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Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other

Health Science is exactly what it sounds like—it’s the application of science for health purposes. There are a wide variety of subsets within health science, common ones being neurology, pediatrics, acupuncture, physical therapy, oncology, and nutrition. There are also two sides to this area of study: research and application. Many health science majors plan to take on clinician roles such as becoming a physician, which require postgraduate education.

Studying health science doesn’t have to directly result in working at a medical facility or research center. Keep in mind that there are other facets to this industry and the need for artists and writers with medical knowledge is significant. Anatomical drawings and healthcare instructions are invaluable. Computer science can be applied to the databases hospitals use, while medical ethics is always a great option for philosophy majors.

Associate Level

This 2-year program will offer an introductory curriculum to biology and chemistry, public health, medical ethics, and anatomy and physiology. You can also focus on a specific aspect of health science, such as administration, and begin work immediately upon graduation. Entry level positions are open in most fields with an associate’s, however.

Positions available after completing an associate’s in health science include: Medical Record Administrator, Medical Secretary/Clerical Worker, Histological Technician, Medical Laboratory Technician, Human Services, Dental Assistant, Emergency Medical Technician, Medical Assistant, Surgical Technologist/Technician, Pharmacy Technician, Radiation Therapist, Radiographer, Respiratory Therapist/Technician, Cardiovascular Technology, Electroencephalograph (EEG) Technician, Optician/Ophthalmic Dispenser, Optometric Assistant.

Baccalaureate

In a 4-year health science baccalaureate program, you can expect to delve deeper into the same subjects as an associate’s, but with much more depth. Curriculum will also include medical terminology, epidemiology, and issues in contemporary healthcare, as well. One of the largest perks of opting for a baccalaureate over the associate’s is the access to laboratory facilities, meaning that research options will be more available.

Career paths with a bachelor’s degree include: Community Health Organizer, Health Educator, Patient Educator, Cardiovascular technician, Anesthesia Technician, Registered Health Information Technician, Surgical Technician, Respiratory Therapist, Occupational Therapy Assistant. Cytotechnologist, Specialist in Blood Bank Technology, Biomedical Photographer, Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Dental Hygienist, Dietetic Technician, Dietitian, Organ Transplant Coordinator, Funeral Director, Nuclear Medicine Technologist, Sonographer, Exercise Scientist, Music Therapist, Prosthetics, Orthotics, Perfusionist, Athletic Trainer. Salaries vary widely at this level and are anywhere between $34,000 and $84,000, depending on field and program.

Master Level

The master’s level of education in health sciences (MHS) will likely give you the authority to hold a therapy position, such as an occupational or physical therapist. Master’s degrees in health science can typically be completed in two years and often result in higher salaries within the industry. The curriculum will focus heavily on a specified concentration, some of which include: healthcare risk management, clinical research, generalist, healthcare promotion and education, biostatistics, mental health, immunology, healthcare leadership, sports medicine, healthcare policy, reproductive biology, microbiology, and epidemiology.

Career paths after obtaining a master’s in health science are wide and varied. If a medical degree is the goal, applying to medical school would be next. Options with a master’s include: working in public health or health policy, maternal or child health, informatics, becoming a Health Educator or Health Services Manager, a Health Sciences Writer or Librarian, or a Biomedical Illustrator, or work in Healthcare Administration or Environmental Health. You can also consider positions such as: Speech/Language Pathologist, Holistic Therapist, Drama Therapist, Dance/Movement Therapist, Audiologist, Art Therapist, Toxicologist, Nurse Anesthetist, Clinical Social Worker.

Doctoral Level

The Doctor of Health Sciences degree, D.H.Sc., is specifically for teaching and leadership positions within the field. This relatively recent degree (first introduced in 2000) is designed to prepare practitioners and administrators to implement solutions to health care issues. It retains that primary goal today.

Career paths for graduates with a D.H.Sc. include: Health Specialties Educator, Clinical Researcher, Medical and Health Service Manager, Biostatician, Psychologist.

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Colleges

Yale University

Yale University is a large research institution chartered in 1701, making it the third-oldest institution of higher education in the US. On top of the numerous academic undergrad degrees at Yale College, students also have access to Multidisciplinary...

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It is hard to limit yourself to only 4 or 5 courses with all that Yale has to offer. It isn't unheard of for very ambitious students to pile on 6 or even 7 at a time! Many classes will push you hard to master the material, but there are always a...

” – Yale '12
Columbia University in the City of New York

Founded in 1754, Columbia University is a private research university located in the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The urban Ivy League campus houses 17 libraries and 20 schools, which offer upwards of 350 majors, as well as the Cathedral of St. John...

