Online MBA in Health Care Leadership
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An MBA Designed for Health Care Professionals
Build your health care business knowledge and open new career opportunities with an MBA in Health Care Leadership. Viterbo’s innovative online program is designed for working professionals, including:
- Dietitians
- Health care administrators
- Laboratory technicians
- Medical coders
- Nurses
- Pharmacists
- Physicians
Regardless of your current position, you can immediately apply what you’re learning with projects that will impact your organization. An MBA in Health Care Leadership can also lead to career opportunities in management and administration.
Health Care Leadership Program Highlights
Our program is set apart by a diverse learning community of nurses, physicians, administrators, faculty, and other health professionals. As you earn your MBA in Health Care Leadership, you will be a member of a cohort, allowing you to build relationships with other professionals and learn from their unique perspectives.
- Online. Apart from two 2.5-day on-campus "intensives," you can complete the two-year health care leadership program entirely online. Small classes, activities designed with unique and innovative learning tools, recorded sessions, and an asynchronous schedule give you the flexibility to balance your studies with your busy life. We are authorized to provide online instruction in most states.
- Faculty. Our health care leadership MBA is taught by former and current industry professionals from the renowned Mayo Clinic and Gundersen Health Systems.
- Location. You can take your MBA in Health Care Leadership courses online while benefiting from our La Crosse, Wisc. location, which offers access to robust health care settings. When you complete our health care leadership program, you can explore a wide range of career opportunities with globally recognized organizations.
- Accreditation. Viterbo is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and our MBA program has received specialized accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. You can be assured that our health care leadership program has met rigorous standards.
What Can You Do With an MBA in Health Care Leadership?
As a health care professional, you already have valuable technical and patient care skills. Our MBA in Health Care Leadership program builds upon this expertise with knowledge about the complexities and nuances of running an organization, making you a valuable candidate for health care leadership and management positions.
Possible Health Care Leadership Career Paths
Our graduates work in many different health care leadership and management roles. We have had nurses who have become nurse managers and MDs who have earned their MBA to open private practices. Other health care leadership opportunities include:
- Health care consultant
- Health care financial manager
- Health care technology manager
- Health information management manager
- Health services manager
- Hospital CEO or administrator
- Hospital CFO
- Pharmaceutical project manager
Financial Aid for the MBA in Health Care Leadership Program
We work to keep our MBA in Health Care Leadership affordable, which is why we charge a per-credit-hour rate plus a $10 per credit resource fee. Our MBA in Health Care Leadership program is eligible for federal financial aid, and we also offer scholarships for MBA students.
If you are interested in financial aid, we invite you to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and contact Viterbo University’s graduate financial aid office with any questions.
Examples of Health Care Leadership Courses
Our MBA in Health Care Leadership curriculum explores processes, finances, and policies so that you can help improve health care delivery. Popular offerings include:
- Health Care Finance: Explore financial accounting and reporting, financial analysis, accounting methods, and budgeting in health care.
- Health Care Outcomes and Process Improvements: Focus on identifying, measuring, and improving health care quality, patient satisfaction, cost, and employee engagement.
- Population Health: Analyze how stakeholders create health policies and interventions to improve health outcomes, focusing on rural health, education, risk factors, ethical issues, and the economic impact of population health.
Related Programs at Viterbo University
We invite you to explore additional programs designed for working professionals ready to become leaders.
STEM and Pre-health Programs at Viterbo University
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Prepare for Today’s Cross-Disciplinary STEM and Health-Related Careers
Viterbo University’s STEM and pre-health programs address the growing demand for professionals with interdisciplinary skills. Engineers, scientists, and those working in health-related careers must solve problems and work on projects that require a combination of expertise from across fields. We collaborate with advisory boards, health care providers, and alumni to ensure our pre-health and STEM programs are relevant for today’s jobs.
Our science-related majors enjoy a 95+% acceptance rate into professional schools and graduate programs. Engineering degree students are guaranteed an engineering internship, and 100% of our engineering graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduating.
You can take pre-health and STEM classes in the format that best serves you and your goals. We offer full- and part-time programs on campus and online.
