Built to Impact the Lives of Others

Here, you’ll be well-prepared to make a real difference in patients' lives in any health care setting—from hospitals to industry—with challenging best-in-field academic programs and hands-on experiences to help you achieve a meaningful career in allied health. 

Peri Dimitriou
Peri Dimitriou, B.S., health sciences, '24

As a health sciences student at Duquesne, Peri Dimitriou’s journey was filled with opportunities that prepared her both academically and personally for medical school. Following her parents’ footsteps, she knew that caring for people, especially children, was her calling. Named the 2024 Outstanding Student of the Health Sciences, Peri knew Duquesne was the perfect place to start pursuing her doctoral dream.

“Duquesne checked off all the boxes for me. It’s in a big city but with a small campus, so you get to know your professors and classmates. It creates a close-knit community that really helps you reach your goals.”

Read Peri’s story and start your journey toward achieving your bigger healthcare goals.

Undecided, but Driven to Impact Healthcare?

Become a health professional with our customized Health Sciences degree. Explore various health fields, gain hands-on experiences and tailor your education with pathways, concentrations or minors to help you discover your unique path in the health industry. We can help.

Health Science Degrees & Programs

Four-Year Degree Programs

Health Administration (BSHA)

Designed for students that want an integration of healthcare, business management, and information systems. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a job growth of 32% in related fields through the year 2029.

Health Sciences (BSHS)

Our 4-year degree program designed for students that are passionate about science and the health & welfare of others. Gateway program for students that plan to pursue a professional healthcare degree in Medicine (Pre-Med), Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Physician Assistant Studies.

Public Health (BA and BS)

Graduates can make an impact on public health locally and globally, conducting research, educating, and coordinating resources to prevent the spread of diseases. This degree can be utilized to start a career and also serve as a solid foundation for students seeking to purse medical schools, pharmacy schools, and other health related professional programs.

Five-Year Degree Programs

Athletic Training (MS)

Our 5 year (3+2) program where students earn a Bachelors and Masters degree in an accelerated format. Over 30 clinical settings to work alongside Athletic Trainers in college athletics, professional sports teams, High Schools, Physicians offices and more.

Occupational Therapy (MS and OTD)

The only Freshman direct-admit program in Western PA which means students do not reapply for the professional phase of the program. A superior graduation rate and exceptional board pass rates leads to excellent employment opportunities for graduates.

Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS)

The first five-year accelerated program in which students earn two degrees under the guidance of highly qualified and experienced faculty. Students gain valuable experience while rotating through the fields of pediatrics, general surgery, family medicine, internal medicine, emergency medicine, behavioral health and women's health. Every student gets to select a 6-week elective rotation of their choice during the clinical year.

Physical Therapy (DPT)

5.5-year DPT program with Freshman admit, which means no need to reapply for the professional phase of the program. Exceptional reputation and stellar NPTE pass rates shows employers that our graduates are accomplished clinicians and in-demand hires.

Speech-Language Pathology (MS)

The nation's first five-year, accelerated program that guarantees students a bachelor's and master's degree upon successful completion. Students utilize state-of-the-art facilities, including our very own Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic, that provide real-world experience assessing and treating speech, language, and hearing problems.

 

Post-Secondary Degree Programs

Athletic Training (MSAT)

The program prepares students to become skilled healthcare professionals, with a curriculum that combines hands-on experience and academic rigor, graduates are ready to excel in diverse settings from sports teams to clinical environments.

Health Administration (MHA)

Our 100% online Masters degree allows students to continue working while preparing to advance their careers. An MHA degree can help position students for greater earning potential in a growing number of leadership roles.

Health Sciences (PhD)

Students are equipped with key competencies in both rehabilitation theory and clinical skills as well as health administration expertise. New and innovative 72-credit PhD program offers students a complete program of advance study.

Occupational Therapy (MS and OTD)

Through immersive clinical experiences and a strong foundation in theory, graduates are prepared to address a range of physical, emotional, and developmental challenges in diverse practice settings.

Physical Therapy (DPT)

Combining hands-on clinical training with a rigorous academic curriculum, the program prepares graduates to excel in various healthcare settings, from hospitals to private practices and beyond.

Rehabilitation Science (PhD)

The program offers a specialized curriculum in orthopedics and clinical biomechanics. The curriculum is an interdisciplinary endeavor of the departments of Athletic Training, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy.

 

Post-Secondary Certifications

Online Health Informatics and Data Analytics

This 12-credit program is designed for aspiring leaders or those already in management positions who want to enhance their ability to understand, leverage and share data in a healthcare setting.  The courses you will be taking are also included as part of our Master of Health Administration program, and credits earned from this micro-credential can later be applied toward the full degree.

Online Healthcare Compliance and Risk Management

This 12-credit program is designed for aspiring leaders or those already in management positions who want to enhance their ability to utilize systems and processes to uncover, mitigate, and prevent risks in healthcare organizations.  The courses you will be taking are also included as part of our Master of Health Administration program, and credits earned from this micro-credential can later be applied toward the full degree.

