Program Details

• Major Name: Health Sciences
• Degree Program: Arts and Sciences
• Degree Designation: AAS
• College / School: STEM

As job opportunities in the healthcare field continue to grow in the United States, demand is growing for individuals who have the educational background and skills to work within the health care system. To meet this urgent statewide and national need, WVU Potomac State College began offering an associate in applied science (AAS) degree in health science in fall 2019.

With three available tracks, students may specialize in a specific healthcare field, including healthcare administration, science, and social science.

Healthcare Administration Track

The healthcare administration track will prepare students for entry-level administrative jobs, in areas such as billing and coding and office management. Students will also be prepared to continue into a bachelor’s program in health science administration.

Science Track

With the science track, students will learn to work with basic medical assisting and be introduced to billing and coding. This track includes the option to take the pre-requisite courses needed for those who want to complete a bachelor’s degree with the intent of applying to a physician’s assistant, medical doctor, dentistry or other health care program.

Social Science Track

The social science track will prepare students for work in social service organizations and agencies where they will advocate for their clients, and learn about the services needed to transition their clients between various health care facilities and home. This track includes the foundation courses needed for those who want to continue in a bachelors program in psychology, sociology or social work.

Career Opportunities

The associate in applied science degree in health science aligns with the goals of students who are interested in working in the ever-growing healthcare industry. Students will be well-prepared for a variety of healthcare careers in various health care settings including laboratory, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, medical records, physician and other health professions offices, administration, and health science writers.

For all three tracks, your advisor will help you develop the best plan of study so you can meet your goals.