College Code: HH

The College of Health and Human Services (CHHS) has been renamed the College of Public Health (CPH) effective November 1, 2022. The name change is effective immediately, and the college renaming will be implemented across all of the university catalog content for the next edition (2023-2024).

Recognized as the “health college” of George Mason University, the College of Health and Human Services (CHHS) offers highly specialized interdisciplinary undergraduate and graduate degree programs that prepare students for professional careers aimed at improving the public’s health and well-being across the lifespan, while eliminating health disparities and promoting social justice. Graduates from our programs work in official health and social agencies, non-governmental health organizations, private industry, health systems, and colleges and universities.  

Our college offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in community health, global health, health administration, health informatics, health policy, health system management, nursing, public health, social work, and selected academic minors, concentrations, and graduate certificates.  To learn more about our degree programs, please visit https://chhs.gmu.edu/academics or call the CHHS Office of Student Affairs at 703-993-1901.

Throughout the year, the college hosts degree program information sessions to interested students.  For dates and times and registration information, visit the Prospective Student Information Sessions website.        

Academic Programs

Our college is committed to educating the next generation of health professionals, researchers, and educators. Our School of Nursing produces more new RNs each year than any other program in Virginia, and these graduates have one of the state's highest pass rates on the nursing licensure exam. The Department of Health Administration and Policy prepares students for careers as leaders of health care organizations and as health policymakers at the state and national levels, while the Department of Global and Community Health trains public health practitioners with a global reach, who can intervene and improve the health of local and international populations. The Department of Nutrition and Food Studies integrates education, research, and outreach in preparing students to improve the health and well-being of populations through food and nutrition. The Department of Social Work educates undergraduate and graduate students to be professional social workers practicing in either community organizations or clinical settings. Our academic units offer a variety of specializations within degree programs, including gerontology, epidemiology and biostatistics, health informatics, clinical social work, and conflict analysis and resolution.

College Faculty

Professors

Alemi, Cheskin, Cuellar, Drews-Botsch, Griffin, Hong, Ihara, Jacobsen, Jung, Kitsantas, Kubik, Maddox, Metcalf, Poms, Rodan, Roess, Rose, R. Sutter, Tang, Tompkins, Weiler, Weinstein, Wolf-Branigin

Associate Professors 

Anand, Blair, Bloom, Cantiello, Cleaveland, Davis, Douglas, Fleming, Freedman, Gewa, Gimm, Goldberg, Gupta, Hines, Huddleston, Inoue, Keyser, Kirsch, Lahm, Lindley, Matto, Maughan, Middle, Min, Nakkash, Oetjen, Oh, Pollack, Sheingold, Slavin, C. Sutter, von Fricken, Winter, Wojtusiak, Xue

Assistant Professors

Avramovic, Basiri, Batheja, Black, Booth, Brooks, Brown, Catona, S. Chang, Chin, Davidson, de Jonge, DuBois, Eklou, Grace, Garrison, Green-Lawson, Gill, Haas, Hand, Harman, Kelly, D. King, Ko, Koduah, Krall, LaCharite, Landis, Madison, Mitcham, Rickerby, Scafide, Schriefer, Shiver, Stoehr, Tomaszewski, Turpin, Uriyo, Villodas, Waithaka, Wang, M. Williams, Zane

Instructors

K. Chang

Administrative Faculty

Adams, Beckwith, Cieslowski, Chomitz, Cornejo, Dove, Dugger, Fleck, Gillette, Green, Helmick, Hensley, Holmes, Hamayoun, Johnson, Joyner, Kargbo, Park, Perez-Brodeur, Sawyer, Thompson, Walsh, L. Williams

ASTHO Affiliate Faculty

Allen, Dennison, Fraser, Lane, Plescia, Ruebush, Yeide

Emeriti

Ailinger, Baghi, Boland, Boyd, Brenkus, Carty, Chong, Gerber, Guccione, Howell, Jenkins, Langley, Mallinson, Moore, Moss, Nichols, Normile, Parker-Smith, Raskin, Redmond, Ritchie, Rome, Silva, Sluzki, Sorrell, Vail, Walker, Whittington, Wu

Policies

Professional Conduct Policy

All CHHS students are expected to conduct themselves professionally at all times. This means that certain behavior is prohibited, including verbal abuse, insubordination, and behavior that threatens the safety of a client, another student, a faculty member, or other health care provider when the behavior occurs within the context of an academic program. CHHS reserves the right to place on probation, suspend, or terminate any student in its programs who engages in such conduct. Students disciplined for such reasons have the right to appeal to their department chair or director.

