Attached to the 8-28-08 Faculty Senate agenda

1. Program Identification CIP B.S. in Health Science 51.0000

2. Academic Unit Department of Public Health Sciences

3. Program Description The B.S. in Health Science Degree at Wichita State University will attract students:

research assistants, etc.

4. Demand/Need for the Program Fueling the need for health science majors has its roots in the fact that health care positions will grow significantly over the next 10 years, which is driven by the  aging population, longer longevity, and technological advancements. According to the 2008 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic’s Occupational Outlook Handbook (2006-2016), health science profession positions will grow anywhere from 7% to more than 20% over the next 10 years (Pages 4-5).

5. Comparative/Locational Advantage  Among the six major KBOR universities, none offered an undergraduate major in the health sciences. Among local four year institutions surveyed (Baker University, Bethany College, Bethel College, Friends University, Newman University, McPherson College, Southwestern College, and the University of Phoenix), only Friends University and Bethany College offer a major in the health sciences.

6. Curriculum 124 hour degree, with a 49 hour health science major (Pages 7-13). See appendix B for curriculum outline and appendix D for practica experiences.

7. Faculty Profile Five full-time core faculty, each with a related graduate degree and several adjunct faculty available to offer new program (Pages 14-15). See appendix A for letters of support and appendix C for faculty CVs.

8. Student Profile Freshman status (or transfer admission) meeting university admission guidelines (Pages 6-7).

9. Academic Support Existing academic support in the College and University is adequate in terms of supporting the new program (Page 16).

10. Facilities and Equipment No new space or equipment (other than routine enhancement and replacement) will be required (Page 16).

11. Program Review, Assessment, Accreditation  A clear process will be in place and will remain in place that evaluates student learning and program outcomes on several levels. Accreditation is

not available for the general health science discipline (Pages 17-18).  

12. Costs, Financing Funding for the core faculty and operation of the program are adequately covered through existing GU allocations in Public Health Sciences. Additional funds in the amount of $9,000 will be needed to cover instruction each semester, necessary to teach and supervise students enrolled in the practica. Funding for this need will be generated from a $250 student fee assessed on each student enrolled in practica experiences.  (Page 16). See appendix E for fiscal summary.

Wichita State University

Bachelor of Science – Health Science

B.S. – Health Science

Fall 2009

Public Health Sciences

51.0000

The health sciences field is enjoying an explosion of career opportunities, with job growth of 27% predicted in the next decade for all health services professions (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2007). In concert with this growth, the Department of Public Health Sciences proposes a Bachelor of Science in Health Science.  Typically health science graduates go on to work in the health care sector as pharmaceutical and hospital sales representatives, specialists in insurance companies, science technicians (or research assistants), and the like. The degree may also be used for those who wish to progress to supervisory or instructional positions requiring a baccalaureate degree (e.g., radiologic technologists, respiratory therapists). Others opt to extend their employability even further by pursuing a graduate or professional education. Graduate-level education can lead to careers in health administration, medicine, physical therapy, physician assistant, or public health. Salaries vary widely among occupations, but generally reflect the unprecedented demand for qualified health sciences professionals. Health science majors are introduced to the full array of health career opportunities, and can begin to focus their interests during the last two years of the four year program. A bachelor degree program in health science provides a foundation in liberal arts and sciences, along with a core health sciences curriculum.

The B.S. in Health Science Degree at Wichita State University will attract students:

Rationale and need for the new program has its foundation in the Healthy People 2010, (2000) report of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, wherein a need for national interventions in the health sciences is highlighted. In particular, leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the United States, including Kansas, are largely preventable; health science is a topical area of focus for academic enquiry; and, importantly, inter-disciplinary education of health scientist will meet future societal needs for  practitioners. While this report highlights the broader need for the degree, internal CHP influences are in play as well. During the 1990s a Bachelor of Health Science degree was in existence which was primarily a degree made up of electives drawn from the required prerequisites of a chosen health care discipline (Physician Assistant, Physical Therapy, Public Health, and so forth). Between 1990 and 1997, 222 degrees were awarded (approximately 28 awarded each academic year). Although eliminated to accommodate specialized degrees in health administration, this degree program was helpful for those working toward a health care discipline; however, if they were not accepted into the discipline, the degree provided little in terms of skills needed to find a job in the health care sector. The proposed degree program will continue to fill the needs of those needing a degree to apply to a specific health discipline (thereby facilitating entry into numerous graduate study programs such as public health, human resource development, ergonomics, industrial health and safety, medicine, dentistry, chiropractic, physical therapy, and physician assistant), it will also provide a set of skills that may be used to find other health care jobs such as pharmaceutical and hospital sales representatives, health care industry research (e.g., clinical study coordinators or other types of research positions), specialists in insurance companies, and the like.