STEM and Pre-health Degree Highlights
Our STEM and pre-health programs empower you to harness the strengths of both fields and chart diverse, dynamic career paths across industries. Our cutting-edge facilities—meeting spaces, classrooms, laboratories, and research hubs—are designed to foster collaboration and innovation. With faculty offices conveniently located throughout the Reinhart Center, you’ll enjoy easy access to expert guidance and build strong connections with your professors. Other benefits include:
- Supportive community. Our STEM and pre-health programs foster a closely connected community of students, faculty, and professional staff to learn, work, and conduct research across disciplines. You will receive personal career advising, tutoring, and more to help you succeed in college and beyond. Our close-knit campus also allows you to get involved in athletics, the arts, and organizations like the STEM Club.
- Extensive networking opportunities. When you join the Viterbo community, we plug you into a network of relationships that foster success. You will also have access to our vast alumni community through events like our networking nights.
- Collaborative faculty. Whether you are taking STEM or pre-health courses, you will learn from experts who cooperatively teach with other faculty to ensure you receive the best possible education. Our instructors provide a multidisciplinary education to prepare you for real-world challenges and opportunities.
- HAWK WORKS (Holistic Alliances Whose Knowledge Will Offer Resources for Kickstarting Success). Strengthen your communication and teamwork skills by working with individuals from diverse technical backgrounds. HAWK WORKS brings together students and faculty from disciplines across campus to identify areas needing innovation, design, and constructive solutions and prepares you to excel in an increasingly specialized world.
- State-of-the-art facilities and an ideal campus location. Our STEM and pre-health students enjoy access to dedicated research labs, an Anatomage virtual dissection table, 20 state-of-the-art teaching laboratories with 60 chemical and biosafety hoods, a clone manager software program, an engineering lab, and more. Our campus is located near bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, allowing you to use these natural features for class lessons, laboratory projects, and research.
- Undergraduate research. Gain hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of your chosen by conducting undergraduate research with faculty mentors. This practical experience is highly valued by employers and graduate programs alike.
What Can You Do With a Pre-health or STEM Degree?
Pre-health and STEM degrees prepare you for a broad range of career opportunities in diverse industries, such as:
- Data science and analytics
- Education
- Engineering and technology
- Government and private sector research
- Health-related careers
Because our programs are cross-disciplinary, you will develop diverse skills that will make you even more marketable.
The STEM and pre-health programs also get you ready for graduate school. For example, while completing your undergraduate pre-health degree, you could be accepted into select professional and graduate schools through our articulation agreements. These Early Acceptance Programs (EAPs) include pathways to:
- Chiropractic
- Dentistry
- Osteopathic medicine
- Pharmacy
Our faculty support you throughout the professional program entrance process to help you reach your goals. Our graduates have a 95%+ acceptance rate into health-related professional schools and graduate programs (compared to a national student acceptance rate of 40–60%).
Financial Aid for Pre-health and STEM Programs
In addition to Viterbo’s efforts to keep our tuition affordable through financial aid opportunities, STEM and pre-health students are eligible for several scholarships, including:
- Health Science Scholarship
- Xcel Energy Scholarship for Women in Science
- A $2,000 per year scholarship for engineering majors
- A $500 scholarship for incoming students who attend our annual Engineering, Math, and Computer Science Exploration Day at the start of the spring semester
- Six named annual scholarships awarded to current natural science students. 2023–24 scholarships totaled $19,100
Explore Viterbo's STEM and Pre-health Programs
Four-year BS STEM Degree Programs
STEM Minors
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Mathematics
- Neuroscience
- Science Education
- Sport Science
Pre-health Programs
- Pre-Anesthesiologist Assistant
- Pre-Audiologist
- Pre-Chiropractic
- Pre-Clinical/Medical Laboratory Scientist
- Pre-Dentistry
- Pre-Genetic Counselor
- Pre-Medicine (Allopathic/Osteopathic)
- Pre-Occupational Therapy
- Pre-Optometry
- Pre-Pathology Assistant
- Pre-Pharmacy
- Pre-Physical Therapy
- Pre-Physician Assistant
- Pre-Podiatry
- Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Other Programs
Neuroscience
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Earn Your Degree in Neuroscience at Viterbo
In Viterbo’s neuroscience program, you will develop the knowledge and skills essential for systematically evaluating the intricate relationships between the brain and human/animal behavior. You will learn foundational and cutting-edge theories, putting your scientific reasoning to the test through hands-on laboratory experiences and engaging in independent research projects. Upon graduation, you can pursue professional degrees in health-related fields, advance your studies in neuroscience or related disciplines, and launch fulfilling careers in mental health services or biomedical research.
