Healthcare Education Programs at University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UW-La Crosse) offers a wide array of healthcare education programs aimed at preparing students for a diverse range of careers in the health and medical fields. These programs are designed to provide a solid foundation in health sciences, coupled with hands-on clinical experience, and are housed under the College of Science and Health. Below are some of the key healthcare programs offered at UW-La Crosse:

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

UW-La Crosse collaborates with the La Crosse Medical Health Science Consortium to offer a 3+1 nursing program. Students spend three years at UW-La Crosse completing prerequisite coursework before transitioning to a partner institution, such as Viterbo University or the University of Wisconsin System Collaborative Nursing Program, to complete clinical nursing coursework in their final year.

Exercise and Sport Science

Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sport Science

This program provides concentrations in areas such as athletic training, fitness, pre-professional (for those pursuing further education in fields like physical therapy), and physical education teaching. The curriculum is comprehensive, covering anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and exercise physiology.

Master of Science in Clinical Exercise Physiology

This advanced program prepares students for careers in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, clinical exercise physiology, and other related fields. The program includes extensive clinical practice opportunities and emphasizes the practical application of exercise science principles in medical settings.

Physician Assistant Studies

Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies

In partnership with the Gundersen Medical Foundation, Marshfield Clinic, and the Mayo Health System, this program provides robust training in diagnosing and treating patients. It includes a combination of classroom instruction and extensive clinical rotations through diverse medical specialties.

Physical Therapy

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

The DPT program at UW-La Crosse is rigorous and accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). The curriculum includes coursework in anatomy, kinesiology, neuroscience, and therapeutic interventions, paired with significant clinical education experiences.

Occupational Therapy

Master of Science in Occupational Therapy

The occupational therapy program prepares students to deliver services that help individuals engage in meaningful activities of daily living. The curriculum integrates classroom learning with fieldwork experiences to ensure comprehensive training.

Medical Dosimetry and Radiation Therapy

Master of Science in Medical Dosimetry

UW-La Crosse offers a unique program focused on training medical dosimetrists who are responsible for the design and calculation of radiation treatment plans for cancer patients. The program includes both didactic coursework and clinical practice.

Public Health and Community Health Education

Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Community Health Education

Students in this program learn to develop, implement, and evaluate health education programs in community settings. The curriculum covers disease prevention, health promotion, epidemiology, and biostatistics.

Master of Public Health (MPH)

The MPH program focuses on advanced public health practice, with a strong emphasis on community wellness, health policy, and leadership in public health.

Medical Laboratory Science

Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science

This program provides the scientific education and practical training necessary to perform clinical laboratory tests on biological samples. It emphasizes microbiology, clinical chemistry, hematology, and molecular diagnostics.

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The healthcare education programs at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to excel in various health professions. Each program combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on training to ensure that graduates are well-prepared for their careers. For more detailed information, prospective students are encouraged to visit the UW-La Crosse website or contact the university’s admissions office.