At Gonzaga, we encourage students interested in pursuing a career in the health professions to focus their interests and activities toward proficiency in six core competencies. These competencies reflect the qualities that health professions programs look for in candidates and embody the values of Gonzaga’s Jesuit and humanistic tradition.
The Gonzaga University Health Professions Pathways Program Core Competencies are:
- Application & Integration of Science, Healthcare, and Behavior students should be able to apply knowledge in the natural and behavioral sciences to systems from the molecular to the organismal level. They should demonstrate knowledge of healthcare systems, integrating policy, administration, and the caregiver and/or patient experience.
- Critical Thought & Creative Inquiry Students should be able to use logic and reasoning when approaching a novel situation or problem. They should be able to synthesize new information, design solutions, and formulate appropriate questions to solve problems. Students should also feel comfortable using data and statistics to help guide their decision making.
- Cultivation of Collaborative Networks Students should be able to work with others in teams toward achieving a common goal. When working, the student should be counted on as reliable and timely, and to treat others with respect.
- Effective & Professional Communication Students should be able to effectively convey thoughts and information. They should understand the dynamics and relationships they have with their audience and communicate in a professional and inclusive manner.
- Inclusive & Ethical Service to Others Students should have a desire to be in service to others and in solidarity with the poor and the vulnerable. They should demonstrate knowledge of what it means to live and work in an ethical, just, and inclusive world.
- Reflective Commitment to Growth Students demonstrate a willingness to overcome adversity and a desire for improvement. They should be ready to respond appropriately to feedback and engage in reflection about their successes and setbacks.