Experiential Learning

Beyond lectures and homework, real-world experiences give you the chance to put your knowledge into action. Explore student organizations that offer opportunities for shadowing, study abroad programs that provide new perspectives on the health professions, and ways to get involved in the Newark community. See how our Blue Hens are gaining hands-on experience for life after their undergraduate degree.

Visit Student Central to learn about the 250+ registered student organizations we have on campus.

Lori's Hands

Students from Lori's hands sitting on a coach with individuals wearing Lori's hands shirts and sweatshirts

Lori’s Hands is a student-powered non-profit connecting volunteers with Newark residents living with chronic illness. Founded in memory of Lori LaFave, the program fosters empathy, community, and connection.

 

Emergency Care Unit

Student standing in uniform in front of the Emergency Care Unit ambulance

The Emergency Care Unit is a student-run, volunteer ambulance providing 24/7 emergency care on-campus and nearby. Responding to 500+ calls yearly, UDECU delivers life-saving care, hands-on training, event standby, and public education.

Physical Therapy Clinic

physical therapy clinic with patients on treadmills and physical therapists assisting

UD’s PT Clinic is an outpatient clinic serving the community, providing clinical practice and research. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to gain patient care hours through shadowing PT graduate students and clinicians.

 

Fred Ruello Family Nutrition Center

Student standing at the counter of the Fred Ruello Family Nutrition Center

Students gain practical experience with nutrition counseling and education with a focus on athletes. The interns at the Nutrition Center educate the athletes on making healthy and informed decisions whether they are in-season, conditioning, or working out.

 

Nursing Clinicals
 

Pediatric simulation of appendectomy

Nursing students complete over 800+ clinical hours by the time they graduate. Starting in sophomore year, clinicals occur in a wide variety of settings (hospitals, nursing homes, etc) to provide our students with diverse prospectives and experiences.

 

Research Experiences
 

Student putting head monitoring gear on a research participant

Students can contribute to our faculty’s innovative and novel research on all things health related covering the life span. Think: Parkinson’s Disease and the effects on the nervous system, minimizing concussions on athletes, encouraging physical activity to individuals with disabilities, and using AI to help sleep issues.

Students taking a group photo in Cape Town on a study abroad

Study Abroad

 

CHS faculty-ran programs have traveled to New Zealand, Portugal, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Greece, England and many other places. These trips explore the culture, cuisine, and healthcare of the destinations. Learn more about UD Study Abroad.

Past Health Science Study Abroad Experiences