Wichita State University is committed to providing comprehensive educational opportunities in an urban setting. Through teaching, scholarship, and public service, the University seeks to equip both students and the larger community with the educational and cultural tools they need to thrive in a complex world, and to achieve both individual responsibility in their own lives and effective citizenship in the local, national, and global community.  

High quality teaching and learning are fundamental goals in all WSU undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education programs. The University faculty and professional staff are committed to the highest ideals of teaching, scholarship, and public service as the University strives to be a comprehensive, metropolitan university of national stature.  A Bachelor of Science degree in the Health Sciences supports the University mission by: 

Projected student interest was found to be high among high school, admitted and current University students, with sufficient interest to justify the commencement of the proposed degree. Academic counselors in the CHP report a high number of students annually (n=57 as of December of 2007, see table page 6) desiring such a degree program either for facilitating entry into programs such as physical therapy and physician assistant, or simply for a generic degree in the health sciences. Previous experience with the health science degree in the CHP (between 1990 and 1997) also demonstrates demand, with 222 degrees awarded (approximately 28 per academic year) during this time frame (WSU, Institutional Research, 2008).

In a study completed by the WSU Office of Institutional Research in the fall of 2007 and spring of 2008, 2,835 unique undergraduate pre-health majors enrolled in the University from fall 2003 through fall 2007 were analyzed in regard to their transition among University major codes. Nursing pre-majors represented 50% of students in the sample (n=1,471). Using the nursing group as an example, 303 (20%) transitioned into the nursing major, 231 (16%) transitioned into other WSU majors, and 937 (64%) were  no longer categorized in a major code. In the total sample (n=2,835), 485 (17%) were accepted into a health care major, 576 (20%) transitioned into other WSU majors, 102 (4%) transitioned into the LAS undecided major, and 1,672 (59%) were no longer categorized in a major code.

To further ascertain the status of the 1,672 students who were no longer categorized in a major code, 1,229 of these students (who were not awarded a bachelor degree and were not currently enrolled as of spring 2008) were sent to the National Student Clearinghouse to determine their current status. 683 direct student matches were identified and had transferred to a different institution. Three institutions accounted for most of these transfers; Butler Community College, Cowley Community College, and Newman University (all with several health profession programs). These data support a theory among CHP faculty that there are large numbers of qualified students interested in the health field being turned away because of capped and competitive programs and the lack of a useful alternative, such as the health science degree being proposed. It seems obvious that a large number of students in the future, who may transfer to other institutions, would be natural recruits for the B.S. in Health Science. As of fall 2007 there were 631 pre-health majors, the majority of which  will not be offered positions in the CHP professional programs because of their competitive nature (see table, page 6). These students will be prime targets for recruitment into the B.S. in Health Science degree program.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2007), the health care and education industry sector is projected to grow by 18.8 percent, and add more jobs, nearly 5.5 million, than any other industry sector. More than 3 out of every 10 new jobs created in the U.S. economy will be in either the healthcare and social assistance or public and private educational services sectors.  Healthcare and social assistance—including public and private hospitals, nursing and residential care facilities, and individual and family services—will grow by 25.4 percent and add 4 million new jobs. Employment growth will be driven by increasing demand for healthcare and social assistance because of an aging population and longer life expectancies. Likewise, improvements in technology will require specialized training and an understanding of the advancements in health science. Most positions (particularly the graduate-level health professions of physical therapy, physician assistant, and others) will require a basic understanding of the health sciences, necessitating a need for an undergraduate degree in this field. Still others seeking occupations in undergraduate fields, will also need preparation in the health sciences. For example, science technicians (or research assistants) in medical settings will work with biologists conducting medical research—helping to find a cure for diseases. Those who  work in pharmaceutical companies will help develop, manufacture, and market medicine. Those working in the field of microbiology, who generally work as laboratory assistants, will need health science education to assist in the study of living organisms and infectious agents.  Fueling the need for health science majors has its roots in the fact that health care positions will grow significantly over the next 10 years, which is driven by the aging population, longer longevity, and technological advancements. According to the 2008 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic’s Occupational Outlook Handbook (2006-2016), health science profession positions will grow anywhere from 7% to more than 27% over the next 10 years.

