Applied Health, A.S.

The Applied Health (AH) program leading to an Associate of Science degree is a dual enrolled degree program between The Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences (RH-SHS) and Alvernia University. In addition to the Associate of Science degree graduates will receive a Diploma in Nursing from RH-SHS. The RH-SHS Diploma in Nursing Program is nationally accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.

The Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences Mission Statement

The mission of The Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences is to provide educational programs that develop competent and compassionate professionals capable of providing high-quality healthcare services to individuals, families, and communities.

Alvernia University’s Applied Health Associate’s Degree and The Reading Hospital School of Health Sciences Nursing Program prepares its graduates to:

• Practice as a professional nurse at an entry-level position in a variety of healthcare settings.
• Apply the theory derived from nursing and supportive disciplines to implement the nursing process to assist individuals and groups to meet their healthcare needs.
• Utilize effective communication to establish therapeutic relationships to meet the healthcare needs of individuals and groups within the community.
• Assist individuals and groups to achieve wellness through the use of health teaching.
• Provide nursing care in a responsible, accountable manner within the ethical and legal framework of nursing.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals utilizing leadership and management theory to coordinate healthcare in a variety of settings.
• Assume accountability, self-direction, and commitment for professional growth through continuing education.
• Respond on a personal and professional level to changing healthcare issues of society by participating in community and professional activities and organizations.

Admission Requirements:

The AH program student admission is the responsibility and at the discretion of the RH-SHS. Admission standards meet and/or exceed Alvernia University’s admission standards. Admission to the AH program is competitive and the selection of students will be based on personal composition, academic ability, references, interview performance, aptitude tests, writing samples, and previous healthcare experiences. Refer to the RH-SHS Admission Office for details.