The Bachelor of Science in Health Science

Total Course Requirements for the Bachelor's Degree: 120 units

See Bachelor's Degree Requirements in the University Catalog for complete details on general degree requirements. A minimum of 40 units, including those required for the major, must be upper division.

A suggested Major Academic Plan (MAP) has been prepared to help students meet all graduation requirements within four years. You can view MAPs on the Degree MAPs page in the University Catalog or you can request a plan from your major advisor.

General Education Pathway Requirements: 48 units

See General Education in the University Catalog and the Class Schedule for the most current information on General Education Pathway Requirements and course offerings.

Diversity Course Requirements: 6 units

See Diversity Requirements in the University Catalog. Most courses taken to satisfy these requirements may also apply to General Education .

Literacy Requirement:

See Mathematics and Writing Requirements in the University Catalog. Writing proficiency in the major is a graduation requirement and may be demonstrated through satisfactory completion of a course in your major which has been designated as the Writing Proficiency (WP) course for the semester in which you take the course. Students who earn below a C- are required to repeat the course and earn a C- or higher to receive WP credit. See the Class Schedule for the designated WP courses for each semester. You must pass ENGL 130I or JOUR 130I (or equivalent) with a C- or higher before you may register for a WP course.

Course Requirements for the Major: 63-69 units

Completion of the following courses, or their approved transfer equivalents, is required of all candidates for this degree. Additional required courses, depending upon the selected option are outlined following the major core program requirements.

Note: A maximum of 15 units of internship (courses numbered 189, 289, 389, 489) may be applied to a bachelor's degree at CSU, Chico.

Major Core Program: 18 units

5 courses required:

Note: A minimum of 6 units of HCSV 489 is required for all options.

Major Option Course Requirements: 45-51 units

The following courses, or their approved transfer equivalents, are required dependent upon the option chosen. Students must select one of the following options for completion of the major course requirements.  Use the links below to jump to your chosen option.

• The Option in Environmental Health
• The Option in Gerontology
• The Option in Health Education
• The Option in Health Services Administration

The Option in Environmental Health: 49-51 units

Math and Science Core: 30-32 units

2 courses required:

SUBJ NUM	Title	Sustainable	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
BIOL 151	Principles of Cellular and Molecular Biology		4.0	FS	GE
Prerequisites: Recommend CHEM 111 or concurrent enrollment. Introduction to biological molecules, bioenergetics, cellular structure and function, elements of molecular biology and genetics, and mechanisms of macroevolution and systematics. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. This is an approved General Education course. (001122)
PHYS 202A	General Physics		4.0	FS
Prerequisites: High school physics or faculty permission. High school trigonometry and second-year high school algebra or equivalent (MATH 051 and MATH 118 at CSU, Chico). Mechanics, properties of matter, wave motion, sound, heat. Science majors are encouraged to take PHYS 204A instead of this course. 3 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (007394)

1 course selected from:

1 course selected from:

1 course selected from:

1 course selected from:

2 courses selected from:

SUBJ NUM	Title	Sustainable	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
BIOL 103	Human Anatomy		4.0	FS	GE
Study of the structure of the human body, to include muscles, bones, heart, brain, ear, eye, and other systems, as well as a short look at development of the fetus. Lab work entails dissection of the cat and study of the human skeleton. 3 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. This is an approved General Education course. (001110)
BIOL 104	Human Physiology		4.0	FS	GE
Basic functioning of the organ systems of the human body, including the brain and nervous system; vision and hearing; heart and circulation; blood and immunity; respiration, digestion and metabolism; muscles; excretory, endocrine, and reproductive systems. 3 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. This is an approved General Education course. (001114)
BIOL 152	Principles of Ecological, Evolutionary, and Organismal Biology		4.0	SP	GE
Prerequisites: BIOL 151 or faculty permission; recommend CHEM 112 or concurrent enrollment. Introduction to evolutionary history and biological diversity, microbes and protists, invertebrates, vertebrates, and plants. Form and function of plants and animals. Ecological principles. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. This is an approved General Education course. (001123)
CHEM 350	Introductory Biochemistry		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CHEM 108. A survey of biochemistry, principally for agriculture, child development, and nursing students. Normally not open to chemistry or biological sciences majors. 3 hours discussion. (001849)
GEOS 102	Physical Geology		3.0	FS	GE
Prerequisites: High school chemistry or physics is recommended; students with no previous science courses are advised to enroll in GEOS 101. No college credit for those who have passed GEOS 101. Physical and chemical processes in the earth, including origin and identification of rocks and minerals; earth's interior; movements and major features of the earth's crust; erosion and sedimentation; geological structures; topographic maps; mineral resources. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. This is an approved General Education course. (004069)
PHYS 202B	General Physics		4.0	FS
Prerequisites: PHYS 202A with a grade of C- or higher. Light, electricity, magnetism, selected topics in modern physics. Science majors are encouraged to take PHYS 204B instead of this course. Algebra and trigonometry are used. 3 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (007395)

