Discover the dynamic and promising realm of Health Communication, an engaging and interdisciplinary field that merges social work, public health, social psychology, and healthcare administration. This field is not just critical but also multifaceted, requiring effectiveness across various contexts. From orchestrating public health campaigns to enhancing client-provider interactions, understanding cultural constructions of health and illness, and navigating the complexities of health systems management and healthcare operations, the opportunities are vast.
Aspiring professionals in Health Communication play pivotal roles in influencing health policy, advocating for patients, and providing leadership in medical management. This is an exciting journey where you become a bridge between diverse aspects of health, contributing to positive changes in individuals and communities alike. Embrace the challenge and potential of Health Communication, where your skills impact the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare.
The Bethany student body possesses a unique characteristic— an eagerness to serve. Imagine the chance to delve into a field that embraces biblical perspectives on wellbeing and integrates medical research with faith-driven healing communication. Students become familiar with Christian holistic healing, utilizing the principles of communication to address healthcare issues in diverse contexts, all with a service-oriented spirit.
Program Goal
Introduce the role of communication in creating healthy individuals and social structures.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Understand the role of communication in shaping health care messages and personal/public acceptance of these messages.
- Interpret the development and use of health related messages and media in a variety of contexts.
- Develop goals and strategies of health improvement as it relates to pathways in administration, public policy, public health campaign, health education, and/or health advocacy.
Core Requirements
Required courses:
- COMM212 Interpersonal Communication 3 cr.
- COMM330 Introduction to Health Communication 3 cr.
- COMM430 Health Communication Theory and Research 3 cr.
- HLTH201 Nutrition 3 cr.
- HLTH240 Current Health Issues 3 cr.
- HLTH330 History and Philosophy of Wellness 3 cr.
- PSYC100 General Psychology or PSYC120 Human Growth and Development 3 cr.
Health Communication Track (choose one)
For students interested in areas, but not limited to:
Health Care Administration and Public Policy Track
For students interested in areas, but not limited to:
Public Health Campaigns Track
- BUSN431 Integrated Marketing Communication or COMM375 Public Relations and Advertising 3 cr.
- GRDS230 Introduction to Graphic Design:Tools, Methodology, and Vocabulary 3 cr.
- GRDS336 Design for Multimedia 3 cr.
- MART295 Introduction to Broadcast Media 3 cr.
For students interested in areas, but not limited to:
Counseling/Social Work Track
- HLTH470 Introduction to Diseases and Disorders 3 cr. or PSYC325 Psychology of Child Development 3 cr.
- PSYC337 Introduction to Physiological Psychology or PSYC340 Social Psychology 3 cr.
- PSYC350 Abnormal Psychology or PSYC380 Psychopharmacology 3 cr.
For students interested in areas, but not limited to:
Sociology and Public Service Track
Health Communication Minor
A minor in health communication requires the following courses:
- COMM212 Interpersonal Communication 3 cr.
- COMM330 Introduction to Health Communication Communication 3 cr.
- COMM430 Health Communication Theory and Research 3 cr.
- HLTH201 Nutrition 3 cr.
- HLTH240 Current Health Issues 3 cr.
- HLTH330 History and Philosophy of Wellness 3 cr.
- PSYC100 General Psychology or PSYC120 Human Growth and Development 3 cr.
To view the most recent course list and requirements for the Health Communications major, please consult the Academic Catalog.
Do you see Health Communication in your future? We’d love to hear from you! Learn more about becoming a Bethany student, or schedule your campus visit today!
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Next Steps
Interested in studying at Bethany? Scheduling a campus visit is a great way to see what we have to offer. You can meet professors or sit in on a class too! Contact our admissions office to learn more.