Health Science

The Health Science major combines courses in Biology and Chemistry that provide a foundation in the science of medicine with classes that explore the broader context of health like psychology and medical ethics. Students are encouraged to supplement these required courses with electives in science and the role of medicine in history and society. This approach provides the background necessary to be a successful medical professional.

Hands-On Advising

Saint Michael’s offers personal pre-health advising for all students considering careers in healthcare. Our goals are to help students identify the healthcare profession that is appropriate for them, and assist students on their journey to develop into qualified, competitive applicants for healthcare professional schools and programs.

Internships

Many local and regional organizations offer health-related internships to Health Science majors, including:

• American Cancer Society
• American Red Cross
• Boston Children’s Hospital
• UVM Medical Center
• Associates of Cape Cod, Inc.
• Associates in Orthodontics
• Boston Children’s Hospital
• Whole Health Nutrition

• Champlain Valley Agency on Aging
• Community Health Centers of Burlington
• Essex Physical Therapy
• Hampton Physical Therapy
• Howard Center for Human Services
• Maitri Health Care
• Brain Injury Association of Vermont

Research

Health Science majors have the opportunity to conduct original research projects in collaboration with a faculty mentor. The Trustee Scholar Program provides students with stipends for full-time summer research projects. Other student-faculty research is funded through external grants from the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, or other private foundations or government agencies.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering with local health providers is a great way to help the community while gaining valuable experience. For information about finding clinical experiences and making the most out of your volunteer opportunities, visit the Association of American Medical Colleges.

Saint Michael’s College Fire and Rescue

The Saint Michael’s College Rescue Unit is a unique way for students to gain real-world, hands-on medical experience. Student crews respond to 2,200 calls annually, dealing with medical emergencies in nearby towns.  Student volunteers can earn CPR, EMT, and Advanced EMT certification.

Learn more about Saint Michael’s College Fire and Rescue

Saint Michael’s College and MGH Institute of Health Professions

Saint Michael’s College students and alumni now have a guaranteed, streamlined pathway into select graduate programs at the MGH Institute of Health Professions, the only degree-granting affiliate of Mass General Brigham.

Learn more about the MGH pathway

University of Vermont Medical Center

There are many positions available at the nearby UVM Medical Center, including:

• Art from the Heart: Assist with art sessions for children on the Pediatrics Unit
• Emergency Department Waiting Room: Serve as a liaison between staff, family, and patients. Escort visiting family members.
• Pediatrics: Participate in Child Life Play Program: involve pediatric patients in play activities. Training provided by Child Life Specialist.
• Surgical Intensive Care Unit/Medical Intensive Care Unit Liaison: Assist staff by supporting families of patients who are in the SICU/MICU waiting areas. Act as a liaison between families and staff.
• No One Dies Alone Volunteer: Volunteer to sit vigil with dying patients in the absence of family or friends.

Visiting Nurse Association

The Visiting Nurse Association provides volunteer opportunities in hospice, respite care, and other areas.

Learn more about the Vermont Visiting Nurse Association