Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Health Sciences and Spanish
As a Health Sciences and Spanish major, you will gain knowledge of the principles and practices of health sciences with a strong Spanish language skills and cultural competency.
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Health Sciences and Spanish is a major that will provide you with duality in the ever-changing job market. Learn how to deliver health science information and practices to the Spanish community. Be ready to work with Spanish speaking populations and communities or continue your post undergraduate education with a strong Spanish cultural competency upon graduation.
As a Health Sciences and Spanish major, you will take courses in the Department of Humanities and the School of Nursing and Health Sciences.
Students who are Spanish native/heritage speakers are strongly encouraged to take the CLEP Spanish Exam, which can transfer up to three SPA courses (Intro and Intermediate).
What Is Health Sciences and Spanish?
The Hispanic population in the U.S. is projected to reach 197 million by 2060, making up nearly 30% of the total population. This rapid growth means that a significant portion of the future patient population will speak Spanish as their primary language. A significant percentage of Hispanic adults in the U.S. have limited English proficiency. Spanish-speaking healthcare providers can also provide culturally competent care, which is essential for addressing the unique health needs of the Hispanic population.
What You’ll Learn
As a Health Sciences and Spanish major, you will:
- Develop fluency in Spanish and learn about the diversity and richness of Hispanic cultures
- Develop and deliver culturally appropriate materials and programs to Spanish-speaking communities
- Participate in experiential learning opportunities such as internships, service-learning, study abroad and research projects
- Acquire skills in cultural competency, intercultural communication, critical thinking, problem-solving and teamwork
Career Options
By studying Health Sciences and Spanish, you will be extremely advantaged within the job market upon graduation. You will be able to help more individuals navigate their health journey while simplifying the process for them with knowledge and compassion.
The demand for Spanish-speaking healthcare professionals is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. This presents a great opportunity for those with bilingual skills to pursue rewarding careers in healthcare. Spanish is becoming increasingly important in the U.S. healthcare field due to the growing Hispanic population and the need to improve communication and cultural competency in healthcare. Those with bilingual skills have a great opportunity to pursue rewarding careers in this growing field.
Potential career paths for Health Sciences and Spanish majors upon graduation include:
- Medical Assistant who is able to serve the Spanish community
- Health Counselor who is able to serve the Spanish community
- Health Coach/Educator who is able to serve the Spanish community
- Support and Service Coordinator who is able to serve the Spanish community
- Apply to post-graduate degrees in the health/healthcare fields with strong Spanish language skills and cultural competence
Combined Major Benefits
Dedicated Advising
You can expect to work with a dedicated advisor for both your academic and career needs throughout your college experience at Merrimack.
Combined Skills
By pursuing a combined major, students will have the opportunity to build multiple skill sets across a range of in-demand disciplines throughout their experience.
Affinity Group Status
Combined major students are given affinity group status, so you get access to specific resources across campus.
Guaranteed Internships
The O’Brien Center for Career Development and your career advisor will work to place you in a guaranteed internship, typically during junior year.
Courses You’ll Take
Health Sciences and Spanish Major Curriculum
Spanish and Health Sciences Major Requirements
General Education Requirements
In addition to the major requirements below, you will also need to complete Merrimack’s general education requirements. To see more details about the major, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu.Sample Four-Year Schedule - Curriculum Guide
More Information
Nancy Wynn
Associate Professor and Chair
Visual and Performing Arts
Graphic Design Program Director
978-837-3433 | email
