On Campus
Interdisciplinary Health Studies (Bachelor of Science)
Strengthen your academic foundation, open doors to future study and career growth, and enhance your long-term professional flexibility by earning a bachelor's degree alongside your professional health program.
Through an innovative collaboration between the School of Pharmacy and Health Professions and the College of Arts and Sciences, you can earn a Bachelor of Science with a major in Interdisciplinary Health Studies while pursuing a doctorate in:
- Occupational Therapy (OTD)
- Pharmacy (PharmD)
- Physical Therapy (DPT)
About Interdisciplinary Health Studies (Bachelor of Science)
Many students come to Creighton with a goal of becoming a pharmacist, physical therapist or occupational therapist.
To provide a more well-rounded academic experience, Creighton offers the option to earn a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Interdisciplinary Health Studies while completing a professional doctorate in occupational therapy, pharmacy or physical therapy. With help from an advisor, you can fulfill Creighton’s core requirements and your professional program prerequisites. This means you can graduate with both degrees, opening more doors for future career or academic opportunities. Notes on timing:
- Students will need to apply to their graduate program of choice after 1 to 2 years in undergraduate
- For OT and PT students, the BS will be awarded after 2 years in the professional program
- PharmD students will be awarded the BS degree after 3 years in their professional program
Graduation Requirements
Students complete the curriculum requirements and meet 128 credit hours, including:
- Creighton’s undergraduate Magis Core Curriculum (36–38 hours)
- Specific courses taken while enrolled in the professional program
- Prerequisites for acceptance into the professional school:
- All doctoral professional curriculum
Support for Pre-Professional Students
More than half of incoming freshmen at Creighton plan to pursue a professional degree, like pharmacy, OT or PT. We support those students with a uniquely robust pre-professional advising system. Every student at Creighton can take advantage of specialized pre-professional advising offered through the Success Center.
Additionally, selected students can participate in the Pre-Professional Scholars Program, the country’s most comprehensive pathway and guarantee program. It ensures that students who meet specific requirements will continue to one of Creighton’s highly sought-after professional programs after undergrad.
Interdisciplinary Health Studies Admission Requirements
Entry into this program begins with admission to Creighton as an undergraduate. Creighton undergraduate admissions are based upon:
- High school GPA
- ACT or SAT scores*
- Extracurricular activities
- Personal statement to demonstrate creative abilities not reflected in your transcripts
- Recommendation from high school counselor
- Honors sections and advanced placement courses will enhance a candidate’s application
Once you’re a student at Creighton, we’ll help you take the next step, too. Through our premier pre-professional advising program, we’ll guide you through application to Creighton's OT, PT or pharmacy program. Your academic advisor will help plan your course sequence as you work toward your bachelor and doctoral degrees.
*For students who are choosing to apply test-optional, ACT/SAT exam scores are not required at the time of application for admission.
Tuition and Financial Aid for Interdisciplinary Health Studies
Tuition rates are updated each year. Please visit Creighton’s financial aid page to learn more about the cost of attendance.
To apply for financial assistance, we encourage you to complete and submit the FAFSA. There are a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities available for Creighton undergraduate students aimed at making your degree attainable. In fact, Creighton University's Financial Aid Office administers over $200,000,000 in student aid each year from federal, state, institutional and private sources. We invite you to explore our scholarships and learn more about funding your education.
Dates and Deadlines for Interdisciplinary Health Studies
Applications for the fall semester open on August 1 of the prior year. For scholarship consideration, we recommend completing your undergraduate application as early as possible. You can also view up-to-date deadlines on our admissions page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I pursue a bachelor's degree along with my OT, PT or pharmacy degree?
Earning your Bachelor of Science can widen career options and make it easier to pursue further education later. Build a stronger foundation for your future career goals by:
- Earning a bachelor’s degree and a doctorate degree in as little as 6 years
- Integrating liberal arts with professional studies to develop the skills for tomorrow’s jobs
- Being a part of Creighton’s mission to shape well-rounded healthcare professionals
What's the timeline for earning this degree?
The Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Health Studies is awarded during the professional program, prior to completion of the professional doctorate.
- Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy: BS awarded after 2 years in the professional program
- Pharmacy: BS awarded after 3 years in the professional program
How will I navigate requirements for both degrees?
Our dedicated advisors will help you:
- Plan your course sequence efficiently
- Balance core requirements with prerequisites
- Stay on track for both degrees
- Navigate academic challenges
Contact
Maddie Rose, Associate Director of Outreach
MadalynRose@creighton.edu
402.280.2703
