Suggested Age

14-18

Purpose

This course is designed to give freshmen through senior students a broad overview of available professions in the healthcare field. This class is meant to generate interest in the medical professions and help students determine if this field is right for them. The course will be taught from the perspective of a current health care professional. Students will be introduced to career descriptions, educational requirements, salary information, skills and procedures, career benefits and risks, and local career opportunities. The course will also include a review of body systems and how they relate to specific careers in the medical field.

Professions that will be addressed include medicine, nursing, pharmacology, allied health science (e.g. physical and occupational therapy), nutrition, mental health, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and medical support careers. The course will also touch on related careers in research and development, medical technology, biometrics and medical business management.

Active class discussion and relevant questions are encouraged. Grading will consist of class participation, short (and fun!) projects, and two exams given at the end of each semester.

This class is an excellent precursor to Anatomy, Physiology, and Medical Terminology for Future Health Professionals.

Curriculum

The textbook for this course is Exploring Health Careers by Maureen McCutcheon.