Student Affairs

The Office of Student Affairs supports students, faculty, and staff members on a variety of admissions, academic, and policy issues. Student Affairs is involved in recruiting new students; pre-admissions advising; processing applications for graduate programs and undergraduate nursing programs; and conducting orientations for newly admitted students.

Student Affairs maintains the college's student records; reviews and recommends action on student requests for exceptions to academic policy; processes standard academic actions; and approves student records for degree completion prior to graduation. Student grade appeals fall under university policy as described in AP.3.9 Grade Appeals.

Each CHHS student is assigned an academic advisor, with whom he or she should meet at least once per semester in order to ensure that program requirements are met. The assigned advisor may be a faculty member, a departmental program coordinator, or an advisor in the Office of Student Affairs.

Student Responsibility

All students are required to have an active Mason e-mail account and to update any change of address on-line through Patriot Web. The college will not communicate with students via a personal e-mail address, so it is important that students check their Mason e-mail regularly. Students are responsible for knowing the university academic policies and the policies governing their program as stated in the university catalog. They are also responsible to know the semester academic calendar including withdrawal deadlines; to review their Mason transcript on-line to ensure transfer of credit accuracy; and to monitor their degree progression through the degree evaluation tool on Patriot Web.

Background Checks

Many clinical agencies and practicum sites mandate that students working there have a criminal background check. All students enrolled in the School of Nursing are required to complete a criminal background check prior to beginning the program. Students enrolled in other CHHS programs may be required to complete background checks before entering a practicum environment. Information obtained from the background check is strictly confidential but may result in a student's inability to perform clinical or practicum activities and, therefore, will disqualify the student from entering or continuing in the program. School of Nursing students are sent information regarding the criminal background check process, and associated fees, upon admission. Other students are informed individually as they are considered for practicum activities requiring background checks. Students are responsible for notifying the assistant dean of student affairs of any arrests, regardless of adjudication, that occur after acceptance and during enrollment in the program. Failure to promptly notify the assistant dean of student affairs may be grounds for termination from the program.

Health Records

To comply with the policies established by the Commonwealth of Virginia, all students must provide current immunization records to the university's Student Health Services at the time of admission to the college. Immunizations may be obtained through Student Health Services on any of the Mason campuses. All students in the School of Nursing also must submit immunization records to the School of Nursing at the time of admission. Additional documentation of good health may be required.

Students should keep copies of their health records should agencies require them for clinical and practicum assignments. All costs associated with immunizations and certifications are the student's responsibility.

Insurance and Liability

Students are strongly advised to maintain health insurance coverage at all times. All students enrolled in the School of Nursing are required to maintain health insurance at all times. A student health insurance plan is available to eligible students through Mason. Students are responsible for their own health care, including emergency care, and CHHS assumes no financial responsibility for the health care of students. Enrolled students who are performing internships and similar experiential learning as a required part of their academic programs are considered agents of the university. They are covered for professional liability by the Commonwealth of Virginia Risk Management Plan while engaged in their prescribed educational duties.

Academic Outreach

The mission of the Office of Academic Outreach is to provide off-campus graduate coursework that supports the continued professional development and competency of practicing health professionals. This purpose is accomplished through collaborative relationships with expert health and instructional resources—individual and organizational—both internal and external to the University.

Academic Policies

Students should become familiar with the university's general academic policies in addition to those specific to each academic unit. See Academic Policies.

Graduate Admission

Admission decisions are made by the faculty committee on admissions of the respective graduate programs. Denial of admission is not subject to appeal. Applicants denied admission to a program are not permitted to enroll in courses in that program through Non-Degree Studies.

