Iowa State University proposes integrated health sciences degree to address healthcare workforce needs

Iowa State University is set to launch a new bachelor's degree in integrated health sciences, aimed at addressing workforce shortages in the healthcare sector. This initiative, part of the university's Degrees of the Future program, will integrate courses from multiple colleges, including agriculture, health sciences, and liberal arts. The program is designed to prepare graduates for a variety of health-related careers, with five distinct tracks focusing on areas such as human health, data science, and behavioral health. Initial enrollment is projected at 35 students, with expectations to grow to 325 within seven years, all without incurring additional costs.

In a related move, Iowa State has requested to suspend admissions to its doctoral program in agricultural, technological, and environmental history due to declining enrollment and funding challenges. The program will undergo a five-year sunset period to allow current students to graduate. Additionally, the university seeks to terminate its interdisciplinary master's program in transportation, which has seen no enrollments.

The meeting also included the nomination of two individuals for honorary degrees to be awarded during the upcoming spring commencement. Larry Buss, recognized for his contributions to engineering and agriculture, and John Robinson, celebrated as a prolific drummer in the music industry, are both set to receive honorary doctorates in recognition of their significant achievements.

These developments reflect Iowa State's commitment to adapting its academic offerings to meet the evolving needs of students and the workforce, while also honoring individuals who have made impactful contributions to society. The board's recommendations for these initiatives are expected to be approved, paving the way for implementation in the fall of 2025.