This course serves as an introduction to the field of health science. The student will develop an understanding of the health care system in the United States and the professions which impact it. The student will be learning how to navigate the health care resources and acquire knowledge of how health care is delivered.

This course provides knowledge and skills to apply a population focused approach to addressing health-related problems in the US. This course will cover basic epidemiological concepts, statistics, and tools used in descriptive and analytic epidemiology. Students will gain practice in reading and interpreting epidemiologic studies used as a basis for improving health. Tools for improving public health will also be covered, including screening programs, Healthy People initiatives, and disease surveillance systems.

Issues and dilemmas in the health care system serve as a basis for examination of theories and principles of ethics. The spiritual domain is considered a valued context for decision-making.

This course prepares healthcare professionals to successfully apply technology to manage healthcare challenges and opportunities. It emphasizes the vital requirement of healthcare professionals to effectively use technology tools that will engage healthcare consumers as partners in care. A theoretical foundation for the field of informatics is introduced and applied. The course is designed for students in nursing or health science programs of study. It is built upon and connected to the University urban, intercultural, and Christian distinctives.

Introduces elements of the research process with emphasis on becoming a consumer of research. Focus is on relevance of research findings to evidenced-based quality health care. Considers ethical issues in research.

Examines and emphasizes the challenges and opportunities related to issues in health policy and health care from a local, national, and international perspective. Addresses the political, economic, legal, and ethical aspects of the United States Health Care policy and health care issues; their impact on patients; and mechanisms and strategies for political advocacy and influence.