If an applicant is offered graduate admission, the college reserves the right to withdraw that offer of admission or to terminate a student in a graduate program if:

  • During his or her academic studies, the admitted applicant has a significant drop in academic performance or fails to graduate with a degree prior to the first day of classes for the term admitted.
  • There has been a misrepresentation in the application process.
  • Prior to the first day of classes for the term admitted, the college learns that the admitted applicant has engaged in behavior that indicates a serious lack of judgment or integrity, irrespective of the outcome of any disciplinary process related to such behavior.

The university further reserves the right to require the applicant to provide additional information (and/or authorization for the release of information) about any such matter.

Non-Degree Enrollment

Non-degree status enables students who have no immediate degree objective or may need to satisfy prerequisites for admission to a degree program to enroll in courses for which they are qualified without seeking formal admission to a degree program. Applicants should be aware of the fact that non-degree admission does not guarantee enrollment in any specific course or future degree program. Enrollment in specific courses is based on eligibility criteria and availability of space in courses. In some areas of study, enrollment may be restricted or prohibited.

Non-degree applications and their established deadlines are available online through the Office of Admission. Detailed information regarding non-degree admission policies and procedures can be found in Non-Degree Enrollment.

The Department of Global and Community Health, the Department of Health Administration and Policy, the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, and the Department of Social Work welcome non-degree students in their classes on a space-available basis. Programs in the College of Health and Human Services which have course restrictions are listed below.

Graduate Non-Degree Restrictions

All Graduate Programs

Students may take a maximum of 9 credit hours in non-degree studies. A student cannot graduate or receive a degree while in non-degree studies. Non-degree graduate students may not register for classes numbered 800 or higher.

Nursing, MSN

A student may be eligible to enroll in approved non-degree MSN courses when space is available if the student:

  • Has not applied for the MSN program and has not been previously denied admission to the MSN program;
  • Holds a BSN from an accredited college and achieved a cumulative degree GPA of 3.00;
  • Holds a current RN license.

MSN non-degree students may not take classes numbered 800 or higher. In addition, they may take a maximum of 9 credit hours in non-degree studies.

Undergraduate Non-Degree Restrictions

Nursing, BSN

Students must be admitted into the BSN program in order to register for undergraduate nursing (NURS) courses.

Health and Human Services (HHS)

Note: See individual academic units within the college for other course offerings

200 Level Courses

HHS 270: Applied Human Anatomy and Physiology I. 4 credits.
Develops a comprehensive understanding of the interrelationships of anatomy and physiology as observed in the human organism, and introduces application of knowledge to health, disease and dysfunction. Emphasis on musculoskeletal, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory and integumentary systems. Offered by Health and Human Services. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to RHBS 270.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
HHS 271: Applied Human Anatomy and Physiology II. 4 credits.
Continued development of a comprehensive understanding of the interrelationships of anatomy and physiology as observed in the human organism, and introduces application of knowledge to health, disease and dysfunction. Emphasis on musculoskeletal, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory and integumentary systems. Offered by Health and Human Services. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to RHBS 271.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (HHS 270C or 270XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

400 Level Courses

HHS 432: Healthy Aging. 3 credits.
Offers a broad perspective of normal aging in the older adult, and the impact of chronic disease and psychosocial and cultural factors on the aging process. Offered by Health and Human Services. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
HHS 480: Research Internship in Public Health. 3 credits.
The student works as a member of a team engaged in population health research and attends a bi-weekly research seminar. Under direction of the course seminar leader and the faculty research mentor, the student will acquire selected research skills and develop introductory research writing and presentation skills. Offered by Health and Human Services. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: Open only to CHHS majors or students who have completed CHSS minor or certificate courses.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
HHS 490: COVID-19 Response Internship. 1-3 credits.
Emphasizes public health and clinical infectious disease control and prevention measures at the community level in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in a practicum field experience under the direct supervision of a preceptor. Provides students a boots-on-the ground opportunity to make a positive impact on health and economic well-being of a variety of local communities. Focuses on all aspects of the Virginia COVID-19 vaccination protocol plan, including recruiting critical populations: vaccine storage, handling and administration (if qualified): second dose reminders, program communication; safety monitoring; and program monitoring. Offered by the College of Health and Human Services, open to all major. Students are required to complete 45 hours of contact per credit hour. May be repeated within degree for a maximum of six credits. Offered by Health and Human Services. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 12 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.
HHS 491: Foundations of Clinical Research. 1 credit.
Provides students with fundamental concepts and basic analytic methods pertaining to the design, analysis, and interpretation of clinical research. Outlines the research process by introducing the components of research - from beginning a literature search, to designing an experiment, to selecting appropriate outcome measures, and collecting data. Offered by Health and Human Services. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
HHS 492: RS: Internship in Clinical Research. 3 credits.
Provides students with experiential learning in a research laboratory that focuses on clinical health research. Students are matched with a clinical research supervisor that provides both research and professional development mentorship. Through this opportunity, students enhance their research, critical thinking, problem-solving and presentation skills. An application must be submitted in the semester prior to enrollment in the course. During the semester prior to entry, students may be asked to acquire certain competencies/certifications in order to fully participate at their research site (e.g., human subjects research protections training, lab safety, certification, HIPAA training). Offered by Health and Human Services. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Research/Scholarship Intensive
Recommended Prerequisite: Course is open to honors college students only.
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