“…

The amount of learning that takes place in one semester at Columbia is truly amazing. I have learned more in such a short period of time than I would have ever thought possible. As much as we may all complain about how extensive the Core Curriculum...

” – Nina from Baldwin, NY
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Founded in 1817, University of Michigan in Ann Arbor is the state’s oldest university. U of M has very high research activity and is a often referred to as a Public Ivy. The university at Ann Arbor offers upwards of 260 degrees for undergraduates...

“…

The classes here are pretty intense. I'm a student in the college of Engineering, where group work is an important part of most classes. Most of the core classes like calculus, physics, and chemistry are very large classes, but they all have smaller...

” – Elizabeth from Rochester Hills, MI
Boston University

Boston University is a private, non-profit university with a heavy emphasis on research. BU’s main location is right in its name—Boston, MA—but the university has flagship locations around the world, including in London, Sydney, and Washington, DC...

“…

The faculty is usually attentive and pretty entertaining. Most professors know exactly what they're talking about and provide insight into difficult fields with ease. I took the Core Curriculum and am learning much about history and philosophy. I...

” – Alex from Waco, TX
Arizona State University  – Tempe campus

Arizona State University is a comprehensive public research university that measures itself by whom it includes and how they succeed; advances research and discovery of public value; and assumes fundamental responsibility for the economic, social...

“…

Arizona State was my top choice based on the wide spread of classes offered, the great education, and the world changing young men and woman that have prospered out of ASU. My classes are challenging but with hard work A's are capable. I no longer...

” – Joel from Chandler, AZ
Purdue University-Main Campus

Purdue University-West Lafayette is a public research university founded in 1869 and the main campus of the Purdue University System. Purdue is home to 11 colleges and schools including a nationally renowned School of Engineering conferring degrees...

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I am studying in the school of science. My classes are challenging, and I am definitely learning from my professors. There are plenty of resources to get extra help here as well such as free help rooms or study sessions with teaching assistants.

” – Erika from Indiana
New York University

New York University, more commonly referred to as NYU, is a private university with campuses and academic centers all over the world, including Abu Dhabi, Shanghai, Africa, and Europe. As one of the largest private universities in the US, it’s...

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The learning portion is inevitable, isn’t it? NYU has various schools underneath its purple umbrella – College of Arts and Science, Tisch School of the Arts, Stern School of Business, Steinhardt School of Culture/Education/Human Development, College...

” – Lana from Tenafly, NJ
University of Southern California

The University of Southern California is a high-research institution located in Los Angeles, California, where it’s been educating students since 1880. The university is comprised of two campuses, the main University Park and the Health Sciences...

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University of Southern California is among the top universities in the country, and keeps getting better. The professors at the university are all at the top of their fields, and the extensive alumni list proves that the connections that you make...

” – Thomas from Houston, TX
University of Pennsylvania

Founded in 1740 by Benjamin Franklin, the University of Pennsylvania is a private Ivy League institution in Philadelphia. UPenn hosts 12 schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 90 academic fields of study. Additionally, UPenn’s Gothic-style...

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I think it's the perfect school for me.

” – Katherine from Murrieta, CA
Northwestern University

Northwestern University is a 4-year private research institution in the Chicagoland area. Northwestern is home to 12 colleges and schools and is renowned for its Medill School of Journalism, Kellogg School of Management, and Bienen School of Music...

“…

If you can to learn, you will. The professors don't spoon-feed information - instead, they give you the tools to learn the subjects yourself. Also, just hanging out with people (students, and sometimes students hang out with professors) helps you...

” – Allison from Port Barrington, IL
Ohio State University-Main Campus

We understand you don’t want just any university. You want THE university that’s right for you. There’s a reason why Ohio State is a leading university and the #1 university in Ohio. Here you can achieve your goals doing what you love. You’ll have...

“…

You won't believe the opportunities you have here at Ohio State. There are over 160 academic programs available. I enrolled with an undeclared major, but wasn't nervous about it because ultimately whatever you go into you will be successful. The...

” – David from Perrysburg, OH
University of California-Davis

The University of California in Davis is a public institution in northern California and one of the largest universities by enrollment in the UC System. UC Davis is home to four colleges conferring undergraduate degrees and six professional schools...

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If your looking for a great learning experience, there is something important that you have to know, it all depends on YOU. So if you are, the advice I would give you and stuff you've probably already heard is to get to know your professor, research...

” – Vianey from rancho cucamonga, CA
Georgetown University

Georgetown University, founded in 1789, is the oldest Catholic university in the US. Rated as having a “most selective” admissions process, this school ranks #20 in National Universities according to U.S. News & World Report. International Relations...