Environmental Health course requirements: 19 units

7 courses required:

SUBJ NUM	Title	Sustainable	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
CHEM 445	Environmental Toxicology		2.0	SP
Prerequisites: CHEM 108 or CHEM 270. A brief introduction to the principles of toxicology and presentation of facts about current issues related to toxic substances, with special expanded emphasis on environmental aspects of topics presented in CHEM 345. 2 hours discussion. (001880)
CIVL 431	Environmental Engineering		4.0	SP
Prerequisites: BIOL 151, CIVL 175 or NSCI 102; CHEM 107 or CHEM 111; MATH 109 or MATH 120; junior standing. Introduction to water quality, water supply, distribution, and drinking water treatment; wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal. Disease transmission; water quality parameters; physical, chemical, and biological processes in the treatment of water, wastewater, and biosolids. 3 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (001529)
GEOG 119A	Introductory ArcGIS		1.0	FS
Introduction of concepts and techniques of geographic information system analysis and the presentation of map data. The course introduces the ArcMap application. Not for geography majors. 1 hour lecture. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 2.0 units. (020348)
HCSV 360	Public Health Administration		3.0	FS
This course provides a survey of administrative functions within public health and health education programs. Major approaches to motivation, leadership, conflict management, supervision, and budgeting are presented. Concepts of marketing, public policy, administrative law and public health disaster response are addressed. 3 hours lecture. (020438)
HCSV 362	Environmental Health		3.0	FS
An overview of the relationship of people and nature; the impact of environmental conditions, such as water and air pollution, solid wastes, food contamination, vectors, radiation, noise, light, which cause deleterious effects on people's physical, mental, and social well-being. Individual and collective consumer intervention in environmental health problems. 3 hours discussion. (001606)
HCSV 463	Epidemiology		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: MATH 105. Recommended: HCSV 320. Study of the patterns of the major chronic and infectious diseases. Both individual- and population-based approaches to prevention and control will be examined. 3 hours discussion. (001607)
POLS 461	Environmental Politics and Policy		3.0	SP
Investigation and analysis of the political nature of the environmental crisis in the United States and the development of legal and administrative mechanisms for handling environmental problems. 3 hours lecture. (007596)

The Option in Gerontology: 46 units

14 courses required:

1 course selected from:

The Option in Health Education: 46-48 units

13 courses required:

SUBJ NUM	Title	Sustainable	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
BIOL 104	Human Physiology		4.0	FS	GE
Basic functioning of the organ systems of the human body, including the brain and nervous system; vision and hearing; heart and circulation; blood and immunity; respiration, digestion and metabolism; muscles; excretory, endocrine, and reproductive systems. 3 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. This is an approved General Education course. (001114)
HCSV 260	Computer Applications in Health Education		3.0	FS
An introduction to computer software applications used in health education. Students have hands-on experience developing electronic resources for publishing health education CD-ROMs and Web sites. Skills learned may also be used for desktop publishing. Other topics addressed include digital photography, video, scanning, graphic design, archiving, professional presentations, academic databases, and evaluating electronic resources. 3 hours discussion. (004434)
HCSV 265	Human Sexuality		3.0	FS	GE
Overview of human sexuality, including psychosexual development, gender roles, reproductive system, pregnancy and childbirth, contraception, abortion, sexually transmitted diseases including HIV/AIDS, relationships, sexual orientation, sex and the law, sexually explicit materials, and sexual dysfunction. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (004384)
HCSV 320	Chronic and Communicable Diseases		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: BIOL 104 is strongly recommended. Examines the major chronic and communicable diseases, including cause, prevention, and treatment strategies. Behaviors that promote health and reduce premature death and disease are also addressed. 3 hours lecture. (001574)
HCSV 360	Public Health Administration		3.0	FS
This course provides a survey of administrative functions within public health and health education programs. Major approaches to motivation, leadership, conflict management, supervision, and budgeting are presented. Concepts of marketing, public policy, administrative law and public health disaster response are addressed. 3 hours lecture. (020438)
HCSV 362	Environmental Health		3.0	FS
An overview of the relationship of people and nature; the impact of environmental conditions, such as water and air pollution, solid wastes, food contamination, vectors, radiation, noise, light, which cause deleterious effects on people's physical, mental, and social well-being. Individual and collective consumer intervention in environmental health problems. 3 hours discussion. (001606)
HCSV 369	Health Education Techniques		3.0	FS
This course introduces health education theory, curricula, resources, and marketing techniques for use in school and community settings. Students plan, develop, implement, and evaluate effective health education and promotion programs. Students practice professional health education techniques while working with a local organization to implement a community health education. 3 hours lecture. (001613)
HCSV 370	Drugs in Our Society		3.0	FS	GE
An overview of the use and abuse of alcohol, prescription and street drugs, and their personal and societal consequences on the young adult, the family, and society. Historical perspectives, legal issues, and decision-making skills regarding drug use will also be addressed. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. (004435)
HCSV 463	Epidemiology		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: MATH 105. Recommended: HCSV 320. Study of the patterns of the major chronic and infectious diseases. Both individual- and population-based approaches to prevention and control will be examined. 3 hours discussion. (001607)
HCSV 467	Mental and Emotional Health		3.0	FS
Examination of nature and factors affecting mental health and positive and negative responses to problems in daily living. Discussion of types of mental disorders and public health strategies to deal with these problems. 3 hours discussion. (001611)
HCSV 471	Health Education Planning: Theory and Practice		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: HCSV 321, HCSV 369, or faculty permission. Examines theory and methods to facilitate individual and group behavior change to promote health and reduce risks of premature morbidity and mortality. Concepts in the behavioral sciences affecting health behavior, motivation, decision-making, and risk-taking are explored. Students will develop program planning and evaluation skills. 3 hours discussion. (001615)
HCSV 579	Grant Writing and Other Fundraising Strategies		3.0	FS
Knowledge and skill development in writing grant proposals for health and community services. Skills in researching government, foundation, and corporate funding opportunities. Diversifying nonprofit income through other fundraising strategies. 3 hours seminar. (001618)
NFSC 303	Nutrition and Physical Fitness		3.0	FS	GE
Prerequisites: One lower-division course in biological sciences. Analyzes and evaluates current practices and theories regarding nutrition and its relationship to athletics, weight control, and physical exercise. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (004288)

