Programs

Holistic Health Undergraduate Minor

The Basics

The program begins with an examination of the connection between different dimensions of health within the individual. It then explores how people’s lifestyle choices have an impact on their professional work and the larger community. Through a required sequence of courses for the minor, students are exposed to the connection between an individual’s health and our global health: an expanded lens that seems especially important given the current state of world affairs.

The undergraduate minor curriculum considers the principle of “holism” both within health care as well as across other disciplines and fields. The minor is structured in order to meet the needs of two student populations:

Undergraduate students who are majoring in a health care field and desire specialized study in the areas of holistic health that are central to understand in order to be an effective professional in the current health care field.

Undergraduate students majoring in a non-health care field, who are interested in considering the application of holistic theories to their field of study.

In both cases, the minor degree will assist graduates in being effective and responsible professionals who are aware of how their life choices have an impact on their own health, their professional work, and the larger communities in which they live.

How do I enroll in the minor? Students must be seeking degrees at WMU to receive credit for the minor. For advising and/or to declare a minor in holistic health, contact Jan Dekker, College of Health and Human Services (269) 387-2656.

What if I have already taken HOL courses prior to fall 2004? To discuss the possibility of counting already completed HOL course credits toward the minor, please talk with the advisor for the minor.

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Holistic Health Care Graduate Certificate

Graduate Certificate Program for Professional and Personal Enrichment

Holism is a philosophy which considers the whole person within the larger context of their life. The wisdom of holistic health honors the interdependent relationship between body, mind, spirit and community.

The Holistic Health Program introduces students to complementary and alternative modalities that promote optimal health and healing, at both an academic and experiential level. Students are exposed to a variety of  topics in this rapidly growing field and are encouraged to carefully evaluate the research on various evidence-based holistic practices. Students are also presented with a framework for wellness which helps them to make informed life-style choices  and establish  respectful, cooperative relationships with others and the environment.

The Program encourages personal growth through self-assessment, authentic expression, and active participation in health. Classes  include lecture, discussion, personal reflection and experiential activities.

The Holistic Health curriculum can be pursued as an independent graduate certificate or as a supplement to other graduate training.

Students who earn a certificate in Holistic Health will understand the philosophy of
holism and the connection between their  personal journey and their expression of this in the world of relationships and work.

The certificate complements and supports the coursework of related fields enabling  students to work within their chosen profession from a holistic perspective that may enhance career opportunities.

Students in the helping professions such as social work, counseling, psychology,  theology, occupational therapy, health studies, nursing, education, and the arts will especially benefit from this program.

WMU’s Holistic Health Program is one of only a few such programs in the nation. It equips students for career advancement in health and human service fields and provides opportunities for enrichment and personal growth. Professionals gain new knowledge and skills to enhance their present position.