Patient Advocacy (Concentration)
The concentration in Patient Advocacy is designed to prepare students with the foundational knowledge for non-clinical graduate study in health care as well as entry-level roles in the field of health advocacy and patient navigation.
Patient Advocacy (Concentration)
Program Curriculum
Faculty
Patricia Quinn
Adjunct Faculty HSRS
Alexandria Marie Vassallo
Adjunct Faculty HSRSExperiential Learning
Learn the Skills Employers Seek
Faculty/Student Research
The Assumption curriculum encourages scholarly and real-world experience. With hands-on research conducted alongside faculty mentors, students gain a depth of knowledge and skills that lead to professional success and personal fulfillment.
Study Abroad
At Assumption University, the world is your classroom. Students can study and explore abroad in over 50 places from Vienna to England, South Africa, and even our own campus in historic, yet modern, Rome, Italy. Assumption’s study abroad program offers culture, history, and a living classroom for all.
Internships
Assumption starts planning for your future the day you arrive on campus. Our Career Development and Internship Center helps students secure exciting and fulfilling internships where you’ll apply knowledge obtained in the classroom in a professional setting, preparing for a future career or additional study. Assumption connects students to internship opportunities in corporations, government agencies, research hospitals, non-profit organizations, and more.
Assumption's Rome Campus
At Assumption's campus in Rome, Italy, the city and the country become your classroom through daily and weekend-long excursions throughout "the eternal city" and the Italian countryside. This unique study abroad experience will enrich your academic and cultural pursuits as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators then enjoy delectable Italian cuisine or perhaps a cappuccino after class in a local cafe. (Did you know that your financial aid follows you to Rome?)
Explore the Rome CampusShining Their Light
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2019
Community Relations Assistant, Worcester Red Sox
I want to give back to the community and give back to the youth since they are the next generation.
I want to help youths ideally through sports. Whatever I can do to help people is what I want to pursue for a career. Through Assumption’s partnership with the Red Sox minor league baseball team, I’ve been given this opportunity.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2019
School Counseling Intern, St. Peter-Marian High School
As an HSRS major, I participated in a 400 hour internship.
My interviewing techniques class helped me get the interview at St. Peter-Marian High School in addition to Professor Sabelli who advocated for me. Take advantage of all the opportunities and resources that are available to you!
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2019
Youth Futures International - Internship in Ghana
Assumption offers all the resources to make one’s dreams become reality.
Students reach their highest potential here. I want to build and improve healthcare systems in developing countries, so I was able to complete my internship in my home country, Ghana, where l left six years ago. This is undoubtedly a dream I have always hoped for.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2020
Direct Care Position, Jeremiah's Inn
Prior to graduating, I was hired at the same place where I completed my internship.
Assumption helped shape me into the passionate and driven person I am. The diverse course offerings and driven, passionate professors helped guide me in exploring various human services professions. I can truly say Assumption will be there to help you find your passion.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2020
Clinic Intern, Barrett Family Wellness Center; Pursuing Master of Science in Speech and Language Pathology at MGH Institute of Health Professions
Assumption was the best decision I’ve made and couldn’t imagine choosing anywhere else.
The HSRS department was very helpful in securing my internship by conducting meetings about how to start the interview process and then facilitating the internship course. The sense of support from all members of the community made Assumption feel like home for four years.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2020
Intern, Flagg Street Elementary School
Assumption provided me with an education and the skills needed to be prepared for my internship.
The skills I learned in the classroom helped me navigate challenges and triumphs during my internship. Professors are influential and supportive and are also excellent sources for advice about post-graduation plans.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2016
Level 2 Teacher, New England Center for Children
From day one as a transfer student, I felt welcomed on campus.
My sophomore “pod mates” in a Worcester dorm became six of my best friends. Each professor made a point to get to know me too, by name and face, which really made me feel welcomed.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2018
Vocational Counselor, The New England Center for Children
My internship at The New England Center for Children was a wonderful experience.
I gained knowledge in specific areas of applied behavior analysis (ABA) throughout my internship. I learned how to efficiently run task analysis as well as preference assessments with students. I also enjoyed learning about the clinical aspect of ABA.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2018
SCO Case Manager, BayPath Elder Services
The material I learned in the Human Services courses greatly prepared me for my internship.
I applied what Assumption taught me and was able to learn more about the administrative and advocacy side of human services. Getting involved in various programs on campus and completing my internship were definitely highlights of my Assumption experience.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2018
ABA Therapist, Behavior Concepts Inc. / Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis
Assumption taught me to build connections and to apply theoretical frameworks to meaningful practice
I am so grateful to the HSRS department, and especially to Dr. Pica-Smith. She has been an inspiration for myself and others, as she cultivates an inclusive learning environment that reaches beyond campus, and puts principle into action.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2018
Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Speech Language Pathology, Boston University
The close-knit community, small classes, and caring professors foster a great learning environment.
