Explore UWA Degrees for Healthcare Occupations

Explore degree programs at the University of West Alabama designed to prepare you for a career in healthcare. Whether you’re interested in nursing, athletic training, or other health-related fields, UWA offers a range of programs that equip you with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the rapidly growing industry. Discover your pathway to a rewarding career in healthcare today.

Nursing instructor assists nursing student with healthcare manikin
Student utilizing technology to inspect heart

About Us

The University of West Alabama (UWA) offers a diverse range of undergraduate healthcare occupation degrees designed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the healthcare sector. UWA provides programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing students for careers in nursing, exercise science, athletic training, and related fields. The programs emphasize hands-on learning, clinical experiences, and partnerships with regional healthcare facilities, ensuring students are well-equipped to contribute to the health and well-being of their communities.

Our Programs

Our Programs

Our courses are designed to provide students with a strong foundation.

Three nursing students practice checking blood pressure on a medical manikin

Nursing

Being a registered nurse is one of the most rewarding and challenging of all professional careers. As a registered nurse, you will have the opportunity to promote health, serve humanity and experience the self-satisfaction of a rewarding career. UWA offers both an Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), providing flexible pathways for students to pursue a nursing career and become eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.

Athletic Training

Athletic trainers respond to injuries, provide care, oversee rehabilitation, and handle administrative duties within healthcare teams. Students gain hands-on experience and learn evidence-based decision-making, therapeutic techniques, and key concepts like kinesiology and exercise physiology. Graduates are well-prepared to enter UWA’s CAATE-accredited Master of Athletic Training program.

Health Sciences

Our Health Sciences Comprehensive Major prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities including competitive admission to health science professional schools or non-clinical careers like pharmaceutical sales, wellness coordination, healthcare advocacy, and more. The program offers tracks in athletic training, occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistant, and respiratory therapy.

UWA student walks on treadmill at the UWA Fitness Center

Exercise Science

Explore the physical limitations and potential of the human body, combining science with hands-on learning. Learn skills in exercise testing, prescription, biomechanical analysis, and strength program development. With excellent job prospects and graduate school placement, this program prepares students for careers in public health, allied healthcare, personal training, athletic training, physical and occupational therapy, and more. It also provides a strong foundation for further studies in medical, dental, chiropractic, and therapy-related fields.

Human Performance

The Human Performance program is tailored for students with diverse interests in kinesiology, allowing them to customize their degree by choosing two major concentrations from areas like athletic training, exercise science, physical education, and sport management. Graduates are well-prepared to sit for certification exams needed for various careers, including personal training, fitness facility management, health education, recreational coaching, and more. This flexible program offers a pathway to a wide range of rewarding opportunities in the health and fitness industry.

Why Choose Us

Why Choose Us

Hands-on Experience

UWA emphasizes practical, hands-on learning through internships, clinical experiences, and lab work. This real-world training prepares students for the demands of healthcare professions and gives them a competitive edge in the job market.

Affordable Tuition and Scholarships

UWA offers affordable tuition and numerous scholarships, making it an accessible choice for students pursuing healthcare careers. This financial support allows students to focus on their studies without the burden of excessive student debt.

Strong Job and Graduate School Placement

With a focus on career readiness, UWA graduates often benefit from excellent job prospects and strong placement in graduate programs. This can lead to advanced opportunities in fields like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and medical school.

Personalized Learning Paths

UWA offers flexible degree programs with specialized tracks, allowing students to focus on areas like athletic training, physical therapy, exercise science, and healthcare administration. This customization ensures students can tailor their education to fit their career goals in the healthcare industry.

Student Testimonials

"I had three requirements when I was looking at colleges as a high school senior. I wanted a school with a great nursing program, small class sizes, and my own bathroom as a freshman. UWA checked all of those boxes and cost of attendance was an added plus!"
UWA Student LaDeja Jones
LaDeja Jones
"The Athletic Training major is challenging, but our professors, who also serve as clinical preceptors, are always there to teach, explain, and demonstrate skills. I knew from my first campus tour that the “family” feeling was one that could be unmatched"
Dalton Meader

Start Your Journey Towards a Rewarding Career

Take the first step toward a rewarding career in healthcare by applying to the University of West Alabama today! With personalized programs, hands-on learning, and strong job placement opportunities, UWA provides the ideal environment to launch your healthcare journey. Whether you’re interested in nursing, exercise science, or health administration, UWA will equip you with the skills and experience needed to succeed. Apply now and start building your future in healthcare!

Life at UWA

Your UWA education is so much more than going to class. Learn more about the countless opportunities to be a part of something great, from service organizations and Greek Life to clubs and much more.

Homecoming Week is Here!

Get ready for a full week of exciting events for students, alumni, and friends of UWA! Homecoming is packed with traditions, fun, and activities for everyone. Be part of the celebration by exploring the schedule of events. Don’t miss out—check out the details now!

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