500 Level Courses

HHS 597: Approaches to Quantitative Data Analysis in Public Health Research. 3 credits.
Examine univariate and bivariate statistical procedures appropriate for analyzing quantitative population health research data. Includes selecting, applying, and interpreting data analysis procedures. Offered by Health and Human Services. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

600 Level Courses

HHS 646: Social Gerontology. 3 credits.
Examines physical, psychological, sociological, cultural, spiritual, and economic aspects of aging and explores the challenges of service delivery to older persons. Considers the impact of aging populations on the social structure, economy, demography, and social policy of society and identifies social and cultural forces that influence older persons and their families, with special regard to caregiving, institutionalization, and social roles in retirement. Offered by Health and Human Services. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
HHS 648: Aging and Health. 3 credits.
Provides an overview of normal aging and explores factors that affect health and well being in older adults; demonstrates strategies for maintaining health and managing chronic illness in older adults; examines common misconceptions about aging and healthcare issues; and explores the process of normal aging and the presentation of common health conditions in older adults. Offered by Health and Human Services. May not be repeated for credit. Equivalent to NURS 648.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
HHS 690: COVID-19 Response Practicum. 1-3 credits.
Emphasizes public health and clinical infectious disease control and prevention measures at the community level in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in a practicum field experience under the direct supervision of a preceptor. Provides students a boots-on-the ground opportunity to make a positive impact on health and economic well-being of a variety of local communities. Focuses on all aspects of the Virginia COVID-19 vaccination protocol plan, including recruiting critical populations: vaccine storage, handling and administration (if qualified): second dose reminders, program communication; safety monitoring; and program monitoring. Offered by the College of Health and Human Services, open to all major. Students are required to complete 45 hours of contact per credit hour. May be repeated within degree for a maximum of six credits. Offered by Health and Human Services. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 6 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Special scale.

700 Level Courses

HHS 702: Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. 3 credits.
Prepares students to address public health needs of individuals or groups through health promotion and disease prevention. Emphasis is placed on research evidence and motivational interviewing to improve healthy lifestyle, prevent disease and manage chronic conditions. Offered by Health and Human Services. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

800 Level Courses

HHS 810: Systematic Reviews of Health Research. 3 credits.
Applies systematic methods for evaluating current research in order to develop empirically-based decisions about the next major research questions that need to be addressed in the students' selected area of inquiry. Offered by Health and Human Services. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Master’s degree in a health-related discipline.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
HHS 818: Advanced Ethics of Health Research. 3 credits.
Analyze ethical issues associated with designing and conduction public health research in diverse populations and settings. Offered by Health and Human Services. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Master’s degree in a health-related discipline.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
HHS 825: Conducting and Publishing Health Research. 3 credits.
Apply scientific and ethical principles of inquiry by participating in a guided public health research practicum and seminars. Apply principles of writing for scientific publication. Offered by Health and Human Services. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Master's degree in a health-related discipline.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.

Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
HHS 850: Teaching Practicum in Public Health. 0-3 credits.
Provides supervised teaching experience of selected public health courses. Focuses on effective strategies for facilitating student learning, methods of assessment and testing, and using student and peer feedback for self-improvement. Examines the principles and practices of effective classroom management. Offered by Health and Human Services. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Minimum of 18 graduate hours in a health-related field.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy or Graduate.

