The Associate of Science (A.S.) in Health Sciences at Azusa Pacific Online University offers students a broad knowledge base for the major elements in health sciences.
Incorporating faith and knowledge, the curriculum lays the foundation for ethical evaluations, professional decision-making, practical experience, and respect for God-honoring diversity in the health sciences field.
Learn more about the career opportunities available with an A.S. in Health Sciences.
Career Opportunities
The ASHS program fulfills many of the basic requirements for those students that desire to enter health professions such as dental hygiene, medical assistance, health information careers, etc., as well as students who wish to enroll in preparatory health courses for nursing, science, and health education. The adult learner may complete the ASHS in order to gain promotions, develop health sciences skills, and/or prepare for bachelor’s-level studies. Graduates may apply for employment in such health care facilities as medical and dental clinics, hospitals, and gerontology agencies.
Program Highlights
- Integrate a Christian worldview
- Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills
- Identify and evaluate key ethical issues
- Utilize technology and statistical analysis in decision-making
- Examine cultural and diversity issues
- Implement specific science functions and lab processes within the field
Program Options for the A.S. in Health Sciences
ASHS General Emphasis: APOU offers two program options for the ASHS degree program. A general 60-unit program prepares learners for a wide-range of career options in the health-sciences field.
ASHS Nursing Emphasis: APOU also offers learners wishing to pursue further education in nursing the option to complete the ASHS with an emphasis in nursing. The emphasis is a 70-unit program and follows a specific curriculum identified by Azusa Pacific University (APU), enabling graduates of APOU’s ASHS with an emphasis in nursing to apply to APU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. Learn more about the coursework for the nursing emphasis below and in the APOU catalog.
ASHS General Emphasis Coursework
Skills and University Requirements (18 units)
APOU 101 Momentum: Success in the University*
Course Description
APOU 101
Momentum: Success in the University
3 units
This course lays a strong foundation for a successful transition to college by increasing critical thinking, curiosity, goal orientation, and motivation skills. It provides an orientation to Azusa Pacific Online University, the Moodle online learning system, digital library services, and other support services. Students will be introduced to the idea of a Christian Liberal Arts education, a strengths approach to learning, and opportunities to develop practical skills and strategies for addressing the challenges of college. This course is a prerequisite for all other APOU courses.
MATH 110 College Algebra
Course Description
MATH 110
College Algebra
3 units
This course is a study of basic college algebra, including polynomial and rational functions, inverse functions, the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra, exponential and logarithmic functions and equations, advanced graphical procedures and interpretations, linear and nonlinear systems of equations, matrix representations of systems of equations, and introductory concepts in sequence, series and probability. Prerequisite: MATH 095 Intermediate Algebra, SAT 540/ACT 23 math score, or appropriate score on APOU mathematics placement test
ENGL 101 Expository Writing
Course Description
ENGL 101
Expository Writing
3 units
This course focuses on the literacy skills essential to effective writing, including reading comprehension, audience awareness, genre knowledge, grammatical efficacy, syntactic fluency, and rhetorical sufficiency. Course is limited to 15 students.
ENGL 102 Composition: Argument and Analysis
Course Description
ENGL 102
Composition: Argument and Analysis
3 units
This course promotes the intellectual and rhetorical skills necessary to write persuasive and argumentative prose. Specific areas addressed to include logic, grammar, and rhetoric. Clarity of purpose and perspicuity of argument are examined through attention to critical thinking, logical fallacies, and textual analysis. Course is limited to 15 students. Prerequisite: ENGL 101
COMM 111 Public Communication
Course Description
COMM 111
Public Communication
3 units
This course offers practical instruction in how to speak effectively and introduces the basic principles underlying effective communication. Topics range from the study of theoretical models of interpersonal and public communication to the fundamental skills of research, organization, and delivery of informative and persuasive discourse.
CS 205 Basic Software Tools
Course Description
CS 205
Basic Software Tools
3 units
This PC-based course covers the basics of MS Windows and the use of applications software as problem-solving tools. In-depth coverage of popular word processing, database, and spreadsheet packages are included.
Foreign Language Requirements (4-6 units)
Select one of the following:
One intensive language course:
SPAN 123 Intensive Beginning Spanish
Course Description
SPAN 123
Intensive Beginning Spanish
4 units
This is an intensive accelerated course which emphasizes practical Spanish communication in real-life situations for beginners. The course addresses the pronunciation, intonation, and structure of Spanish within an online framework designed to develop basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Special cultural presentations supplement language study.