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This really depends on the individual and what kind of learning you feel is most valuable.
Academically speaking, obviously if you choose to slack off and focus on socializing, you might not do so hot even if your classes are awesome. For the most...

” – CZ from VA
Clemson University

Clemson University is America’s second-largest university by student population and South Carolina’s land- and sea-grant institution. Clemson is home to seven colleges and schools offering bachelor’s degrees in more than 80 academic majors. For...

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Not only do I learn a lot of material from the textbooks and outstanding professors, but Clemson teaches you how to manage your new independent life. It also reaffirms your basic fundamentals in school and out side of the classroom. You will be book...

” – Lenise from Decatur, GA
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus

Founded in 1787 as the Pittsburgh academy, the University of Pittsburgh is a 4-year state-related research institution. Pitt is composed of 16 colleges and universities granting undergraduate degrees in numerous academic majors and minors. The Pitt...

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The professors are great, but in order to take advantage of all they have to offer, you have to GO to class!! Also, create a relationship with them - it may come in handy for research or internship opportunities.

” – Lauren from Harrison City, PA
Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA
Boston College

Boston College is a 4-year Jesuit Catholic University and the first institution of higher learning founded in the city of Boston. BC is home to eight schools and colleges conferring degrees in over 50 fields of study. As a Catholic university, Boston...

“…

BC lives up to its Jesuit ideal in offering a well rounded, liberal arts experience. Small class sizes and engaging professors are essential parts of all classes. BC accepts a great deal of AP and SAT II credits, exempt students from less interesting...

” – Andrea from Lake Forest, CA
University of Virginia-Main Campus

Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University of Virginia is a public institution in Charlottesville. UVA encompasses 12 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 70 fields of study. For artistically-inclined students, UVA...

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The great thing about UVA is that it is a public research university - meaning its resources attract the big names in most fields of study. This is great for you, the student, because you get to learn under such academics as Rita Dove and Larry...

” – Jessica from Chester, VA
Johns Hopkins University

At Johns Hopkins University, you’ll have the relationships and resources to explore what you care about most—and then dig deeper to make a difference in the world around you. Hopkins combines the resources of the first and top-funded research...

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All of the classes are full of material and even the intro classes go above and beyond what one would have learned in high school, and even in an AP class.

” – Alyssa from Grand Blanc, MI
Georgia State University

Georgia State University is a 4-year public university with seven campuses throughout Atlanta and the largest university in the state by enrollment. GSU features 10 colleges and schools conferring degrees in over 100 areas of study. Additionally, the...

“…

The professors here at Georgia State are very supportive and understanding. they actually take time to meet with student before and after class sessions so we may get a better understanding.

” – Derrica from Doraville, GA
University of Iowa

Founded in 1847, the University of Iowa is a 4-year public research institution in Iowa City, often considered one of the nation’s top college towns. Iowa grants undergraduate degrees in over 200 academic majors, minors, and certificate programs. The...

“…

The faculty at the University of Iowa is very qualified and interacts well with their students to provide them with a great educational experience. In a school the size of Iowa, both discussion sections and lectures are the predominant forms of...

” – Lorena from La Grange Park, IL
George Mason University

George Mason University is a public research university with three regional locations and an international campus in Songdo, Korea. It is considered to have the “Highest Research Activity” and ranks among the Best Southeastern Schools according to...

“…

Here at George Mason University a.k.a GMU or Mason, classes are small and the professors are shockingly always available to answer questions by email or in person. Lecture halls are usually semi-big but then they are divided into Labs where you are...

” – Tahina from Richmond, VA
University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky is a land-grant university that was founded in 1865 in Lexington, Kentucky. U.S. News & World Report ranks UK as #63 in Top Public Schools. The most popular fields of study at this “selective” university are Education...

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Even though UK is a pretty big school, they make it more like a small school by keeping many classes with a low student to teacher ratio, so you receive more one on one time with your instructor, which makes it easier to grasp the bigger concepts and...

” – Kristen from Pickerington, OH
DePaul University

DePaul University is one of the largest private universities in the country. Located in Chicago, DePaul has more than 22,000 students, offers more than 300 degree programs over ten academic colleges and schools, and offers two campuses in the heart...

“…

I have just recently transferred to DePaul University in June of this year. I have taken 3 summer classes and found I am able to graduate almost 6 months early due to the University's flexible and accomodating class requirements. In three months I...

” – Ashley from Chicago, IL
Rutgers University-New Brunswick

Standing among the nation's leading research universities, Rutgers University–New Brunswick is acclaimed for the excellent achievements of its people and for their contributions to society in the pursuit of education, research, and health care...