Students in a Non-Degree Post-Baccalaureate or Non-Degree Undergraduate degrees may not enroll.

Enrollment limited to students in the Health and Human Services college.

Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

 Rehabilitation Science (RHBS)

300 Level Courses

RHBS 340: Health, Disease and Dysfunction. 3 credits.
Focuses on basic epidemiology, health promotion and disease prevention, as well as impairments in normal function of the individual resulting in disease and dysfunction. Exploration of the individual and societal impact of health and disease. Introduces current rehabilitation and intervention strategies as well as classification of disease and disability.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 345: Applied Biomechanics in Rehabilitation. 3 credits.
Introduces basic concepts and principles of biomechanics in the study and analysis of functional human movement. Discusses the biomechanical principles as applied in both healthy and clinical populations. Develops an understanding of the scientific and clinical applications of biomechanics to rehabilitation interventions. Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: College level physics or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 350: Clinical Physiology and Human Performance. 3 credits.
Investigates the study of human physiology and how it relates to physical activity, health, and functional ability. Specifically, examines the metabolic, locomotive, endocrine, cardiovascular, and pulmonary responses to physical activity and their contributions and limitations to human performance.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: College-level chemistry or permission of instructor or department chair.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 375: Gait and Functional Movement Analysis. 3 credits.
Analyzes human gait and common structural impairments associated with functional performance. Provides the fundamental terminology, techniques, and data interpretation methods used in gait analysis and assessing human physical function.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: RHBS 270 and RHBS 271 or similar courses in human anatomy and physiology.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 380: Neural Basis of Movement. 3 credits.
Introduces major topics in sensory and motor neurophysiology as they relate to motor control and motor learning. Includes organization of sensory and motor systems, neural mechanisms of learning and memory, and current neurophysiological testing techniques. Special emphasis is placed on the implications for motor impairment and recovery following nervous system disease or injury.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: RHBS 270 and RHBS 271 or equivalent anatomy and physiology course.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 390: Clinical Assessment of Functional Capacity. 3 credits.
Examines the scientific basis and theory for exercise assessments in healthy persons and those with chronic disease and disability. Covers cardiorespiratory fitness measurements, cardiac function, body composition, muscular strength and endurance.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: Undergraduate course in anatomy and physiology or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

400 Level Courses

RHBS 415: Clinical Movement Science I. 3 credits.
Describes how the human nervous and musculoskeletal systems work together to move the human body, with special emphasis on movement disorders and disabilities. Topics include movement and motion principles, muscle force production, physiology, and adaptation, along with the measurement of muscle activity, body movements, and body forces.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: College-level physics or permission of instructor or department chair.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 416: Clinical Movement Science II. 3 credits.
Describes how the human nervous and musculoskeletal systems work together to move the human body, with a special emphasis on movement disorders and disabilities. Topics include movement control, adaptation, and learning; experimental and clinical assessment of body movements and forces, treatment of abnormal movement, and rehabilitation technologies.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: RHBS 415 or permission of instructor or department chair.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 418: Exercise Endocrinology. 3 credits.
Explores the role of the endocrine system in the coordination and regulation of the body's internal environment under acute and chronic exercise conditions.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: RHBS 270 and RHBS 271 or similar course in human anatomy and physiology.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 420: Adult Health and Function. 3 credits.
Approaches the study of function and normal development, how it is attained and how it is optimized with a multi-systems viewpoint. Focuses on the components of functional movement. Addresses strategies for assessing, promoting and maintaining functional independence. Highlights current treatment approaches of disease and dysfunction.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 430: Advanced Functional Clinical Assessments. 3 credits.
Examines the theory behind functional assessments used in those with chronic diseases and/or disability. Current measures used to assess function in clinical populations will be performed and discussed. Established clinical and research measures will also be examined and conducted.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: RHBS 390C or 390XS.
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 450: Psychosocial Adaptation in Rehabilitation. 3 credits.
Examines the psychosocial impacts of rehabilitation and disability. Provides a disability perspective from the individual and society and explores the interaction between them.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: Completed RHBS 201 or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 455: Research in Rehabilitation Science. 3 credits.
Describes central principles of scientific method and ethical and regulatory responsibilities of rehabilitation science researchers. Explores application of scientific method in basic, interventional, clinical and translational research. Develops ability to read literature critically and make appropriate scientific inferences. Introduces basics of grant writing.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Capstone
Specialized Designation: Writing Intensive in Major
Recommended Prerequisite: STAT 250 or equivalent.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Senior.