-or-
Two 3-unit language sequence:
SPAN 121 Beginning Spanish I
Course Description
SPAN 121
Beginning Spanish I
3 units
This two-course sequence emphasizes practical Spanish communication in real-life situations for beginners. The course addresses the pronunciation, intonation, and structure of Spanish within an online framework designed to develop basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Special cultural presentations supplement language study.
SPAN 122 Beginning Spanish II
Course Description
SPAN 122
Beginning Spanish II
3 units
This is a continuation of SPAN 121. Prerequisite: SPAN 121, passing Spanish CLEP Exam
Integrative Health Sciences Core Requirements (31 units)
God’s Word and the Christian Response (12 units)
APBL 100 Old Testament Survey*
Course Description
APBL 100
Old Testament Survey
3 units
An overview of the Old Testament focusing on the biblical writers, book outlines, major themes, key individuals, and events in biblical history, along with personal application for students today. Subject matter includes creation, revelation, sin, redemption, and the Messianic promises.
APBL 105 New Testament Survey*
Course Description
APBL 105
New Testament Survey
3 units
An overview of the New Testament focusing on the political, cultural, religious, literary, and historical perspectives during the life of Jesus and during the early Church. Authorship, book outlines, key themes, persons, and events in pre- and early church history are examined, along with personal applications for students today.
APHS 100 Introduction to Medical Ethics*
Course Description
APHS 100
Introduction to Medical Ethics
3 units
This introductory course examines the dilemmas and ethical issues facing the health services professional, with an emphasis on medical situations. Topics include ethics of care, civility, medical malpractice, codes of conduct, etc., from a Christian perspective.
MIN 108 Christian Life, Faith, and Ministry*
Course Description
MIN 108
Christian Life, Faith, and Ministry
3 units
The theological, educational, and social bases for ministry and service are examined. An analysis of the church’s responsibility and methods for carrying out the ministry mandate of Jesus is emphasized. Field experience is required.
Health Sciences Fundamentals (19 units)
BIOL 220 General Microbiology/Lab
Course Description
BIOL 220
General Microbiology/Lab
4 units
This class is for students majoring in or planning to major in nursing. The focus is on fundamental microbiological principles and laboratory techniques with an emphasis on disease-causing microorganisms, new and old methods of disease treatment and prevention, and host immune responses. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees. Prerequisite: BIOL 250 or BIOL 251, or their equivalents
BIOL 250 Human Anatomy/Lab
Course Description
BIOL 250
Human Anatomy/Lab
4 units
This course is designed to introduce the principles of human anatomy. It is taught from a systems perspective. Material covered in this course includes basic anatomical terminology, cell, tissue and organ structure and function, and examination of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous systems, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees.
BIOL 251 Human Physiology/Lab
Course Description
BIOL 251
Human Physiology/Lab
4 units
Introduction to the principles of human physiology and how function relates to anatomical structure. Fundamental principles of cellular metabolism, transport mechanisms, cell signaling, fluid and electrolyte balance are covered to lay the foundation for organ system physiology. The course emphasizes homeostatic mechanisms and reciprocal communication of the body’s organ systems and how malfunction can lead to disease. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees.
CHEM 115 Chemistry for Health Sciences/Lab
Course Description
CHEM 115
Chemistry for Health Sciences/Lab
4 units
This course covers organic and biochemistry topics related to the health sciences. Emphasis is placed on organic nomenclature, functional groups, selected organic reactions, and biochemical pathways. Lab activities will focus on the application of organic and biochemistry with respect to the health sciences. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees.
STAT 280 Applied Statistics
Course Description
STAT 280
Applied Statistics
3 units
This is an elementary course in basic statistical concepts. Students are introduced to the understanding and use of necessary computational procedures to attain the basic skills in the following: frequency distributions, graphs, central tendency, variability, normal curve, probabilities, correlation, hypothesis testing, and chi square. Understanding and use of the above statistics are stressed over mathematical development.
General Electives (5-7 units)
To complete the 60-unit General Studies Core requirement students may utilize any 100+ level college or university course. The elective requirement provides students an opportunity to pursue interests beyond program requirements.
