The Associate of Science in Health Studies provides students with a strong academic foundation for entry into BRCC Nursing & Allied Health programs as well as careers in healthcare.
October 29, 2026
BATON ROUGE – Baton Rouge Community College has introduced the Associate of Science in Health Studies, a new degree program designed to help students build a strong academic foundation for careers in health care and prepare for admission into competitive Nursing and Allied Health programs.
The AS in Health Studies is a four-semester, 62-credit-hour program that is part of BRCC’s Nursing & Allied Health offerings and is currently available as a major for Spring 2027.
The Health Studies program provides students with foundational knowledge, skills and competencies in health sciences while incorporating coursework aligned with BRCC’s AS in Nursing, Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography and AS in Surgical Technology.
The degree is designed to support BRCC students who are preparing for selective-entry programs of Nursing, Sonography and Surgical Tech as well as students who may ultimately pursue a different healthcare-related career or who choose to continue their education at a four-year institution upon graduation.
“The Associate of Science in Health Studies opens new doors for students who are passionate about making a difference in healthcare,” said Roselyn Gilbert, dean of Nursing & Allied Health at BRCC. “This program gives students the opportunity to build a strong academic foundation, continue progressing toward their educational goals and prepare for a variety of healthcare pathways. Whether students are pursuing Nursing, Sonography, Surgical Technology or another health-related career, Health Studies provides the knowledge, flexibility and support they need to take the next step toward a rewarding future.”
Students currently pursuing Nursing, Sonography or Surgical Technology may transition to Health Studies while awaiting admission into their selected program. This allows students to continue making progress toward a degree while completing coursework that supports their future academic goals. The curriculum includes coursework in English, mathematics, psychology, biology, health sciences, philosophy, sociology and general education electives.
“At Baton Rouge Community College, we believe that opportunity should never be limited by the path a student takes to reach their goals,” Chancellor Willie E. Smith, Sr. said. “Our new Associate of Science in Health Studies creates greater access to healthcare careers by giving students a strong academic foundation, greater flexibility and a clear pathway toward pursuing Nursing, Sonography, Surgical Technology and other healthcare professions. As Louisiana’s demand for skilled healthcare professionals continues to grow, BRCC is committed to preparing students to meet that demand while transforming lives, strengthening our communities and helping build the next generation of healthcare professionals.”
The Health Studies degree also provides opportunities beyond BRCC’s selective-entry programs. Graduates may transfer to four-year institutions to pursue additional education in fields such as health sciences, public health, kinesiology, exercise science and other health-related disciplines. Potential transfer pathways include programs at Southeastern Louisiana University, Louisiana State University and Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University.
The degree program also provides preparation for entry-level healthcare-related employment, continued study in health services or healthcare administration and other opportunities within the healthcare industry.
BRCC students who need assistance changing their major or planning their Spring 2027 courses are encouraged to contact their College Navigator for guidance. Students can complete the Change of Program/Major Form in LoLA under the Academic Links card.
Students can schedule an advising appointment through the BRCC College Navigator advising page.