Explore Viterbo’s Neuroscience Program
Neuroscience (BS)
Systematically evaluate relationships between the brain and human/animal behavior with a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience. You will learn and test foundational and contemporary theories through scientific reasoning, laboratory experiences, and independent research. Upon completion, you can pursue professional degrees in health-related fields, advanced degrees in neuroscience or related disciplines, and entry-level careers in mental health services or biomedical research.
Neuroscience (Minor)
The neuroscience minor requirements total 14 credits. Transfer courses, waivers and/or substitutions, and prerequisite courses could modify these credit totals.
Neuroscience Degree Program Highlights and Advantages
Choose Viterbo’s neuroscience major and minor and benefit from:
- Strong focus on grad school preparation. Prepare for graduate studies by taking advantage of our professional school prep courses for exams such as the MCAT, DAT, OAT, GRE, and others. We maintain articulation agreements with professional programs, some of which offer 3+1 programs and early acceptance to their programs.
- Ideal location for the study of life sciences. Majors in biology and other life sciences benefit from our La Crosse, Wisc. location. Connect with major hospitals (Gundersen and Mayo) for internships, job shadowing, employment, or other opportunities. Intern with organizations such as the U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Valley Conservancy, and Genoa National Fish Hatchery. Study the Mississippi River region, including class trips to Mississippi flowage areas.
- World-class scientists on campus. Hear from and engage with renowned expert speakers through our two large symposia—one focused on undergraduate research (Seven Rivers Undergraduate Research Symposium) and another on scientific issues that are particularly important to society (Agnes W. H. Tan Science Symposium).
- Career-focused pre-health advising. Meet regularly with a dedicated pre-health faculty mentor about program progression, course selection, internship possibilities, research opportunities, career paths, and more. Advisors receive training through the National Association for Advisors of Health Professionals.
- Scholarships for life science majors. Our competitive Health Science Scholarship provides one student each year with a full-time tuition award and additional scholarships ranging from $4,000 to $12,000. Departmental scholarships are also available for biology majors and other life sciences fields.
- Learning and mentoring from expert faculty. Your study of life sciences will be led by faculty who know your name, have an open-door policy, and focus on your personal and professional development. Collaborate with faculty members whose research interests include:
- Active learning approaches in organic chemistry
- Alzheimer’s
- Antibiotics
- Autoimmune diseases and regulation of immune responses
- Beneficial microbes for human medicine
- Drug quantification in wastewater
- Gene regulation in prokaryotes
- Invertebrate diversity in local ecosystems
- Impact of environment on neural development
What Can You Do With Your Degree?
Biology, biochemistry, and neuroscience degree graduates at Viterbo enjoy a 94% acceptance rate into health-related professional schools and a 90% acceptance rate into other graduate programs (compared to a national acceptance rate of 40–60%).
Our science majors have been accepted into professional schools and programs at:
- Arkansas College of Health Education
- Carroll University
- Case Western
- Concordia University
- Creighton
- Illinois College of Optometry
- Kansas University
- LECOM
- Marquette
- Mayo Rochester
- Medical College of Wisconsin
- Michigan College of Optometry
- Rosalind Franklin
- St. George’s
- Union College Nebraska
- University of Colorado
- University of Iowa
- University of Minnesota
- University of Minnesota-Duluth
- University of South Dakota
- University of Virginia
- UNLV
- UW-La Crosse
- UW-Madison
- UW-Milwaukee
- UW-Stout
Many of our science degree graduates are recruited by employers in areas related to life sciences. Alumni have gone on to work for businesses and organizations such as:
- Area school districts
- Crossing Rivers Healthcare
- Gundersen Health
- Marshfield Clinic
- Mayo Clinic (La Crosse and Rochester)
- Medical College of Wisconsin
- Prairie Moon Nursery
- Prevention Genetics
- Quest Diagnostics
- ThermoFisher
- US Fish and Wildlife
- US Geologic Survey
- University of Michigan Health
- Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Common Careers for Neuroscience Degree Majors
- Clinical psychologist
- Mental health counselor
- Neuropsychologist
- Neuroscientist
- Biomedical research technician
- Physician/physician assistant
Related Programs
Not the right program for you? Viterbo also offers programs in:
Biochemistry
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Investigate Life at the Cellular and Molecular Level with Viterbo’s Accredited Biochemistry Program
In Viterbo’s biochemistry program, you will embark on an interdisciplinary journey blending biology and chemistry. Through in-depth investigations, you’ll uncover the intricate mechanisms that sustain life at both the cellular and molecular levels. Our courses and labs foster the critical thinking, independence, and creativity needed for a successful career. Our program, accredited by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB), equips you for a rewarding future of scientific exploration and discovery, whether you enter a professional position, aspire to pursue graduate studies, or plan to attend medical school.
