Major in Health Science

As a health science major at Merrimack College, you’ll study personal health, epidemiology, nutrition, community health, disease prevention and fitness-related topics to learn how the human body functions, both in health and disease.

Through your science-centered classes and intensive clinical experiences, you’ll build the skills you need to promote better health on both an individual and community level.

student using ipad.

What You’ll Learn

In the health science program, you will:

  • Explore various aspects of human biomedical science.
  • Focus on the scientific process and scientific communication.
  • Practice independent and collaborative investigative approaches in the laboratory.
  • Use 3-D visualization software to explore the inner workings of the human body.

Hands-on Learning

As a health science major, your learning opportunities extend far beyond the classroom. You’ll gain practical experience in the laboratory or the field through faculty-directed research projects. 100% of exercise science majors participate in at least one internship, co-op, fieldwork or practicum. You can explore real-word careers and start building a professional network by taking part in internships, co-ops and independent-study programs at top institutions like Children’s Hospital, Harvard University Center for Genomics Research and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. And if you’re interested in a graduate degree, you’ll gain the clinical and research experience you need to apply to the program of your choosing.

Career Options

The field of health sciences is popular. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 10 occupations that are projected for fastest growth are all in the health science fields. With your degree in health science, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue a rewarding career in the healthcare industry, whether you’re interested in professional medical practice, biomedical research, public health, hospital administration, education or medical technology.

Interested in becoming a doctor, nurse practitioner, physician assistant or athletic trainer? Upon successful completion of the health science program, you’ll be well-positioned to pursue further study in the field of your choosing.

Courses You’ll Take

Health Science Major Requirements

Health Science Major Requirements

General Education Requirements

In addition to the major requirements below, you will also need to complete Merrimack’s general education requirements.


To see more details about the major, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu.

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Sample Curriculum Guide

Wondering when you’ll take certain courses? Use the Curriculum Guide—a sample four-year schedule—to get a sense of what your path to graduation looks like.