| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 6 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 5 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location: Roanoke, Virginia
Type: Private health sciences college
Affiliation: Connected to Carilion Clinic, a large healthcare system in Virginia
Programs Offered: Nursing, Physician Assistant (PA), Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Healthcare Administration, and other health sciences disciplines
Accreditation: Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
In 2019, Jefferson College of Health Sciences merged with Radford University to form the Radford University Carilion (RUC). As a result, JCHS ceased to exist as an independent institution, and its programs were integrated into Radford University under the Radford University Carilion (RUC) division in Roanoke.
Strengthened healthcare education offerings in Virginia
Expanded resources and facilities for students
Enhanced collaboration with Carilion Clinic
If you're looking for programs that were previously offered at Jefferson College of Health Sciences, you should check out Radford University Carilion (RUC), which continues to provide healthcare education in Roanoke, Virginia.
Nursing (BSN)
Biomedical Sciences (BS)
Emergency Services (BS)
Healthcare Management (BS)
Health & Exercise Science (BS)
Medical Laboratory Science (BS)
Occupational Therapy Assistant (AS)
Respiratory Therapy (BSRT)
Radiologic Sciences (BS)
Surgical Technology (BS)
Master of Science in Physician Assistant (PA)
Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT)
Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc)
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Surgical Technology
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Certificate Programs in Medical Coding and other healthcare specialties
Program Name |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Nursing (BSN) |
4 years |
$27,000 – $30,000 |
|
Biomedical Sciences (BS) |
4 years |
$27,000 – $30,000 |
|
Emergency Services (BS) |
4 years |
$27,000 – $30,000 |
|
Healthcare Management (BS) |
4 years |
$27,000 – $30,000 |
|
Health & Exercise Science (BS) |
4 years |
$27,000 – $30,000 |
|
Medical Laboratory Science (BS) |
4 years |
$27,000 – $30,000 |
|
Respiratory Therapy (BSRT) |
4 years |
$27,000 – $30,000 |
|
Radiologic Sciences (BS) |
4 years |
$27,000 – $30,000 |
|
Surgical Technology (BS) |
4 years |
$27,000 – $30,000 |
Tuition fees are estimates based on historical data from JCHS before the merger. Fees may vary depending on residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state) and additional program-specific costs.
Program Name |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Science in Physician Assistant (PA) |
2 years |
$35,000 – $40,000 |
|
Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) |
2 years |
$27,000 – $30,000 |
|
Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) |
2.5 years |
$30,000 – $35,000 |
Tuition fees are estimates based on historical data from JCHS before the merger. Actual fees may vary depending on residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state) and program-specific costs.
International students could apply for undergraduate (bachelor’s), graduate (master’s), and doctoral programs in health sciences, such as:
Nursing (BSN, MSN)
Physician Assistant (PA) Program
Healthcare Administration (MHA, BS)
Occupational Therapy (MOT)
Physical Therapy (DPT)
Biomedical Sciences (BS)
For current programs, visit Radford University Carilion (RUC):
Academic Transcripts (evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation agency like WES or ECE)
English Proficiency Test Scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test)
TOEFL: Minimum 79 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo: Minimum 105
Personal Statement/Essay
Letters of Recommendation
Financial Proof (to show the ability to cover tuition and living expenses)
Passport & Student Visa (F-1 Visa)
Since tuition fees at JCHS (before the merger) were around $27,000 – $40,000 per year, the fees at Radford University Carilion (RUC) should be similar.
For exact tuition details, check:
Merit-Based Scholarships (Based on academic excellence)
Need-Based Financial Aid (Limited for international students)
External Scholarships (Like Fulbright, Rotary Foundation, etc.)
Graduate Assistantships (For master’s and PhD students)
Get admission into Radford University Carilion (RUC)
Receive Form I-20 from the university
Pay SEVIS Fee ($350)
Apply for a U.S. Student Visa (F-1 Visa) at a U.S. Embassy
Attend a visa interview
Select a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral program in health sciences.
