Q&A: B.S. in Interprofessional Health Sciences Update

As of January 2024, Jerry-Thomas Monaco, PT, Ph.D., D.P.T. has been appointed program director of Seton Hall’s Bachelor of Science in Interprofessional Health Sciences (B.S. in IPHS).

An enthusiastic teacher, researcher and mentor with a passion for orthopedics and sports medicine, Monaco began his physical therapy career in 2006 and joined Seton Hall in 2014 as an adjunct faculty member in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.) program. In 2020, he transitioned to full-time teaching and earned a Ph.D. in Sport and Human Performance in 2022 from Rocky Mountain University.

Monaco shared his insights on the B.S. in IPHS for undergraduates considering this major.

Q. Can you give us an update on the B.S. in IPHS program?
This undergraduate degree launched in Fall 2022 and has become a sought-after major at Seton Hall. Students with a health focus get the best of both worlds: a liberal arts education with pre-professional preparation in health sciences and health management practices.

Q. Which students should consider the B.S. in IPHS degree and why?
This is a stand-out major for students interested in the health professions or health administration and management. With a broad-based understanding of the health sciences, graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers or future graduate-level degrees in the health professions.

Q. Tell us about the job market for B.S. in IPHS majors.
Healthcare is a booming market for college graduates. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this sector is projected to add 1.8 million new jobs over the next ten years, with growth far outpacing other industries.

Q. What types of jobs are graduates equipped to pursue?
An array of health-focused positions including health practice coordinators, patient advocates, wellness and fitness professionals, health data analysts, strength and conditioning specialists, and healthcare marketers. This degree can also set you up for healthcare certifications in nutrition, massage therapy, and acupuncture.

Q. For students considering graduate-level studies, what are their options?
The B.S. in IPHS degree provides a solid foundation for graduate work in athletic training, nursing, occupational therapy, physician assistant, physical therapy, speech-language pathology and other health- and business-related degrees. The program’s electives also make it a useful complement for students considering graduate or pre-medical studies.

Q. Is there a 3 + 2 program leading to a graduate-level degree?
Yes, the B.S in IPHS (Exercise Science track) plus M.S. in Athletic Training, an accelerated dual degree program leading to a Bachelor's Degree in Interprofessional Health Sciences with a concentration in Exercise Science (B.S. IPHS-ES) and a Master of Science in Athletic Training (M.S.A.T.) Degree.

Q. Tell us more about summer internship opportunities.
Depending on the student’s concentration they will be developing skills in real-world situations and mentored by experienced preceptors. For students in the Exercise Science concentration, internships include working with strength and conditioning coaches for a team sport; shadowing sports medicine and orthopedic clinicians; and interning in fitness and wellness client management.

Q. How can students learn more about the B.S. in IPHS major?
Please join us for a virtual info session, visit our website, or contact me directly at [email protected] for more information. I look forward to answering any questions you may have about the program.

Categories: Education, Health and Medicine