New Hanover County Schools

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Health Science Academy 

Preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals through mentorship, hands-on experiences, leadership development, and college and career readiness opportunities. 

Teacher guiding student through a hands-on classroom activity in a CTE course

Your Pathway to a Healthcare Career

The New Hanover County Schools Health Science Academy empowers students to explore and pursue rewarding healthcare careers through personalized support and a seamless educational pathway developed in partnership with local schools, colleges, and healthcare industry leaders. 

Students gain access to real-world experiences, industry mentors, leadership opportunities, and postsecondary planning support that prepares them for success in college and healthcare professions.

Our Mission

To develop future healthcare professionals by providing students with meaningful learning experiences, industry connections, and educational opportunities that support career success and strengthen the healthcare workforce in New Hanover County.

 

Health Science students in classroom

Industry Mentorship: Connect with healthcare professionals who provide guidance, career advice, and networking opportunities.

Work-Based Learning: Participate in job shadowing, internships, healthcare experiences, and career exploration activities.

College & Career Planning: Receive support with college admissions, career pathway planning, and healthcare program applications.

Scholarship Support: Access scholarship opportunities and assistance throughout the application process. 

Leadership Development: Build professional skills through leadership activities, service projects, and academy events.

Career Resources: Receive academy gear, supplies, and access to exclusive healthcare career opportunities.

Is the Health Science Academy Right for You?

Students should:

  • Be a rising 9th-grade student attending an NHCS traditional high school
  • Have a strong interest in healthcare careers
  • Demonstrate a positive attitude and commitment to learning
  • Be willing to participate in academy activities and events
  • Have a desire to make a positive impact in the healthcare field

Academy Requirements

To remain an active member of the Health Science Academy, students must:

  • Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA
  • Maintain a positive discipline record
  • Complete at least one Health Science course each school year
  • Attend at least 80% of academy meetings and events
  • Complete 25 community services hours annually
  • Earn the required number of Med+ points each year

What Students Can Expect

Year 1:

  • Academy Orientation
  • Career Exploration Activities
  • Healthcare Industry Speakers
  • Community Service Opportunities

Year 2:

  • Advanced Career Exploration
  • Leadership Development
  • Healthcare Facility Visits
  • Mentorship Opportunities

Year 3:

  • Work-Based Learning Experiences
  • Postsecondary Planning
  • Scholarship Preparation
  • Professional Networking

Year 4:

  • Career Credential Opportunities
  • College and Career Transition Support
  • Industry Connections
  • Graduation Recognition

 Community Partners

The Health Science Academy works collaboratively with educational institutions and healthcare organizations to create meaningful experiences for students.

CTE partner logos
CTE enrollment form illustration, two students engaged with microscope

Questions? 

Email us at info.CTE@nhcs.net 

New Hanover County Schools and its Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs do not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age or disability, in its activities and programs, including employment policies and practices. 

Las Escuelas del Condado de New Hanover y su Programa de Educación en Carreras Técnicas no discrimina a ninguna persona de sus actividades o programas, incluyendo prácticas de empleo, por razones de raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, o discapacidad.