“…

Rutgers University is an excellent school because it offers various majors and minors to accommodate every student. Their Pharmacy, Engineering, as well as Business schools are widely acclaimed and their challenging programs drastically prepare you...

” – Lawrenceville, NJ
George Washington University

George Washington University is a private university maintains three campuses, with the main campus located in Washington, D.C., just four blocks from the White House. George Washington University offers 75 undergraduate majors and 69% of students...

“…

This is my first semester and I'm taking six classes and I've definitely learned a lot. First thing I learned is not to take six classes, especially not your first semester. It's a big load, but I'm handling it well and I love my classes. I'm in...

” – Arianna from Brookline, MA
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

Founded in 1919, the University of Cincinnati is a 4-year public research institution and the second largest university in the state of Ohio. UC is home to 14 colleges and schools conferring degrees and is renowned as the first school to offer a co...

“…

I was delighted to find that most of the professors at UC really know their stuff and they are willing to help if you don't understand them on the first go. However, it certainly is useful to ask around about potential professors. I had a Chemistry...

” – Nathan from Edgewood, KY
California State University-Fullerton

California State University-Fullerton is a 4-year public research institution in Orange County and a campus of the Cal State system. Cal State Fullerton has the largest student body out of any California State University school and has been...

“…

The classes at Cal State University, Fullerton are fairly easy. I had expected college to be a lot more difficult, but CSUF has proved otherwise. Although the classes are not difficult, they have allowed me to grow intellectually. The professors...

” – Janet
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

Founded two years before Tennessee achieved statehood in 1794, the University of Tennessee-Knoxville is the flagship campus of the UT system and the first public university west of the Appalachian Divide. UT is home to nine colleges and schools...

“…

I have completed a total of 34 hours at the UT campus. So far, I have learned a lot from my professors. While some classes are huge (200+), others allow for one-on-one time with other students and faculty. Even in the 200+ classes, discussion...

” – Brittany from Morristown, TN
West Virginia University

A real college experience — Big 12 athletics, R1 research, space-and-land grant opportunities packed into a tight-knit, welcoming community. Bring us your dreams, your determination, your sense of adventure. And we’ll help you turn your passions into...

“…

WVU is a big school; however, I have not met a professor who is not willing to help students outside of class. Even though there can be classrooms filled with 200 students at a time, it is very easy to get to know the professor and to work with them...

” – Mary from Chapel Hill, NC
Stony Brook University

Originally founded as a school for math and science teachers, Stony Brook University is a 4-year public university on Long Island and part of the State University of New York system. Stony Brook is home to 12 schools and colleges conferring degrees...

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Stony Brook offers a great, quality education for a state school price, however, getting a quality education depends primarily on the student. Many of the science and math based classes are quite large and are often held in huge lecture halls. Due...

” – Amamah from Huntington, NY
Dartmouth College

A top-ranked medical program and business school crown Dartmouth College’s liberal arts education. This Ivy League school, the second youngest but also the smallest, is located in Hanover, NH, where it’s easily the main attraction in town. 

The...

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I am continually impressed by the quality of the teaching at Dartmouth. Since it is a college, faculty members really do focus on undergraduates as opposed to solely pursuing their research. However, that is not to say that there are no research...

” – Jessica
University of Delaware

The University of Delaware is a 4-year public university in northern Delaware and one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the country—noting signers of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution in its first graduating...

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Pulling an all nighter never seemed so exciting before. One computer science class, and I felt like I could tackle and computer programming question out there. Most classes are similar in the amount of learning that goes on. Everywhere you turn...

” – David from Fairfield, CT
Tulane University of Louisiana

Tulane University is private nstitution located in New Orleans, Louisiana. As one of only 62 members in the Association of American Universities, TU is considered a top research university. The campus features five undergraduate schools that provide...

“…

In my first year at Tulane, I learned so much; not only in the classroom, but outside of it as well. At a school where almost 70% of the students are from outside of Louisiana, I had no problem meeting many diverse people, (culturally and...

” – Scott from Stillwater, MN
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, UT
University of Utah

The University of Utah is a public research instititution situated in Salt Lake City that offers more than 100 undergraduate majors. The U is home to three professional arts organizations to complement the College of Fine Arts, and even features a 3...

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I'm very impressed with the way the professors are so willing to help students. I have had several instances in classes where I have not understood the material given, and I'm pleased to say that I have felt totally comfortable in going to my...

” – Katie from Sandy, UT
Portland State University

Originally founded to educate returning World War II veterans, Portland State University is a 4-year public institution in the heart of Portland. The PSU campus encompasses eight colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 120...