Popular programs include Nursing (BSN, MSN), Physician Assistant (PA), Occupational Therapy (MOT), and Physical Therapy (DPT).
Check available programs at.
High School Diploma (or equivalent)
Minimum GPA: 2.5 – 3.0 (varies by program)
Standardized Tests (Optional in some cases):
SAT: 1000+
ACT: 20+
English Proficiency (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo: 105+
Personal Statement/Essay
Letters of Recommendation (1-2)
Bachelor’s Degree (from an accredited institution)
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ preferred
GRE or GMAT (Only for certain programs like PA, DPT)
Work/Clinical Experience (for some programs like PA, OT, PT)
Personal Statement & Resume
Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
English Proficiency Test (for International Students)
Apply through Radford University’s online portal:
Pay the application fee (around $50).
Upload necessary documents (transcripts, test scores, essays, etc.).
High school transcripts (for undergraduates) OR
College transcripts (for graduate programs)
SAT/ACT (if required for undergraduates)
GRE/GMAT (if required for graduate programs)
TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo (for international students)
After reviewing applications, RUC will notify applicants via email or online portal.
If accepted, you will receive an acceptance letter & Form I-20 (for international students).
Term (Semester) |
Application Deadline (International Students) |
Application Deadline (Domestic Students) |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (August Start) |
May 1 |
July 1 |
|
Spring (January Start) |
October 1 |
November 1 |
|
Summer (Limited Programs) |
March 1 |
April 1 |
Some programs (such as Physician Assistant (PA), Nursing, and Physical Therapy (DPT)) may have earlier deadlines.
It’s best to apply early due to limited seats in healthcare programs.
Minimum Education Requirement: High School Diploma or equivalent
Minimum GPA: 2.5 – 3.0 (Varies by program)
Standardized Tests (Optional for Some Programs)
SAT: 1000+ (Some programs may waive it)
ACT: 20+
English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo English Test: 105+
Additional Requirements (For Some Programs Like Nursing, Radiologic Sciences, etc.)
Biology, Chemistry, and Math coursework in high school
CPR Certification (For some health programs)
Health Immunization Records
Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ (Preferred)
GRE/GMAT Score (Required for Some Programs Like PA, DPT)
Work/Clinical Experience (For Some Programs Like PA, OT, PT, etc.)
English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo English Test: 105+
Additional Requirements (Program-Specific)
Personal Statement/Essay
Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
Resume/CV
Minimum Education Requirement: Master’s Degree (or Bachelor’s in some cases)
Minimum GPA: 3.2+ Preferred
GRE Score: Required for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Clinical/Professional Experience: Required for PA, DPT, and Health Sciences Doctorate
English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo English Test: 105+
Additional Documents:
Research Proposal (For PhD programs)
Personal Statement
Letters of Recommendation (3)
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Radford University Merit Scholarship |
Incoming undergraduate students with a GPA of 3.5+ |
$2,000 – $5,000 per year |
Automatic (No separate application required) |
|
RUC Health Sciences Scholarship |
Students enrolled in health sciences programs (Nursing, PA, OT, PT, etc.) |
$2,500 – $5,000 |
Submit an essay + application form |
|
International Student Scholarship |
Available to international students with strong academic records |
$2,000 – $4,000 per year |
Automatic (No separate application required) |
|
Virginia Resident Scholarship |
Must be a resident of Virginia & enrolled in a healthcare-related program |
$3,000 – $6,000 per year |
FAFSA required + residency proof |
|
Graduate Assistantship (GA) Scholarships |
Master’s & Doctoral students who work as teaching/research assistants |
Partial or full tuition coverage + stipend |
Apply through the department |
|
Physician Assistant (PA) Program Scholarship |
Students enrolled in the PA Program |
$3,000 – $7,000 |
Application + personal statement required |
|
Nursing Excellence Scholarship |
Nursing students (BSN, MSN) with a GPA of 3.5+ |
$2,500 – $5,000 |
Apply with a personal essay |
|
Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship |
Students from underrepresented backgrounds in healthcare |
$2,000 – $5,000 |
Submit an essay on diversity & healthcare |
|
Alumni Legacy Scholarship |
