Karli Wilkerson/ Staff Writer

As demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow, Missouri Valley College is introducing a Health and Behavioral Science major and a Medical Humanities minor for Fall 2026, giving students new options to explore careers in healthcare while also focusing on the human side of patient care. 

The new programs are designed to take a more well-rounded approach by combining science with subjects like psychology, ethics and communication. 

“Blends areas like biology, psychology, and health studies to help students better understand human wellness from both scientific and behavioral perspectives,” said Taylor Thomas, Student Success Advisor

Thomas said the goal is to prepare students not just for jobs, but for real-world situations they will face in healthcare careers.

“Students will graduate with skills that employers are actively looking for,” Thomas said. “They will be more employable, better prepared for advanced education and equipped with practical, in-demand skills that match today’s market.”

Students say the new programs reflect what many are looking for in college today: career-focused options that still emphasize understanding people.

“I think these new programs are a great addition to MVC because they give students more options that connect directly to real-world careers, especially in healthcare,” Trinity Brennan, a sophomore sports management major, said. “There is a growing demand for professionals who understand both physical health and human behavior.”

Brennan said one of the most interesting parts of the new major is its focus on how different aspects of health are connected.

“What interests me the most about the Health and Behavioral Science major is how it connects mental, emotional and physical health,” Brennan said. 

For students already in healthcare-related majors, the new programs offer an opportunity to expand their knowledge beyond traditional coursework.

“These programs connect strongly to my career goals as a nursing major,” Julia Brown, a sophomore nursing major, said. “Science teaches you how to treat diseases, but the humanities help you understand people’s feelings, backgrounds, and experiences. This can help provide more personal care.” 

Brown said understanding patients on a deeper level is essential in healthcare.

“Patients aren’t just their symptoms or diagnoses,” Brown said. “They have emotions, fears, and different personal experiences. When healthcare workers understand this, they are able to build better relationships, communicate more clearly, and make patients feel more comfortable and supported.”

Students also believe the programs could better prepare graduates for a variety of careers by combining technical knowledge with real-world skills. 

“These programs could help students prepare for careers in healthcare by combining scientific knowledge with an understanding of human behavior and ethics,” Brennan said. “This makes students more well-rounded and better prepared to work with diverse patients and real-life situations.”

In addition to career preparation, students say the new offerings could attract more students to campus.

“I think these new programs will definitely attract more students to MVC because they offer relevant career paths,” Brennan said. “Many students are interested in healthcare, and having more specialized options makes the school more appealing.”

Thomas said the early interest has been strong, with students responding positively during enrollment. These courses will be offered in flexible formats, including online, hybrid, and in-person options.

As Fall 2026 approaches, advisors encourage students to step outside their comfort zones and explore new opportunities.

“We always encourage students to take a leap out of their comfort zone,” Thomas said. “That is where opportunity takes place.”