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 489: Introduction to Clinical Research. 1 credit.
Provides students with a basic understanding of what clinical research is and the scientific principles on which it is based. Starts with a historical perspective on clinical research and then goes on to explore the following topics: purpose of clinical research, ethical and regulatory implications of clinical research, and the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved in clinical research.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: Course is open to honors college students only or by permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 490: RS: Clinical Research Internship. 3 credits.
Practical experience in a clinical research setting under the direction of a mentor. Each student is required to work with an experienced clinical investigator who agrees to provide the trainee mentorship. Clinical research embraces a spectrum of scientific disciplines that use a variety of study methods. Therefore, the multidisciplinary approach to clinical research is emphasized during didactic interactions. Note: In addition, an application must be submitted in the semester prior to enrollment in the course. During the semester prior to entry, students may be asked to acquire certain competencies/certifications in order to fully participate at their research site (for example, human subjects research protections training, lab safety certification, HIPAA training).Offered by Rehabilitation Science. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Research/Scholarship Intensive
Recommended Prerequisite: Course is open to honors college students only.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
RHBS 491: Directed Research. 1-3 credits.
Engages students in a directed research project under the guidance of a faculty member.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.
Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

600 Level Courses

RHBS 606: Clinical Exercise Physiology. 3 credits.
Examines acute and chronic alterations and adaptations associated with exercise and training. Covers role of exercise therapy in preventing and rehabilitating from disease across lifespan. Particular emphasis on role of exercise therapy in cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, and metabolic diseases.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 620: Psychosocial Aspects of Rehabilitation. 3 credits.
Explores social and psychological impacts of disability. Processes by which people with disabilities adapt to limitations will be examined, as will the influence society has in promoting independence/dependence among people with disabilities.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 650: Foundations of Rehabilitation Science. 3 credits.
Examines the field of rehabilitation science with emphasis on the core theories and models of this emerging discipline. Surveys various topics within rehabilitation science including the history and development of the field, assistive technologies, pathology and impairment research, functional limitations research, disability research, translational research, and ethical considerations in clinical and research settings.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 651: Research Design and Methods I. 3 credits.
Explores quantitative and qualitative research methods, principles and techniques necessary for implementation of health science research.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 652: Research Design and Methods II. 3 credits.
Explores advanced experimental and quasi-experimental research methods frequently utilized in rehabilitation research. Develop theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to conduct independent research.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: RHBS 651 or permission of instructor.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

