Enquire to study in the UK 
There’s never been a more pivotal time to contribute to your community’s well-being. Not too long ago, the COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the vulnerabilities in our global health infrastructure. Climate change is exacerbating health risks, while technological advancements in genomics and biotechnology are opening new frontiers in personalised medicine. These examples explain why healthcare employment will grow faster from 2022 to 2032, with 1.8 million openings projected each year, according to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics.
While universities around the world are updating their programmes to help fill this gap, only a few offer the specialised training and resources that can set graduates apart — the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) is one of them.
This institution distinguishes itself with its mission to transform lives through collaborative and inclusive education, cutting-edge research, exemplary clinical care, and dedicated public service. Apart from its focused approach, here are five other reasons why it is a top choice for aspiring health professionals:
It’s experienced and effective
Founded in 1911, UTHSC has a long-standing tradition of excellence in healthcare education. Since its inception, it has educated and trained more than 53,823 healthcare professionals making a difference across the US and beyond. In Tennessee alone, their impact is particularly profound: UTHSC alumni comprise 75% of the state’s dentists, 34% of its pharmacists, and a significant portion of its doctorally prepared nurses.
It evolves with time
UTHSC may be historic, but it’s equally progressive — ongoing renovations at the UT Conference Centre prove this. Phase 2 of the project is well underway, with spaces now framed, wired, and painted. Upcoming improvements will include installing ceilings, millwork, and flooring, with a move-in date set for August 2024.
The recent opening of the Delta Dental of Tennessee Building, a US$45 million state-of-the-art facility, marks another milestone. This 68,000-square-foot building will enhance the College of Dentistry’s ability to train students and provide comprehensive care to patients across the Mid-South.
The Delta Dental of Tennessee Building’s name honours the support it received from Delta Dental of Tennessee, which provided US$6.3 million for construction costs and US$1.4 million for equipment for the building. Source: The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Facilities aside, UTHSC continuously innovates its educational offerings. In January 2023, it launched the College of Health Professions’s Pathologists’ Assistant Programme. Having started with just seven students, the programme, now in its second year, includes a second cohort of 10 students — all advancing through clinical rotations and demonstrating strong progress.
There’s something for everyone
Whether you’re pursuing undergraduate degrees, advanced graduate or professional programmes, or specialised certificates, UTHSC provides its signature educational experience to all interests and career paths.
Its College of Dentistry is the US’s third oldest, and its College of Health Professions has campuses in Knoxville and Memphis. The College of Medicine caters to those dedicated to advancing health services with programmes in areas such as Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics, Neurosurgery, and Radiology. UTHSC also houses a College of Nursing, College of Pharmacy, and a College of Graduate Health Sciences.
Career advancement can be as quick as you need it to be
Recognising the changing needs of modern learners, UTHSC offers flexible, accredited certificate programmes that allow you to advance your career without lengthy commitments. One example is the Certificate in Clinical Investigation, a 12-credit hour programme designed for those interested in clinical research and delivered entirely online. On this route, you could specialise in either Health Disparities or Health Behaviour Intervention.
Meanwhile, the Healthcare Quality Improvement Certificate from the Institute for Health Outcomes and Policy (IHOP) is a 12-credit programme designed for healthcare professionals aiming to enhance care efficiency and effectiveness. It covers essential skills in quality improvement, including statistical process control, operations research, and data analysis.
UTHSC is currently the largest educator of healthcare professionals in Tennessee. Source: The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
It bridges the gap between theory and practice
UTHSC’s Office of Experiential Learning and International Programmes ensures every student gains hands-on experience crucial for their professional development. “The most rewarding experience I’ve had academically has been the rotations I’ve been able to go on,” shares Pharmacy student Annie Dong. “It’s allowed me to basically apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to the outside world and to help care for patients and help them get better.”
Meanwhile, Physician Assistant student Alexus Cunningham appreciated the opportunity she was given to perform blood pressure screenings, diabetic checks, and other services to underserved populations. “It was such a great experience, and I feel like we really made a difference,” she says.
Indeed, UTHSC is committed to uplifting communities through the practical exposure it offers its students. In turn, learners create opportunities of their own — hence, campus initiatives like Clinica Esperanza, a free clinic run by College of Medicine students and faculty for underserved Latino adults, and the Rachel Kay Stevens Therapy Centre, a student-run pro bono clinic serving underinsured minors.
Follow The University of Tennessee Health Science Center on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube
