Health Sciences (A.S.)

OCC’s Health Sciences A.S. degree includes core courses in anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and chemistry, as well as liberal arts courses in English, natural sciences, psychology, sociology, humanities, and mathematics. These courses prepare successful eligible students for transfer into one of three competitive select clinical career programs at SUNY Upstate Medical University. These select programs are Medical Imaging, Radiation Therapy, and Respiratory Therapy.

Students should consult regularly with their program advisor to make certain that their course selections meet the requirements of the SUNY Upstate Medical University program they intend to transfer into.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Health Sciences A.S. program is to prepare students in a supportive learning environment for transfer into healthcare or related career majors at baccalaureate institutions. Upon earning an Associate’s Degree, graduates will be eligible to transfer to a baccalaureate program preparing them to deliver and support evidence-based, culturally competent healthcare that improves the lives of patients, their families, and their communities.

Program Learning Outcomes

Successful students will be able to:

1. Compare and contrast the most common health professions including work environments, education, and licensing requirements.
2. Describe current trends in healthcare delivery systems.
3. Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and healthcare concepts to develop clinical skills required for successful transfer.
4. Communicate effectively in various formats including written, oral, and technology-related methods.
5. Use critical thinking to develop the skills needed for future clinical decision making.
6. Describe diverse perspectives to develop cultural awareness.
7. Identify approaches to managing healthcare within the United States healthcare systems.

Admissions Requirements

1. Must have taken high school biology with a grade of C+ or better (must be Regents if New York State), or BIO 121  or equivalent at OCC, or equivalent transfer credit.
2. Must have taken high school chemistry with a grade of C+ or better (must be Regents if New York State), or CHE 151  or equivalent at OCC, or equivalent transfer credit.

Students who do not meet these prerequisites at time of admission will be admitted to the Health Studies Certificate  program. Students will have the opportunity to complete the prerequisites under this alternate program and may re-apply to the Health Sciences A.S. program once the prerequisites have been met.

Graduation Requirements

Students matriculated in the Health Sciences Program must achieve a minimum of C+ in all BIO, CHE, MAT, and PHY courses.