Applied Health Sciences

In the field of applied health sciences, there are numerous excellent healthcare professions to explore and pursue. These fields include kinesiology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, rehabilitation sciences, disability and human development, and nutrition. They represent careers that allow you to be hands-on with people and to help promote health and wellbeing by using different therapeutic activities, exercises, and healthy eating habits.

A brief overview of selected applied health professions is summarized here. If any of the career pathways pique your interest, we encourage you to check out the resource list below to learn more about specific career options.

What is occupational therapy (OT)?

Occupational therapy (OT) is a branch of health care that focuses on helping individuals achieve independence in daily life through therapeutic activities. OT practitioners assist people of all ages in overcoming physical, mental, or cognitive challenges.

What does an occupational therapist do?

• Evaluate patients’ abilities and create personalized treatment plans.
• Help patients regain or enhance skills needed for everyday tasks, such as dressing or cooking.
• Recommend modifications for home or work environments to accommodate physical limitations.
• Provide exercises to improve physical and motor skills.
• Educate patients and families on care and adaptive equipment use.

What are the different OT specialties?

• Pediatric OT: Helps children with developmental delays or disabilities.
• Geriatric OT: Assists older adults with age-related changes.
• Hand Therapy: Focuses on treating hand and upper extremity conditions.
• Mental Health OT: Supports those with mental health issues in managing daily tasks.
• Neurological OT: Treats patients with stroke, brain injury, or neurological disorders.

What other OT-related professions are there?

• Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA): Assists OTs with treatment plans.
• Rehabilitation Aide: Helps with therapy sessions and patient care.
• Occupational Therapy Technician: Performs clerical tasks and assists with patient support.

Where do occupational therapists work?

OTs work in hospitals, schools, rehab centers, nursing homes, private practices, and home health care settings.

What is physical therapy (PT)?

Physical therapy (PT) is a branch of health care that focuses on improving movement, strength, and mobility for individuals recovering from injury, illness, or surgery. PT professionals help patients reduce pain, restore function, and prevent disability.

What does a physical therapist do?

• Evaluate patients’ physical abilities and create tailored treatment plans.
• Help patients regain strength, flexibility, and coordination through exercises and therapies.
• Provide manual therapy, stretching, and exercises to manage pain and improve mobility.
• Educate patients on injury prevention and long-term health management.
• Recommend assistive devices, such as crutches or braces, if necessary.

What are the different PT specialties?

• Orthopedic PT: Treats musculoskeletal injuries or conditions.
• Geriatric PT: Focuses on mobility and balance issues in elderly patients.
• Neurological PT: Helps patients recover from strokes, brain injuries, or neurological disorders.
• Pediatric PT: Assists children with developmental or physical delays.
• Sports PT: Works with athletes to prevent and rehabilitate sports-related injuries.

What other PT-related professions are there?

• Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA): Assists PTs with exercises and treatment plans.
• Rehabilitation Aide: Helps with patient care and maintains therapy equipment.
• Physical Therapy Technician: Provides support in administering treatments and clerical work.

Where do physical therapists work?

PTs work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, sports facilities, schools, and rehabilitation centers.

What is kinesiology?

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human movement and body mechanics. It examines how physical activity impacts health, well-being, and performance. Professionals in this field use their knowledge to enhance physical performance, prevent injuries, and promote wellness.

What does a kinesiologist do?

• Evaluate movement patterns to identify and correct imbalances or inefficiencies.
• Help individuals improve performance in sports, fitness, or rehabilitation settings.
• Design exercise and rehabilitation programs to optimize health and function.
• Work with individuals or teams to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance.
• Educate on injury prevention and physical activity benefits.

What are the different kinesiology specialties?

• Exercise Physiology: Focuses on how physical activity affects bodily functions.
• Biomechanics: Studies the mechanics of human movement to improve performance.
• Sports Psychology: Examines mental and emotional aspects of athletic performance.
• Rehabilitation Kinesiology: Assists individuals recovering from injury or surgery.

What other kinesiology-related professions are there?

• Fitness Trainer: Designs and implements workout plans for individuals or groups.
• Rehabilitation Specialist: Helps patients recover from injuries through movement-based therapies.
• Exercise Scientist: Researches the effects of physical activity on health and performance.

Where do kinesiologists work?

Kinesiologists work in fitness centers, sports organizations, rehabilitation clinics, research institutions, and corporate wellness programs.

What is nutrition science?

Nutrition science is the study of how food and nutrients affect the body, influencing health, growth, and disease prevention. It explores the relationship between diet and overall well-being, providing a foundation for making informed choices about eating habits.

What does a nutritionist do?

• Evaluate individuals’ dietary habits and nutritional needs.
• Create personalized meal plans to support health goals, such as weight loss or disease management.
• Educate people on the importance of balanced nutrition and healthy eating.
• Help manage conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, or food intolerances through diet.
• Advise athletes or active individuals on proper nutrition for optimal performance.

What are the different nutrition science specialties?

• Clinical Nutrition: Focuses on dietary interventions to manage diseases.
• Sports Nutrition: Helps athletes optimize performance through nutrition.
• Public Health Nutrition: Promotes healthy eating habits within communities.
• Pediatric Nutrition: Specializes in the dietary needs of children and infants.

What other nutrition-related professions are there?

• Dietitian: Provides expert advice on food and nutrition to manage health conditions.
• Health Coach: Supports individuals in making healthy lifestyle changes.
• Nutrition Educator: Teaches individuals or groups about the benefits of proper nutrition.

Where do nutritionists work?

Nutritionists work in hospitals, schools, fitness centers, research institutions, and public health organizations.

Explore more the exciting profession of applied health sciences by checking out the resources. You may also want to gain hands-on experience by participating in an applied health sciences pathway program. Find pathway programs by clicking below.