Allied Health professionals are involved with the delivery of health or related services pertaining to the identification, evaluation and prevention of diseases and disorders; dietary and nutrition services; rehabilitation and health systems management, among others. Allied health professionals, to name a few, include dental hygienists, diagnostic medical sonographers, medical technologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, radiographers, respiratory therapists, and speech language pathologists. Allied health encompasses a broad group of health professionals who use scientific principles and evidence-based practice for the diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of acute and chronic diseases; promote disease prevention and wellness for optimum health, and apply administration and management skills to support health care systems in a variety of settings. (asahp.org)
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What is a PA?
PAs are licensed clinicians who practice medicine in every specialty and setting. PAs are dedicated to expanding access to care and transforming health and wellness through patient-centered, team-based medical practice. Where do PA’s practice? There are approximately 159,000 PAs who practice in every medical setting in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. They work in hospitals, medical offices, community health centers, nursing homes, retail clinics, educational facilities, workplace clinics, and correctional institutions. PAs also serve in the nation’s uniformed services and work for other federal government agencies, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs.
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So You Want to Pursue Allied Health at UMBC?
View 2nd Annual Allied Health Symposium
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Explore Health Careers Early & Often
Even if you have wanted to be a nurse since you were little, come to UMBC with an open mind. Take time to investigate different allied health pathways. Meet with advisors, take interest inventories, join multiple student organizations, anything that can help you explore and confirm which pathway is right for you.
Follow Your Passion- Choose the Major That is Right For You.
While strong grades in the sciences are very important, you should not feel pressure to major in the sciences if you have a passion for another subject matter. Pre-Physical Therapy students can be Philosophy majors. Pre-Nursing students can be Visual Arts majors. Do what you love. It is important to know that science course progressions can be different depending on your chosen major, so be sure to view STEM vs non STEM pathways for your prospective allied health program.
Research Professional Schools & Know their Requirements!
Don’t just follow requirements for one school. Take time to research a variety of schools in your allied health pathway. Make a list of common pre-reqs and meet often with your Academic Advisor to ensure timely and successful completion of those courses.
Get Experience & Get Involved.
Gaining first-hand knowledge about the profession you wish to enter is crucial during these pre-professional years. Volunteer in a hospital, shadow a nurse. Learn about what professionals in your field are doing.
The Office for Academic & Pre-Professional Advising offers academic advising and application preparation for students who are planning to enter professional programs in Dental Hygiene, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, and Physician Assistant. The Pre-Medical & Pre-Dental Advising Office offers academic advising and application preparation for students who are planning to enter professional programs in Dentistry, Medicine, Optometry & Veterinary Medicine. In addition to your professional school advisors, students will also work closely with academic advisors in their academic major.