Biomedical Studies Concentration
Working closely with the Biomedical Studies Coordinator, the Health Professions Committee, the Piper Center for Vocation and Career, and other St. Olaf academic departments, you will compete the Biomedical Studies Concentration, which includes:
- Exploration of the healthcare arena
- Academic courses that assist in the development of specific healthcare related interests
- Experiential learning activities to gain real world hands-on experience
- Completed drafts of a written resume, and the development of important interviewing skills
- Evidence of knowledge and preparedness to move forward with career interests
Important Resources:
Biomedical Studies Coordinator - Jean Porterfield
RNS 428 x3850 porterfi@stolaf.eduThe Piper Center for Vocation and Career - Sandy Malecha
Tomson Hall 270 x3268 malechas@stolaf.edu
Program Description
The Biomedical Studies Concentration is intended as a plan of study that will enhance students' preparation for careers including traditional areas of healthcare such as human medicine and dentistry, but also complementary professions like chiropractic, various therapies (physical, occupational, speech, music, dance, etc.), nursing, and work in hospital administration, hospital ministry, and biomedical ethics.
Biomedical Studies is a multidisciplinary program offering a contract concentration that can be earned in conjunction with any academic major. The Biomedical Studies Concentration consists of five courses and a senior capstone experience. All students must take a foundation course (Biology 123 or 243) depending on their course of study. In addition, students are required to choose one course from opportunities in each of three core components: practical application, experiential learning, and ethical consideration. Within each of these three components, several choices fulfill the requirement. The fifth course is a Level II or III elective outside the student's major.
Please note that the Biomedical Studies Concentration also consists of non-course requirements, including participation in Piper Center workshops, attendance at career-related events, preparation of a resume, and conducting career research.
By the senior year, students will have completed a concentration that allows for the development of individual interests and prepares each to pursue further education and/or work in their chosen healthcare related fields.
Important Notes:
- To begin the Biomedical Studies Concentration, you must meet with the Biomedical Studies Coordinator usually during your sophomore year at St. Olaf.
- All work for your Biomedical Studies Contract must be completed and submitted to the Biomedical Studies Coordinator by May 1 of your senior year.
