Healthcare Programs
Healthcare done differently
North Central College is a leader in healthcare education, with more than 37 undergraduate and graduate healthcare programs, including direct admit undergraduate-to-graduate options! Rooted in the liberal arts tradition, North Central College’s health science programs adhere strongly to evidence-based medical practice while emphasizing a humanistic, relationship-centered approach. Our focus is on developing excellent clinicians, educators, scholars, and leaders who are driven not just by optimistic career outcomes, but also by a desire to serve. This is what makes North Central stand apart.
Why choose North Central:
- Healthcare professionals with a background in the liberal arts are highly valued for their empathy, understanding of different communities, and refined social skills.
- Students are not limited to majoring in the biological sciences; rather, they are encouraged to pursue their passions AND their prerequisites, increasing their level of success in college by studying what they enjoy most while still making progress towards their healthcare or STEM career.
- Our faculty mentors and dedicated health programs advisor will guide you through developing your personal plan to prepare for what comes next, whether it’s medical school, other graduate programs, or employment.
Complete this form to receive a detailed guide to healthcare programs at North Central College.
Focused on the future
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment across the allied health professions will continue to grow through 2032: physician assistants by 27 percent, physical therapists by 15 percent, and occupational therapists by 12 percent. Projected labor shortages in nursing are especially dire. In Illinois, more than half of current registered nurses are over the age of 55, and the Illinois Nursing Workforce Center reports the state will experience an estimated shortfall of nearly 15,000 nurses by 2025.
As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, North Central College’s health science programs are committed to educating the next generation of professionals who can rise to new challenges and provide quality care to patients.
Areas of Study
Undergraduate Programs
Undergraduate-to-Graduate Direct Pathway Programs
North Central provides dedicated resources to help keep you on track as you move through the undergraduate-to-graduate health science pathways. Advisors specific to the health sciences ensure you take the right courses, get connected to shadowing opportunities, are prepared for entrance exams, and receive advice on choosing the right health science path for you.
Pathways into several of North Central’s clinical health science graduate programs are available to eligible undergraduate students:
- NCC DPT Guarantee Admissions into Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy Dual Admission into Occupational Therapy
- Selective Internal PA Admissions into Physician Assistant Studies
- 3+2 track into Athletic Training
Graduate Programs
Athletic Training
Physical Therapy
Physician Assistant Studies
Master of Science in Nursing
Post-graduate APRN Certificate
Where you will learn
We have created state-of-the-art learning environments with the most advanced technology to ensure every student has the preparation they need to transition into the workforce.
Athletic Training Learning Lab
Human Performance Lab
Skills Classroom with Anatomage Tables
High-Fidelity Exam Rooms
Intensive Care Unit Simulation Space
Occupational Therapy Lab
Physical Therapy Classroom