Explore Viterbo's Biochemistry Degrees
Biochemistry (BS)
Biochemistry is an interdisciplinary major that blends biology and chemistry, investigating how life connects at the cellular and molecular levels. Our curriculum requires you to think critically, independently, and creatively. You will be prepared for an outstanding career or study in graduate, professional, or medical school through our courses and labs.
Chemistry (Minor)
A chemistry minor generally requires between 15–25 credits upon completion. Transfer courses, waivers, and/or substitutions could modify these credit totals.
Biochemistry Program Highlights and Advantages
Choose Viterbo’s biochemistry major and minor and benefit from:
- Strong focus on grad school preparation. Prepare for graduate studies by taking advantage of our professional school prep courses for exams such as the MCAT, DAT, OAT, GRE, and others. We maintain articulation agreements with professional programs, some of which offer 3+1 programs and early acceptance to their programs.
- Ideal location for the study of life sciences. Majors in biology and other life sciences benefit from our La Crosse, Wisc. location. Connect with major hospitals (Gundersen and Mayo) for internships, job shadowing, employment, or other opportunities. Intern with organizations such as the U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Valley Conservancy, and Genoa National Fish Hatchery. Study the Mississippi River region, including class trips to Mississippi flowage areas.
- World-class scientists on campus. Hear from and engage with renowned expert speakers through our two large symposia—one focused on undergraduate research (Seven Rivers Undergraduate Research Symposium) and another on scientific issues that are particularly important to society (Agnes W. H. Tan Science Symposium).
- Career-focused pre-health advising. Meet regularly with a dedicated pre-health faculty mentor about program progression, course selection, internship possibilities, research opportunities, career paths, and more. Advisors receive training through the National Association for Advisors of Health Professionals.
- Scholarships for life science majors. Our competitive Health Science Scholarship provides one student each year with a full-time tuition award and additional scholarships ranging from $4,000 to $12,000. Departmental scholarships are also available for biology majors and other life sciences fields.
- Learning and mentoring from expert faculty. Your study of life sciences will be led by faculty who know your name, have an open-door policy, and focus on your personal and professional development. Collaborate with faculty members whose research interests include:
- Active learning approaches in organic chemistry
- Alzheimer’s
- Antibiotics
- Autoimmune diseases and regulation of immune responses
- Beneficial microbes for human medicine
- Drug quantification in wastewater
- Gene regulation in prokaryotes
- Invertebrate diversity in local ecosystems
- Impact of environment on neural development
What Can You Do with Your Biochemistry Degree?
Biology, biochemistry, and neuroscience degree graduates at Viterbo enjoy a 94% acceptance rate into health-related professional schools and a 90% acceptance rate into other graduate programs (compared to a national acceptance rate of 40–60%).
Our science majors have been accepted into professional schools and programs at:
- Arkansas College of Health Education
- Carroll University
- Case Western
- Concordia University
- Creighton
- Illinois College of Optometry
- Kansas University
- LECOM
- Marquette
- Mayo Rochester
- Medical College of Wisconsin
- Michigan College of Optometry
- Rosalind Franklin
- St. George’s
- Union College Nebraska
- University of Colorado
- University of Iowa
- University of Minnesota
- University of Minnesota-Duluth
- University of South Dakota
- University of Virginia
- UNLV
- UW-La Crosse
- UW-Madison
- UW-Milwaukee
- UW-Stout
Many of our science degree graduates are recruited by employers in areas related to life sciences. Alumni have gone on to work for businesses and organizations such as:
- Area school districts
- Crossing Rivers Healthcare
- Gundersen Health
- Marshfield Clinic
- Mayo Clinic (La Crosse and Rochester)
- Medical College of Wisconsin
- Prairie Moon Nursery
- Prevention Genetics
- Quest Diagnostics
- ThermoFisher
- US Fish and Wildlife
- US Geologic Survey
- University of Michigan Health
- Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Common Careers for Biochemistry Degree Majors
- Environmental scientist
- Forensic chemist
- Medical researcher
- Molecular biologist
- Pharmacist
- Physician
- Research scientist
Related Programs
Not the right program for you? Viterbo also offers programs in:
Biology
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Prepare for a Thriving Career with Viterbo’s Biology Program
The BS in Biology program follows the core learning concepts and competencies as determined by the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Vision and Change in Undergraduate Science Education Initiative. Majors in biology develop the expertise and skills needed to pursue in-demand careers or continue their education in various graduate programs. Studying biology provides a comprehensive understanding of complex scientific issues and the relationships between science, technology, and the world.