700 Level Courses

RHBS 706: Clinical Assessment of Fatigability. 3 credits.
Reviews the scientific literature describing the theories of fatigue and fatigability. Assessments and methodologies used to evaluate fatigue and fatigability will be performed. Students will apply the theories of fatigue to further their understanding of specific clinical problems.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Enrolled in RHBS program, or with permission of the course instructor.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 710: Applied Physiology I. 3 credits.
Examines the primary bio-regulatory and communication systems. A detailed study of physiology for graduate students interested in health and human movement, chronic illness, and disability. Covers energy metabolism, endocrine, immune, neurological, and muscular systems.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 711: Applied Physiology II. 3 credits.
Explores general systemic function. A detailed study of physiology for graduate students interested in health and human movement, chronic illness, and disability. Covers cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, renal, and reproductive systems.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: RHBS 710.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 720: Principles of Clinical Trials. 3 credits.
Provides a practical overview of the fundamental principles of clinical trial design and management, ethical and regulatory factors in the conduct of clinical trials, and their role in clinical practice, public health and decision making. Topics include clinical trial design, biostatistics, ethics and regulatory affairs, study management and oversight, and current concepts.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Graduate level statistics/methods
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 740: Applied Physiology: Cardiorespiratory. 3 credits.
Rigorous, evidence-based study of biological factors and medial conditions that limit oxidative metabolic function. Emphasis on examining current hypotheses of physical activity limitations in chronic illness and disability.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: RHBS 606, EFHP 610, RHBS 710 or other graduate physiology course, plus one of the following: two-semester course sequence in anatomy and physiology (100 level or above) or one course in animal or comparative physiology (300 level or above) or one course in human physiology (300 level or above).
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 745: Metabolic Basis of Disability. 3 credits.
Examines anatomy and physiology of organs and systems involved in regulating metabolism; assesses relationships among hormonal and central nervous system regulation in the production and regulation of energy.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: RHBS 710
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 746: Movement Control and Learning. 3 credits.
Describes how the human nervous and musculoskeletal systems work together to move the human body, with a special emphasis on movement disorders and disabilities. Topics include movement and motion principles, muscle force production, physiology, and adaptation, along with the measurement of muscle activity, body movements, and body forces.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: RHBS 710
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 750: Physiology of Clinical Exercise Interventions. 3 credits.
Critiques current knowledge of exercise prescription in both healthy and clinical populations. Examines physiological effects of exercise interventions, with emphasis on chronic disease and disability.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: RHBS 606.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 754: Movement Disorders: Etiology, Assessment, and Analyses. 3 credits.
Applies concepts of neuromechanics to the assessment and analysis of normal and pathological movement using both existing clinical assessments and laboratory-based measures of body kinematics, kinetics, muscle activity, and perception/cognition interactions with movement. Discusses benefits and limitations of assessment and analysis techniques as well as current research with regard to advancing these techniques.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: RHBS 746.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 772: Applied Biomechanics in Rehabilitation. 3 credits.
Describes concepts and principles of biomechanics for the study and analysis of functional human movement within the scope of rehabilitation science. Describes the biomechanical principles as applied in both healthy and clinical populations. Develops an understanding of the scientific and clinical applications of biomechanics to rehabilitation interventions.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 776: Movement Analysis of Function. 3 credits.
Applies biomechanical principles to record and analyze functional activities, including walking, sit-stand, and reaching. Focuses on data acquisition, processing, and compiling of kinematic and kinetic data including motion capture, center of pressure, and electromyography. Evaluates movement from a joint, total body, and muscular perspective related to performance. Addresses how age and injuries affect functional performance.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

800 Level Courses

RHBS 816: Rehabilitation Efficacy and Effectiveness Research. 3 credits.
Examines the theory and methods of comparative effectiveness studies and their relationship to developing Rehabilitation Science and other disciplines to effect better clinical practice by identifying benefits/harms of prevention and treatment and explores the implications of evidence for comparative effectiveness in developing health care policy.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.

Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
RHBS 894: Special Topics in Rehabilitation Science. 3 credits.
In-depth study of contemporary topics in Rehabilitation Science. Course topics vary each semester. Notes: Students may take up to 9 credits of RHBS 894 with permission of program director.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 9 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.

Schedule Type: Lec/Sem #1, Lec/Sem #2, Lec/Sem #3, Lec/Sem #4, Lec/Sem #5, Lec/Sem #6, Lec/Sem #7, Lec/Sem #8, Lec/Sem #9, Sem/Lec #10, Sem/Lec #11, Sem/Lec #12, Sem/Lec #13, Sem/Lec #14, Sem/Lec #15, Sem/Lec #16, Sem/Lec #17, Sem/Lec #18, Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

900 Level Courses

RHBS 940: Independent Study. 1-6 credits.
In-depth study of selected area of rehabilitation science under the direction of faculty.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 24 credits.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.

Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
RHBS 960: Directed Research. 1-6 credits.
Research on a pertinent topic in rehabilitation science. Must be arranged with instructor before registering.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 24 credits.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.

Schedule Type: Independent Study
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
RHBS 998: Doctoral Dissertation Proposal. 1-9 credits.
Work on research proposal that forms basis for doctoral dissertation.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 9 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Advancement to PhD candidacy.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.

Schedule Type: Dissertation
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
RHBS 999: Dissertation Research. 1-9 credits.
Dissertation research on a specific topic under the direction of a faculty member.Offered by Rehabilitation Science. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 24 credits.
Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy.

Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Rehabilitation Science.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.

Schedule Type: Dissertation
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.