2 courses selected from:

SUBJ NUM	Title	Sustainable	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
BIOL 103	Human Anatomy		4.0	FS	GE
Study of the structure of the human body, to include muscles, bones, heart, brain, ear, eye, and other systems, as well as a short look at development of the fetus. Lab work entails dissection of the cat and study of the human skeleton. 3 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. This is an approved General Education course. (001110)
BIOL 211	Allied Health Microbiology		4.0	FS
Prerequisites: BIOL 103, BIOL 104, BIOL 151, or NSCI 102; CHEM 107, CHEM 108, or CHEM 111. Introduction to structure/function, metabolism, genetics, ecological interactions and pathogenic mechanisms of microorganisms. In addition, the roles of microorganisms in sanitation and in the food and biotechnology industries will be discussed. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (001132)
BIOL 334	Conservation Ecology		3.0	FS	GE
Prerequisites: One biological sciences course. An examination of ecological principles and the impact of increasing population and technology upon the environment. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. (001156)
CHEM 108	Organic Chemistry for Applied Sciences		4.0	FS	GE
Prerequisites: CHEM 107 or CHEM 111 or equivalent. A survey of organic chemistry primarily for agriculture, industry and technology, and pre-nursing students. 3 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. This is an approved General Education course. (001828)
HCSV 323	International Health		3.0	FS	GE
Analysis of historical and current health problems in the world: population dynamics, vital statistics, global disease patterns, and variations among nations and cultures. Examination of contributing social, psychological, physical, governmental, and cultural factors affecting disease. Efforts toward health promotion and disease prevention, including international programs. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (004412)
HCSV 325	Consumer Health		3.0	FS
Examination of major health care consumer issues from historical and contemporary perspectives. Discussion of cost, availability, and quality of health care and their relationship to political and economic activities. Identification of national, regional, and local health trends affecting consumers. Analysis of individual and collective consumer strategies. 3 hours lecture. (004445)
HCSV 363	Child Health		3.0	FS
An examination of the status, needs, and trends in the health of America's children, including selected racial/ethnic groups. The course includes an overview of physical growth and development from the prenatal period to early adolescence; discussion of common health problems, causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention; and addresses selected health issues such as diet, physical activity, stress, violence, drugs, sexuality, and environmental risks. An overview of current and potential health services and prevention programs for children is included. 3 hours discussion. (004441)
HCSV 368	Women's Health		3.0	FS	GE
This course is also offered as WMST 368. This course represents an overview of health care issues faced by women throughout the life cycle. The course begins an examination of scientific inquiry and the study of disease in women. Then, using sociological, political, and behavioral sciences, the roles, rights, and responsibilities of women in the health care system are assessed. The course concludes with a biological review of the female body and specific health care problems common to women. This course encompasses a woman-centered philosophy which encourages women's active participation in their health care decisions. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. (004381)
HCSV 431	The Healthcare Delivery System		3.0	FA
Provides an overview of the U.S. healthcare delivery system from historical, organizational, financial, and administrative perspectives. Analyzes current health issues, such as cost, access, and quality of care. 3 hours seminar. (001583)
HCSV 450	Health Education for Elementary School Teachers		3.0	FS
Addresses major health issues affecting the child, including, but not limited to, health promotion and disease prevention, nutrition, substance use and abuse, and sexuality. Overview of health instruction framework for California public schools. Fulfills the state health education requirement for a preliminary teaching credential. 3 hours discussion. (004393)
HCSV 451	Health Education for Secondary School Teachers		3.0	FS
Addresses major health issues affecting the adolescent, including, but not limited to, health promotion and disease prevention, nutrition, substance use and abuse, and sexuality. Fulfills the state health education requirement for a preliminary teaching credential. 3 hours discussion. (004394)
HCSV 462	School Health Programs		3.0	SP
Prerequisite: HCSV 369 recommended. Philosophical framework, organization, administration, and legal aspects of the school health program. Development of prevention and intervention strategies for major health problems affecting K-12 students, with emphasis on cultural sensitivity, at-risk youth, and community/school partnerships. 3 hours seminar. (004466)
HCSV 541	Health in the Later Years		3.0	FA
Exploration of changing health status and needs in later life. Discussion of body system changes, bio-psycho-social influences on elders' health, health enhancement strategies, common health problems, treatment, and prevention. Also addresses drug use and abuse, sexuality, chronic illness, use of health delivery systems, including long-term care. 3 hours lecture. (001569)