You will gain hands-on experience by working alongside faculty experts in paid summer internships focused on biological fields. We offer exceptional partnerships with leading employers and organizations, which provide a variety of additional internship opportunities.
As a biology major, you will benefit from learning in small classes and closely collaborating with faculty. Our programs and curriculum allow you to customize your study of biology to help achieve your educational and professional goals.
Explore Viterbo's Biology Degree
Biology (BS)
Gain a breadth of knowledge within the biological sciences with our biology BS degree, including cellular and molecular biology, anatomy and physiology, ecology, behavior, evolution, and a specialized area you choose. We offer a student-centered learning environment that includes hands-on experiences, career exploration, research, and internships within the curriculum.
Biology (Minor)
The biology minor requires 15-16 total credits. Transfer courses, waivers and/or substitutions, and prerequisite courses could modify these credit totals.
Science Education (Minor)
If you want to teach science in Grades 6–12, our science education minor provides the qualifications to teach biology, chemistry, or general science. The minor requires 27-28 credits, but transfer courses, waivers, and/or substitutions could modify these credit totals.
Environmental Science (Minor)
Humans are inescapably connected to the environment. It provides us with what we need to survive—food, clean air, water, and the building blocks of medicine.
If you are concerned about the human impact on our world, an environmental biology minor is an excellent choice. You will connect with the natural world through a flexible program with a broad-based background in biology, chemistry, environmental science, and sustainability. This minor takes an integrated approach to environmental studies with a systems-level view of how organisms interact with the environment.
Sport Science (Minor)
Because of the rapidly growing sports and leisure industries, there is a large demand for professionals with a strong background in science, research, exercise science, human performance, and psychology combined with management and ethical leadership skills.
The sport science minor introduces you to the complexities of sports science. You will also gain the experience you need for graduate school or a career in many professions, including the sports industry. Sport management and leadership majors are not eligible for this minor.
Biology Program Highlights and Advantages
Choose Viterbo’s biology major and minors and benefit from:
- Strong focus on grad school preparation. Prepare for graduate studies by taking advantage of our professional school prep courses for exams such as the MCAT, DAT, OAT, GRE, and others. We maintain articulation agreements with professional programs, some of which offer 3+1 programs and early acceptance to their programs.
- Ideal location for the study of life sciences. Majors in biology and other life sciences benefit from our La Crosse, Wisc. location. Connect with major hospitals (Gundersen and Mayo) for internships, job shadowing, employment, or other opportunities. Intern with organizations such as the U.S. Geological Survey, Mississippi Valley Conservancy, and Genoa National Fish Hatchery. Study the Mississippi River region, including class trips to Mississippi flowage areas.
- World-class scientists on campus. Hear from and engage with renowned expert speakers through our two large symposia—one focused on undergraduate research (Seven Rivers Undergraduate Research Symposium) and another on scientific issues that are particularly important to society (Agnes W. H. Tan Science Symposium).
- Career-focused pre-health advising. Meet regularly with a dedicated pre-health faculty mentor about program progression, course selection, internship possibilities, research opportunities, career paths, and more. Advisors receive training through the National Association for Advisors of Health Professionals.
- Scholarships for life science majors. Our competitive Health Science Scholarship provides one student each year with a full-time tuition award and additional scholarships ranging from $4,000 to $12,000. Departmental scholarships are also available for biology majors and other life sciences fields.
