Other Pre-Health Programs

Students gather around a tree in Asbury Woods in Erie. These Mercyhurst students differ in their career goals, but are united in the strong science background they receive at Mercyhurst.

A strong background in science and the liberal arts at Mercyhurst College can prepare you for nearly any health profession. Specific courses as a biology or other major at our College can fulfill requirements of those professions listed below, plus many others. Consult with the Pre-Health Advisor to design an individualized course of study to help you realize your goal within the health sciences.

Audiology
Audiologists are responsible for identifying and providing appropriate treatments for auditory problems including hearing loss, unstable balance, and sensory and neural damage. More information on the field of audiology can be found at the Audiology Foundation of America or at the Academy of Doctors of Audiology..

Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic physicians are licensed to educate their patients in the use of diet, exercise, lifestyle changes and natural therapies to enhance their bodies’ abilities to prevent and treat disease. With over ten percent of students entering the Mercyhurst with the intention to pursue a career in the health sciences, the College is dedicated to offering courses and programs in niche groups such as Naturopathic Medicine.

More information on the field of Naturopathic Medicine can be found at the American Association of  Naturopathic Physicians or the Association of Accredited Naturopathic  Medical Colleges..

Public Health
Public health professionals are trained to protect and improve the health of communities through education, promotion of healthy lifestyles, and research on disease and injury prevention.

More information regarding the field of public health can be found at the American Public Health Association and the Association of Schools of Public Health..

Accupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Accupuncturists and practitioners of Oriental medicine identify energy imbalances within a patient and correct the disharmony by using a variety of options that include the use of acupuncture needles, cupping, acupressure, Chinese herbal preparations, and exercises such a tai ji quan or qi gong.

If interested in more information on this field please visit the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine..

Nurse Anesthetists
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists are Advanced Practice Nurses who provide anesthesia to surgical, obstetrical, and trauma patients. They are usually under the supervision of anesthesiologists; however, in some states, they are the sole providers of anesthesia, enabling surgeons, dentists, podiatrists, and other qualified healthcare professionals to perform their tasks.

More information about this field can be found at the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists..

Dietitians/Nutritionists
Dietitians and nutritionists help to prevent and treat illnesses by promoting healthy eating habits and plan food and nutrition programs. In addition, they can specialize in clinical settings, community care, or management. They may also become consultants where they would undertake the responsibilities of managing food service systems for institutions such as hospitals and schools, supervise meal preparations, educate the public, and conduct research.

For more information on the field of dietetics and nutrition, visit the American Dietetic Association and the The American Society for Nutritional Sciences. Information regarding graduate programs in the field of dietetics and nutrition can be found at the American Society for Nutrition.

Health Administrator
Healthcare administrators take on the managerial responsibilities of planning, coordinating, and supervising the functions of healthcare facilities those facilities' staff members.

Information regarding programs in the field of health administration can be found at the Association of University Programs in Health Administration.