Health Programs

Penn State Harrisburg offers a range of programs dedicated to preparing students for careers that improve the health, well-being, and quality of life in individuals and communities. These programs combine scientific knowledge, hands-on learning, and professional preparation to equip students with the skills needed to work in healthcare, behavioral health, communication sciences, human development, and movement sciences. Whether students are beginning a new career path, advancing their professional training, or preparing for graduate study, these programs emphasize evidence-based practice, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world experience to support meaningful and impactful careers.

a hospital setting with a nursing faculty and student standing near a medical workstation

Nursing - Second Degree Program (B.S.N.)

Penn State Harrisburg offers The Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing's Second Degree Program, which is intended for those that desire to begin a career in nursing and have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another field. At the completion of their course work, graduates will be able to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and upon licensure, begin new careers in professional nursing.

Nursing - Second Degree Program (B.S.N.)
A psychologist is holding a pen and a spiral notebook on his lap

Clinical Psychology (M.A.)

The Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology endorses a scientist-practitioner framework, where graduates have clinical skills in empirically supported psychotherapy interventions, the research skills to consume cutting-edge research in counseling to stay atop of their field, and a commitment to lifelong learning regarding diversity and social justice. the program offers training options that allow students to work with a variety of populations and settings. Our research-active faculty have expertise in current topics, including multicultural competencies in psychotherapy and supervision, spirituality and coping in family systems, and community interventions around addiction and addiction-based stigma.

Clinical Psychology (M.A.)
ABA: Applied behavior analysis on a chalkboard with drawings of the sun and a puzzle piece

Applied Behavior Analysis (M.A.)

The ABAI-accredited Master’s of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program at Penn State Harrisburg is designed to prepare graduates to develop comprehensive solutions to socially important problems.

The program's course of study is designed to give students the skills of a competent behavior analyst: in-depth understanding of applied behavioral technology, experimental analysis, methodology, and behavioral philosophy.

Applied Behavior Analysis (M.A.)
A speech therapist works with a juvenile patient

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) is a comprehensive program of study for preparing students who want to become speech-language pathologists (SLPs) or audiologists. 

The Communication Sciences and Disorders (B.S.) program helps students acquire a strong foundation in the basic sciences and processes related to typical, delayed and disordered speech, language, cognition, swallowing, and hearing. The Speech-Language Pathology (M.S.), now enrolling for Fall 2026, is a comprehensive program that emphasizes clinical skills, evidence-based practice, experiential learning and small class sizes.

CSD B.S. and SLP M.S.
A female student is holding a dynamometer, commonly used for measuring grip strength, in the Exercise Medicine event.

Kinesiology (B.S.)

Kinesiology offers a comprehensive program of study in the science of human movement and is designed for students who want to prepare for professions involving physical activity and for graduate study in related areas. Penn State Harrisburg offers the Exercise Science Option, which focuses on fitness assessment, exercise physiology, exercise psychology, motor skill development, nutrition and healthy living skills. Graduates will be able to scientifically assess fitness levels of individuals, analyze these assessments, and design and implement appropriate exercise programs.

Kinesiology (B.S.)
Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) students visiting Middletown Home, as part of an intergenerational engagement activity.

Human Development and Family Studies (B.S.)

Human Development and Family Studies is a multidisciplinary program that examines the development of individuals and families across the life span. Students learn about individual, family, community, and social factors influencing development, as well as evidence-based practices that promote the cognitive, social, physical, and emotional well-being of children, adults, families, organizations, and communities.

Human Development and Family Studies (B.S.)

Other Health-Related Programs