ASSOCIATE OF HEALTH SCIENCE (PRE-HEALTH PROFESSIONS)
CHART YOUR COURSE
BECOME A PRE-HEALTH PROFESSIONAL
The Associate of Science in Health Science offers a focused introduction to healthcare while preparing students for seamless progression into our Bachelor of Health Sciences track, graduate healthcare, or any of Mercy College’s academic programs. It is an ideal starting point for students seeking flexibility, exploration, and long-term preparation for advanced study while keeping multiple career options open.
Semesters1
Total Credits
Start Dates Per Year: Fall, Spring, & Summer
Seamless Transfer Pathways
OUR BODY OF WORK
ABOUT OUR HEALTH SCIENCE MAJOR
Begin your healthcare journey with intention. This 63-credit-hour program provides a specialized introduction to the health sciences, blending a strong foundation in healthcare-focused coursework. Rather than a general science degree, the Associate of Science in Health Science prepares students specifically for advanced study and professional pathways in healthcare, allowing you to explore multiple career interests while building the academic skills required for long-term success.
For students planning to continue their education, the associate degree serves as a seamless pathway into Mercy College’s Bachelor of Health Science, a pre-health professions program intentionally structured to prepare graduates for competitive graduate and professional healthcare programs. Together, these degrees create a clear academic progression for students pursuing careers in medicine, dentistry, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, occupational therapy, podiatry, veterinary medicine, medical laboratory sciences, and other advanced health professions.
Students who choose to enter the workforce after completing the associate degree are also well prepared for employment in healthcare-adjacent roles such as medical research, medical sciences, insurance, public health, community agencies, medical technician positions, or pharmaceutical sales.
No matter where your path leads, Mercy College of Health Sciences provides meaningful opportunities to explore the dynamic healthcare field, guided by experienced faculty and supported by access to our premier network of healthcare partners.
This program is intentionally designed to transfer seamlessly into Mercy College’s healthcare programs and supports students as they prepare for competitive admissions.
Our full-time PhD faculty will team up with specialists in specific health science fields from surrounding healthcare and science institutions to provide a comprehensive learning experience for students in this program. You will have an opportunity to learn from healthcare specialists and scientists with expertise and clinical or bench experience in their fields of study.
English isn’t my parents’ first language, but everyone at Mercy College went above and beyond to make sure we understood the admissions and financial aid processes. The hands-on learning opportunities in my classes have been a huge help in preparing me for my licensure exams and setting me on my path to a successful career.
Irma S., Diagnostic Medical Sonography and Healthcare Administration Candidate, 2021
COMPLETE AN APPLICATION ONLINE!
The Associate of Science in Health Science program is a direct admit program. When you are admitted to Mercy College, you are admitted into the Associate of Science in Health Science program! To get started, complete the Mercy College application. If you are transferring credits, please visit our transfer page to learn more.
The following courses are required to earn your Associate of Science in Health Sciences. Additional coursework may be required depending on your individual situation and desired track. For a complete listing of course sequence and required coursework, visit the College Catalog. Students must also satisfy all Core requirements.
BIO 101 – General Biology I (w/Lab) (4 cr)
BIO 180 – Human Anatomy (w/Lab) (4 cr)
BIO 185 – Human Physiology (w/Lab) (4 cr)
BIO 130 – Principles of Microbiology (w/Lab) (4 cr)
or
BIO 203 – Microbiology (w/Lab) (4 cr)
BIO 225 – Principles of Pathophysiology (4 cr)
or
BIO 302 – Pathophysiology (4 cr)
CHE 100 – Chemistry for Health Professionals (3 cr)
or
CHE 101 – General Chemistry I (w/Lab)(4 cr)
ENG 101 – English Composition I (3 cr)
ENG 102 – English Composition II (3 cr)
AHS 101 – Healthcare Career Exploration (1 cr)
Humanities Elective – (3 cr)
MAT 102 – Math for General Studies (3 cr)
or
MAT 112 – Math for Health Professionals (3 cr)
or
MAT 120 – College Algebra (3 cr)
MED 101 – Medical Terminology (1 cr)
NTR 205 – Nutrition (3 cr)
Philosophy or Religion Elective – (3 cr)
PHY 101 – Physics I (w/Lab) (4 cr)
PSY 101 – General Psychology (3 cr)
PSY 202 – Developmental Psychology (3 cr)
SOC 102 – Sociology (3 cr)
SPE 105 – Small Group Communication (1 cr)
STA 165 – Fundamentals of Statistics (3 cr)
or
STA 330 – Biostatistics (3 cr)
SVL 285 – Servant Leadership (3 cr)
TOTAL: 63 CREDITS FOR ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE
The Associate of Science in Health Science major offers three start dates in the fall, spring, and summer. View our full academic calendar for exact semester start dates. Pre-requisites and Core requirements may be completed at Mercy College of Health Sciences year-round.
1Completion time varies depending on each student’s unique situation.