- Learning and mentoring from expert faculty. Your study of life sciences will be led by faculty who know your name, have an open-door policy, and focus on your personal and professional development. Collaborate with faculty members whose research interests include:
- Active learning approaches in organic chemistry
- Alzheimer’s
- Antibiotics
- Autoimmune diseases and regulation of immune responses
- Beneficial microbes for human medicine
- Drug quantification in wastewater
- Gene regulation in prokaryotes
- Invertebrate diversity in local ecosystems
- Impact of environment on neural development
What Can You Do With Your Biology Degree?
Biology, biochemistry, and neuroscience degree graduates at Viterbo enjoy a 94% acceptance rate into health-related professional schools and a 90% acceptance rate into other graduate programs (compared to a national acceptance rate of 40–60%).
Our science majors have been accepted into professional schools and programs at:
- Arkansas College of Health Education
- Carroll University
- Case Western
- Concordia University
- Creighton
- Illinois College of Optometry
- Kansas University
- LECOM
- Marquette
- Mayo Rochester
- Medical College of Wisconsin
- Michigan College of Optometry
- Rosalind Franklin
- St. George’s
- Union College Nebraska
- University of Colorado
- University of Iowa
- University of Minnesota
- University of Minnesota-Duluth
- University of South Dakota
- University of Virginia
- UNLV
- UW-La Crosse
- UW-Madison
- UW-Milwaukee
- UW-Stout
Many of our science degree graduates are recruited by employers in areas related to life sciences. Alumni have gone on to work for businesses and organizations such as:
- Area school districts
- Crossing Rivers Healthcare
- Gundersen Health
- Marshfield Clinic
- Mayo Clinic (La Crosse and Rochester)
- Medical College of Wisconsin
- Prairie Moon Nursery
- Prevention Genetics
- Quest Diagnostics
- ThermoFisher
- US Fish and Wildlife
- US Geologic Survey
- University of Michigan Health
- Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Examples of Biology Courses
- BIOL 321 - Conservation Biology, BIOL 310 Limnology (field-based courses) – Weekly field studies in the fall include electrofishing for trout, canoeing in the backwaters of the Mississippi, aquatic organism sampling, and birding.
- BIOL 338 - Biomechanics (clinical style course) – Analyze body movement using real-world techniques common in physical therapy and other clinical programs.
- BIOL 347 - Human Physiology, BIOL 482 Human Anatomy – Traditionally two of our most challenging courses, human physiology and anatomy are designed to prepare students who plan to enter health professions programs.
- BIOL 426 - Immunology – Highly relevant to students who lived through the global pandemic, this class features cutting-edge information on immune responses, immunologic disease, vaccines, and infectious diseases with examples that relate specifically to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- BIOL 206 - Health and Graduate Program Exam Review – Prepares students for entrance exams for graduate and medical programs such as the MCAT, DAT, OAT, GRE, or PCAT.
Related Programs
Not the right program for you? Viterbo also offers programs in:
Social Work
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Earn Your Degree in Social Work
In the social work program at Viterbo University you will develop valuable skills in ethical decision making and gain insights into social justice and issues related to diversity. Our social work degrees also provide practical opportunities for you to gain field experience and earn professional certifications.
Social Work (BA)
Make a meaningful impact in people's lives with our BA in social work, which is nationally accredited, guided by experienced faculty committed to your growth. In small, collaborative classes, you’ll explore the complexities of social work through engaging discussions and hands-on learning. A 450-hour internship in a social service setting gives you the chance to work closely with an experienced instructor, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world situations. With this comprehensive experience, you’ll be ready to make a difference and contribute to your community from day one.
Social Work (BS)
In our BS in social work program, faculty with extensive experience as social workers lead small classes and challenging courses focused on valuable hands-on and experiential learning. You will participate in a 30-hour per week, 450-hour internship in a social service setting with a trained social work field instructor. Our social work degree programs are nationally accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.
Family Studies (Minor)
The family studies minor is an interdisciplinary program focusing on human development within the family context. The two primary focuses are:
- The nature of family interactions and family issues
- Family interactions within broader social institutions
The coursework mainly consists of social work and psychology courses, complemented by options in nursing, philosophy, and criminal justice classes. This minor would be beneficial if you plan to work in health care, social services, counseling, youth services, teaching, ministry, family law, or business.
