

HPS 113

Healthcare Clinical Experience

DETAILS

In this course students enroll and complete all component skills required in the Phlebotomy training program to earn their certification. Students reflect on that experience as a healthcare professional and Educated Citizen.

HUM 213

PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF ETHICS

DETAILS

This course introduces students to theories and practices of individual, communal and societal obligations. Moral inquiry in the course proceeds from a philosophical basis, with an emphasis on varied professional codes of ethics in healthcare disciplines. Students will explore codes of ethics and how they relate to traditional Western philosophies.

HUM 220-279

HUMANITIES ELECTIVE

DETAILS

HUM 250-259

HUMANITIES: HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES

DETAILS

HUM 270-279

HUMANITIES: HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVES

DETAILS

MAT 260

INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS

DETAILS

This course is designed to introduce students to the methods used in organizing, summarizing, analyzing and interpreting quantitative information. Emphasis is placed on application of statistical methods and on the interpretation of statistically significant data.

PHY 101

INTRODUCTION TO PHYSICS

DETAILS

This course will introduce learners to an overview of fundamentals of physics by exploring the various phenomena of physical science. The focus of this course will include kinematics, Newton’s Laws, momentum, work and energy, sound and light waves, thermodynamics, static electricity and electric circuits. This lab includes experiments relevant to the material explored in Physics I.

PSY 215

Lifespan Development

DETAILS

The Lifespan perspective involves several basic contentions: development is life-long, multidimensional, multidirectional, plastic, historically embedded, multi-disciplinary, and contextual. Three imperative developmental issues are explored: maturation and experience, continuity and discontinuity and stability and change. Students study how humans develop and how they become who they are.

SCI 206

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY/PHARMACOLOGY

DETAILS

This survey course begins with a major focus on cellular function and pathology, including inflammation, infection, immune response, metabolism, and fluid disequilibria. These concepts serve as the foundation for the course as alterations in various bodily functions are examined. Alterations in body fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, fluid acid/base balance, gastrointestinal, urinary, respiratory, cardiac, endocrine, and neurological functions are emphasized. The student will be introduced to pharmacological principles and utilize critical thinking to explore the relationship between those concepts and commonly used classes of medications.

Prerequisites: SCI 200 or BIO 226

SCI 320

INTRODUCTION TO PHARMACOLOGY

DETAILS

This course is designed to introduce students to pharmacological principles. The various drug classifications and general characteristics of drugs within a class is examined. The course also focuses on complete analysis of pharmacotherapeutics and drug interactions.

Prerequisites: CHE 100, BIO 225, BIO 226 Pre/Corequisite: BIO 315

SSC 325

APPLIED ANALYSIS OF RESEARCH

DETAILS

Evidence-based practice is an important component of effective clinical management. This course allows students to develop skills in applied statistics and research while learning to critically examine healthcare information from a variety of sources, including but not limited to professional journals, governmental reports and public media.

SSC 370

RESEARCH METHODS

DETAILS

This course is designed to assist the student in developing an understanding of the research process in qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods designs. The student learns to selectively apply the steps of research and to critically analyze research studies culminating in formal, oral and written projects.

Prerequisites: Determined by major

Meet the Faculty

Our faculty are highly experienced and credentialed in their own fields, giving you constant real-world insight you can use. While any instructor can recite from a textbook, ours go a step further and draw from vast personal and professional experiences. Instructors here care as deeply about their students as they do the subject matter and it shows.

Meet the Full-time Faculty

Nursing

Healthcare Certificates

Bachelor of Science

Master of Science

Doctor of Nursing

Allied Health

Healthcare Certificates