Children of JCHS/RUC alumni |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
Proof of alumni connection required |
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Location |
Roanoke, Virginia, near Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital |
|
Campus Size |
Urban campus focused on health sciences |
|
Academic Buildings |
Modern classrooms, simulation labs, research labs |
|
Library |
Health sciences library with digital & print resources |
|
Clinical Training Centers |
On-campus clinical labs, partnerships with Carilion Clinic hospitals |
|
Student Center |
Lounge, study spaces, and recreation facilities |
|
Computer Labs |
High-speed internet, printing, and study areas |
|
Cafeteria & Dining |
On-campus dining with meal plans available |
|
Sports & Fitness |
Gym, recreational activities, and wellness programs |
|
Transportation |
Free shuttle service to nearby clinical sites and downtown Roanoke |
Accommodation Type |
Room Type |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
Facilities Included |
|---|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Housing (Radford Main Campus) |
Shared Room |
$6,000 – $8,000 |
Wi-Fi, laundry, furnished room, study lounge |
|
On-Campus Housing (Radford Main Campus) |
Private Room |
$8,500 – $10,000 |
Wi-Fi, laundry, furnished room, study lounge |
|
Off-Campus Apartments (Near RUC Campus) |
Studio Apartment |
$9,000 – $12,000 |
Kitchen, private bathroom, utilities |
|
Off-Campus Apartments (Shared) |
2-3 Bedroom Apartment |
$6,000 – $9,000 |
Shared kitchen, living room, utilities |
On-campus housing is primarily available at the main Radford University campus, while RUC students in Roanoke often live in nearby off-campus apartments.
Radford University Carilion (RUC) is located in Roanoke, Virginia, near Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, providing students direct access to state-of-the-art medical facilities for hands-on learning. The urban setting allows students to experience both modern city life and outdoor recreational activities in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains.
Rigorous coursework designed for careers in healthcare
Simulation labs & clinical rotations with Carilion Clinic
Small class sizes for personalized faculty support
Interdisciplinary learning with nursing, physician assistant, physical therapy, and other healthcare students
RUC offers various student organizations, including:
Student Government Association (SGA) – Represents student interests
National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA) – Networking for nursing students
Physical Therapy Student Association – Engages PT students in professional development
Physician Assistant Student Society (PASS) – Supports PA students through mentorship
Community Service & Volunteer Groups – Engage in healthcare outreach programs
Students also participate in local health awareness campaigns, medical mission trips, and research conferences to enhance their learning experience.
Access to fitness centers at Radford University’s main campus
Student wellness programs, including mental health support & counseling
Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking in the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains
On-campus dining at RUC with meal plans available
Various cafés & restaurants in downtown Roanoke
Healthy food options for students focused on fitness and well-being
Free shuttle service between RUC and Carilion hospitals
Public transportation available for off-campus students
Walking & biking-friendly city with student discounts on transit
On-campus jobs available in labs, libraries, and administrative offices
Internships & research opportunities with Carilion Clinic
Healthcare assistant positions to gain real-world clinical experience
Support for international students with visa guidance and orientation programs
Diversity & inclusion initiatives to help students feel at home
Cultural exchange events & festivals celebrating global traditions
Students at RUC participate in:
Welcome Week & Orientation Events
Career fairs & networking sessions
Health awareness campaigns
Holiday celebrations & cultural nights
1 High Employment Rate
RUC boasts a 90%+ job placement rate within 6 months of graduation for most healthcare programs.
Many students receive job offers even before graduation due to clinical rotations and internships.
2 Career Services & Support
Resume & Cover Letter Workshops to help students craft strong job applications.
Mock Interviews with healthcare professionals to improve interview skills.
Job Fairs & Networking Events featuring top healthcare employers.
Internship & Clinical Training with Carilion Clinic and other hospitals.
