Health Communication
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science (B.A., B.S.)
Undergraduate Major
Allendale • Face to face • 120 Credits
Health communication is the study and practice of effectively conveying health-related information to patients, health care providers, and other stakeholders to promote wellness, prevent disease, and improve health outcomes.
Overview
The health communication major equips students with the skills to effectively convey health-related information and influence health behaviors. The program emphasizes the importance of clear, ethical communication in promoting wellness and managing health crises. Students gain practical experience through coursework and internships, preparing them for diverse careers in the health care industry.
Courses provide a foundation in biomedical sciences, blending scientific knowledge with health communication theory. You will take courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, health communication systems, health care management, fundamentals of advertising, and news reporting.
The major emphasizes a broad understanding of the field, combined with solid technical skills, fostering critical thinking and creative problem-solving through hands-on learning. You will frequently engage in creative performances, exhibitions, and publications related to your major, supported by state-of-the-art facilities that enhance your competence in current and emerging technologies. Additionally, internships in various professional settings provide valuable real-world experience to apply your knowledge and build your network.
School of Communication
gvsu.edu/soc
290 Lake Superior
Hall
(616) 331-3668
Admissions and Recruitment Office
Career Opportunities
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities to solicit and maintain funds for special projects or nonprofit organizations.
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 72,969.08 | 10% |
| $ 86,121.85 | 25% |
| $106,572.51 | 50% |
| $142,328.21 | 75% |
| $179,378.03 | 90% |
Apply knowledge of nursing and informatics to assist in the design, development, and ongoing modification of computerized health care systems. May educate staff and assist in problem solving to promote the implementation of the health care system.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Complex Problem Solving
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 62,973.32 | 10% |
| $ 79,351.07 | 25% |
| $ 99,920.25 | 50% |
| $122,958.64 | 75% |
| $136,572.46 | 90% |
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities designed to create or maintain a favorable public image or raise issue awareness for their organization or client.
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 75,676.08 | 10% |
| $ 91,009.38 | 25% |
| $114,354.20 | 50% |
| $159,180.87 | 75% |
| $196,247.54 | 90% |
Promote health within a community by assisting individuals to adopt healthy behaviors. Serve as an advocate for the health needs of individuals by assisting community residents in effectively communicating with healthcare providers or social service agencies. Act as liaison or advocate and implement programs that promote, maintain, and improve individual and overall community health. May deliver health-related preventive services such as blood pressure, glaucoma, and hearing screenings. May collect data to help identify community health needs.
Top skills- Social Perceptiveness
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Writing
- Reading Comprehension
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 36,465.67 | 10% |
| $ 41,008.49 | 25% |
| $ 47,118.36 | 50% |
| $ 60,503.73 | 75% |
| $ 77,122.57 | 90% |
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Scholarships
Grand Valley State University offers a wide variety of merit-based
scholarships. For information on all of the scholarships that are
available to students, please visit Scholarships at GVSU.
Grand Valley offers myScholarships
(a scholarship matching tool) to help admitted students match
with GVSU scholarships, as well as external scholarship opportunities.
myScholarships will prompt you to answer questions to help match you
to scholarships for which you might qualify.
Student Organizations
Getting involved and staying engaged with our vibrant campus community help you make the most of your Grand Valley experience. Attending student life events, joining a student organization, or participating in campus recreation opportunities are all fantastic ways to maximize your college years:
Career Advising
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