SIMMONS SCHOOL FOR HEALTH STUDIES

Simmons has had a long tradition of providing professional preparation in the health care field. Simmons was the first New England institution to offer formal education for nurses in an academic setting. By the late 40’s the physical therapy program was well underway. Today we continue to address contemporary issues such as debilitating diseases, wellness, managed care, and health care access for the disenfranchised.

The coeducational School for Health Studies (SHS) includes four graduate programs: Nursing (Advanced Primary Care), Nutrition and Health Promotion, Health Care Administration and Physical Therapy. It is not necessary to hold an undergraduate degree in a specific discipline in order to apply but certain prerequisite courses are required.

HEALTH CARE ADMINISTRATION

The Health Care Administration program (M.H.A) is designed for working professionals or individuals who have previously worked in a health-related field. The program emphasizes strategy, communication, and teamwork. The curriculum includes courses in finance, human resources, management, and marketing. The U.S. spends $1.7 trillion annually on health care. Health care administrators must make sure this money is well spent. By 2012, the U.S. Department of Labor anticipates that job opportunities in this field will increase 21-35%.

NUTRITION

The M.S. in Nutrition and Health Promotion curriculum focuses on community nutrition and prepares graduates for various settings: schools, fitness centers, hospitals, community health centers, and business. A research project is required. Students may also earn a Certificate in Sports Nutrition, which prepares students to take the American College of Sports Medicine exam for health/fitness instructor. Simmons College also participates in the national dietetic internship program. The U.S. Department of Labor predicts a 15% increase in employment by 2012 in this profession due to the emphasis on improved dietary habits.

NURSING

Academic options exist for students who have a diploma, associate’s, or bachelor’s degree in nursing. The Direct Entry program is designed for students who seek a M.S. but who hold bachelors’ degrees in other disciplines. Students who successfully complete this program and pass the appropriate licensing exams will earn RN, M.S. and NP (Nurse Practitioner) credentials. Dual degree programs in Occupational Health and Maternal Child Health are offered with Harvard University. The severe national nursing shortage assures graduates with ample job opportunities. By 2012, there will be 400,000 nurse vacancies.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Simmons was one of the first New England colleges to offer a D.P.T (Doctorate in Physical Therapy). This three-year, professional, clinical program offers problem-based learning as the core learning style. Tutorials are limited to six students. Students complete Advanced Human Anatomy at the Harvard Medical School. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, jobs in this profession are expected to increase 21-35% through 2012.

All SHS programs have national and regional accreditation from the appropriate professional body. SHS students complete clinical rotations at the nearby Harvard teaching hospitals. Graduate campus housing is available.

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