Middle Georgia State University (MGA) plans to offer a Bachelor of Science in Health Science, following approval of the degree on Tuesday, May 14, by the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia. MGA plans to launch the degree this fall, now that the Southern Association of Colleges’ Commission on Colleges has accredited the program.

MGA designed the degree to complement existing programs in nursing, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy, and rehabilitation science. Graduates could use the degree as a means of entering the healthcare field as community health educators, patient representatives, healthcare data analysts, or other allied health professions. Or they could build on the knowledge gained through the program by entering graduate school or through pursuing a second bachelor’s degree in a specific healthcare profession, such as respiratory therapy or nursing. Many of the core courses in the new program would apply toward degrees in clinical healthcare fields.

MGA already offers an associate’s degree in health science, and graduates of that program who want a bachelor’s degree could seamlessly transition to the new program.

“We are excited about the addition of this new degree program to our academic portfolio,” said Dr. Tara Underwood, dean of MGA’s School of Health & Natural Sciences. “It will be a fantastic option for students interested in becoming allied health professionals, who are critically needed in our region, and provide flexibility for them to move into other evolving areas of healthcare if they want to expand their careers.”

Underwood said the new program aligns with the University System of Georgia and MGA’s commitment to advancing educational opportunities, supporting workforce development, and positively impacting the broader community.

“By focusing on occupations with substantial job openings and growth rates, the program ensures that its graduates are not only well-prepared for immediate entry into the workforce but are also equipped to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing expansion and enhancement of the healthcare sector in the state,” Underwood said. “This initiative-taking approach to aligning education with labor market demands positions the program as a vital contributor to Georgia's healthcare workforce development and economic prosperity.”

MGA will initially offer the program on the Dublin and Macon campuses. The program will be housed in the Department of Respiratory Therapy and Health Sciences. Prospective students can contact Teri Miller, chair of that department, by calling 478-471-2783 or emailing [email protected] for more information.