After a survey of local and state institutions it was determined that few programs were offered in the undergraduate health science discipline, thus limiting the concern that a proposed program in this area would be duplicative. Additionally, this finding limits the possibility of establishing any type of collaborative program among institutions.  Furthermore, there were no other WSU programs identified that offered the basic and health science core necessary for those needing to advance into graduate professional health science programs, or needing a general undergraduate degree in the health sciences. Those needing a degree of this type were often referred to LAS to complete degrees in chemistry or biology.   While these degree programs provided good preparation in the basic sciences, they lacked anything related to the health sciences.  Among the six major KBOR universities, none offered an undergraduate major in the health sciences. Among local four year institutions surveyed (Baker University, Bethany College, Bethel College, Friends University, Newman University, McPherson College, Southwestern College, and the University of Phoenix), only Friends University and Bethany College offer a major in the health sciences.  In terms of the importance of this degree program proposal, the CHP ranks this proposal high on its list of priorities. Likewise, this is also a priority for WSU (see letters of support in appendix A).

As of fall 2007 there were 631 pre-health majors, the majority of which were working on prerequisites for entry into one of several health professions programs. Some will be offered positions; however, a majority will not be offered positions in the CHP professional programs because of caps associated with these programs. These students will be prime targets for recruitment into the B.S. in Health Science degree program and data regarding  these students is outlined below.  Enrollment Head Count in Health Professions,  WSU, Fall 2007 (12/7/2007)

*Suspended program. Graduate numbers are estimated

The procedures and criteria for admission are outlined below:

All students with a declared interest in a B.S. in Health Science will be encouraged to seek preprofessional advising through the WSU College of Health Profession’s Advising and Student Services office as freshmen. Students will be able to declare the health science major as a freshman. The degree is heavily focused in the basic sciences during the first two years of the program offered in LAS, followed by more focused study in the health sciences during the last two years in the CHP. However, depending on individual student progress, a student may be able to begin taking the health science curriculum sooner. To receive the degree, 124 credit hours will be required.

Admission as a Freshman

The student must:

Admission as a Transfer Student

The student must:

The B.S. in Health Science is a four year course of study designed to provide a foundation in liberal arts and sciences, along with a core health sciences curriculum. In achieving this goal, the responsibility of the program is to provide a learning environment in which students: 

The B.S. in Health Science is a four year course of study designed to provide a foundation in liberal arts and sciences, along with a core health sciences curriculum. Typically a student will complete the 42-hour general education program, plus mathematics and natural science selectives as outlined below, before completing the health science major courses.

WSU General Education Program
              Basic Skills (12 hrs - required "C" or better):                           

                        Engl 101 English Composition I (3)                        Engl 102 English Composition II (3)                         Comm 111 Public Speaking (3)                           Math 111 College Algebra (3)

Mathematics and Natural Science Selectives

Program Mathematics and Natural Science Selectives (select a minimum of 14 hours).

General Education courses from this area may also be used to meet GEP requirements.

                    Biol 106 The Human Organism (3)   Biol 107 Human Organism Lab (1)  Biol 210 General Biology I (4)   Biol 211 General Biology II (4)   Biol 220 Introduction to Microbiology (4)**Biol 223 Human Anatomy & Physiology (5)
                    Biol 330 General Microbiology (5)   **Chem 103 Introductory Chemistry (5)   **Chem 211 General Chemistry I (5)   Chem 212 General Chemistry II (5)  Chem 531 Organic Chemistry I (5)  Geol 102 Earth Science & Environment

                    Geol 111 General Geology (4)   Geol 300 Energy Resources & Environment (3)   Phys 111 Intro to Physics (4) 

                    Phys 131 Physics for Health Sciences (3)   Phys 213 General College Physics I (5)   Phys 214 General College Physics II (5)  +Stat 370 Elementary Statistics (3)  

**Human Anatomy & Physiology plus one semester of college chemistry are prerequisite to HS 301 and HS 400.

+ State 370 and HS 400 are prerequisites for HS 353 (Evidence-Based Methods and Practices)

Health Science Major

Health Science Core Courses (18 credit hours required)

HP 303 Medical Terminology (3)

HP 325 Health Care Ethics (3)

PHIL 327 Bioethics (3)

HMCD 310 Introduction to the U.S. Health Services System (3)

HMCD 325 Introduction to Epidemiology (3)

HMCD 344 Role of Culture in Health Care (3)

HMCD 354 Health Politics (3)