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When it comes to how much you learn I believe that it is up to you to take classes that are interesting and a little bit challenging, because the classes that are easy tend to get boring and not teach you as much.

” – Brittany from Tigard, OR
University of Illinois Chicago

The University of Illinois at Chicago is a public research university located in the Windy City. UIC’s 15 colleges and schools offer 87 bachelor’s degrees, 53 certificates, and more than 150 graduate degrees, as well as multiple research...

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UIC is a great learning environment if you are able to use the resources offered to you. It's not always easy, and the classes are tough, but it's a great learning experience.

” – KN major.
Rowan University

Ranked among the top 100 Public National Universities by U.S. News & World Report, Rowan University offers 90 bachelor’s programs, 200 study abroad programs in 40 countries, more than 200 student clubs and organizations, and one unstoppable community...

“…

Not only have I learned a lot academically from my teachers and peers, I have learned a lot about myself. Rowan has provided me with great teachers who enjoy teaching their class and always are there for extra help!

” – Bevin from Lindenwold, NJ
Radford University

Radford University is located on a 204-acre campus in Radford, VA, and features six unique colleges with 108 degree programs. RU provides an honors college with competitive housing, programming, and advising, as well as the Office of High Impact...

“…

Professors are willing and able to help students during his or her specificed office hours. The stronger your will to learn, the more you will gain from each course.

” – Taylor from Blacksburg, VA
California State University-Fresno

California State University-Fresno is a 4-year public school and the second largest university in the Cal State system. Fresno State encompasses eight colleges and schools offering undergraduate degrees. In addition, Fresno State has been designated...

“…

Even when taking my general ed. classes, I've learned more than what I've expected. The teachers that I've had this semester all seem thrilled about teaching and hearing student responses.

” – Zachary from Fresno, CA
Loyola University Chicago

Founded in 1870, Loyola University Chicago is a Catholic, Jesuit university located in the city of Chicago. Loyola has four campuses in the Chicago area–the main Lake Shore Campus along Lake Michigan, Water Tower Campus in the heart of downtown, the...

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As a nursing student at Loyola University I was immediately enrolled in classes directly related to my major. The teachers for my nursing classes encouraged me to take initiative in getting involved early within the nursing field. They taught me...

” – Heather
Wayne State University

Wayne State University is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit. The 200-acre traditional and high-tech campus is in the heart of Midtown, offering unparalleled access to cultural experiences, community...

“…

Most of my instructors are really good, and the ESP (Emerging Scholars Program) for math is phenomenal. It's a lot of work, but the extra hands on help and feedback really help you understand the math

” – Audrey from Ferndale, MI
Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University is a 4-year public institution in Norfolk and a doctoral high research activity university. ODU hosts colleges of Arts & Letters, Business, Sciences, Education, Engineering, and Health Sciences as well as an Honors College...

“…

Old Dominion Professors are very professional and informative when it comes to detailed lectures & assignments.

” – Efrem from Chantilly, VA
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Part of the University of Wisconsin system, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is a 4-year public school and the largest university in Milwaukee. UWM confers degrees in over 195 academic programs and the university is one of two doctoral-degree...

“…

I have learned so much so far at UWM. My art classes are fantastic! The instructors are very knowledgeable in their fields, and push creativity and new thoughts into my head effortlessly. I can't wait to go back!

” – Chelsea from Bristol, WI
Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University is a public liberal arts institution with three regional campuses in western Michigan. GVSU offers undergraduate degrees in 91 academic fields of study. For students who wish to experience another culture during their...

“…

The professors are very knowledgeable and make time to help you if you don't understand or just have a question. Each class I take regarding my major just makes me want to learn more! Even the other classes are interesting! You can sign up for a...

” – Alie from Michigan
Northern Illinois University

Northern Illinois University is a selective public university with a focus on research. The DeKalb campus is home to seven colleges with 46 schools and departments, and students can take advantage of regional centers in Chicago, Naperville, Rockford...

“…

Some of the classes are pretty difficult and take a lot of studying, but this is a good thing. I have learned more from my Engineering class than in any other class I taken my entire life. The class sizes vary. I have had some classes with only 15...

” – Erik from Hanover Park, IL
Xavier University

Xavier University is a Jesuit Catholic institution in Cincinnati and the sixth-oldest Catholic university in the nation. Xavier is home to colleges of Arts & Science, Business, and Professional Sciences offering bachelor’s degrees in over 90 fields...

“…

I am majoring in Natural Sciences at Xavier University. They provide a mass load of science help and much more, such as, Supplemental Instructions and tutoring. Supplemental Instructions are sessions in which upperclassman teach and review material...

” – Rachel from Fort Wayne, IN