3 new degrees will help meet community’s evolving workforce needs

In response to the community’s evolving healthcare needs, AdventHealth University introduces three new degree programs designed to prepare students to serve where they are needed most.

Beginning in the Fall 2026 term, educational offerings will include a Master of Arts in Clinical Ministry, a dual Master of Science in Nursing/Master of Healthcare Administration degree and an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Medical Sciences-Doctor of Physical Therapy pathway. A minor in Applied Data Analytics also will be an option for students.

“Students come here seeking to discover their purpose and fulfill their calling to serve others,” said C. Josef Ghosn, EdD, FACHE, president of AdventHealth University. “What they find is an education that connects their passion to real community need. As our communities grow, AdventHealth University is grateful to open pathways that equip students to practice healthcare as a ministry.”

The online Clinical Ministry degree, which can be completed in as little as 12 to 15 months, is designed for professionals in social work, mental health, or nursing seeking to add spiritual care to their practice.

“Patients and families need professionals who can provide spiritual and emotional support during moments of vulnerability and loss,” said Andy Lampkin, PhD, Chair of the Religion and Spiritual Care Department at AdventHealth University. “Chaplains provide many of these essential services, but patients have so many regular touchpoints with healthcare professionals who also can listen, empathize, and soothe. Our new Clinical Ministry degree aims to teach them how to care for a patient’s ethical, spiritual, and psychological needs.”

In addition, nurses interested in advancing into leadership roles will discover the online dual degree in Nursing and Healthcare Administration can be completed in six trimesters, providing foundations in organizational insight and leadership excellence.

“Our hospitals and health systems rely on nurses who can lead with empathy while making critical and impactful decisions,” said Lynelle Callender, DNP, RN, INS, PHN, Assistant Dean of Online Nursing at AdventHealth University. “AdventHealth University wants to develop visionary nursing leaders who also understand, nurture and reimagine the many ways we can deliver whole-person care.”

In addition, a new pathway into physical therapy will accelerate the time spent learning. Students will earn their Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences while also pursuing their Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in only six years. The American Physical Therapy Association projects a fluctuating shortfall of physical therapists through 2037.

“This pathway provides a streamlined option while maintaining the rigor of the rigor of both curriculums,” said Elizabeth Clark, PT, DPR, EdD, RYT 200, Chair of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at AdventHealth University.

To apply to any of these programs, visit ahu.edu. To learn more, attend AdventHealth University’s Summer Open House in Orlando on June 10.