Compass Program

Compass is a transformative 4-year inclusive post-secondary education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). It empowers students to achieve their academic, career, and personal goals through a supportive, person-centered approach. By focusing on their unique strengths, Compass nurtures leadership, independence, and self-advocacy through engaging coursework, active campus involvement, and comprehensive career exploration, equipping students with the skills they need for a fulfilling future.

Reaching for Bigger Goals at Duquesne While Balancing Work, School and Fatherhood

Charles Harris graduation BSHS photo

Duquesne was so welcoming to me. They reached out to me personally and really made the process easy. I knew it was the place for me.

Charles Harris BS Health Sciences '24
Read More About Charles' Journey

Upcoming Events

OT Faculty and Staff

Prospective Student Tours

Elevate your campus journey by participating in an exclusive in-person tour led by one of our current students.  This immersive experience offers a deep dive into the many facets of our institution, including facilities, a robust curriculum, exciting career opportunities, rewarding study abroad opti

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  • John G. Rangos Sr. School of Health Sciences
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OT Faculty and Staff

Prospective Student Tours

Elevate your campus journey by participating in an exclusive in-person tour led by one of our current students.  This immersive experience offers a deep dive into the many facets of our institution, including factilities, a robust curriculum, exciting career opportunities, rewarding study abroad opt

  • -
  • John G. Rangos Sr. School of Health Sciences
More About This Event
OT Students in Sim Lab

Occupational Therapy Virtual Info Session

Hear first hand from OT faculty & current DUQ OT students about our MSOT and OTD programs and answers to any questions that you have!

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  • Virtual
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Duquesne - Pittsburgh Connection

Using a two-tiered model of community-engaged learning, Duquesne students are offered the opportunity to engage in community-based learning and experiences throughout their program

Duquesne students will pursue Experiential Learning Opportunities (ELOs) during their programs, leading to an enriched learning experience and enhanced resumes or graduate school applications

Duquesne is an R2 University with high research activity. Students in the Health Sciences work alongside faculty to conduct research as well as attend and present at undergraduate research conferences held on campus

The Rangos School of Health Sciences has more than 5,000 alums working throughout the healthcare industry from hospital administrators to physical therapists

From the Dean's Office

Test

Welcome from Dean Fevzi Akinci

Mission and Vision

HEALTH SCIENCES STRATEGIC PLAN

John G. Rangos, Sr. School of Health Sciences Annual Report

Explore the 2023-2024 Annual Report which highlights our achievements, innovations, and commitment to shaping the future of healthcare

Contact Us

John G. Rangos, Sr. School of Health Sciences

Office of the Dean, 302 Rangos Hall

Dean's Advisory Council

Maria Abunto, MD, MPH, MBA

Maria Abunto, MD, MPH, MBA

Owner, AMBA Venture, LLC

Dongmei Ai, MPT

Dongmei Ai, MPT

Physical Therapist, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital

Kathleen Dames, MS, CCC-SLP

Kathleen Dames, MS, CCC-SLP

Owner/Director, Rehabilitation Specialists, Inc.

Therese DeNinno, PA-C

Therese DeNinno, PA-C

Physician Assistant, Highmark

Rebecca Dieterich, PA-C

Rebecca Dieterich, PA-C

Physician Assistant, UPMC Division of Gastroenterology/Hepatology

Kimberly Eichhorn, MS, CCC-SLP

Kimberly Eichhorn, MS, CCC-SLP

Speech Pathology Program Supervisor, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System

Kenny Erb, MPT

Kenny Erb, MPT

President, Erb Physical Therapy

Lauren Foote, MSLD, LAT, ATC

Lauren Foote, MSLD, LAT, ATC

Senior Women Administrator & Head Athletic Trainer, Sarah Lawrence College

Vanessa Keech, MOT, OTR/L, CEIM

Vanessa Keech, MOT, OTR/L, CEIM

Occupational Therapist, The Watson Institute

Brandon Mazza, LAT, ATC, PES

Brandon Mazza, LAT, ATC, PES

Athletic Trainer, Pittsburgh Penguins

Alan Petrazzi, MPT, MPM, FACHE

Alan Petrazzi, MPT, MPM, FACHE

Senior Manager, Accenture Federal Services

Byron Wade

Byron Wade

Principal, American Healthcare Strategies

Amy L. Zuraski, MOT, OTR/L

Amy L. Zuraski, MOT, OTR/L

Regional Manager, Allegheny Health Network - Pediatric Therapy Services

Health Sciences News Updates

Faculty Workshop Expands Interprofessional Education

The Interprofessional Education Collaborative Committee (IPEC) kicked off the spring 2025 semester with a workshop aimed at expanding interprofessional education opportunities across its health-related programs.

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Balancing Work, School and Fatherhood, He Finally Reaches His Goal

For Charles Harris, the decision to pursue his bachelor’s degree came near the same time as another important life moment – the birth of his first child.

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Learning Together is This Lab’s Superpower

In Dr. Regina “Reggie” Harbourne’s lab, she will tell you that her students have a superpower – recognizing each other’s strengths.

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