PUC Achieves Accreditation for New Health Science Program

Pacific Union College is proud to announce the accreditation of its Bachelor of Science in Health Science program by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WASCUC).

Vice President for Academic Administration Lindsay Hayasaka said, “This new degree fills an identified need for students who complete their A.S. at PUC and want to continue with us. We received excellent feedback from WSCUC, our accreditation body, who are pleased to see us extend what is already a strong A.S. program."

The college has long been recognized for its pre-professional and allied health programs. This new program is yet another milestone in meeting the demand for qualified allied health professionals.

Dean of Nursing and Health Sciences Kimberly Dunker expressed enthusiasm about the program and its accreditation.

“This new program continues to show our dedication here at PUC to helping fulfill important needs for health care in our communities,” she said. “We are thrilled to support our Health Science majors in their career endeavors.”

The accreditation affirms the program’s quality and aligns with PUC's commitment to meeting students’ needs in aspiring to pursue allied health professions without the lengthier requirements of medical and dental programs. The recently accredited B.S. program emphasizes an interactive and immersive experience and extends the existing two-year Associate of Science in Health Science, allowing students to remain at PUC while completing their bachelor’s degree, with an emphasis in kinesiology, global health, or general health science.

Jeff Joiner, the health science program director and professor of nursing at PUC, will lead the new program, supported by advisor Richa Evans and faculty from the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. The team is dedicated to providing students with a rigorous and enriching educational experience.

The college expects an additional 20 students to enroll in the program in 2024 and 50 more in 2025. The long-term goal is to establish a Health Science program with an enrollment of between 125 and 150 students.

PUC has also established partnerships with Loma Linda University, facilitating collaboration and creating seamless pathways for students to transition into graduate programs at Loma Linda University. 

With its sterling reputation for high-quality nursing and health science programs, along with a strong connection to LLU, PUC's B.S. in Health Science program is helping to pave the way for a new generation of allied health professionals.

For more information about PUC’s accredited Bachelor of Science in Health Science program, visit PUC's Department of Nursing and Health Sciences.