ASHS Nursing Emphasis Coursework
The ASHS with an emphasis in nursing curriculum aligns with the specific requirements for entry into the APU nursing program. Specific courses, totaling 70 units, are required only if students are interested in pursuing the BSN with APU. The 70-unit ASHS nursing emphasis curriculum consists of the following coursework:
APBL 100 Old Testament Survey*
Course Description
APBL 100
Old Testament Survey
3 units
An overview of the Old Testament focusing on the biblical writers, book outlines, major themes, key individuals, and events in biblical history, along with personal application for students today. Subject matter includes creation, revelation, sin, redemption, and the Messianic promises.
APBL 105 New Testament Survey*
Course Description
APBL 105
New Testament Survey
3 units
An overview of the New Testament focusing on the political, cultural, religious, literary, and historical perspectives during the life of Jesus and during the early Church. Authorship, book outlines, key themes, persons, and events in pre- and early church history are examined, along with personal applications for students today.
APOU 101 Momentum: Success in the University*
Course Description
APOU 101
Momentum: Success in the University
3 units
This course lays a strong foundation for a successful transition to college by increasing critical thinking, curiosity, goal orientation, and motivation skills. It provides an orientation to Azusa Pacific Online University, the Moodle online learning system, digital library services, and other support services. Students will be introduced to the idea of a Christian Liberal Arts education, a strengths approach to learning, and opportunities to develop practical skills and strategies for addressing the challenges of college. This course is a prerequisite for all other APOU courses.
APSY 295 Human Growth and Development
Course Description
APSY 295
Human Growth and Development
3 units
An extensive study of psychological development from conception through death. This multidisciplinary approach examines the effects of psychosocial, cognitive, biological, moral, and related factors that impact human development.
APSY 430 Cultural Psychology
Course Description
APSY 430
Cultural Psychology
3 units
Reviews research and perspectives on the psychology of culture. Examines diversity including age, race, religion, nationality, disability, language, and gender. Explores the relationship between cultural factors and prejudice, discrimination and oppression. Applies knowledge and principles to effectively interact and serve in a multicultural society.
ART 150 Introduction to Art
Course Description
ART 150
Introduction to Art
3 units
This combination lecture/studio course introduces students to fine art history and processes. Students develop a deeper understanding of the history, forms, and styles of architecture, painting, printmaking, and sculpture. The studio experiences expand students’ personal awareness of art and themselves.
BIOL 220 General Microbiology/Lab
Course Description
BIOL 220
General Microbiology/Lab
4 units
This class is for students majoring in or planning to major in nursing. The focus is on fundamental microbiological principles and laboratory techniques with an emphasis on disease-causing microorganisms, new and old methods of disease treatment and prevention, and host immune responses. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees. Prerequisite: BIOL 250 or BIOL 251, or their equivalents
BIOL 250 Human Anatomy/Lab
Course Description
BIOL 250
Human Anatomy/Lab
4 units
This course is designed to introduce the principles of human anatomy. It is taught from a systems perspective. Material covered in this course includes basic anatomical terminology, cell, tissue and organ structure and function, and examination of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous systems, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees.
BIOL 251 Human Physiology/Lab
Course Description
BIOL 251
Human Physiology/Lab
4 units
Introduction to the principles of human physiology and how function relates to anatomical structure. Fundamental principles of cellular metabolism, transport mechanisms, cell signaling, fluid and electrolyte balance are covered to lay the foundation for organ system physiology. The course emphasizes homeostatic mechanisms and reciprocal communication of the body’s organ systems and how malfunction can lead to disease. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees.
CHEM 115 Chemistry for Health Sciences/Lab
Course Description
CHEM 115
Chemistry for Health Sciences/Lab
4 units
This course covers organic and biochemistry topics related to the health sciences. Emphasis is placed on organic nomenclature, functional groups, selected organic reactions, and biochemical pathways. Lab activities will focus on the application of organic and biochemistry with respect to the health sciences. Special fees apply, including lab pack and other possible material fees.
COMM 111 Public Communication
Course Description
COMM 111
Public Communication
3 units
This course offers practical instruction in how to speak effectively and introduces the basic principles underlying effective communication. Topics range from the study of theoretical models of interpersonal and public communication to the fundamental skills of research, organization, and delivery of informative and persuasive discourse.