3 Top Hiring Employers
Graduates from RUC (formerly JCHS) are recruited by leading healthcare organizations, including:
Carilion Clinic (One of Virginia’s largest hospital systems)
HCA Healthcare
Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospitals
Johns Hopkins Hospital
Mayo Clinic
Duke University Health System
Private Clinics & Research Centers
Program |
Average Starting Salary (USD/year) |
Common Job Roles |
Employment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Nursing (BSN, MSN) |
$65,000 – $90,000 |
Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner |
95% |
|
Physician Assistant (PA) |
$90,000 – $120,000 |
Physician Assistant |
98% |
|
Occupational Therapy (MOT) |
$75,000 – $90,000 |
Occupational Therapist |
96% |
|
Physical Therapy (DPT) |
$85,000 – $100,000 |
Physical Therapist |
97% |
|
Biomedical Sciences (BS) |
$50,000 – $75,000 |
Lab Technician, Research Associate |
88% |
|
Healthcare Administration (BS, MHA) |
$60,000 – $90,000 |
Hospital Administrator, Healthcare Manager |
92% |
|
Medical Laboratory Science (BS) |
$55,000 – $80,000 |
Medical Lab Technologist |
90% |
|
Radiologic Sciences (BS) |
$60,000 – $85,000 |
Radiologic Technologist |
93% |
|
Respiratory Therapy (BSRT) |
$65,000 – $85,000 |
Respiratory Therapist |
94% |
Salary estimates vary based on location, experience, and employer.
Students complete mandatory clinical rotations in hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Internships are offered through Carilion Clinic, one of the largest healthcare employers in Virginia.
Some programs require hands-on experience before graduation (e.g., PA, Nursing, PT).
Job Fairs & Employer Networking Events – Direct access to recruiters.
One-on-One Career Counseling – Personalized career guidance.
Online Job Portal & Alumni Network – Connect with job openings and industry professionals.
Certification & Licensing Support – Assistance with NCLEX (Nursing), PANCE (PA), NPTE (PT), and other professional exams.
(Now Part of Radford University Carilion - RUC, Roanoke, Virginia)
Before Jefferson College of Health Sciences (JCHS) merged with Radford University in 2019, it had a competitive yet accessible acceptance rate for students applying to healthcare programs. Now, admissions are handled by Radford University Carilion (RUC).
Estimated Acceptance Rate (Before Merger): 45% – 55%
Current Acceptance Rate at RUC: 50% – 60% (Varies by program)
Highly Competitive Programs:
Physician Assistant (PA) Program – Less than 20% acceptance rate
Nursing (BSN, MSN) – Around 40% – 50% acceptance rate
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) – Around 30% – 40% acceptance rate
Competitive programs like PA, DPT, and Nursing have stricter admission requirements.
GPA Requirements:
Undergraduate Programs: Minimum 2.5 – 3.0 GPA
Graduate Programs: Minimum 3.0 – 3.5 GPA
Standardized Test Scores:
SAT (Optional for undergraduates): Preferred 1000+
GRE (For graduate programs like PA, DPT): Required for some programs
Clinical & Work Experience:
PA, OT, and PT programs require hands-on experience in healthcare
Letters of Recommendation & Personal Statement:
Strong applications have compelling essays & recommendation letters
Program |
Acceptance Rate |
Competitiveness |
|---|---|---|
|
Nursing (BSN, MSN) |
40% – 50% |
Moderate |
|
Physician Assistant (PA) |
15% – 20% |
Highly Competitive |
|
Occupational Therapy (MOT) |
30% – 40% |
Competitive |
|
Physical Therapy (DPT) |
30% – 40% |
Competitive |
|
Biomedical Sciences (BS) |
50% – 60% |
Moderate |
|
Healthcare Administration (MHA, BS) |
55% – 65% |
Less Competitive |
|
Medical Laboratory Science (BS) |
50% – 60% |
Moderate |
Programs in direct patient care (e.g., PA, Nursing, DPT) are more competitive, while administrative and lab science programs have higher acceptance rates.
Former Name: Jefferson College of Health Sciences (JCHS)
Current Institution: Radford University Carilion (RUC)
Address:
Radford University Carilion (RUC)
101 Elm Avenue SE,
Roanoke, Virginia 24013, USA
