College of Health Professions

The College of Health Professions utilizes the newest teaching methods and technology in preparing students to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care throughout their lifelong Pioneer Journey. We are determined to be a national leader in health care professions education and research. In less than a decade since its establishment, our master’s in physician assistant studies (MPAS) consistently attracts nearly 1,200 applicants for just 42 openings each year.

Opened in 2017, the Center for Healthcare Education has expanded our capabilities like never before thanks to technologically advanced classrooms, skills labs and learning spaces, with a 60,000-square-foot addition under way. We have developed new centers of expertise, including the Center for Excellence in Neurological Health and the Pioneer Performance Center, which provides services related to sports performance, injury prevention and wellness.

In true Pioneer Spirit, we offer community services through our stroke and audiology clinics, therapy programs for people with autism or developmental disabilities, and a driving simulator for those affected by neuromuscular or musculoskeletal conditions.

Supporting the College's National Leadership

With your support through Now We Lead, the College will:

Increase student scholarships and financial support

In 2022, CHP faculty won a three-year, $1.5 million grant to launch the Pioneers in Public Health Scholarship Program, putting SHU on the forefront of public health education and continuing mission-driven excellence in expanding the public health workforce. Your generosity can help continue this vital program after the grant ends. In addition, scholarships are needed in each of our 14 programs.

Endow faculty positions

Endowed positions help the College recruit and retain top faculty and support their research—critical as SHU progresses in its recognition for published research from faculty and students. In particular, you can help endow a professorship or directorship for our new Center for Excellence in Neurological Health.

Build a faculty-student research fund

Support for faculty and student research will allow students to engage in mentored research projects, some of which have won awards, been published in peer-reviewed academic journals and received national media attention.

Establish new clinical placement sites

As enrollment grows at SHU and other health professional schools, the competition for clinical sites is greater than ever, and many sites are charging fees. Your support is vital to ensuring access to supervised clinical placements for all students.

Fund global experiences

Global experiences in health care or community settings in places like Costa Rica, Guatemala, Spain or SHU’s campus in Dingle, Ireland, can broaden student perspectives, but students must cover the costs. You can ensure that cost is never a barrier for students who wish to experience global health care.

For more information, contact:

Richard Henderson
Associate Vice President of University Advancement & Philanthropic Campaigns
203-365-4819
hendersonr2@sacredheart.edu