UTSA will launch a new bachelor of science degree program in Health, Aging & Society this fall. The new program, which will be offered through the College for Health, Community and Policy (HCAP), will be the first of its kind in the San Antonio area and is designed to address the growing need for health care support occupations and community- and social-service professionals.

Students will learn critical skills to begin a career focused on managing and coordinating hospitals, nursing homes and other health care facilities. They will be well-positioned to research, design and share needed services with communities.

“The Health, Aging & Society program follows a recent international trend to integrate sociological perspectives into the study of health, health care, and aging,” said Terrence Hill, a professor in the Department of Sociology and founding director of the program. “Our new program is perfect for students who seek a balance between academic and applied approaches to health and aging.”

The need for medical and health services managers and social and community service managers has been increasing for several years, explained Hill. Meanwhile, the infectious disease pandemic only increased demands on health care systems and revealed how poorly equipped those systems are.

“We are seeing adjustments in the health care labor force, with certain segments resigning in higher rates,” said Hill, adding that many of those who are leaving are disillusioned by their experiences within these systems.

Read more @Utsa