Healthcare Education Programs at Northern Arizona University
Northern Arizona University (NAU) in Flagstaff, AZ, offers a variety of healthcare education programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the healthcare industry. These programs cover a broad range of disciplines, including nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, dental hygiene, and public health, among others.
Nursing Programs
NAU’s School of Nursing provides students with several pathways to a nursing career, with programs that emphasize both academic excellence and practical experience.
Undergraduate Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN): This program prepares students for licensure as registered nurses, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes clinical practice, health assessment, and community health nursing.
Accelerated BSN: Designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, this accelerated program allows students to earn their BSN in a shorter time frame.
Graduate Programs
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): The MSN program at NAU allows nurses to specialize in areas such as family nurse practitioner or nurse generalist roles. Coursework covers advanced practice, leadership, and research.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): This terminal degree focuses on clinical practice and is aimed at preparing nurses for leadership roles in healthcare delivery and policy.
Physical Therapy Programs
NAU’s Department of Physical Therapy & Athletic Training offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which prepares students to become licensed physical therapists. The curriculum includes rigorous coursework, research opportunities, and extensive clinical experiences to ensure that graduates are well-prepared for professional practice.
Occupational Therapy Programs
NAU offers a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy (MSOT), designed to train students to help individuals achieve independence in all facets of their lives. The program emphasizes holistic, client-centered care and includes both didactic coursework and supervised fieldwork.
Dental Hygiene Programs
The Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program at NAU is well-regarded for its focus on evidence-based practice and comprehensive patient care. Students gain hands-on experience in NAU’s state-of-the-art dental clinics, preparing them for successful careers in both clinical and community settings.
Public Health Programs
NAU’s Department of Health Sciences offers several programs in public health, including:
- Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH): This undergraduate program provides a foundation in public health, with concentrations in health education, environmental health, and health policy.
Master of Public Health (MPH): The MPH program offers concentrations in Health Promotion and Health Equity. The curriculum includes coursework in epidemiology, biostatistics, and community health, as well as a capstone project.
Physician Assistant Program
NAU offers a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS), designed to train students in comprehensive primary care. The program covers medical sciences, clinical medicine, and behavioral health, and includes extensive clinical rotations.
Additional Healthcare Programs
NAU also provides other specialized healthcare programs, such as:
- Communication Sciences and Disorders: Offering both undergraduate and graduate degrees, this program trains students in speech-language pathology and audiology.
Athletic Training: NAU’s Athletic Training programs include a Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT), preparing students to become certified athletic trainers.
Get Started Today
Northern Arizona University’s healthcare education programs are designed to prepare students for successful and impactful careers in the fast-evolving field of healthcare. With a commitment to academic excellence, hands-on learning, and community engagement, NAU stands out as a premier institution for those aspiring to make a difference in health and wellness. To learn more about specific programs, admissions criteria, or to start your application process, visit the university’s official website or contact their admissions office.