Gerontology (Minor)
Worldwide, the aging population presents unique challenges and opportunities across all fields, especially nursing and social work. The gerontology minor examines the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging and includes courses in nursing, sociology, social work, nutrition and dietetics, psychology, religious studies, biology, and philosophy. The minor requires 15 total credits. Transfer courses, waivers and/or substitutions, and prerequisite courses could modify these credit totals.
Advantages for Majors in Social Work Programs at Viterbo
- Gain real-world experience. As a social work major, you will participate in service learning by volunteering with local agencies and completing a 450-hour senior practicum with a community organization. This hands-on experience will help you develop skills and strengthen practical social work strategies.
- Qualify for the state social work exam. Our social work program has been continuously accredited by the Council on Social Work Education at the bachelor's degree level since 2000. This makes our graduates eligible for the state exam required to practice social work.
- Learn from expert faculty. Our social work faculty members bring extensive practice experience into the classroom to help you develop a deep understanding of the field. Faculty members mentor social work majors, providing guidance on a practice area, career path, or graduate school.
What can you do with a degree in social work?
Our social work program graduates who pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree enjoy a 100% acceptance rate into graduate school programs. Our alumni have been accepted to MSW programs at:
- Augsburg University
- Columbia University
- Concordia University-Wisconsin
- University of Minnesota
- University of St. Thomas
- University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
- University of Wisconsin-Madison
- University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee
- Winona State University
Viterbo social work graduates who choose to enter the social work field after graduation have experienced a 100% placement rate. Our graduates have obtained career positions with:
- Case management organizations
- Elderly and accessibility services
- Family and children's services
- Human service organizations across the country
- Legal services as paralegals or legal assistants
- Medical centers, including Gundersen Healthcare and Mayo Health Systems
- Non-profits, including Catholic Charities and Lutheran Social Services
- Police, correctional, and probation services
- Rolling Hills Rehabilitation Center
- Victim advocacy services
Related Programs at Viterbo University
Criminal and Community Justice
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Earn Your Degree in Criminal and Community Justice
In Viterbo's criminal and community justice program, you will develop the knowledge and skills crucial for a career in the criminal justice system. The program emphasizes how community agencies collaborate to ensure community safety, using best practices for offenders and crime victims. It provides an interdisciplinary, evidence-based approach that strongly emphasizes ethical leadership and active engagement with local justice agencies. This prepares you not only with a comprehensive understanding but also a clear career path within the diverse agencies of our justice system.
Community and Criminal Justice Majors
As a community and criminal justice major, you will become immersed in many aspects of the legal system, including corrections, the courts, law enforcement, and victim services. You will gain an understanding of the structure and function of the criminal justice system and develop a strong awareness of social issues, ethics, and the impact of class, race, and gender in the profession.
Explore Viterbo’s Criminal and Community Justice Degrees
Criminal and Community Justice (BA)
Discover open doors to meaningful careers across the legal system, from corrections and the courts to law enforcement and victim advocacy. The Criminal and Community Justice BA program offers a rich, interdisciplinary understanding of criminal justice, deepening your insight into societal challenges, ethical issues, and the powerful roles that class, race, and gender play in the field. Centered on community-based approaches, you’ll explore how collaborative efforts and social change can address the root causes of crime, foster safer communities, and contribute to a more just society.
Criminal and Community Justice (BS)
Explore many aspects of the legal system and careers in corrections, the courts, law enforcement, and victim services in the Criminal and Community Justice BS. You will gain knowledge of the criminal justice system's structure and function and develop awareness of social issues, ethics, and the role of class, race, and gender in their profession. The major focuses on the importance of communities in addressing and finding solutions for delinquent and criminal behavior.
Criminal and Community Justice (Minor)
The Criminal and Community Justice Minor at Viterbo University requires 12 credits of CRMJ. Transfer courses, waivers, and/or substitutions could modify these credit totals.
Advantages for Majors in the Criminal and Community Justice Program at Viterbo
- Develop hands-on experience in the field. As a community and criminal justice major, you will complete an internship with a local agency, providing valuable real-world experience and insights into community and criminal justice in practice. Your internship could be completed with organizations such as the police academy, a district attorney’s office, or a probation and parole office.
- Learn from community and criminal justice professionals. Your classes will be led by instructors who have worked in the field, bringing extensive practical experience to enhance your learning. You will be mentored and guided by professionals eager to understand your academic and professional goals and help you succeed.