The courses I took at Assumption helped me to integrate knowledge from class with skills I learned in my internship. The theoretical and the practical were brought together to create a real and profound learning experience.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2018
Residential Counselor, The Bridge of Central Massachusetts
The classes I took and the professors I had greatly prepared me to be successful at my internship.
Professor Pica-Smith was one of my most influential professors- she taught me so much. I was able to jump right in at The Bridge of Central Massachusetts and felt like I really understood what was going on around me.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2018
Pursuing a Doctorate of Chiropractic, University of Bridgeport
I thrived at Assumption because I got involved and there are so many opportunities to do just that!
At my internship, I learned how to effectively interact with athletes from all backgrounds as well as various rehabilitation techniques and methods. I was successful because of Assumption being a very social community. I carried that social aspect over to my internship.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2018
Obtaining a Master’s Degree in Social Work, Simmons College
Assumption gave me confidence and taught me to take initiative, which is what College is all about.
As a result, I was able to take on a bigger leadership role in my internship. The people you meet here will be your biggest supporters. The professors are readily available and classmates share the same types of passion, so everyone builds each other up.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2018
Pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Elon University
I received a very well rounded education at Assumption College and have become a better person.
My experiences at the College have helped me with my success because it gave me the tools I needed to enter the workforce. I learned great communication skills and was provided with a thorough knowledge of the human anatomy.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2018
Pursuing a Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Assumption is a place where great growth happens and where you will be part of a community.
I’ve learned really important life skills that can be transferable to not only my personal life, but to my professional career as well. Some of the best years of a student's life will be spent here, so get involved!
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies BA 2014 / MBA 2015
AmeriCorps National Member Construction Crew Leader, Habitat for Humanity / Pursuing a Master of Business Administration, Assumption College
I strongly value my education and how it opened my eyes to the joy of helping others.
The service opportunity trips I was involved in showed me the value of service and are the reason I chose my course of study. All students should be involved and take advantage of every opportunity the University offers.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2017
Assistant Area Coordinator, Brandeis University
Assumption has given me the opportunity to become passionate about something I never expected.
Through enriching courses, challenging leadership positions, and supportive faculty and staff, I found a passion in higher education and I found success in the classroom. Faculty and staff became my mentors and my inspiration, and they stood behind me every step of the way.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2017
Social Worker, Department of Children and Families
I was able to confidently walk into a full-time position as a social worker right after I graduated.
My full-time internship at Worcester's Department of Children and Families guided my career goals. This opportunity wouldn't have been possible without Assumption College and the Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies internship program.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2017
Case Manager, Elder Services of Worcester
The human services coursework was extremely valuable and set me up to be successful.
I learned how to communicate effectively and use the skills I learned in the classroom. I feel Assumption fully prepared me to enter into my career as a Case Manager for the Elder Services of Worcester.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2017
Pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy, University of New England
My professors provided me with a phenomenal education.
The Assumption faculty taught me how to serve people with disabilities and ailments. In my final semester, I was able to apply these skills and broaden my clinical experience at my internship for Central Mass Physical Therapy and Wellness.
Human Services and Rehabilitation Studies 2017
Intern, Assumption College Sports Medicine
The small class sizes provided me with individual attention and an engaging learning experience.
Through my internship, I learned how to apply treatment therapies and physical rehabilitation with student-athletes. This experience gave me essential hands-on learning under professional athletic trainer supervision.
First-rate Academics in a Catholic University Setting
Assumption University awakens in students a sense of wonder, discovery, and purpose, forming graduates known for their intellectual seriousness, thoughtful citizenship, and devotion to the common good. Students are provided an education that shapes their souls, forms them intellectually, and prepares them for meaningful careers. Enlivened by the harmony of faith and reason, here, students’ minds and hearts are transformed.
Our MissionAssumption is dedicated to providing a clear understanding of what your education will cost
We’ll help cut through the complexity of financing your education, ensuring you understand what you need, how to apply for aid, and what’s expected of you. You will be assigned a personal financial aid advisor who will guide you through the process and answer all of your financial aid-related questions.
Dual Degree Programs
Apply as a high school senior to an undergraduate and graduate program with one application. If admitted, you will be enrolled in both programs - allowing you to seamlessly transition from your undergraduate studies into one of our graduate programs. We offer the following dual degree programs:
Programs Related to Patient Advocacy (Concentration)
Apply to Assumption
Assumption University seeks students who will take full advantage of the extraordinary opportunities available to them. Start your journey and apply today. We look forward to reviewing your application!
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