See the UNK difference
UNK's Health Sciences Department sets itself apart through a wealth of student-centered programs, clubs, and events that allow students to experience professional development at all levels. Experienced faculty advisors work with students on an individual level to help choose a path that best fits their interests and abilities.
The Health Sciences Department offers:
- Two Learning Communities for Health Sciences: KHOP and Health Science Explorers
- Academic Advising, Mentoring, and Support Specific to Health Sciences
- Health Career Courses and Internships
- Undergraduate Research Opportunities
- Shadowing Programs and contacts with local professionals
- Assistance with Interviews, Entrance Exams, and Applications
- Professional School Acceptance Rates above national averages
- University of Nebraska Medical Center Campus Location
Student Opportunities
Health Sciences Club
Health Science Club
The UNK Health Science Club began in 2004 to provide support, collaboration, and opportunities for our health science students. The organization promotes student involvement in community and campus service projects; connects members with other pre-health students; provides members with opportunities to learn valuable professional and leadership skills; and makes a positive impact on our community through multiple supportive and fundraising efforts.
Our Health Science Club activities include multiple areas of focus, which allow our students to find pursuits and philanthropic interests that fit their passions. Our executive leadership team includes undergraduate health science students in roles as President, Vice President, and Secretary.
We also have eight committee chairs working on a variety of projects throughout the school year:
- Dental Committee
- Blood Drive Committee
- HelpCare Committee
- Mental & Behavioral Health Committee
- Assisted Living Committee
- Breast Cancer Awareness T-shirt Sales
- Veteran's Service Committee
- Student Wellness Committee
- Peds Pals Committee
- Meals Across Kearney (MAK) Committee
For more information, or to join, contact our Staff Advisors: Morgan Semm (semmm@unk.edu) & Tom Knott (knottt2@unk.edu)
A.T.L.A.S. Honor Society
A.T.L.A.S. Honor Society
Founded in 2025, the A.T.L.A.S. Honor Society of UNK Health Sciences is a recognized student organization at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Its name—Achievement Through Leadership, Advocacy, and Scholarship—draws inspiration from the Greek figure Atlas, who bore the weight of the world upon his shoulders. This symbolism parallels the anatomical atlas, the first cervical vertebra that supports the human skull. In the same spirit, the A.T.L.A.S. Honor Society is dedicated to supporting students pursuing healthcare pre-professional pathways as they prepare to carry the future of healthcare on their shoulders.
A.T.L.A.S. provides public recognition of outstanding scholarship and leadership among our health sciences students. Benefits include special graduation regalia (graduation cords), resume distinction, consideration for UNK Health Science’s scholarships, avenues to connect with other health preprofessional students at UNK, and opportunities for leadership, community service, mentorship, and engagement with the community of Kearney.
- Applications open in December each year, due mid-February.
- Requirements for Acceptance:
- Minimum 3.75 cumulative college GPA
- Minimum 3.6 Science/Math GPA
- Must have completed at least 3 semesters as a college student
- Transfer students must have completed at least one semester at UNK to be eligible
- The student shall be engaged in courses leading to health profession careers.
- The applicant’s character and integrity – particularly as demonstrated through campus involvement, community service, and professionalism – will be a heavy consideration. Character (including campus and community involvement), general ability, and personality will be considered carefully in the selection of each member.
For more information, contact our staff advisors Sara Bruner (bruners@unk.edu) or Stefani Wegner (wegners@unk.edu)
