Health Science Major
Shape the Future of Healthcare. Start Your Journey in Sophomore Year.
Senn High School’s Health Science Program combines rigorous academics, modern simulation labs, and real-world clinical experience to prepare the next generation of medical professionals.
What You WIll Learn:
Our curriculum blends foundational medical theory with practical, real-world skills. Over the course of the program, we will cover:
- Professional Foundations: Exploring various healthcare careers, scopes of practice, and specialized areas of patient care.
- Medical Knowledge: Mastering medical terminology, basic anatomy and physiology, and the management of common chronic conditions.
- Essential Clinical Skills: Gaining hands-on training in vital signs, personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols, and proper ergonomics for safe patient handling.
- Emergency Readiness: Building confidence in life-saving techniques, including CPR and First Aid.
Program Overview & Mission
At Senn High School, we believe that preparing for a healthcare career shouldn't have to wait until college.
Beginning in your Sophomore year, our specialized three-year Health Science Program offers a distinct pathway for students interested in medicine, nursing, physical therapy, sports medicine, or healthcare administration. By blending deep scientific inquiry with hands-on clinical practice, Senn students graduate not just with a diploma, but with professional certifications, college credits, and invaluable real-world experience.
Honoring Our Legacy: Inspired by Dr. Nicholas Senn
Our school proudly bears the name of Dr. Nicholas Senn (1844–1908), one of the most famous pioneering surgeons, medical researchers, and military physicians in American history. Dr. Senn was a former President of the American Medical Association, a founder of the Association of Military Surgeons of the United States, and a master clinical educator who revolutionized surgical techniques.
By joining the Health Science Program, you aren't just taking classes—you are stepping into a legacy of medical innovation, ethical service, and scientific discovery that began with our namesake.
Why Choose Senn Health Science? (Key Benefits)
- Hands-On Medical Lab Experience Train inside our state-of-the-art simulation labs using the same industry-standard equipment found in modern clinics and hospitals.
- Professional Certifications Graduate with resume-ready credentials (including CPR/First Aid and OSHA 10-hour) that allow you to start earning and working in healthcare immediately after high school.
- Dual Credit with City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) Earn valuable, transferable college credits through our direct partnership with the City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) during your junior and senior years, saving thousands in future college tuition.
- Elite Chicago Partnerships Gain exclusive access to local internships, hospital rotations, clinical job-shadowing, and direct mentorship from Chicago’s leading healthcare professionals.
The 3-Year Curriculum Pathway
Our structured three-year course sequence takes students step-by-step from foundational health concepts to deep physiological science and real-world clinical environments.
Beyond the Classroom: Extracurriculars & Leadership
Real-world success requires more than just clinical skills; it requires leadership, teamwork, and community connection.
Community Wellness & Health Initiatives
Senn Health Science students take the lead in organizing community health fairs, organizing local blood drives, and hosting wellness workshops for our neighborhood, turning knowledge into direct local impact.
Fast Facts
Did you know?
- High Demand: Healthcare occupations are projected to grow much faster than average over the next decade, adding millions of new jobs.
- The Senn Advantage: Over 90% of Senn Health Science seniors complete their program with at least one industry-recognized credential.
- The CCC Head Start: Graduates can earn valuable City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) dual credits, giving them a massive head start on their college degrees and clinical program applications.
How to Apply & Admissions
Our admissions process opens during your Freshman year (beginning of second semester) for entry into the program at the start of your Sophomore year.
Who We Are Looking For:
We welcome passionate, driven students who possess:
- A strong curiosity for biology and physical sciences.
- A dedication to helping others and serving their community.
- Excellent collaboration and ethical decision-making skills.
Step-by-Step Admissions Timeline:
- Freshman Year (Fall): Attend an informational session or shadow day.
- Freshman Year (Winter): Submit the online application form and teacher recommendations.
- Freshman Year (Spring): Interviews and program placement decisions finalized.
- Sophomore Year (Fall): Welcome to your first day in Introduction to Health Science!
Health Sciences Major