Note: Students seeking the Single Subject Waiver in Health Science are required to take HCSV 325 and HCSV 462.

The Option in Health Services Administration: 45 units

13 courses required:

1 course selected from:

1 course selected from:

Note: May be used to satisfy this requirement if not used above.

Note: May be used to satisfy this requirement if not used above.

Or any 300 or 400 level course from the College of Business with permission of the Health Services Administration advisor.

Electives Requirement:

To complete the total units required for the bachelor's degree, select additional elective courses from the total University offerings. You should consult with an advisor regarding the selection of courses which will provide breadth to your University experience and possibly apply to a supportive second major or minor.

Grading Requirement:

All courses taken to fulfill major course requirements must be taken for a letter grade except those courses specified by the department as Credit/No Credit grading only.

The BS in Health Science signifies readiness for an entry-level career in specific health-related fields. Most courses in each option have been designated as competency courses and are vital to what a professional in this field should know and be able to do. Students who earn below a C- in those courses are required to repeat the course and earn a C- or better for the course to count in the major. For the Options in Environmental Health, Gerontology, and Health Education, the courses include all upper-division HCSV courses required for the major. For the Health Services Administration Option, the courses include all required upper-division courses for the major.

Advising Requirement:

Advising is mandatory for all majors in this degree program. Consult your undergraduate advisor for specific information.

Honors in the Major:

Honors in the Major is a program of independent work in your major. It requires 6 units of honors course work completed over two semesters.

The Honors in the Major program allows you to work closely with a faculty mentor in your area of interest on an original performance or research project. This year-long collaboration allows you to work in your field at a professional level and culminates in a public presentation of your work. Students sometimes take their projects beyond the University for submission in professional journals, presentation at conferences, or academic competition. Such experience is valuable for graduate school and professional life. Your honors work will be recognized at your graduation, on your permanent transcripts, and on your diploma. It is often accompanied by letters of commendation from your mentor in the department or the department chair.

Some common features of Honors in the Major program are:

1. You must take 6 units of Honors in the Major course work. All 6 units are honors classes (marked by a suffix of H), and at least 3 of these units are independent study (399H, 499H, 599H) as specified by your department. You must complete each class with a minimum grade of B.
2. You must have completed 9 units of upper-division course work or 21 overall units in your major before you can be admitted to Honors in the Major. Check the requirements for your major carefully, as there may be specific courses that must be included in these units.
3. Your cumulative GPA should be at least 3.5 or within the top 5% of majors in your department.
4. Your GPA in your major should be at least 3.5 or within the top 5% of majors in your department.
5. Most students apply for or are invited to participate in Honors in the Major during the second semester of their junior year. Then they complete the 6 units of course work over the two semesters of their senior year.
6. Your honors work culminates with a public presentation of your honors project.

While Honors in the Major is part of the Honors Program, each department administers its own program. Please contact your major department or major advisor to apply.