- Enjoy individualized student support. Our faculty and staff will work closely with you to determine your areas of interest and provide personalized career advising. You will also have access to the extensive support Viterbo offers all students.
What Can You Do With Your Degree in Criminal and Community Justice?
Graduating with a major in criminal and community justice will prepare you for a professional career in a social science field or graduate school.
Graduates with an undergraduate degree in community and criminal justice can pursue professional career positions such as:
- Correctional officer
- Cybersecurity professional
- Paralegal
- Police officer or sheriff’s deputy
- Private detective or investigator
- Probation and parole officer
- Professional security guard
Recent Viterbo graduates have accepted positions as:
- Active duty military
- Deputy jailer (Monroe County, Wisc.)
- Jail and dispatch officer (Houston County, Minn.)
- Jail clerk (La Crosse County Sheriff’s Dept.)
- Police officer (Campbell, Wisc.; Viroqua, Wisc.; San Diego, Calif.; West Bend, Wisc.; U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs)
- Probation and parole officer (La Crosse County, Wisc.; Vilas County, Wisc.)
- Security officer (Gundersen Healthcare)
- Sheriff’s deputy (La Crosse County, Wisc.; Clark County, Wisc.; Pierce County, Wisc.)
- Forest Officer (Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources)
Related Programs at Viterbo University
Engineering
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Hands-On, Industry-Connected Engineering Degrees
Reimagine engineering at Viterbo University.
We’re building the next generation of engineers through hands-on, industry-connected, and ABET-accredited programs. This is why 100% of our BS in engineering degree students are employed or pursuing graduate degrees within six months of graduation.
- Real-world ready: At Viterbo, we go beyond teaching theory with a curriculum packed with engaging projects designed to prepare you for real-world job challenges.
- Industry connections: Our active Engineering Advisory Board is made up of leaders from top companies, eager to hire our interns and graduates.
- Hands-on experience: Our state-of-the-art inventor workshop is your playground, where you’ll collaborate with peers, experiment with cutting-edge tools, and bring your ideas to life.
- Proven success: Viterbo’s program is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) , a prestigious recognition that validates our quality and opens doors to even more career opportunities.
Explore Viterbo’s Engineering Degrees
BS in Engineering
We collaborate with industry leaders representing a range of engineering disciplines to ensure our BS in engineering curriculum is relevant to current and future trends. Many BS in engineering students go on to work at the company where they complete their internship, and 100% of our engineering program graduates are employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Engineering Minor
Enhance your problem-solving skills, technical literacy, and career versatility with an engineering minor. Minors generally require 15–25 credits, but transfer courses, waivers, and/or substitutions could modify these totals.
More information on Engineering Engineering Co-op Program
Engineering Program Highlights
At Viterbo, you can participate in internships and/or perform research with faculty members. You will be pushed to think creatively with coursework that emphasizes the problem-solving and critical thinking needed to solve complex problems. Other benefits include:
- Innovative classrooms. Classes are held in a cutting-edge innovation lab where you can design, test, and refine solutions to real-world challenges, with access to industry-standard software for simulations, data processing, and analysis.
- Passionate faculty. Engineering courses are taught by experts who care about preparing you for a satisfying career. Instructors have extensive teaching experience and fascinating research interests.
What Can You Do With an Engineering Degree?
An engineering degree can lead to a lucrative, in-demand career. O*Net reports an average median salary of $111,970 nationwide ($110,810 in La Crosse) for engineers.
Common careers for those with engineering degrees include:
- Mechanical engineer
- Industrial engineer
- Materials scientist
- Project engineer
- Sales engineer
Financial Aid for the Engineering Program
We are committed to affordability. Nearly all—98%—of our full-time students receive some financial aid, and engineering program students are eligible for a competitively awarded $2,000 annual scholarship and a $500 scholarship for incoming students who attend our annual Engineering, Math, and Computer Science Exploration Day at the start of the spring semester.
The engineering professors will help you develop professionally while also providing space to find your passion and identity in STEM. You gain unique experiences and a skill set in a multi-disciplined engineering degree.”
—Gregory Cano ’22, Staff Engineer (Civil), Manhard Consulting
Related Programs at Viterbo University
We encourage you to research our other STEM majors.