Beginning Your Education in Health Care

Health science students dedicate themselves to improving the lives of others by alleviating human suffering—one person at a time. They listen, investigate, and help us understand ourselves and our bodies better. They search for answers—in the rhythm of our hearts, the patterns of our speech, even the composition of our blood. They ensure that the places we live and work will not harm us. They listen to how we speak and even to how we hear. They help us walk again. Sometimes they save our lives.

The University of Washington is known internationally for its leadership in the research, teaching, and practice of the health sciences. Housed in the Warren G. Magnuson Health Sciences Center, home to five major interdisciplinary research centers, programs benefit from collaborative relationships with the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and the UW's three world-class hospitals, including the University of Washington Medical Center. With some of the nation's most prominent schools of medicine, nursing, and pharmacy, Washington has long attracted faculty and staff hailing from the top of their professions. That means numerous opportunities for students of the health sciences to observe clinical work, receive training, and participate in research.

Advisers are committed to being partners in your preparation for a health science program. They will assist you along the way—pointing you in the right direction, helping you with timelines, giving you insights into the application process—and they will be a resource for you as you make your choices.