Camille Faivre is an Education expert focusing on education management, helping institutions develop and implement open and e-learning programs. As Hesston College announces new bachelor’s degree programs and a partnership with Kansas Health Science University (KHSU), Camille offers insights into these significant developments and their broader implications for the institution and its students.
Can you provide more details about the new bachelor’s degree programs announced by Hesston College?
Hesston College is launching three new bachelor’s degree programs: a Bachelor of Science in Health Science, a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance, and a Bachelor of Art in Sports Management. The Health Science program covers a broad range of subjects including science, mathematics, population health, and healthcare systems, integrated with leadership development and applied learning. The Health and Human Performance program offers two tracks – pre-athletic training and exercise science. Each track provides hands-on, experiential learning tailored to the specific needs of students. Lastly, the Sports Management program is designed to diverge from the business management program by focusing more on the growing sports industry, providing a mix of business, management, and sports-specific education.
Why did Hesston College decide to transition from a two-year to a four-year institution, and how does this align with your strategic goals?
The decision to transition from a two-year to a four-year institution was influenced by multiple factors. Primarily, there was a considerable demand from students looking for more comprehensive educational pathways within Hesston College. The expansion aligns with the institution’s strategic goals to meet these growing educational needs and respond to market demands for in-demand career fields. This transition allows the college to offer robust, career-oriented degrees while continuing to attract and retain students by providing a seamless academic journey.
How will the new health science program prepare students for careers in medicine and allied health fields?
The new Health Science program is meticulously designed to prepare students for both graduate-level studies and careers in medicine and allied health. It incorporates a strong foundation in science and mathematics, essential for medical and clinical roles, alongside focused studies in population health and healthcare systems. This blend ensures that students are not only theoretically proficient but also practically prepared to handle real-world healthcare challenges. Unique elements like leadership development and applied learning further distinguish the program. Additionally, the program builds on Hesston College’s esteemed reputation in nursing education, integrating compassionate care consistent with the institution’s Christ-centered mission.
Can you explain the partnership agreement with Kansas Health Science University (KHSU)?
The partnership with KHSU is a strategic initiative aiming to provide enhanced opportunities for our students while addressing the physician shortage in Kansas. One significant aspect of this collaboration is the 3+4 program, where qualified students can begin their first year of medical school during their senior year at Hesston College. Upon completing this year, they receive their bachelor’s degree from the college, streamlining their journey to a medical degree. The admission requirements involve specific course completions and meeting KansasCOM criteria, creating a focused and accelerated academic path for students. This program not only reduces student debt by shortening the overall study duration but also expedites the training of well-qualified medical professionals for the state.
What specific opportunities will the health and human performance program offer to students?
The Health and Human Performance program is designed to be highly experiential, with extensive hands-on learning opportunities. Students in the exercise science track will have access to a state-of-the-art exercise science lab where they can conduct various physical tests such as VO2 max testing and muscle strength testing. Pre-athletic training students will gain practical skills in injury evaluation and rehabilitation. Additionally, students in the exercise science track can prepare for certifications like the NASM personal trainer certification, which further enhances their employability and professional development.
What makes the sports management program appealing to student-athletes?
The Sports Management program is particularly attractive to student-athletes because it bridges their passion for sports with viable career options within the industry. The curriculum is tailored to provide foundational education in business and management while focusing on sports-specific subjects. Practical and project-based experiences through community partnerships allow students to engage directly with industry leaders, providing valuable hands-on learning and mentorship opportunities. These experiences ensure that students graduate with a well-rounded resume and professional portfolio, ready to enter the dynamic sports industry.
What impact do you expect these new programs to have on Hesston College’s student body and overall growth?
These new programs are anticipated to significantly enhance Hesston College’s appeal to prospective students, driving both enrollment and the overall growth of the institution. By shifting to four-year athletics, the college can better support student-athletes, making the institution more attractive to this demographic. This strategic expansion responds to market demands, potentially drawing students who are specifically interested in these in-demand fields, ultimately fostering a more diverse and vibrant student body.
Do you have any advice for our readers?
For students and educators alike, it’s crucial to stay adaptable and forward-thinking in an evolving educational landscape. Institutions should continuously assess and innovate their program offerings to meet changing demands, ensuring they prepare students not just for existing careers, but for the future ones as well.