CS 205 Basic Software Tools
Course Description
CS 205
Basic Software Tools
3 units
This PC-based course covers the basics of MS Windows and the use of applications software as problem-solving tools. In-depth coverage of popular word processing, database, and spreadsheet packages are included.
ENGL 101 Expository Writing
Course Description
ENGL 101
Expository Writing
3 units
This course focuses on the literacy skills essential to effective writing, including reading comprehension, audience awareness, genre knowledge, grammatical efficacy, syntactic fluency, and rhetorical sufficiency. Course is limited to 15 students.
ENGL 102 Composition: Argument and Analysis
Course Description
ENGL 102
Composition: Argument and Analysis
3 units
This course promotes the intellectual and rhetorical skills necessary to write persuasive and argumentative prose. Specific areas addressed to include logic, grammar, and rhetoric. Clarity of purpose and perspicuity of argument are examined through attention to critical thinking, logical fallacies, and textual analysis. Course is limited to 15 students. Prerequisite: ENGL 101
ENGL 111 Introduction to Literature
Course Description
ENGL 111
Introduction to Literature
3 units
This course introduces students to the varying genres of literature – fiction, poetry, drama, and cinema – while examining and exploring the historical, critical, and social significance of literary expression.Course is limited to 20 students. Prerequisite: ENGL 102
HIST 201 U.S. History or HIST 202 World Civilization
Course Description
HIST 201
U.S. History
3 units
This course will acquaint the student with the major developments of U.S. history from pre-contact to post-modern eras. Emphasis will be given to the foundational political experiences of the American people and how political developments have been influenced and affected by social developments. Students will learn to apply analytical skills to the reading of primary texts representing the whole sweep of American history. Prerequisite: ENGL 102
Course Description
HIST 202
World Civilization
3 units
This course provides an in-depth analysis of global historical trends which have transformed world civilization, such as the emergence of world system(s); formation of ethnic, racial and national identities; capitalism, colonialism and development; ecological imperialism, religious movements; industrialization and modernization. Prerequisite: ENGL 102
MATH 110 College Algebra
Course Description
MATH 110
College Algebra
3 units
This course is a study of basic college algebra, including polynomial and rational functions, inverse functions, the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra, exponential and logarithmic functions and equations, advanced graphical procedures and interpretations, linear and nonlinear systems of equations, matrix representations of systems of equations, and introductory concepts in sequence, series and probability. Prerequisite: MATH 095 Intermediate Algebra, SAT 540/ACT 23 math score, or appropriate score on APOU mathematics placement test
PHL 220 Introduction to Philosophy
Course Description
PHL 220
Introduction to Philosophy
3 units
An introduction to the main areas of philosophy, including epistemology, ethics, metaphysics, and philosophy of religion. The course will introduce learners to the major philosophers and their writings. In addition, learners will become familiar with worldview-thinking; a conceptual framework from which to examine, understand, and converse on the various topics in philosophy. In particular, learners will learn to articulate a comprehensive Christian worldview, and communicate their perspectives with clarity and relevancy.
PSYC 110 General Psychology
Course Description
PSYC 110
General Psychology
3 units
This general survey course explores the field of psychology. It includes human development, social psychology, learning, perception, cognition, motivation, personality, psychological testing, and nervous system functioning. Students enrolled in this course may be required to share information regarding their personal life, family, or relationships.
SPAN 121 Beginning Spanish I
Course Description
SPAN 121
Beginning Spanish I
3 units
This two-course sequence emphasizes practical Spanish communication in real-life situations for beginners. The course addresses the pronunciation, intonation, and structure of Spanish within an online framework designed to develop basic listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Special cultural presentations supplement language study.
SPAN 122 Beginning Spanish II
Course Description
SPAN 122
Beginning Spanish II
3 units
This is a continuation of SPAN 121. Prerequisite: SPAN 121, passing Spanish CLEP Exam
STAT 280 Applied Statistics
Course Description
STAT 280
Applied Statistics
3 units
This is an elementary course in basic statistical concepts. Students are introduced to the understanding and use of necessary computational procedures to attain the basic skills in the following: frequency distributions, graphs, central tendency, variability, normal curve, probabilities, correlation, hypothesis testing, and chi square. Understanding and use of the above statistics are stressed over mathematical development.
*Must be taken at APOU
Note: This information is current for the 2013 academic year; however, all stated academic information is subject to change. To view 2013 program information, please refer to the APOU catalog.