Examines how public policies affecting health care and public health are created within legislatures, regulatory agencies, and courts through the political actions of individuals and groups with vested interests. Using selected video, critical analysis and political profiling as tools, it focuses on the development of skills needed to influence policy developments.  Health Science Issue Courses (select 9 credit hours)

HP 330 Cancer: Perspectives and Controversies (3)

HMCD 326 Emerging Health Care Issues of the 21st Century (3)

HMCD 327 Global Health Issues (3)

PA 328 Introduction to Complementary and Alternative Medicine (3)

Health Science Management and Research (select 9 credit hours)

HMCD 428 Health Care Organization (3)

HMCD 478 Health Economics (3)

HMCD 642 Financing Health Care Services (3)

Examines the principles of financial analysis and management used in health care institutions, which are most useful to non-financial personnel. Emphasizes  understanding and application of general financial concepts crucial to the  health setting; considers financial organization, sources of operating revenues, budgeting and cost  allocation methods. Uses examples for various types of health service organizations.

HMCD 6XX Evidence-Based Methods and Practices (3)

Health Science Clinical Sciences: (All 10 credit hours required)

HS 301 Clinical Pharmacology (3)

HS 331 Principles of Diet and Nutrition (3)

HS 400 Introduction to Pathophysiology (4)

Practicum: (required) – 3 Credit Hours

HMCD 460 Practicum (3)

Elective Courses: (complete additional electives to meet the 124 credit hour requirement for a B.S. degree)

Program faculty will consist of the existing 5 full-time core faculty in the Department of Public Health Sciences (who will continue to offer the undergraduate program in Health Services Management and Community Development). This mix of faculty  will be adequate in terms of fulfilling teaching, research, and practicum requirements for this additional undergraduate degree program (as some of the coursework will be shared between the two programs). Additional faculty within the CHP,who currently teach the basic and clinical science required courses, will also offer these courses to students in the health science degree. Core faculty will have a graduate degree in a related area, which satisfies the terminal degree criteria for the Department of Public Health Sciences. Currently, among the core faculty, three have PhDs and two are master prepared. Adjunct faculty (mostly practitioners in their field) will provide expertise in the didactic and practicum phases of the program as needed. No new core faculty positions are being proposed. Funding for adjunct faculty will come from existing CHP resources and a student fee assessed during the practicum. It is anticipated the faculty will be similar to the current faculty as listed below. See faculty CVs in appendix C.

* Currently teach basic and clinical sciences offered in the CHP.

Adjunct faculty:

(Based on FY 2008 budget information, plus 3% increase):

                        GU Funding                                                                          New Cost
                   476,457  --Unclassified/classified/student salaries & benefits        0
                                    0   --  Adjunct Faculty salaries                                    18,000
                            14,720 --  OOE                                                                      
                          491,1777                                                                              18,000                           

Funding for the core faculty and operation of the program are adequately covered through existing GU allocations in PHS. Additional funds in the amount of $9,000 will be needed to cover instruction each semester, necessary to teach and supervise  students enrolled in the practica. Funding for this need will be generated from a $250 student fee assessed on each student enrolled in practica experiences. This fee is expected to generate $18,750 per year (minimum of 25 students/semester X $250 = $6,250 per semester).

Existing academic support in the College and University is adequate in terms of supporting the program. The College presently provides program-specific advising, and support for audio-visual capabilities, computers, and multimedia technology. The University Library has adequate volumes of health science literature and additional online resources. Health science library resources are included in the Ablah Library collection. Ablah library has approximately 1.7 million total volumes, which includes more than 100 databases, 2,000 electronic journals (approximately 300 in the health professions), 7,000 electronic books, and over 100 resources specifically for health science students. Nothing additional, outside of the normal support for the program, is required.

Current program staff is adequate to support the program.

Program Staff:

Name FTE Position Effort to Program

J. Kuhn 1.0 Senior Administrative Assistant 100%

No new space or equipment will be required. Adequate and excellent classroom, laboratory, office (including space for student assistants), and work room space is currently allocated by WSU’s College of Health Professions. No changes are anticipated to occur in the near future.

A clear process will be in place and will remain in place that evaluates student learning and program outcomes on several levels. The table below outlines the assessment plan of the program. The program faculty, the CHP Dean, and the CHP Academic Affairs Committee will assess the educational soundness of the program. Accreditation is not available for this discipline.  As required for continued program self-study, all of the data collected below will be reviewed during the program's annual curriculum review and collectively used to make decisions on whether curricular and programmatic items should remain the same, improve, or change. Overall program image will also be assessed.