Program: Social and Health Sciences by Ave Maria University

Social and Health Sciences

Exercise Physiology Major and Minor | p. 2

Health Science Major and Minor | p. 3

Nursing Major | p. 4

Psychology Major and Minor | p. 6

Marriage and Family Studies Minor | p. 7

Meet Our Faculty | p. 8

What Are Social and Health Sciences?

Social and health sciences at Ave Maria University are explored intentionally through the teachings of the Catholic Church. Recognizing the need for truth, these programs provide you with a rich understanding of the human person, made in the image and likeness of God.

AMU majors in exercise physiology, health science, nursing, and psychology affirm the dignity of each person and serve the needs of society through their work. As you begin your career as a doctor, nurse, counselor, or therapist, you will remain mindful of Christ’s call to provide compassionate care for the sick and infirmed.

Exercise Physiology

MAJOR AND MINOR (B.A. and B.S.)

As an exercise physiology student at AMU, you will learn the human body’s responses to physical activity to maximize human performance. The exercise physiology majors (B.S. and B.A.) apply theory to practice, allowing you to develop a thorough understanding of the evaluation, interpretation, and prescription process of addressing both individual and societal health. You will gain important experience in laboratory and applied sciences for careers in the fitness industry or graduate programs in exercise physiology, biomechanics, dietetics, strength and conditioning, and athletic training. You will also be well prepared for doctoral studies in medicine, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and chiropractic care.

The exercise physiology B.A. program has a stronger emphasis on clinical training, preparing you for careers in personal training, gym management, or coaching.

The exercise physiology B.S. program includes the pre-requisites for graduate programs like occupational therapy, physical therapy, and other related fields.

Dr. Stephen Wirick

Professor of

Exercise Physiology

(239) 304-7966

Quick Facts

• Both B.S. and B.A. degrees are available.

• Ave Maria has a large athletic department, with opportunities for students to earn academic credit as student interns under AMU athletic trainers.

• AMU is home to a Tri-Beta National Biological Honors Society chapter for exceptional students.

• The program curriculum offers opportunities to receive personal training certifications.

Explore Careers

Exercise Physiologist

Physical Therapist

Occupational Therapist

Nutritionist

Corporate Wellness Advisor

Athletic Trainer

Gym Manager

Athletic Coach

Strength and Conditioning Specialist

Health Science

MAJOR AND MINOR

As a health science major at AMU, you will explore the natural and social sciences, humanities, and complex associations with disease, illness, suffering, healing, and health. This program places a special emphasis on improving communication in medical settings, key to building trust with coworkers and patients alike. You will enhance your understanding of the biological and chemical processes of the human body as you discover the path for your future career.

By combining classical thought with a practical approach, you will learn to use research and testing to take the most effective and ethical course of action for patients, caring for the whole human person while treating the body.

Explore Careers

Doctor

Dietitian

Physician Associate

Occupational Therapist

Pharmacist

Epidemiologist

Physical Therapist

Dentist

Dr. Agnes Berki

Chair of Biology

agnes.berki@avemaria.edu (239) 304-7926

• A pre-medicine option is available.

• This program is highly versatile and provides a great pathway to medical school and several graduate programs in health care.

• AMU faculty members maintain active research laboratories and offer opportunities for undergraduate research, often leading to presentations at academic conferences and publications in peer-reviewed scholarly journals.

MAJOR Nursing

AMU’s nursing program is built on a solid Catholic foundation—strengthened by the core curriculum—and a profound desire to care for the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of our neighbors. Under experienced faculty, students gain crucial medical knowledge, hands-on experience in a state-of-the-art simulation laboratory, and access to an exceptional network of hospitals and clinical sites in Southwest Florida.

As a nursing major at Ave Maria University, you will receive invaluable formation in Catholic nursing, preparing you to share in your patients’ joyful moments of new life, while also providing support during times of grief and suffering.

Explore Careers

Pediatric Nurse

Nurse Midwife

Mental Health Nurse

Surgical Nurse

Critical Care Nurse

Family Nurse Practitioner

Hospice Nurse

Nurse Anesthetist

Dr. Aileen Staller

Chair of Nursing aileen.staller@avemaria.edu

(239) 304-7931

• AMU’s nursing program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).

• AMU nursing graduates have a 100% job placement rate.

• AMU graduates hold a 95.7% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX, 7% higher than the national first-time pass rate.

• AMU nursing majors participate in evidencebased projects related to nursing care and interventions, community and public health, and patient and peer education.

• Many students have entered graduate school after completing one to two years of clinical nursing and are prepared for roles as nurse practitioners and nurse educators.

Quick Facts

Did You Know?

Most health and social science labs have an average class size of 14 students, allowing for increased one-on-one mentorship with professors.

Psychology

MAJOR AND MINOR

As a psychology major at AMU, you will explore the relationship between mental processes and human action. Recognizing the overall unity of truth informed by the core curriculum, students study Catholic philosophical and theological perspectives of the human person. Under faculty mentorship, you will learn how to apply psychological research methods by conducting original research and providing reflective analysis papers.

Hands-on research experience, communication training, and a passion for helping others will unite to ensure you graduate equipped to approach psychology with a strong sense of the image and likeness of God.

Explore Careers

Clinical Psychologist

Psychological Researcher

Educational Psychologist

Speech Therapist

Marriage and Family Counselor

Mental Health Counselor

School Counselor

Career Counselor

Social Worker

Human Resources Specialist

Organizational Psychologist

Psychology or Sociology Teacher

• Psychology is one of the largest majors at Ave Maria University.

• Psychology senior internships are available through several organizations, including the David Lawrence Center (local mental health addiction recovery and prevention) and community pregnancy clinics.

• Students interested in sport psychology can meet with professional staff members from the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins during MLB spring training.

• Divine Mercy University—a graduate school of the psychological sciences—offers graduates of AMU special scholarships and placement opportunities in their programs.